By Taylor J. Hale
Staff Writer

STEVENS POINT – Two local events commemorated June as Pride Month in the area.

Pride Month first took roots 50 years ago during the “Stonewall Uprising” in New York, when a series of demonstrations sprung from oppression and abuse in the LGBTQ community. Today, the Wisconsin LGBT Chamber of Commerce works with chamber businesses statewide to host events that encourage acceptance and open-mindedness.

The organization recently worked with Great Northern Distilling and Associated Bank, both chamber affiliate businesses, to celebrate diversity in Portage County with a Pride Happy Hour at the Plover distillery on June 26.

“We are based out of Milwaukee,” said Annie Schmitz, Managing Director at the Wisconsin LGBT Chamber of Commerce. “I would say that our biggest markets are Milwaukee, Madison and the Fox Valley. But we are trying to make a conservative effort to reach all parts of the state because we know there is a vibrant community everywhere, and we want to make sure there is that presence and visibility.”

Sissy LaLa connects with the crowd and answers questions about drag queen life. (Taylor Hale Photo)

Around 60 guests came out to Great Northern Distilling to celebrate at the event. Guests enjoyed drinks, snacks and an evening of networking with area business owners and locals.

Schmitz feels the events offer residents a chance to show their true colors.

“Events like this are first and foremost important for visibility.”

On June 29, Central Wisconsin Equality held their first major pride event, organizing the first Stevens Point Pride Day since 2007, inviting the public to Pfiffner Park to celebrate LGBTQ+ pride and diversity.  The family-friendly event was held from noon – 4 p.m., featuring live music, a drag show and booths from area non-profit organizations. Guests also had a chance to ask Portage County drag queen Sissy LaLa some personal questions during her performance.

The Pride Day celebration closely follows the city’s official recognition of June as Pride Month, declared on June 18.

Contact Taylor J. Hale at [email protected] with Portage County news and information.