Jamestown NY Pride, A Beginner's Perspective

by Michael Mongera - He/Him

Michael Mongera with two friends at his first Pride event, in Jamestown NY

Jamestown NY Pride kicked off at 9:30 AM, on Saturday June 12th. Numerous vendors took to Wintergarden Plaza and the Jamestown Public Market to celebrate Pride. As a first timer to a Pride event, it was reassuring to see enthusiastic crowds embrace the LGBTQIA community.

Different booths invited an eclectic array of goods, such as herbal remedies and medicines, rainbow cladded merchandise, and a Drag Time Story Hour tent. The latter booth included drag queens such as Erie's Alysin Wonderland and Jamestown native Miss Keisha read children's books to kids.

Towards the middle of the day, the Wintergreen Plaza on North Street was a buzz with a variety of different events. A few booths were dedicated to information to local gay friendly organizations, such as the Pride Center of Western New York, which offers a wide array of health services for the gay community.

Along with the resource booths, Zumba and yoga classes were held at the center of the plaza. It was reassuring to see vital information for our community, contrasted with a lively energy that made the day more exciting.

Lastly, Jamestown Pride concluded with a special performance from RuPaul's Drag Race Alum, Pandora Boxx. The crowd lit up to her performance, as Pandora has been fresh off press junkets for RPDR All Stars 6. Local band, Ion Sky, also performed throughout the day and ended up on stage.

As a beginner's perspective to his first pride, it was as exciting as it was nurturing. The information booths for local LGBTQIA resources offered a wider outreach of support to queer and gay individuals that are still fighting every day for their rights.

The Jamestown community came together and offered a vibrant atmosphere, and quality entertainment.

About the Author

Michael Mongera Michael Mongera is a native from Cambridge Springs PA, A 2019 graduate of Mercyhurst University, Mongera received his Bachelor’s in Communication. During this time, he was the co president of Mercyhurst’s literary magazine, LUMEN for 2 years. Mongera has also contributed to articles for The Merciad, and Erie Reader Magazine. He currently works for Mission Support for Air Force/COCOMS/4th Estate for FRC.