First-Ever Philly Youth Pride Coming in July


Via Shutterstock

Via Shutterstock

Philly Pride isn’t quite over yet: A brand new celebration, Philly Youth Pride, will be rolling into town on July 5th, and it’s a whole different type of party aimed towards LGBTQ young people age 24 and below.

The Mazzoni Center is sponsoring the day-long event that is being built by, and for, youth, and is planned in connection with the National LGBT 50th Anniversary Celebration that takes place throughout Philly from July 2nd through the 5th. The idea came to the organization after Mazzoni’s Student Leadership Board attended the National GSA Conference a year ago, and learned about a similar event in Washington, D.C. Mazzoni Education Manager Louie Ortiz couldn’t be more excited about the opportunity.

A map of the festivities.

A map of the festivities.

“We are thrilled to introduce this event, and to offer a safe, friendly space for LGBTQ youth to have their own experience of Pride,” Ortiz said. “Our staff work with so many young people who are LGBTQ-identified, or allies, and who have a real interest in celebrating the visibility and achievements of our communities, but don’t always feel comfortable at traditional Pride celebrations.”

The day will start with a series of workshops at the William Way Community Center from 11 am to 2:30 pm which will include topics such as online etiquette, self-love, bullying, and how to be an ally. Afterwards, there will be a full-on street party until 6 pm, including live music and drag on a “Youth Stage” located at 13th and Irwin Street, games, activities, food, giveaways, STI screening, and more.

You can find out more about Philly Youth Pride by visiting their website located here.