On the same day of the nationwide “No Kings” demonstrations protesting the Trump administration, the community of Poolesville gathered together to celebrate love and acceptance at their second annual Pride Festival.
The event, organized by the local Poolesville Pride Club, began last year with the goal of creating an accepting space and spotlighting the presence of the queer community in rural areas.
Under the colorful backdrop of rainbow balloon arches, umbrellas and flags, attendees gathered for musical performances, arts and crafts and a drag queen story hour.
“We fundamentally believe that radical joy and solidarity, mutual aid and love in our community is a form of resistance and that is what we’re here to embody today,” said Poolesville Pride Club president Sam Cooper. “Being queer, being LGBT visibly out in the world, that itself is a political protest, and we’re here to support, affirm and celebrate all those who occupy those positions.”
