Staff reports 9:34 a.m.
Friday, July 16, 2021 9:37 am

Rochester Main Street announced on Wednesday that Rochester Pride Day will return on Aug. 28 after a one-year hiatus due to COVID-19.

The mission of the gathering is to promote unity, visibility, inclusivity, equality, and a positive image of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBTQ+) community.

According to organizers, the event this year will be adapted into a rally, leaving behind the previous "street fair" model.

"We want to get our Pride event back to its original format, which was more of a rally," said Matt Wyatt, Rochester Main Street board member. "We want to host a rally that includes guest speakers, live music, and a friendly and safe environment for all. Going forward, we are focused more on people and less on corporate sponsors and for-profit vendors."

A number of downtown businesses will be flying pride flags. Some participating businesses plan to offer specials, discounts, and other activities for event attendees.

"Main Street will hand out flags to any business that wants one," said Wyatt. "We love a vibrant downtown and we look forward to welcoming people to Rochester for the day."

The Leftist Marching Band will provide live entertainment. There will also be speeches by local leaders and LGBTQ+ activists. A full list of guest speakers will be added to the Main Street website in August.

"We're keeping things simple this year," Wyatt added. "We do the event in late August as to not compete with the many other larger regional Pride events. We look forward to seeing everyone again after a year off."

The Rochester Pride Rally will be held at Central Square, in downtown Rochester, from 1-4 p.m. For more info go to www.rochestermainstreet.org/events.