On November 1, the annual RGV PRIDE event was held in Brownsville. Lasting most of the day, the event hosted several organizations and artists who helped sponsor and table at the event. Previously organized by the Valley Aids Council, this year marks the South Texas Equality Project‘s first time taking the reins, and they delivered an incredibly fun event. Not only did it serve as a large, public safe space for the queer community of the Valley, but it also served as a source of accessibility, reverence, and local queer history for attendees.
The Moments of Joy
There was a great deal to do at Pride! Throughout the event, there were craft activities, loteria, and video games set up for all Pride-goers, providing leisurely fun in the main event space. Music was also usually provided and played by local queer musicians, such as DJ Mexican Boyfriend. However, the two highlights of entertainment at the event were the Rocky Horror shadow cast and Drag performances. Joyous, celebratory, and moving, each actor and drag royal earned their places on stage as they made their community proud.
The Moments of Silence
Beyond entertainment and knowledge, RGV Pride also provided room for remembrance and peace, which is imperative in times when public spaces feel less and less safe. A very considerate accommodation was the Quiet Room, a silent space for any overstimulated attendees needing a calm during the festive event. Held during Día de los Muertos, STEP also set up an altar to queer friends and family who have been lost, decorated with offerings and donated pictures.
The Moments of Knowledge
Arguably, the most beneficial aspects of the event were the panels and exhibits, which taught queer people of all ages and experiences. Taking up a large room was an exhibit of queer history in the valley, showing the roots that the community has always had. Much thanks to Gabriel Sanchez, who spent several years documenting and sharing the RGV’s queer history.
Along with the exhibit, multiple panels were held, including the Trans Youth Advocate Panel. One of those panelists had the following to say:
“This specific pride was focused on two key ideas: Dia de los Muertos and trans safety and joy. Pride was adapted to bring a safe space to those most attacked in our current political climate, trans folk.”
The Moments With New People
No community event would be complete without all the organizations that were present, each fighting in its own way. Each organization tabling had several focused issues. Voting right groups like Bloom and VoteRiders, social/activity groups like RGV Bandidas and RGV Bears, and several health-focused organizations. Mental Health, Medication, Sexual Health, and even Dental groups showed up, offering information to those seeking help. Of course, RGV Trans Closet was there as well, providing gender-affirming clothes and haircuts.
Pride is all the Time
Overall, RGV Pride was a truly remarkable gathering of people from around the Valley coming together for a safe, helpful, and most of all, fun time. It celebrated and honored a community that is currently among those whose rights are being stripped.
The panelist mentioned earlier went on to say, “For those wanting to get into activism, my biggest advice is to be a best friend to those around you and keep showing up. Some of the biggest support is coming to community events.”
Should you be moved to support this community this holiday season, Casa Kimberly is currently looking for food donations. Otherwise, I ask that readers go forward with respect for others and for themselves.
