The rain that chased Westport’s 2nd annual Pride festival from Jesup Green to Staples High School never materialized. So there were no rainbows in the sky above the courtyard.
But nearby, in the auditorium foyer, hundreds of rainbows were on display. Buttons, artwork, t-shirts, bagels — rainbows were everywhere.
The rainbow arch was a popular spot for photos.
And a rainbow constellation of Westporters — parents, grandparents, couples without children, 20somethings, clergy members, musicians, Police Chief Foti Koskinas, and scores of kids of all ages — smiled, applauded and hugged all afternoon long.
A small part of the large Pride crowd. (Photo/Dan Woog)
From the opening remarks by 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker — who said that the sponsors, Westport Pride, have made Westport “a better community” — to heartfelt stories from people like former Staples principal John Dodig, former tennis captain Luke Foreman, current students and Amis/Terrain executive chef Jes Bengtson, to entertainment by very talented teens, and on through closing blessings by Temple Israel cantor Julia Cadrain, it was a day to celebrate inclusivity in our schools and community.
Luke Foreman describes his journey. (Photo/Marjorie Almansi)
The event drew nearly 1,000 members of the LGBTQ+ community, and many allies. They had — in both senses of the word — a very gay time.
Who doesn’t like rainbow bagels? (Photo/Dan Woog)
Staples Class of 2021 graduate Benny Zack returned for the event. (Photo/Dan Woog)
Former Bedford Middle School teacher Kerstin Rao, and Dr. Nikki Gorman. The pediatrician, and owner of Westport Medical & Wellness Center, was a featured speaker. (Photo/Bethany Eppner)
Rainbows were everywhere at Westport Pride. Kids’ activities included arts and crafts and face painting. (Photo/Bethany Eppner)
1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker, with an official town proclamation. (Photo/Dan Woog)
Former Staples High principal John Dodig inspired listeners with his story. (Photo/Dan Woog)
Westport RTM member Harris Falk dressed for the occasion … (Photo/Dan Woog)
… as did Rev. John Betit of Christ & Holy Trinity Episcopal Church … (Photo/Dan Woog)
… while former 1st Selectman Jim Marpe sported an appropriate tie. (Photo/Dan Woog)
State Representative Stephanie Thomas lent her support. She’s running for Secretary of the State. (Photo/Dan Woog)
Westport Pride founder and festival co-organizer Brian McGunagle introduced his 3-year-old son Henry to the crowd. They loved him. (Photo/Dan Woog)
Love is love. (Photo/Marjorie Almansi)
