Third annual Petersburg Out & Proud draws awareness to LGBTQ+ community

PETERSBURG — On the cusp of a pending designation as a non-profit organization, Tri-Cities Pride celebrated Saturday with its third annual Petersburg Out & Proud event designed to raise awareness of the local LGBTQ+ communityThe 3rd Annual ‘Petersburg Out & Proud’ event took place at DJ’s Rajun Cajun restaurant in Old Towne Saturday, Sept. 14.

"We are no different than you. We have families. We have jobs. We are business owners. We are employees, and we’re community activists; however, we do not have equal protection under the law." said Mikey Fuller, president of Tri-Cities Pride. "This event is to spread awareness of our community."

The daylong festival at the Old Towne Events Center drew several hundred visitors and attracted vendors and musicians from all over, including an appearance by Mr. Gay Canada.

DJ's Rajun Cajun restaurant in Old Towne hosted the event, but several other eateries also sponsored Out & Proud, and even donated a portion of its alcohol sales to the group.

Fuller said Tri-Cities Pride is "in the final stages" of being declared an official non-profit organization, which added to the celebratory atmosphere of the event.

"We're almost there," Fuller said.

“This is a great contribution to the community.” stated DJ’s Rajun Cajun bartender Jessica Cruz of Prince George. “It brings awareness and kind of lets everyone see that we are out and proud in Petersburg.”

“Good times in Petersburg...Out and Proud.” DJ’s Rajun Cajun owner DJ Payne commented. “When I first opened Wabi Sabi, it wasn’t as diversified as it is now. I want everyone to forget about the world and come in and have a safe, good time.”

Tranae Hewett of Sussex shared, “We’re here to support the LGBTQ+ community. We’re all a family.”

Hewett’s friend, Kendra James of Hopewell, added, “Love is love.”

Kristi K. Higgins can be reached at 804-722-5162 or khiggins@progress-index.com.