Parade led by Nessel kicks off Michigan Pride

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SATURDAY, June 15 – The rainbow came on a rainy day as a multicolored crowd formed in Adado Riverfront Park for the Michigan Pride Parade in Lansing. Led by Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, the pack headed south to the state Capitol where several people were scheduled to speak.

The speakers include Nessel, Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist, Mayor Andy Schor, the Rev. Phiwa Langeni, members of Michigan Pride and two transgender teenagers. There will be an ASL interpreter on-site. Leigha Faith, Michigan Pride chairwoman, said she plans to recreate a moment from last year’s rally where she invited children in the crowd to come to the Capitol steps.

“It was powerful to see the next generation that will be leading our country,” Faith said. “My heart is for kids and to get unity.”

On-street parking downtown is free on weekends. Portions of Shiawassee Street, Grand Avenue, West Ionia and Ottawa streets and Michigan and Capitol avenues will be closed.

Meanwhile, the annual festival will take place on Turner Street in the heart of Old Town from 1– 10 p.m. There is a suggested $10 donation for adults and $5 for ages 5 to 18.

Music and entertainment will run into the evening on the stage set up at the north end of Turner. The lineup begins with DJ Restless and LVRS Band, followed by drag queens Sabin and Emma Sapphire at 2 p.m. The evening portion of the entertainment will be led by Kelsey Lynn and local funk group Tell Yo Mama.

Along the festival walls, there will be a food and beverage tent stocked to serve the whole family. Children’s activities will take place all afternoon in addition to a voter’s registration booth.

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