Kalamazoo Pride 2020 Has Been Cancelled

It's an an unfortunate few days in Kalamazoo as many of the big events normally held every year are being cancelled for the safety of our community. Just recently Kalamazoo RIbfest was cancelled and now Kalamazoo Pride has been forced to cancel their 202 weekend as well. In a press release issued Tuesday, they expressed their sadness of the situation, stating:

The 2020 Kalamazoo Pride event, originally scheduled for June 5 & 6, 2020 at Arcadia Creek Festival Place, has been cancelled for this year due to ongoing concerns about the potential spread of coronavirus.

Last month, the organization had begun exploring options for rescheduling the annual event later this year. "Over the past four weeks we had considered data from the medical community, consulted with civic leaders, sponsors and allies in order to determine our best course of action," said Grayson Valenti, OutFront's Director of Operations. "It became clear that Pride should not be rescheduled, but cancelled."

"I know this is disappointing news for so many. This has been a difficult decision to make, but our highest priority has always been the health and safety of Pride attendees, performers, volunteers and staff," said OutFront Executive Director Amy Hunter. "Typically, Kalamazoo Pride attracts thousands of attendees and gathering a crowd of that size any time this summer would not be a responsible choice."

Remember that people are getting very sick and losing loved ones from this. We're all frustrated but getting angry and trying to place blame will do us no good. Stay smart, stay safe and we will come out the other side of this wiser and hopefully with a better appreciation for what we have.