#ILoveGay

Just like the Scissor Sisters sing on their famous track, Rochesterites “wanna have a kiki.”

Rochester Black Pride is in full swing. The four-day festival celebrates LGBT identity and expression among local black people and people of color.

Nestled 90 minutes from Niagara Falls and just off of the southern shore of Lake Ontario in the Finger Lakes region of New York, you’ll find the truly limitless city of Rochester. Known for numerous festivals and events throughout the year, immense history, world class museums, and its inclusive hospitality, New York State’s third largest city has something for everyone. I recently explored the city for myself and my expectations were consistently exceeded. My visit coincided with Rochester’s Pride Fest. The inclusiveness of the city is apparent, and I felt welcome from the start. “Roc Pride,” as it’s known, is one of the largest Pride festivals in the state outside of NYC. Complete with events, music, and a parade, there’s plenty to experience during this week-long celebration.

Upstate New York has played host to a Pride event, that while not as grand as NYC Pride, in its own way has defied stereotypes of the region it calls home. ROC Pride, taking place annually in Rochester, began in 1972 with a small picnic catering to the local LGBT community, and has, according to the official website, “grown into a multi-day event that continues to celebrate queer life and culture in our city”. This year’s event, which began on Saturday, July 14th and continues through July 22nd, is themed around the idea of standing out.