'Pride in the Park' today in Coeur d'Alene

The North Idaho Pride Alliance's Pride in the Park is scheduled 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Coeur d'Alene City Park.

The free event is billed as "celebrating diversity and building a stronger and more unified community for all."

There will be food, entertainment and an area for community resources and local businesses to share their information with the community.

Dr. Sarah Lynch, NIPA executive director, said today's Pride in the Park is looking bigger and better than ever, with more than 70 vendors and a crowd that could top 3,000.

She said she believes North Idaho is becoming more accepting of the LGBTQ+ community.

"It's a work in progress," she said. "We're heading in the right direction."

Lynch said Pride in the Park is five hours of the year when LGBTQ+ people can connect and network in North Idaho, "and not feel as isolated as we do the rest of the year."

She encourages everyone to attend and meet their LGBTQ+ neighbors and friends.

"We're all part of this community," Lynch said.

Last year, more than 2,500 people attended, and enjoyed "inclusivity, acceptance and PRIDE."

"Bringing Pride to the Coeur d’Alene area is so important for the visibility of LGBTQIA+ causes, and it gives our community a chance to connect with each other and allies in our local area," the NIPA website stated.

Pride in the Park is a kickoff for the CDA4Pride Campaign, a monthlong celebration of events, activities and educational opportunities for all ages to raise awareness and build community. 

"Our goal is to continue to create safe spaces for LGBTQIA+ individuals, friends, and allies," NIPA said. "NIPA stands firm in protecting and advocating for LGBTQIA+ rights and causes. CDA4Pride is about bringing people together for inclusive, fun, and educational events during the month of June."

Other PRIDE events this month:

Tuesday

Pokeworks Fundraiser: Join the North Idaho Pride Alliance for a PRIDE Poke Party at Pokeworks in Coeur d’Alene. Enjoy a Poke Bowl or a Poke Burrito. For every meal sold, NIPA will receive 20% of the proceeds. 

Thursday

Inclusive Healthcare Forum & Gen Silent Screening is an informational session gathering health care practitioners around the region and the LGBTQIA+ community to learn and share common healthcare practices and new techniques to better understand the LGBTQIA+ community and their health needs. 5:30 p.m., Panhandle Health District.

June 15

Tie-Dye Party is a chance for the LGBTQIA+ community and allies to create art and socialize with others in a relaxed and friendly environment. Design your best PRIDE-inspired CDA4Pride T-shirt. Whether you're a person who is “out and proud” or wants to make some new friends, all guests will be sure to enjoy the event and learn more about some of our community sponsors and supporters. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Human Rights Education Institute, 414 W. Fort Grounds Drive.

June 18

MOD Pizza Fundraiser: Join the North Idaho Pride Alliance for a PRIDE Pizza Party at MOD Pizza in Coeur d’Alene. Enjoy a slice or a whole pie. For every pizza sold, NIPA will receive 25% of the proceeds. Make sure to mention you are there for NIPA.

June 28

Pride on the Runway is an evening of fashion, drag performances, music, food, fun and festivities to benefit the NIPA. Last year it had over 165 people in attendance. Each year we solicit local businesses and organizations for raffle items to benefit the LGBTQIA+ community of North Idaho through the work of our organization.