Pocatello Pride begins weekend of celebration

June is National Pride Month for LGBT members to celebrate advances in the community.

The fifth annual Pocatello Pride celebration is being hosted this weekend by the All Under One Roof organization.

“It’s a day for people to have fun and celebrate the fact that we keep moving forward,” said Kevin Lish, a board member of All Under One Roof.

This year, providing events for people of all ages was a top priority.

“(We want) to try to make sure that the younger members of the community or members of the community that may not want to go to an establishment that serves alcohol also feel that they are part of pride and they have numerous things to do besides just the festival,” said Lish.

Events include a performance by the Local Youth Theatre, an all-ages barbecue and a drag brunch at Club Charley’s.

“I think we have a variety of things to do. I hope they’ll come out and enjoy the next few days and just have fun, because that’s what pride is really all about,” said Lish.

People from all across the area are expected to attend the events.

“I’m looking forward to seeing all the friends from Boise, Salt Lake (City), Jackson, and a well diverse atmosphere. Spreading love and peace, and just having a good celebration,” said Jon Peirsol, the owner of Club Charley’s.

Those who mention that they’re members of a gay-straight alliance will be given a rainbow flag at the gate.

“Pride week is important not only to this community but to every community because of what it promotes: diversity, love, togetherness,” said Peirsol.

Money raised from the pride celebration will be donated to the All Under One Roof LGBT center, which offers free HIV testing on the second Wednesday of every month.

You can find the full schedule of events or get tickets on their website, pocatellopride.org.