LGBTQ+ communities in the Carolinas mark milestones and preserve history

LGBTQ+ communities in the Carolinas are marking significant milestones through both large-scale celebrations and efforts to preserve regional history. Greensboro Pride is celebrating its 20th anniversary this September, marking a major growth from its 2006 debut which saw approximately 400 attendees. The milestone includes the organization’s first Pride parade and follows decades of evolution from its roots in the Alternative Resources of the Triad (A.R.T.) organization.

In addition to public celebrations, there is an increasing focus on the preservation of Southern LGBTQ+ history. Efforts are underway to ensure community stories are not erased, particularly amid debates regarding book bans in schools and libraries. Projects such as the archival collection at UNC Charlotte’s J. Murrey Atkins Library serve as vital repositories for documents, photos, and materials that document the achievements and lives of the community.