MURFREESBORO, Tenn. (WTVF) — BoroPride returned to the Tennessee Miller Coliseum on Saturday after a legal battle against the City of Murfreesboro.
Earlier this year, the city agreed to pay out $500,000 to settle a lawsuit over its ordinance banning public homosexuality and local policy denying all special event permit requests from the Tennessee Equality Project. According to the original complaint, former city manager, Craig Tindall, falsely claimed that in 2022, BoroPride intentionally exposed children to sexual content.
"It is the pride event you can bring your grandma to," said Leslie Russel Yost, chair of the BoroPride planning committee. "We are a family-friendly, inclusive, loving event."
The free, all-ages event featured local vendors, a pet costume contest, musical performances, and even a silent disco. It also provided community members with the opportunity to learn more about the resources available to them in the area— like LGBTQ+ friendly churches and healthcare providers.
After the daytime event, BoroPride, as it has for many years, held an 18+ concert, drag show, and pageant.
While the lawsuit with the city government might be over, divisions within the community are ongoing. Organizers say some local candidates made untrue and hateful statements about Pride, but hope candidates will recognize that they represent the whole community— including LGBTQ+ residents.
Yost says those candidates and their supporters are "Invited and welcome to come join us, get to know the community, and see the people living in their town."
It's truly the small things that add up to a great day - and Warrick in Lebanon is having a big impact. His familiar face is becoming a staple in one part of the community and inspiring closer connection in the simplest way. Enjoy his warm personality! You may even feel inclined to wave to a stranger today, too.
-Rebecca Schleicher
