By Lauren Means
Franklin Pride, a nationally recognized event celebrating the LGBTQ+ community, is attended by over 7,000 unique spectators annually. In light of Tennessee’s prominence in LGBTQ+-focused legislation, Franklin Pride offers a contrasting tale, fostering a secure, family-oriented environment where the LGBTQ+ community and their supporters can revel, socialize, and make connections.
Last week, The Franklin Board of Mayor and Aldermen unanimously approved a special-event permit for the Franklin Pride Festival for June 1 at The Park at Harlinsdale Farm. This was a stark contrast to the permit suspension and event cancellation the board threatened last year.
In a statement, Robert McNamara, a member of the Franklin Pride Board of Directors, stated, “In 2023, Franklin Pride made national news when, amid state-wide debates on LGBT rights, the City Council debated suspending our permit and canceling the event. After vocal and enthusiastic public outcries, the event was permitted, and we had one of our most successful years in the history of the organization.
“As we head into an election year, all eyes are on Franklin Pride, and we are expecting our largest turnout to date. Amid a statewide landscape where division and conflict are prevalent, Franklin Pride is a reminder that inclusion is a Southern value and that diversity is a central and connective aspect of our community.”
Franklin Pride will take place on Saturday, June 1, 2024, at The Park at Harlinsdale Farm. For more information and to sign up to become a sponsor, vendor, or volunteer, visit https://franklinpridetn.org/.
