Trinity Represents at Hartford’s Vibrant Pride Celebration

Shannon Flaherty ‘29 & Sajja Ranjit ’29

Contributing Writers

On Sept. 13th, downtown Hartford came alive with many colors, music, and celebration as the city hosted its annual Pride Fest, an event that honors and uplifts the LGBTQ+ community. The festival, held at the intersection of Trumbull Street and Pratt Street, drew hundreds of attendees from across Connecticut and beyond, offering a space for people of all identities to come together in unity and pride.

Pride in Hartford has been a tradition since 1982, when the city held its first Pride celebration. Now, in 2025, Pride carries forward many of its original traditions, while also supporting essential organizations and creating space for connection, expression and activism in the LGBTQ+ community. The mission of Pride Fest is to unite people and to celebrate identity, culture and community. This year’s event was sponsored by the Health Collective, a group offering inclusive and accessible healthcare services for LGBTQ+ individuals across the state.

The event kicked off with a high-energy Pride parade, featuring local organizations, advocacy groups, schools and businesses showing their support with rainbow flags, glitter and lots of cheering. Marchers were joined by drag performers, dancers and musicians, creating a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere that filled the streets with excitement.

Throughout the day, festivalgoers explored vendor booths selling everything from handmade knitted wear to food, art and accessories. Nonprofits and advocacy groups lined the streets, sharing information on healthcare, political action, youth programs and legal aid. Religious institutions and community organizations also made their presence known, offering messages of love and acceptance. 

“We’ve been coming here just as outreach to the community to show people that we support them,” said Tony Checker, representing the North United Methodist Church, “if it makes someone rethink a church anywhere…[our goal] is just to be supportive.”

The main stage was a major attraction, where a variety of performers energized the crowd with music, drag and spoken word, many delivering powerful messages about self-love and justice.

Trinity also hosted a resource and outreach booth at the festival, where members of the College community handed out informational materials and Pride stickers, and invited attendees to learn more about the college’s LGBTQ+ resources and inclusive campus environment.

“[We want students to know] that they have a community on campus and different information about stuff on campus,” said Trinity Student Leon Dell’Era ‘27, who helped organize Trinity’s booth, “[It’s] also to let them know that they belong here on campus.” 

“It was a super fun event and it was cool to see so many people come together” Grace Brogan ‘29 remarked, “it made me proud to be part of the Trinity and Hartford community.”

Hartford’s Pride Fest is held every September and continues to grow each year. For students looking to get involved, there are many ways to contribute. Trinity students can volunteer at next year’s booth, join Trinity’s LGBTQ+ affinity groups and simply show up in support.