No rain on this Parade

Redwood Pride Parade held at the Jefferson Center in Eureka

Gray clouds overcast the skies of Humboldt County on Sept. 29. However, a rainbow was over Eureka, all thanks to the Humboldt Pride with a Purpose event.

The day-long event started at 10 a.m. and continued until 4 p.m. at the Jefferson Community Center, offering many activities like making tie-dye shirts and getting in touch with local community shops and organizations.

One of the organizations was the Redwood National and State Parks (RNSP) services. Interpretive Ranger Steven Krause was happy to be at the event.

“Since 2016 we’ve (RNSP) been involved in the Pride with a Purpose event,” Krause said. “Personally, this is not my first pride event I’ve showed up to, I’m happy to be here.”

Many who were attending were dressed in the colors of the rainbow, dancing and overall having a good time at the event. Ariel Stelljes, Humboldt State University student and piccolo player of the Marching Lumberjacks, was with her band members to show support of the LGBTQ community of Humboldt County.

“We’re all dressed up very gay, and we’re super excited to play,” Stelljes said.

At 4 p.m. over at 2nd and I St. many groups and organizations were present waving rainbow flags and playing music for all attending the parade including the Redwood National and State park float.

Overall, it was a fun event, full of many people showing their love and support for the LGBTQ community of Humboldt County.

Caroline Isaacs, a social actions committee member from the Temple Beth El Synagogue, showed up to march at the Pride parade to show support.

“I think it’s extremely important to show support for the LGBTQ community of Humboldt County,” Isaacs said. “As Jews we know the struggles of being seen as outcasts by the community, we want to show the LGBTQ community that they’re not alone.”