NWA Pride was founded in 2007 to promote GLBTI events in the
Northwest Arkansas region.
The group is a small organization of volunteers
who plan the yearly
Pride Parade and Rally in Fayetteville, AR.
The group is hoping to eventually grow the
parade into a day long festival and major event in the quad-state area
of Oklahoma, Arkansas, Kansas, and Missouri.
The group is currently seeking non-profit status
and is in the process of writing its by-laws, goals, vision statement,
and mission statement.
Come and join the growing organization in its
endeavor to become a major force in promoting pride, self-esteem, and
community in NW Arkansas.
History: NWA Pride was founded in 2007 by Ken Boyle, who in turn brought Joney Harper on board, along with Norman Hadley. The first year, they have about a month and half to get a permit and plan the parade and rally. The first parade for NWA Pride had about 157 participants, with only about 200 spectators. Not much media coverage.
In 2008, 250, with about 500 spectators. Still, limited TV coverage.
2009, 300 participants, and about 700 spectators, but this time we got more local coverage and national coverage with NPR. NWA Pride also became NWA Pride, Inc. in preparation for 501C3.
In 2010, all records were broken. Thanks to Will Phillips, who already
had national coverage, but the AFA (American Family Association)
protesting the parade, giving NWA Pride, NW Arkansas, and the City of
Fayetteville national and International attention. This time there was
close to 700 in the parade with about 2500 spectators and rally
participants. Also, the Mayor of Fayetteville, Lioneld Jordan read a
proclamation at the parade rally.
NWA Pride now has a board and is working to get more volunteers and grow the parade and rally to a day long festival. Hopefully 501C3 application will be approved, so we can provide a world class parade in NW Arkansas.