Waxhaw Family Fun Event Draws Both Support and Protest
WAXHAW, N.C. — On a sunny Saturday, the streets of Waxhaw buzzed with excitement as Union County Pride hosted a colorful Family Fun event at the Water Tower Community Corner. The event aimed to create a kid-friendly atmosphere that all families could enjoy. However, not everything went as smoothly as planned.
Welcoming Everyone with Open Arms
The atmosphere was lively, filled with laughter and joy, embodying the spirit of community and inclusivity. Cristal Robinson, the president of Union County Pride, expressed their vision, stating, “I just want to have an organization that is out there in the community doing things and showing that you can grow old and be queer.” This sentiment resonated with many who attended, as they celebrated love and diversity.
Protests Cast a Shadow
As families enjoyed the festivities, the event faced opposition from protesters who gathered both outside and inside the designated area. Many carried signs articulating their disagreement with the event, which understandably made some attendees feel a bit on edge. Despite the tense atmosphere, police were present to ensure that the situation remained under control, although they did not separate the protesters from the event.
Earlier in the week, Union County Pride had communicated their plans with local authorities, stating that police would not intervene to remove the protesters from the area. They urged attendees to remain calm, assess their comfort level, and avoid engaging with those demonstrating against the event. For many families, this was a difficult situation to navigate, yet the essence of unity remained intact.
Staying Focused on the Mission
Robinson reaffirmed the dedication of the organization, saying, “Coming out doing events and saying, ‘hey, there are other queer people here’.” Their commitment to fostering a safe and inclusive community was evident as they continued to offer a space for joy and celebration, despite the surrounding protests.
Looking Ahead
As the event unfolded, participants were reminded that Union County Pride isn’t stopping anytime soon. They already announced their next gathering, a Teen Party scheduled for September 28 in Indian Trail, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. This event is set to be a collaboration with Time Out Youth and Charlotte Gaymers Network, reflecting their ongoing effort to create spaces for young people to express themselves freely.
As the day turned into evening, it was clear that events like this, although met with challenges, build bridges in the community. They stand as reminders that while opinions may differ, the pursuit of a welcoming environment for everyone continues to thrive.
A Community United in Diversity
The Family Fun event in Waxhaw served as a testament to the importance of supporting one another. While challenges arose, they did not overshadow the sense of community and acceptance that many participants felt. Events like this reinforce the idea that regardless of differing beliefs, love and unity foster resilience and hope in the hearts of many.
As participants left the event, there were smiles, laughter, and conversations about the next opportunities to come together and celebrate who they are. The essence of connection and community shines brightly, reminding all that together, they are stronger.
