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Editor:
For the second year in a row, the committee that organized the Vermont GLBT Pride Day failed to collect enough money from our community to pay for the expenses of the day. And while some of the expenses could be debated as to whether they should have been incurred in the first place, the fact remains that the vast majority of those who attended and/or benefitted from the day didn't do a darn thing to support it.
Many of you may think you donated to Pride by purchasing various items or attending "pride" events, but that's not the case. While the "Pride Guide," produced by the Rainbow Business Association, was a useful vehicle for promoting the day, no money generated by advertising sales was given to the Pride Committee. The "GLBT Pride Concert" by the Samadhi Singers was a benefit for Outright Vermont. No money was given to the Pride Committee. Likewise with the "Kick-Off Pride Week" show with Noel and Yolanda. And likewise with the "Interfaith Pride Worship Service" and "Pride Ball at City Hall."
However, Vermont Gay Social Alternatives donated 20 percent of their profits from the "Pride Weekend Cruise" and 135 Pearl donated 25 percent of their sales at the Waterfront on Pride Day. I hope I am omitting other examples.
Should the Pride Committee not allow anyone to use the word "Pride" without getting a cut? That would be impossible. Should groups and businesses generating money on Pride Day (especially at Pride Committee related events) through coin drops, raffles, selling items, etc. be expected to donate a certain percentage to the Committee? Should groups be charged a fee for marching in the parade, carrying banners or using vehicles as is done in other cities and states? Should we count on corporate sponsors to pay for our event? And if so, would we feel comfortable with major promotion of brewing companies, or businesses that despite giving money to a GLBT organization may not give support in their corporate operations?
Perhaps the move to Waterfront Park was too big of a jump for a small group of volunteers with little ability to raise the money necessary for such a venue. Maybe it's time to go back to Battery Park with no big tent, no extra bathrooms, no expense for a stage, no dance, etc. Or maybe those who enjoyed the day and benefitted spiritually or financially at this year's Pride Day will realize that it wouldn't have been possible without the efforts of the Pride Vermont Committee and will either send a check (a lot of $5 or $10 checks would add up) or volunteer for next year.
Sincerely,
Bob Bolyard
former Pride Vermont Committee member
