April Newsletter Feature: Spencer Pride Celebrates
On April 8, Spencer Pride hosted a full day of programming in celebration of the Total Solar Eclipse. The south-central Indiana-based organization was directly in the path of totality.
From photography and history lessons to an eclipse-themed drag show, the rural organization hosted hundreds of out-of-town guests for the occasion. A special raffle featured an eclipse-themed quilt and brought in record proceeds in support of Spencer Pride’s mission to improve the quality of life for the local, rural LGBTQ+ community. The eclipse was broadcast live indoors using a Nutonian reflecting telescope, while a solar sonification device provided an auditory experience for those experiencing blindness or low vision.
Spencer Pride also unveiled Owen County’s first-ever penny press to promote local attractions to tourists.
The festivities were recorded by two video crews filming a documentary and eclipse promotional video. Spencer Pride’s eclipse programming was supported by the Simons Foundation and the IU Center for Rural Engagement and was coordinated in partnership with other local organizations for a community-wide event.
To top off Spencer Pride’s efforts (literally), local pride organizers painted a 50-foot wide rainbow flag on the roof of the Spencer Pride commUnity center. The entire event was “totality” amazing and exceeded Spencer Pride’s expectations.
This feature from USA Prides member organization Spencer Pride was submitted for the USA Prides April Monthly Newsletter. Want to read more features like this, along with other news and resources each month? Subscribe now! It's free!
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