WHO WE ARE
OUR VISION
We envision a community where 2SLGBTQIA+ members are visible, celebrated, and supported in all aspects of life.
OUR MISSION
Our mission is to foster inclusive spaces by providing education and resources, inspiring activism and advocacy, and producing community-focused 2SLGBTQIA+ programs and events.
“I felt utterly euphoric for my first pride and I’m so happy that I live in a place that celebrates the freedom to be and love in such an open and inclusive way.”
OUR STORY
It all started at The Little Fleet…
…in 2014, when a group of 2SLGBTQIA+ community members gathered to discuss the need to represent and celebrate the queer community in Northern Michigan.
The gathering was prompted when a straight-identified mother of four asked why there wasn't a Pride festival in Traverse City and how important she felt it was to raise her children in a community that celebrated diversity.
With the overflowing support of The Little Fleet owners Gary and Allison Jonas, founders Jonny Cameron, Elon Cameron, and Marta Turnbull moved quickly to organize a Visibility March on the sidewalks of downtown Traverse City, followed by a small gathering at The Little Fleet.
In the years since the original march, Up North Pride has grown to be the largest participant-driven LGBTQ+ Pride March in Michigan— now attracting more than 8,000 attendees each year—and Michigan's premier destination Pride Celebration, as well as a leader in Northern Michigan's LGBTQ+ advocacy.
Join us as we continue our work to make Northern Michigan a more diverse, inclusive, and safe place for everyone.
“The feeling of belonging is unmatched.”
“I was truly brought to tears standing outside the drag show. The space is majestic, the stage is beautiful, the bay is unmatched.”
LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Up North Pride wishes to acknowledge the original custodians of the land on which we are gathering: the Anishinaabe people. We wish to honor and respect their continuing culture and traditions, and the contribution they make to the life of our community.
