More than 3,000 residents of the Fox Valley area braved the hot and humid weather on Saturday, June 21, 2025, for the 5th annual Fox Valley Pride Event. Sponsored by the Community Vision Fund, a fund within the Community Foundation, this year’s event saw an increase in both vendors and attendance and introduced its first-ever Pride Promenade. 

 “I had the honor of attending Fox Valley Pride and witnessing how belonging is nurtured and celebrated in our communities,” said Mito Kudaka, Director of Strategic Initiatives at the Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region. “Fox Valley Pride created a space where everyone felt accepted, seen, heard, and valued for being their authentic selves. The camaraderie and joy throughout the event showed how we can all come together to build a sense of community. The inaugural Pride Promenade attracted hundreds of community members who walked to support and celebrate the LGBTQIA2S+ community, greeted with applause and cheers by the larger community.” 

The event received a commendation from the Wisconsin Legislature and Senate, which was read by Senator Kristin Alfheim and sponsored by Alfheim and Representative Lee Snodgrass. Attendees enjoyed live music from acts such as The Traveling Suitcase, Venus DeMars, Rai Hudson, and Kat and The Hurricanes. There was also a vendor marketplace featuring LGBTQIA2S+ artists and small businesses, resource booths, delicious offerings from area food trucks, a cornhole tournament, and various activities that advocate for members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community in the Fox Valley Region. 

“I hope people felt loved, celebrated, made new friends, discovered new resources, and, for one day, were able to be their authentic selves, knowing they were truly and unconditionally loved,” said Dana Johnson, President and Lead Organizer of Fox Valley Pride. “Many organizations offer supportive services, advocacy, and events, as well as spaces where individuals can come together to explore how they can contribute their talents to building a better and more inclusive Fox Valley community.” 

For more information about Fox Valley Pride, visit http://www.foxvalleypride.org. To learn more about Rainbow Alliance Advocacy, visit www.rainbowallianceadvocacy.org.