The Frederick Center says it was resurgence of the COVID-19 virus.
Frederick, Md (KM) There will be no Frederick Pride Celebration this year. The Frederick Center announced that the event originally scheduled for October 3rd, 2021 has been postponed to June 25th, 2022 due to the resurgence of the COVID-19 virus.
This decision by the Center follows consultation with the Frederick County Health Department. The Frederick Center says it has assessed the risk to the public health was too high for holding such a large scale event with the prevalence of the delta variant of the COVID-19 virus which is more lethal and transmissible.
“We are heartbroken to reschedule our marquee event of the year. The LGBTQ+ community needs space to celebrate shared history and culture,” says Frederick Center Executive Director Kris Fair, in a statement. “However, we recognize the importance of public health and the unprecedented impact of the delta variant.”
Earlier this week, Frederick County’s transmission rate when it comes to COVID-19 was labeled as “substantial” according to US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Standards.
Instead, the Frederick Center says it will develop some small scale event over the next few months that are both indoors and outdoors. They will allow folks to gather in a safe environment. No details were announced.
In addition, the Frederick Center says it will continue to operate its peer support programs such as Youth Group, Jr., Youth Group, Young Adult Group, Transgender/Gender Non-Conforming Group, TransFamilies, TransTeens, TransPartners, Healing Pride and LGBTQ+ Recovery.
“While we are sad to reschedule Frederick Pride 2021, we are also excited to see what incredible things we can bring to Pride 2022 on Saturday, June 25th,” says Fair.
By Kevin McManus