This is a repost from the online religion magazine Creedible, 2012
From the
months of August to October, people from all over the world gather together to
celebrate their pride in being Pagan. Centered around the autumnal equinox
(often called Mabon in some traditions) Pagan Pride Day is a chance for Pagans,
non-Pagans, friends and family meet in the spirit of community and open
mindedness.
The Pagan
Pride Project is a non-profit organization with the primary purpose of the
“advancement of religion and elimination of prejudice and discrimination based
on religious beliefs.” Many people who identify as Pagan still keep their
religious practices and spiritual beliefs “in the broom closet” and keep their
lifestyle a secret from their family, friends and coworkers. Pagan Pride Day
might be the only chance they have at gathering with other Pagans in an
environment that encourages open-mindedness and acceptance. For others it might
be the only time in the year that they have a chance to be around other Pagans.
The first
official Pagan Pride Day was in 1998, and since then the event has grown from a
couple hundred people gathering at a few small events combined to a few
thousand gathering at individual festivals held in all the corners of the
globe.
Each PPD
aims to “foster pride in Pagan identity through education, activism, charity
and community.” Pride events hold workshops, open discussions and panels to
share ideas, challenge beliefs and to also help educate new comers and curious
folks who may not be familiar with Paganism.
Mabon a
holiday of Thanksgiving and thankfulness, so it is the perfect time of year to
give back to the community. Pagan Pride Day is run by volunteers who offer
time, energy and money to the event. PPD is free, but donations of canned goods
or other nonperishable items are collected upon entry at the gate. Some events
even host blood drives or give back to the community in other ways.
Pagan Pride
Day isn’t just for Pagans, and people from all backgrounds and religious paths
are welcome to enjoy the day and the festivities. A goal of the Pagan Pride
Project is to encourage education, and that would include educating those who
are still afraid of witches and druids, Pagans and Shamans. These events are a
chance for Pagans to put on their best public face and encourage positive
impressions and create new perceptions, while fostering a strong and helpful
presence in the community.
With public
rituals, workshops, vendors, and entertainment, there’s a lot to do for the
whole family. It is a good opportunity to meet other Pagans and find groups,
organizations, events and workshops.
There is usually entertainment in the form drum circles, bands, dancing,
and lots of shopping. Volunteers host workshops for children, and there are often
labyrinths, face painting, information booths and plenty of people to talk to. Some
events are just a few hours long, while others last all day or even all
weekend.
The Pagan
Pride project helps coordinators with setting up events in new areas, and
offers a wealth of resources and support to directors and PPD sponsors. The
number of Pagan Pride Days grows every year, with more Pagans coming out and
gladly celebrating their pride.
Those
interested in the Pagan Pride Project can find more information at http://www.paganpride.org/.
