Marion Pride event will raise awareness

The Marion Civil Rights Commission envisions a community that is welcoming, inclusive, and preserves the personal dignity of all people. The commission would like to encourage residents and neighbors to visit and partake in the upcoming 'Pride In Action” activities happening at the Marion Library on Saturday. We see this event as a way for the community to become more aware and attuned to the diversity that exists in Marion and the surrounding area.

As Marion continues to grow it is becoming more diverse. Cedar Rapids holds several festivals celebrating diverse communities throughout the year from Asian Fest, Kolache Fest, Festival Latino, Juneteenth, St. Patrick's Day Parade and their own Pride Fest. Marion has yet to develop these types of events.

The Marion Civil Rights Commission supports and encourages these events as opportunities to learn about the people and groups that are part of our growing community. There are LGBTQIA individuals who are our neighbors and co-workers and need support and protection from discrimination.

The 'Pride In Action” event is a way for us all to learn more about the community around us, and we fully support the Marion Library in hosting this event. We encourage everyone in Marion to stop by and learn more about the people of our community.

Bret Nilles

Chair

Marion Civil Rights Commission