BATTLE GROUND, Wash. — On Saturday, June 6, Battle Ground Community United Methodist Church (BGCUMC) hosted its third annual Pre-Pride Palooza, welcoming local LGBTQ+ youth and allies for an afternoon of creativity, fellowship, and celebration in preparation for the upcoming La Center Rainbow Walk.
Participants spent the afternoon creating colorful tie-dyed bandanas and Pride-themed socks while enjoying pizza, laughter, and meaningful conversation. The event was organized by BGCUMC’s Social Justice Team in partnership with Called to Love, a local organization dedicated to supporting LGBTQ+ youth and their families.
The gathering is one of several events sponsored throughout the school year for students involved in Gender and Sexuality Alliances (GSAs) at middle and high schools across the region. These events provide opportunities for young people from different schools to meet, build friendships, and develop supportive connections in a welcoming environment.
“In a world where many LGBTQ+ youth can feel isolated, creating opportunities for connection is vital,” said church M.O.M. (Media and Office Manager) Michael Kidowski. “The more people you know, the more support you have.”
Located in Battle Ground, a community often viewed as politically and socially conservative, BGCUMC continues its commitment to being a beacon of God’s love for all people. Through three to four youth-centered events each school year, the church strives to create safe spaces where LGBTQ+ youth can gather, celebrate their identities, and simply be themselves.
Organizers described this year’s Pre-Pride Palooza as a great success, with strong participation, enthusiastic creativity, and a spirit of joy that reflected the church’s ongoing commitment to inclusion, compassion, and community.
As participants left with their newly created Pride gear and new friendships, they also carried with them a reminder that they are seen, valued, and loved.
