The inaugural Pride Parade in Grand Forks brought together a vibrant crowd on September 14, 2025, as participants celebrated diversity and inclusivity in a lively procession through the city. The event marked a significant milestone for the community, culminating in festivities at Town Square where attendees gathered to cheer and share in the celebration.
Bridget Brooks, the grand marshal of the parade, expressed her emotions addressing the crowd. “I am really speechless over this, you guys,” she said. “Wow. I look around and look at the happy faces, the smiling faces here. This is what we deserve. Everyone — every single person — deserves to be as happy as we are right now.” Her words resonated deeply with the attendees, reinforcing the spirit of unity within the community.
Since its inception in 2015, Grand Forks Pride has grown significantly, expanding from small events to a full-scale parade this year. With assistance from city staff and local law enforcement, the parade featured various community organizations, including the Community Violence Intervention Center, Free Mom Hugs, and Red River Rainbow Seniors, among others. The streets were adorned with rainbow flags and colorful attire as participants filled the air with music and cheers.
Attendees ranged from children to seniors, all eager to show their support. Sharon Pearson and her husband, Casey Pearson, were particularly enthusiastic about this historic event. Having attended multiple Pride activities in the region, Sharon emphasized the importance of visibility in Grand Forks. “We have a great community, and it’s just important for people to be visible here, and feel welcome here,” she said. Casey added that supporting LGBTQ+ individuals in their lives was crucial, highlighting the need for diversity and equality.
Another participant, Lindsey Graham, echoed similar sentiments, expressing her desire to be an ally within the community. “I like to be part of the community, and be an ally,” she stated, reinforcing the sense of solidarity among attendees.
Following the parade, Brooks received recognition not only as grand marshal but also as the recipient of the Cheryl Terrance Award. A chair of the UND Faculty & Staff Association and an instructional designer, Brooks, along with her wife, Judy Little, founded the UND LGBTQIA+ Endowment for the UND Pride Center last year. They recently achieved their first financial goal of $25,000, with aspirations to reach $100,000 within five years.
Brooks plans to commemorate this achievement with a tattoo design contest, promising to get the winning design tattooed on her shoulder as a celebration of the community’s commitment to the cause. The ambition of the fund illustrates the growing support for the LGBTQ+ community in Grand Forks and highlights the positive impact such initiatives can have.
As the festivities continued, attendees engaged in various activities in Town Square, where local performer BJ Armani acknowledged the contributions of those involved in organizing the parade. The event’s success underscores the importance of community engagement and the power of celebration in fostering acceptance and understanding.
The Grand Forks Pride Parade not only marked a joyous occasion but also served as a reminder of the ongoing journey towards equality and inclusivity for all. As the community continues to grow and embrace diversity, events like these play a vital role in promoting unity and happiness for every individual, reinforcing the belief that everyone deserves to feel valued and celebrated.
