Accessibility, Safety & Wellness at PrideFEST

POLICE PRESENCE

Middletown Pride seeks to create safer spaces for the LGBTQIA2S+ and BIPOC communities at a time when violence against marginalized groups, specifically BIPOC and transgender communities, has continued to escalate.  We understand that to some, the sense of safety that law enforcement is meant to provide can be threatening, and at times dangerous, to those in our community who are most often targeted with excessive force.  However, Middletown Pride works closely with the Middletown Police Department to ensure that Middletown Pride is as safe as possible for all attendees.  We do this, because the potential for any number of groups or people to attempt harm to our community is an ever-present reality, during pride and otherwise.  This year is no different.  The coordination between Middletown Pride and the MPD allows us to coordinate contact across the event to ensure that should the need for some response arise, we can do so as quickly and smoothly as possible.  TO BE CLEAR, as of right now we have not been notified of any identified threat.

ACCESSIBILITY AND WELLNESS

Middletown Pride is committed to accessibility and strives to ensure its services are accessible to the broadest circle of people.  At PrideFEST, we do this by providing the following services:

Vaccinations and Health Screenings:

The Middletown Health Department in partnership with Middlesex Health and other local organizations are delighted to provide services free of charge to Middletown Pride attendees. An updated listing of services will be provided soon!

Sensory Reduction Tent:

For those who need to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the festival, the Middlesex Health Mayer Center and Beit Center Tent, which will be located on the South Green will be equipped as a sensory reduction space. The enclosed tent is positioned away from crowds and loud sounds (as much as is possible), and is equipped with items  to allow attendees to “take a break” in a safe space with less sensory impact. The space will also include seating, water, fans, and more.

Accessible Viewing Areas and Parking: 

All wheelchairs, strollers and mobility devices are welcome! As a street festival, there are no steps to access PrideFEST.  Middletown Pride staff will be able to assist you with any needs to view the Pride March or Pride Showcase Concert.  Additionally, if you anticipate needing an accommodation while at PrideFEST, please reach out to Middletown Pride prior to the event at info@middletownpride.org so we can accommodate you. 

The accessible parking lot will be located behind the D’Angelo Funeral Home, located at 22 S. Main Street, Middletown, CT 06457. 

ASL Interpreter:

An ASL interpreter will be available on the South Green Stage on Old Church Street from 2:30 pm – 7 p.m. and on the Main Street stage at Spear Park from 4 pm – 7 p.m.

Designated Entry & Exit Points: 

PrideFEST is a street festival that occupies multiple city blocks. All streets are open to the public as there are no designated entry or exit points.

First Responder Locations, Cooling Tent, and First Aid Kits: 

Ambulatory services are located on the South Green during the entirety of PrideFEST.  First Aid kits and waters are available at the Middletown Pride Check-In Tent on the South Green in the gazebo and at the Check-In tent in the North End located at MacDonough School, and the Middletown Pride Merchandise Tent.

An enclosed cooling tent equipped with air conditioners and water will be located on the South Green for the convenience of patrons who need to beat the heat. 

Portable Toilets:

Portable toilets and accessible toilets will be located on the South Green, Union Street,

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Way (across from the Main St stage on Spear Park), College Street,

Dingwall Drive, and at MacDonough School for the Pride March.