October 8, 2023
Rainbow Lagoon Park, Long Beach, California
Photos courtesy of Tony Mierzwicki and Stephen Yelich
The day began in a soft, grey fog,
making Rainbow Lagoon look more like a bog.
The silence faded with a familiar sound,
of tents going up on the dewy ground.
The blue and black tents began to appear,
and the vendors set up all their portable gear.
They laid cloths and displays for the people to see,
all the wonderful things their hands brought to be.
Founder Brian, he ran to and fro,
making sure the vendors knew just where to go.
President Chaw expertly navigated,
her speakers and authors, every one highly rated.
Roadie Paul, undercover event boss,
from setup to teardown, without him – chaos!
Board newbie Tracey, with her volunteer ranks,
pitching in where most needed, for them we give thanks.
Thousands came from far and wide,
to be a part of Pagan Pride.
All faiths, all beliefs, all religions, and none,
on this day we celebrate, together as one.
Let’s not forget why we do this each year,
to encourage tolerance and banish fear.
No fear of each other, or of the unknown,
it’s heartening to look back and see how we’ve grown.
A word to the curious, come see what we do,
Pagan Pride is for all, and we will welcome you.
– Tracey Burke
Save the date for our next
PAGAN PRIDE DAY
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2024
Rainbow Lagoon Park, Long Beach, California
Southland Pagan Press Contributors 