Every June, a horde of rainbow tutus and brightly colored leis descend on the Deerfield River, Massachusetts, in a vibrant gathering of ages, genders, identities and paddling experiences where all are welcome. All are valued.

Founded in 2019 to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community and its history through whitewater boating, today Pride Day on the River creates a space where LGBQT2IA+ people and allies can connect with other queer paddlers and discover a new way to be outdoors, away from prejudice, discrimination or stigmatization.

“You can just be yourself, just do your thing and just worry about being on the river. You don’t have to worry about anything else.” —Jason Costa, Volunteer Organizer

With Pride Day on the River, LEAD Ambassador Ann Gillard is challenging stereotypes, creating community and using the river to build resilience for all LGBQT+ people.

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“Leading the Way” is a film series that celebrates and promotes NRS ambassadors, organizations and projects fostering inclusivity and positive change in the outdoors.