WRWC Celebrates Pride Across the Watershed

Last weekend, the Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council was excited to participate in Rhode Island Pride events for the very first time, joining three community celebrations that brought people together from Providence to the headwaters of the Woonasquatucket River in Smithfield.

Pride Comes to the Greenway

We kicked off the weekend on Thursday by joining the Providence City Council and community members on Kinsley Avenue to celebrate the unveiling of four new Pride crosswalks along one of the newest sections of the Woonasquatucket Greenway.

The street was filled with music, art, neighbors, and plenty of Pride spirit as people gathered to celebrate and enjoy the public space. It was great to see so many people spending time on the Greenway and bringing some extra color and energy to the neighborhood.

PrideFest and the Parade

On Friday, WRWC spent the day at Rhode Island PrideFest along the Providence River, talking with visitors about the watershed, our programs, and ways to get involved.

One thing we heard over and over again was surprise when people learned that the Providence River starts right where they were standing, formed by the Woonasquatucket and Moshassuck Rivers before flowing into Narragansett Bay. We had lots of great conversations about local waterways, recreation, environmental stewardship, and the work happening throughout the watershed.

After PrideFest wrapped up, it was time for the parade.

Our team decorated the electric Ranger truck, strapped our seven-foot stuffed brook trout to the roof, and joined thousands of people celebrating Rhode Island Pride’s 50th anniversary. It was a fun, energetic evening, and we were happy to be part of it.

A Solstice Celebration at the Headwaters

The Pride festivities continued on Saturday as we headed to Smithfield for the Gay Solstice celebration hosted by our friends at Revive the Roots.

Held near the headwaters of the Woonasquatucket River, the event featured guided hikes with Queer Hikes, community art activities, games, music, and a puppet performance by Wicked Queer Puppet Theater. WRWC joined in by helping visitors create puppets using natural and reclaimed materials before taking part in a joyful puppet parade.

It was a beautiful day outdoors and a great reminder of how special these shared community spaces can be.

Thanks for Celebrating With Us

Whether you stopped by our table at PrideFest, joined us on Kinsley Avenue, marched in the parade, or spent the afternoon with us in Smithfield, thank you for making our first Rhode Island Pride weekend such a memorable one.

We had a blast connecting with new people, sharing the story of the Woonasquatucket River, and celebrating communities that make our watershed a welcoming place for everyone.

Happy Pride from all of us at WRWC.