Pride

Queer youth rally

by Dorie Clark

Three weeks before adults get a chance to kick up their heels at Boston Pride, queer youth are taking to the streets for the sixth annual Gay-Straight Youth Pride March, the only event of its kind in the nation. Nearly 6000 young people are expected to turn out on Saturday, May 20 -- the most ever, and double last year's tally.

Kathy Keegan, a spokeswoman for the Governor's Commission on Gay and Lesbian Youth, says participants are registered from across New England. The march, she explains, is a chance for queer youth who feel isolated in their schools to realize they're not alone: "For a lot of kids, it's their refueling station for the whole year."

A rally at the State House steps begins at noon, followed by a march to the Hatch Shell, where the hosts of WFNX's One in Ten, Keith Orr and Sue O'Connell, will MC a program that will include performances by folk singer Jess Klein, DJ Entropy, and the Boston Gay Men's Chorus. Adults who would like to show their support are encouraged to attend the rally, cheer the marchers on along the parade route, or volunteer to help with Saturday's logistical activities. For more information or to volunteer, contact Kathy Keegan at the Governor's Commission on Gay and Lesbian Youth at (617) 624-5285, or e-mail Kathy.Keegan@state.ma.us.