Written by Adelina Rose Gowans. Illustration courtesy of Adelina Rose Gowans.
Mark your calendars because Savannah Pride 2022 is just around the corner! I had the pleasure of interviewing one of the festival’s key organizers, Lawrence Appenzeller, about what it takes to orchestrate Pride.
Lawrence Appenzeller (he/they) is a SCAD alum (2017, BA Interactive Design and Game Development) and the Executive Director at First City Pride Center. His focus includes directing and marketing for the center—and, in particular, organizing the rapidly approaching 2022 Savannah Pride Festival.
What does the process of organizing a citywide pride event look like?
“Of course, you have to start with the city. It’s an intense process to get permits and work with all the different city offices. On top of that, I’m the only staff member working full-time on Pride and one of only two employees at the center, so everyone else is a volunteer. It’s a pretty big challenge, but having a background in art from SCAD is really helpful.”
How can SCAD students get involved/volunteer with First City Pride as well as the center in general?
“We are definitely looking for volunteers! There are a bunch of different opportunities. First City Pride is a really easy way to help out, even just for a few hours. We’re looking for volunteers in crowd control, bartending, VIP check-in, and more. It’s a fun way to get involved in the community and meet new people.
We also have a lot of volunteer roles available at the center itself. Our marketing and communications committee is trying to grow, and we’re looking for front-desk volunteers. We’re always trying to expand our outreach in Savannah, and volunteers are vital to this process.”
More information on volunteering and application forms can be found here.
Are there any events you’re particularly looking forward to during the festival?
“I’m really excited about our entertainment overall. We have quite a few performers, both local and flying in. Also, this is only the second year that the parade (Friday, Oct. 28 at 8 p.m., at Ellis Square ) is happening. We are overjoyed to have that kind of visibility in the city and give people the opportunity to walk in the parade.”
Finally, what are some of the year-round services that First City Pride Center offers to the Savannah community that students should know about?
“One of our most successful services is PRISM Clinic, which is a free or low-cost mental health support resource available either via telehealth or in person at the center. We also host several after-hours support groups, including Transfam (a weekly support group for trans and nonbinary individuals and allies), Evening Prayer (a weekly prayer meeting hosted by Epiphany, a local progressive and affirming church), and more!”
All First City Pride Center’s programs and services can be found here.
Savannah Pride Festival will run Oct. 27-29 in Ellis Square. For more information on the daily events, vendors, parade, and more visit First City Pride Center’s website. Happy pride!
