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I was born and raised right here in Albert Lea. Last year, I was excited that Albert Lea was demonstrating our inclusivity by hosting our first PRIDE event. The event was amazing, and I am looking forward to this year’s event. This is a great way for our community to demonstrate respect and inclusion to those in the LGBTQ community. Everyone deserves to feel respected and included.

I was disheartened to see that the owners of Wedgewood Cove canceled a nearly year-long reservation for the Drag Brunch just six weeks prior to the event. Two local residents recently wrote letters in support of Wedgewood Cove’s decision to cancel.

Imagine having your own event, such as a wedding reception or brunch for a community group, scheduled at Wedgewood a year in advance, only to have them cancel the event, giving you less than two months to find another venue. I cannot speak for those who wrote letters, but I imagine most people would be extremely upset and may choose to spend their money elsewhere in the future.

I want to thank City Councilor Sherri Rasmussen for speaking out about Wedgewood’s decision to cancel. We need those we elect to be brave enough to speak up and support marginalized communities.

I want to thank the Freeborn County Historical Museum for hosting this year’s Drag Brunch.

I want to thank everyone who organized, sponsored or volunteered to make Albert Lea’s first PRIDE event amazing. I am hoping 2024 PRIDE will be just as wonderful.
Love is Love!

Angie Hanson
Albert Lea