Knickerbocker Sailing Association Announces Gay Pride Flotilla on the Hudson River

NEW YORK, June 15, 2020 (Newswire.com) - ​​The Knickerbocker Sailing Association announces plans for a live Gay Pride flotilla event on Saturday June 27th, 2020. Despite Covid-19 restrictions preventing large crowds gathering and this year’s physical Parade transitioning to a virtual event, KSA’s Rainbows on the Hudson, an inherently Covid-19 safe activity, will continue. 

“KSA’s 18 year tradition of ‘marching on the water’ to celebrate Gay Pride, is even more important in these uncertain times,” said James Weichert, KSA’s Commodore. “On the 50 Year anniversary of the first Heritage of Pride March in New York and with the devastating impacts of Covid-19 transitioning the parade down 5th Avenue to a virtual event, it is important today, as it was 50 years ago, to have a live parade celebrating diversity while highlighting the vast work for equality that’s still required.”

Over 20 boats have already registered for this year’s Rainbows on the Hudson. Participating sail and power-boat owners flying massive Pride and diversity flags will meet at the Statue of Liberty base around noon and proceed north up the Hudson River shortly thereafter. At 59th street boats will turn around and parade south to Battery Park before dispersing at approximately 6pm. Spectators can witness the parade at multiple vantage points along both sides of the Hudson River while employing safe distancing protocols.  

Participation and proceeds from this event will support the Ali Forney Center whose mission is to protect LGBTQ youths from the harms of homelessness and empower them with the tools needed to live independently. 

For information on how to participate in this event please contact KSA’s Commodore

James Weichert or KSA’s Pride flotilla captain, Steve Kelley. 

James Weichert - KSA Commodore
e: [email protected]  c: 917.362.2200

Steve Kelly - KSA Pride Flotilla Captain
e: [email protected]  c: 516.528.0051

About Knickerbocker Sailing Association - Knickerbocker Sailing Association (KSA) is a New York based non-profit gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and queer boating club that promotes LGBTQ awareness and inclusiveness on the water. Founded in 1994 the club is proudly celebrating its 26th year. With over 150 active members, the club’s diverse group welcome like minded individuals who support diversity while enjoying sailing and boating experiences on the water. 

Members do not need a boat, sailing or boating experience to join. The club fosters a friendly and non-judgmental atmosphere aimed at connecting captains of sailboats and powerboats to individuals with varying degrees of experience. United by a love for the outdoors and the open water, members educate and learn the basics of sailing, boating and boat safety from each other. 

For more information about this event or membership inquiries visit KSAsailing.org or follow us @KSAsailing.

Source: Knickerbocker Sailing Association