NAPLES, N.Y. — Following a string of threatening social media posts, organizers of the third annual Naples Pride Festival reached out to the Ontario County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies were on the scene throughout Sunday’s festivities.

“People are closeted and afraid to come and things like this show them, hey, you aren’t alone,” said Gene Thibodeau, who lives in Naples. “It’s just wonderful to realize, ya know, even if you’re gay out here, there’s still gay accepting friends and support. People don’t realize we are out here until there is something that’s organized.”

Drag Me to the Stage co-owner Tim Evanicki says it was important to make sure this year’s pride festival was safe for everybody was key.

“There were pretty aggressive messages and threats offered up to us before our arrival,” Evanicki said. “I grew up with the bullies and not feeling like I fit into that small town and that community so I pushed back a little bit online.”

With security in place, speakers took to the podium to share their stories of perseverance.

“When I began to identify as who I am and shine that light – my father came around, my mother came around, and I was able to have some special time before they passed,” said Mrs. Kasha Davis, who lives in Fairport.

It’s what RuPaul’s Drag Race star Mrs. Kasha says pride is all about – delivering a message of hope and self-love to anyone who will listen.

“If you don’t have that community at your home, at your school, recognize there are more people out there living happy and healthy lives and you can too – with that self-love,” Davis said.

Information about Drag Me to the Stage here.

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