Our Mission
McKinney Pride is a 501(c)(4) social welfare organization that strives to create a welcoming, safe space for the LGBTQIA2S+ community of McKinney, Texas, through activism, cultural events, connecting people to resources and support groups, and advocating for queer rights.
Organization History
McKinney Pride was originally formed in 2021 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, with the first McKinney Pride event held inside the Groovy Coop and Carpe Diem Comics & Games in Historic Downtown McKinney.
Since then, the McKinney Pride Festival has been held annually at Dr. Glenn Mitchell Memorial Park in Historic Downtown McKinney.
In 2024, the original McKinney Pride organization was dissolved as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and a new McKinney Pride planning committee was formed. Not long after, McKinney Pride was officially registered as a 501(c)(4) organization with the goal of not only continuing the annual McKinney Pride Festival tradition, but also supporting the LGBTQIA2S+ community of McKinney year-round through community-building, local activities, and mutual aid efforts.
The current McKinney Pride planning committee consists of Maddie Coe, Claire Zerull, and Sarah Hustwit. To contact us, please email info@mckinneypride.org.
Why LGBTQIA2S+?
We use the LGBTQIA2S+ acronym to refer to the queer community whenever possible. LGBTQIA2S+ stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning, Intersex, Asexual, and Two (2) Spirits.
From LGBTQIA2S.org: “This expanded acronym is used to identify different sexual orientations and gender identities. People in the LGBTQIA2+ community come from all walks of life and include individuals of all races and ethnicities, all ages, all socioeconomic levels, and from all parts of the country. Using a person’s correct gender pronouns is one of the most basic ways to show your respect for their identity and demonstrate your support for the LGBTQIA2+ community.”
To learn more about the expanded acronym, follow this link: Understanding the Meaning of LGBTQIA2S+: A Comprehensive Guide.