McMurry SAGA Joins Abilene Pride Alliance’s Third Annual Pride Parade

One of the many things that sets McMurry University apart is its ability to thrive with diversity in all forms. This is no more evident than in our vibrant Gender and Sexuality Acceptance (SAGA) group on campus. SAGA is a place for anyone along the gender and sexuality spectrums and allies to have a community of like-minded individuals to celebrate their uniqueness with.

This year celebrates SAGA’s 14th year of existence and their second year of involvement with the annual Abilene Pride Parade. On Saturday, October 5th, McMurry students, staff, and faculty once again marched in the Pride Parade alongside multiple members of the community like The People’s Plaza and The Episcopal Church of the Heavenly Rest to show their support for LGBTQIA+ individuals at McMurry and in the Abilene Community.

The parade began at 2 p.m., drawing participants from various community organizations, including SAGA. The procession followed the same route as the West Texas Fair and Rodeo Parade, with vibrant displays and enthusiastic performers.

After the parade, the festivities moved to the Abilene Convention Center at 3 p.m. Local artists performed throughout the day, culminating in the Rainbow Rodeo Drag Show, hosted by drag queens Nyx @ Nite and Cecilia Ford. Dozens of local vendors at the festival offered a variety of food and crafts, providing a space for local businesses and artisans to connect with the community.

The event successfully brought together supporters of the LGBTQIA+ community, celebrating diversity and inclusion in Abilene. The Abilene Pride Alliance looks forward to next year’s event, and SAGA looks forward to meeting you every 2nd and 4th Friday of the month at 1 p.m.!