Abigail’s Pride in Brandon Township Postponed Due to Logistics and Safety Concerns
(Crystal A. Proxmire, April 24, 2026)
Brandon Township, MI – In 2022, Abigail Rowe was a student at Brandon High School. And she was on a mission – to show love and support for LGBTQ+ people in her school and in the Ortonville area by creating a Pride event. The first Abigail’s Pride took place in Downtown Ortonville that June, with hundreds showing up to the quint downtown donning rainbow clothing, flags, and messages of love, acceptance, and support.
In the years following, the event was moved out of downtown, but still shared community love in a nearby park. But the tradition is now on pause as Rowe steps back to focus on a summer internship, and also to consider how to put on the event in the safest way possible.
The announcement came on Facebook, with Rowe sharing “I want to start by thanking every single one of you for your patience and support over the last five years. This community means the world to me and there are no words that can accurately express my gratitude.
“With that being said, I do have to bring some unfortunate news. We have run into many logistical problems in planning this year’s pride festival, with myself being away interning at Walt Disney World, changes to our organization structure, and needing to find a new place to host the event for a second time (not to fear – Brandon Township is aiding in this endevour).
“Due to these hurdles, myself as well as my team believe that it is unwise to host our event this June.
That is not to say that there will be no event in 2026, we just need more time to create a truly safe space to celebrate. Especially with the current state of our country, our community’s safety and well-being is my highest priority. I can not, in good faith, host an event that would put that at risk.
“In the meantime, our team will be working to create a new solution for an event, as well as finding other ways to support LGBTQ+ youth and families in our area. If you have any questions or concerns about the postponing of the event please feel free to reach out to us via email or DM.
“I know this news is hard to hear as the pride festival has been a light for our community. I am asking you to trust that nobody is more devastated by this announcement than l am, and understand that I have not made this decision lightly. Thank you again for your unwavering support. I am here for you always.”
Those looking for other Pride options might consider Ferndale Pride, Hazel Park Pride, Berkley Pride, or Motor City Pride.
Keep up to date with Abigail’s Pride and future announcements on Facebook.
