There were rainbow flags flying in front of many shops and restaurants along Warren Street in Hudson on Sunday, June 20, as the raffish, stylish Columbia County city officially laid claim to being the gay capital of the Rural Intelligence region with the 1st Annual Hudson Gay Pride Parade. It was a true coming together of long-time Hudson residents, transplants from New York City, and weekenders along with residents of nearby Berkshire, Dutchess and Litchfield counties—a celebration of openness, diversity and acceptance. And where else would you find crowds applauding a float with children from the local day care center and the high school prom king and queen (both out gay boys) and a vintage pick-up truck with a banner that read "Gay Farmers & Friends"?
Helping to redefine "rural intelligence."
A rainbow of drag queens dressed by Lisa Durfee of Five & Diamond Vintage comprised the Five & Diamond "float."
Charlie Ferrusi and Timmy Howard—he grand marshals and prom king and queen of Hudson High School—were driven down Warren Street by Frank Faulkner.
The parade reflected the rainbow of people who call Hudson and our region home.
A MINI makes a big statement.
For at least one day, everyone seemed to have the same politics.
The day care center's float.
Hudson activist Trixie Starr.
A stiltwalker on Warren Street.
