Forty-one WHUUFers gathered in fellowship and took to the streets in the fun and flamboyant Pride Parade, June 15, in downtown Portland.

The day started somewhat cold and cloudy, but then the sun broke through and smiles heated up as the Parade stepped off. UUs marched in order led by Michael Servetus UU, followed by WHUUF, Washington Co., and First Unitarian. WHUUF, it must be said, took the bragging rights with more marchers than any of the other UUs!

The crowds cheered wildly as the WHUUF banners came into view. After all, how often do churches take a stand to support the gay community? One could easily see the gratitude and appreciation expressed by the multitude of faces as we passed.


WHUUF was well represented by all ages: John Horn blazed the trail in his wheelchair while little Lily Potter performed cartwheels to the crowd’s amazement. Costa Columbus drew passionate, sometimes even weeping rounds of applause as he boldly waved his sign declaring, “Dads for Lesbians,” a fitting reminder of the special importance of this particular Father’s Day.

All of us were inspired by consulting minister Rev. Bob Schaibly who led the way. He asked the congregation months ago if they would join him in the March. Care Net and the Social Action Committee took the necessary steps to make this event possible, following the by-laws, holding meetings and putting the issue to a vote. In one of the rare instances in our history, the Fellowship voted to take a public stand on an important social issue (the tally was 72-3). For the first time ever, the Fellowship itself, not just individuals or committees, was represented in the Pride March.

This was a thrilling and poignant experience for all and one that won’t soon be forgotten. WHUUF reached out to the greater community and the community reached back with love.

Care Net and the Social Action Committee would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to all those who walked with us, cheered from the crowd or otherwise supported this event! And a special thank you to Kirstin Lurtz who took it upon herself to register WHUUF and pay for the fee out of her own pocket.

(Be sure to check out our photos of the event on the WHUUF.net website. On the upper right corner of the home page is a link for “Media Gallery.” Click and scroll down to the Social Action album and click on the tiny blue letters for the sub-album “Pride March June 15, 2008”)