The annual Naples Pride Festival at Cambier Park faces an uncertain future as residents and city council members prepare for a vote on its permit renewal Wednesday morning. The meeting will be held at city hall, begins at 8:30 a.m., and public comment is encouraged.
“We're out here today, raising our voice, trying to stand in the gap and be the barrier for our children in our community,” said Naples resident Teddy Collins, a local father and businessman who attended Monday’s workshop at city hall.
The Naples Pride Festival, first held in 2017, is the nonprofit’s largest annual fundraiser. The proceeds fund mental health services, including free therapy sessions for LGBTQ+ individuals.
“Naples Pride creates an event specifically tailored to our community that is appropriate for all ages. It’s not just about entertainment; it’s about combating discrimination and fostering connections within our community," said Callhan Soldavini, of the Naples Pride Center.
Last year’s city council vote to approve the festival permit narrowly passed, 4-3, following hours of public debate. This year’s meeting is expected to draw similar turnout and tension.
“We don’t want to expose our kids to things that are destructive. We need to protect our children and our community," said Andrew Delong, another Naples resident in attendance at Monday's meeting.