Runners and walkers take note: The RGV Queer Run Club is set to make South Texas history by hosting the first-ever official Pride 5K in the Rio Grande Valley. The event is set for Saturday, June 27, and it will mark the first anniversary of RGV Queer Run Club.
All proceeds from the RGV Pride 5K will benefit South Texas Equality Project, an organization that advocates for the LGBTQ+ community.
The RGV Pride 5K will step off at 7 a.m. at the Mission Hike and Bike Trails, 1801 Native Land Design in Mission. Registration is now open at jRGVPride5K.com, and registered participants will receive an official race T-shirt and finisher medal.
Registration for the 5K is $35. Registration for a one-mile fun run/walk is $30. Registration for both closes Friday, June 26, at 7 p.m.
“The Pride 5K is more than a race. It’s a declaration of love and solidarity for the LGBTQ community,” explains a press release announcing the event. “It’s a space we’ve built for ourselves and for each other, rooted in the belief that everyone deserves to be seen and supported.
“For many queer and trans people, existing in the world as our authentic selves can feel unsafe, and running together changes that,” the press release continues. “We are part of the Rio Grande Valley, and we deserve to enjoy its trails, nature and public spaces with pride and joy.”
RGV Queer Run Club co-founder Vicente Martinez Jr. said, “The RGV Queer Run/Walk Club is a reflection of our beautiful community. We’re diverse, full of love, life, and resistance. Our mere existence is our resistance, and every time we come together, we laugh, we run, we walk, we get to be who we are, and we are visible.
“The RGV and the queer and trans communities are often erased, forgotten, or overlooked,” he added. “The Pride 5K is our oath to our community, which continues to fight to exist. We are here, we are queer, and we aren’t going ANYWHERE.”
South Texas Equality Project President Hector Ruiz, said the LGBTQ+ community in the Rio Grande Valley is “vibrant and creative, and for many decades has been creating spaces for people to experience a sense of belonging.”
“We are proud to witness an historical moment for the RGV with the first-ever Pride 5K,” Ruiz said, describing the event as “a collaborative effort led by people of the RGV for people of the RGV.”
He continued, “This Pride 5K is a symbol of resilience and a testament to the compassionate nature that guides our LGBTQ+ community to care for the well-being of each other. The South Texas Equality Project is honored to be named the beneficiary of this event that will support year-round programming rooted in advocacy, education and fostering a supportive community.
“We hope that people come out, get involved and get connected. The Pride 5K is about belonging, and this is for you!”
— Tammye Nash
