The evening will feature a screening of the PBS documentary Stonewall Uprising, which chronicles the pivotal events of the Stonewall Riots that ignited the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement. In addition, guests will have the opportunity to view archival footage from the Rhode Island Historical Society documenting Rhode Island’s first Gay Pride Parade, highlighting the state’s own history of courage, protest, and community organizing.

The program will also feature local spoken word artists sharing poetry and reflections on protest, resilience, and the ongoing pursuit of equality. Through film, historical documentation, and live performance, the event will create a dynamic space for reflection on how protest and artistic expression have shaped both the LGBTQ+ movement and the broader American story. Following the formal program, community members will be invited to gather, connect, and celebrate over shared food and conversation.

This event is free and open to the public. Together, Newport Pride and the Jamestown Arts Center aim to create an engaging and thought-provoking evening that honors the legacy of LGBTQ+ activism while celebrating the role of art and community in shaping a more inclusive future as the nation approaches its 250th year.