Navigating Newport’s LGBTQ+ Orgs: OUT & Pride Explained
- NewportOUT
- Apr 10
- 3 min read
Ever get a little confused between Newport OUT and Newport Pride? You're not alone! We are always asked: "Are they the same thing?" So, let's clear things up and share a bit of our story along the way. Both organizations are deeply committed to celebrating and supporting the LGBTQ+ community here in Newport County, but we do have some key differences. Think of us as sister organizations, each playing a vital role in making Newport a more welcoming place for our community.
So, What's the Difference?
Newport OUT: We're a marketing agency (an LLC acquired in 2017) laser-focused on connecting you – businesses, events, and experiences – with the queer community, both visitors and locals. Think of us as your guides to the best of LGBTQ+ Newport.
Newport Pride: They're a non-profit (a 501(c)(3) established in 2022) with a board of directors, dedicated to advocacy, education, and organizing community-building events like the Pride Festival and the Newport Pride Center for the LGBTQ+ community.
Essentially, we're partners in making Newport a fantastic place for everyone.
Our Roots: The Newport OUT Story
Newport OUT has a pretty cool history. Back in 2017, trailblazers Sean O’Connor (our savvy Business Manager, a local boy from Tiverton) and Dani Cano Restrepo (our amazing Digital Creative Director, originally from the vibrant hills of Medellin, Colombia!) acquired the business from its past owner, also owner of Newport’s last gay bar, Castaways. Our insider and outsider perspective was the catalyst power for this work.
We saw an opportunity to not just keep the business going but to revive it! Our vision was to create a go-to resource, for LGBTQ+ travelers and locals. We started as a marketing agency focused on highlighting inclusive businesses right here on Aquidneck Island. Including Newport Craft, Discover Newport, Bar 12 & Tavern on Broadway, Mother Pizzeria & Giusto Newport, Wally’s Wiener, The Quencher, Newport Playhouse, and Rejects Beer just to name a few.
Over the years, we've learned a ton about what our community needs. While we still champion those inclusive businesses (because giving them a platform is crucial), we've also expanded to showcase all the awesome LGBTQ+ owned businesses, events and experiences that make Newport such a fantastic destination.
Newport Pride: Celebrating & Advocating
While we were busy building our marketing magic, the annual Pride Festival was thriving under the Newport OUT umbrella. But in 2022, something amazing happened: Newport Pride officially became its own 501(c)(3) non-profit, with a dedicated board of directors. This was a huge step!
Newport Pride continues to do what it does best: throwing incredible events like the annual Pride Fest & Parade (which draws over 3,500 people – talk about an impact!) and advocating for our community. Remember those awesome rainbow crosswalks? That was them! They're all about equality, safe spaces, and making sure everyone feels seen and heard. They even opened Newport County's first-ever LGBTQ+ Community space the Newport Pride Center in 2023, run by awesome staff and youth leader Myka and many partners and community volunteers.
Want to Get Involved?
Support & Donate to Newport Pride: You can donate by mailing a check to PO Box 3443, Newport, RI 02840, or online at Newportprideri.org/donate. Reach out to them at events@newportprideri.org for more info on their great work. Newportprideri.org
Partner with Newport OUT: If you're a business or local organization looking to reach the LGBTQ+ community, we're your team! Contact us at info@newportout.com to chat about advertising and collaborations. Newportout.com
We hope this clears things up! We're proud to work alongside Newport Pride to make Newport a vibrant and welcoming place for all. Do you have any further questions? Feel free to contact us!
Cheers,
The OUT & Newport Pride Team
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