In this engaging conversation, hosts Chris and Jen welcome April and Shaina Dreyson, members of the Keller South Lake community and founders of Pride Kel-So. They discuss their personal journeys, the importance of community engagement, and the role of allies in supporting the LGBTQ+ community. The conversation highlights the significance of representation, the difference between tolerance and acceptance, and the transformative power of pride events in fostering a sense of belonging. April and Shana share their experiences of navigating their identities in a conservative environment and the impact of their business on the local community. They also provide valuable advice for LGBTQ+ youth and emphasize the need for empathy and understanding in bridging divides. In this conversation, April and Shaina discuss the upcoming Pride Kelso event, emphasizing the importance of community resources, safety, and personal growth. They share insights on event planning, the role of allies, and the impact of creating a safe space for the LGBTQ+ community. The discussion highlights the significance of being bold and present in advocating for change, as well as the transformative power of community events.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Gratitude Moments
04:13 Meet April and Shaina Dreyson
09:19 Community Engagement and Representation
12:33 Creating a Sense of Home and Community
16:25 Personal Journeys and Authenticity
23:01 Advice for LGBTQ+ Youth
27:27 Navigating Personal Journeys of Identity
29:17 The Role of Community and Allyship
31:25 Understanding Privilege and Its Impact
33:53 The Importance of Allyship in Social Movements
36:47 The Need for Active Participation in Advocacy
38:46 Acceptance vs. Affirmation in Relationships
45:39 Creating Inclusive Spaces for All
47:10 The Evolution of Community Support
50:17 The Significance of Pride Events
53:31 What to Expect at Pride Kelso
01:00:40 Community Engagement and Fundraising Efforts
01:02:09 Building Relationships with Local Organizations
01:04:06 Personal Growth and Emotional Connections
01:06:53 Creating Safe Spaces in Polarizing Environments
01:11:22 Event Planning and Safety Measures
01:19:40 Impact of Leadership in the Community
01:24:15 Changing Lives in the Community
01:25:23 Challenging Societal Norms
01:26:54 Embracing Boldness and Visibility
01:29:33 Creating a Movement for Acceptance
01:31:21 The Power of Community Support
01:33:47 Ways to Get Involved
01:36:23 The Importance of Presence and Advocacy
01:40:00 Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations
01:43:29 Outro
Photos link to Fort Worth Weekly article
https://www.fwweekly.com/2025/06/18/pride-arrives-in-kel-so/
Badge of Pride
https://www.irvingarchivesandmuseum.com/badgeofpride
The Dreyson
https://www.thedreyson.com/
Pride Kel-So
https://www.pridekelso.com/
Sponsor
https://www.pridekelso.com/sponsor
Registration/Tickets
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/pride-keller-southlake-tickets-1335796215439?aff=oddtdtcreator&%3Blocale=en_US&%3Blang=en-us&%3Bstatus=30&%3Bview=listing&=
Facebook page
https://www.facebook.com/PrideKeller
Facebook event
https://www.facebook.com/events/712730911222985
GoFundMe
https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-pride-kelso-a-needed-change
Email - [email protected]
Voicemail and Text available at 940-278-8129
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