About Babylon Village Pride
Timeline
Babylon Village Pride was founded in 2020. Born from a desire to unite and uplift during the pandemic, the celebration was created to bring people together and provide a space for acceptance, acknowledgment, and appreciation for the queer community in Babylon, and the greater Long Island area. We are committed to fostering inclusivity and celebrating LGBTQ+ identities. The organization, now a Nationwide Recognized Not-For-Profit has grown but continues our initial commitment to champion equality, inclusivity, and sustainability.
2020: Foundation Year
Babylon Village Pride was established by the “unlikely duo” Roman and Bob McKeown with the mission to empower and unite the diverse community. On June 28, 2020, the first celebration was ignited through social media and, with the support of the chamber and local businesses, attracted over 500 attendees.
2021: Building Community Connections
The Long Island-based organization “Hope Floats” joined Babylon Village Pride to help guide and support its growth. That year, Babylon Pride hosted its first community outreach events to raise awareness and provide support for LGBTQ+ individuals. The Babylon Village community became involved in a BIG WAY as Babylon Pride launched lawn signs to promote the Babylon Village Pride Celebration. The organization also continued to build partnerships with local businesses, securing its first major sponsor, Northwell Health. On June 3, 2021, Babylon Pride hosted a 40-car parade and welcomed over 1,500 attendees to the celebration, attracting the attention of news organizations and leading to interviews with the founders, Roman and Bob McKeown.
2022: Growing Visibility and Advocacy
Babylon Village Pride continued to use social platforms to raise awareness, combat discrimination, and promote understanding within the community. The organization gained recognition from the “Pit Crew” of RuPaul’s Drag Race, who helped kick off its third Pride season. On June 5, 2023, Babylon Pride hosted a parade featuring over 40 cars and welcomed more than 2,000 attendees to the celebration.
2023: Expanding Support and Inclusion
Babylon Village Pride introduced new support groups and resources to assist LGBTQ+ youth and their families within the Babylon schools. The organization also launched scholarship programs to recognize and support future leaders of diversity and inclusion, awarding over $20,000 to applicants. With the support of more than 45 sponsors, the Babylon Pride celebration on June 4, 2023, became the largest event to date, hosting over 4,700 attendees. The event not only advanced the organization’s mission but also fostered tremendous camaraderie and support for local businesses.
2024: Strengthening the Mission
With the support of the Hope Floats Organization, Babylon Village Pride successfully became an independent 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization. The organization expanded its outreach initiatives to ensure every individual can thrive without fear of discrimination or prejudice while continuing to host annual Pride events that foster a safe and celebratory space for all. On June 2, 2024, Babylon Pride held its largest event yet, welcoming over 5,000 attendees in a powerful celebration of community and inclusion. In recognition of its impact, the organization was awarded a proclamation from Mayor Mary Adams and the Village of Babylon for its successful Pride parade and representation on Long Island.
Today: A Future of Equality and Empowerment
Babylon Village Pride has officially established itself as a nationally recognized 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization, marking the beginning of a new journey. The organization remains dedicated to creating a supportive and inclusive environment where all individuals are celebrated and valued.