Every June, a horde of rainbow tutus and brightly colored leis descend on the Deerfield River in Massachusetts, in a vibrant gathering of ages, genders, identities and paddling experiences where all are welcome—all are valued. Founded in 2019 to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community and its history through whitewater boating, Pride Day on the River creates a space where LGBQT+ people and allies can connect with other queer paddlers and discover a new way to be outdoors, away from prejudice, discrimination or stigmatization. To date, it is the largest queer paddlesports community in North America. “You can just be yourself, just do your thing and just worry about being on the river. You don’t have to worry about anything else.” —Jason Costa, Volunteer Organizer With Pride on the River, LEAD Ambassador Ann Gillard is using the river to challenge stereotypes and make the outdoors a more inclusive and welcoming space for all LGBTQ+ people.