DARCIE BAUMANN
During Pride, we may not realize that there are many dedicated folks toiling hard behind the scenes to make it all happen. Darcie Baumann is one of those workers. Raised in a small German area near Minneapolis, as a person of color, she was a target of racism and faced further discrimination as she began to realize she was a lesbian. In 2008, after years of attending the Twin Cities Pride Festival (in Minnesota), she decided to volunteer. She has helped VIPs and sponsors, worked in social media and event planning, and was a silent auction coordinator. In 2013, she garnered a spot on the Board of Directors and has remained there ever since. And even though many may see Twin Cities Pride as just another excuse to party, Baumann can connect with the deeper meaning. “The fact that our celebration is free to the public is important to me because we are truly creating an all-inclusive event for our community, allies, and those who may stumble on the event, only to realize that our community is no different than theirs. In a time when our children are being bullied and taking their own lives, and our transgender community is being beaten and murdered, it is very rewarding knowing that I am part of an organization that helps people accept themselves for who they are and celebrates that diversity.” -GH
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