Pride 101 cohosts Angie Mabry, far left, and Mary Higbe, far right, welcomed panelists, from left, Shelly Skeen with Lambda Legal, Michael Tijerina with Collin County Stonewall Democrats, Real Mama Bears founder Liz Dyer and Kelli Rabalais of Camp Haven
(Photo by Franchesca Dárgìn)
Kelli Rabalais | Special Contributor
‘Pride 101’ Panelist
Guitars and Growlers in Richardson came alive with color, conversation and community on Saturday, May 2, as it hosted the very first Pride 101 event, an event designed to welcome, educate, and celebrate.
From the moment guests arrived, there was a noticeable sense of intention behind the gathering. Pride 101 wasn’t just another social event; it was built as a space where people at all stages of their LGBTQ+ journey, as well as allies, could come together to learn, connect and feel seen. Whether attendees were brand new to the community or longtime advocates, the atmosphere struck a balance between approachable and meaningful.
“We really enjoyed the Pride 101 event,” said attendee Mary Ann Reder. “It was such a pleasure to reconnect with other allies and talk about the work. We also really appreciated the opportunity to meet some new friends and learn about their great advocacy efforts.
“I know more than one person was inspired to action,” Reder said.
(Pride 101 gave attendees the chance to connect with new people and hear panelists speak on topics ranging from understanding inclusive language and identities to sharing personal experiences and resources. (Photo by Franchesca Dárgìn)
The event featured a mix of informal education and organic connection. Conversations flowed easily between strangers who quickly became acquaintances and, in many cases, friends. Topics ranged from understanding inclusive language and identities to sharing personal experiences and resources.
What stood out most, attendees said, was the tone — open, curious and free of judgment. Pride 101 lived up to its name by creating an entry point that felt accessible rather than overwhelming.
Attendee Heather Hunter said, “We attended Texas Pride 101 as allies looking to deepen our support, but we left with much more. Seeing how these diverse resources — from legal advocacy to youth retreats, political involvement and family support — can weave together to strengthen the community was a joyful experience.”
Hunter continued, “It was moving to see the real work being done by strong organizations. Positive change is a team effort, and we were inspired to get more involved. It was a beautiful, hopeful environment that provided the space we needed to learn how to be truly effective. We left feeling energized and are already looking forward to the next event.”
Tracy Bailey, who also attended the gathering, said, “I am thankful for events like Pride 101 where I learned valuable information on outreaches in my area, affirming language and which harmful legislation bills have been passed. The speakers were phenomenal and had a wealth of knowledge. I look forward to more events like this.”
Cohosts for the event Mary Higbe and Angie Mabry thanked the panelists who participated for their time and insight. Those panelists included Kelli Rabalais of Camp Haven, Shelly Skeen with Lambda Legal, Real Mama Bears founder Liz Dyer and Michael Tijerina with Collin County Stonewall Democrats.
They also thanked Guitars & Growlers Richardson “for the use of space and amazing staff, as well as The Girls Grazing Co. for a gorgeous grazing board.”
Known for its laid-back vibe, live music roots and strong sense of community, Guitars and Growlers provided a comfortable backdrop for the event. Guests mingled over drinks; laughter echoed across the space, and moments of genuine connection unfolded naturally throughout the night.
Organizers emphasized that Pride 101 is just the beginning, saying that the success of this inaugural event signals a “clear desire within the community for spaces that combine education with celebration — spaces where people can both learn and belong.”
As the event wrapped up, there was a shared sense that something meaningful had begun. Pride 101 wasn’t just an event; it was the foundation of a growing community effort to make inclusivity tangible, approachable, and rooted in real human connection. Higbie and Mabry said that plans for future gatherings are already being discussed, with hopes of expanding programming and continuing to foster connection.