To the editor:

As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, and a vocal and financial supporter of the Adirondack North Country Gender Alliance, I am dismayed by the recent decision by ANCGA to bar Planned Parenthood of the North Country New York from tabling at Tri-Lakes Pride in Saranac Lake this Sunday.

In 2024, PPNCNY saw roughly 500 patients for gender affirming care, and 20% of all patients for any healthcare need identified as LGBTQ+. It provided sexual and reproductive healthcare for just over 16,000 people of all identities across the North Country. On a personal note, Planned Parenthood quite literally saved my life several years ago.

Against the backdrop of relentless attacks against pride celebrations and other LGBTQ+ events across the country, this decision is a classic example of “eating your own.”

ANGCA Executive Director Kelly Metzger was quoted in the Adirondack Daily Enterprise on June 7 saying, “The LGBTQ+ community is incredibly inclusive, so we genuinely hope that everyone comes out to celebrate with us. We celebrate diversity and, by definition, that means that we celebrate absolutely everyone.” And, again, in the Adirondack Almanack on June 20: “We have plenty of space and we welcome all. Please reach out if your organization is interested in taking part.”

In that spirit, I urge Kelly and the ANCGA board to reconsider this decision, or, at the very least, explain to the public, sponsors, donors and constituents why PPNCNY is prevented from participating in an inclusive pride celebration.

If you are uncomfortable with this decision as an individual or Pride sponsor, you could consider making a gift to PPNCNY here: https://tinyurl.com/5x6c2u96. Because all proceeds will benefit Planned Parenthood of North Country New York at the drag show at the Belvedere this weekend, you could also show your support there. But what I would really hope for is for PPNCNY to be welcomed and that we can celebrate every Pride event in our community this weekend WITH pride, together.

Chrissie Wais

CEO of Above the Tree Line

Saranac Lake