“Made with Pride” Series: LGBTQ2SIA+ Veterans Village with Ian Michael 

In this episode PrideScape Host and Pride Northwest Executive Director, Debra Porta, sits down with Ian Michael (he/they). Ian is a USMC Veteran, and the LGBTQ+ Veteran Coordinator at the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs in the Appeals & Special Advocacy Division. Ian, for the last several years has also been instrumental in manifesting the “Veterans Village” at the Portland Pride Waterfront Festival. 

This episode offers insight into the making of the Portland Pride Waterfront Festival and Parade, the intentionality behind the work, how Pride is made, and highlighting the people and community that help Make Pride Happen. 

After tuning in: 

Learn more about all things Portland Pride Waterfront Festival and Parade, including registration, volunteer opportunities, and more visit portlandpride.org

The Portland Pride Waterfront Festival and Parade is one of the largest donation-based pride events, ticket admission donations support the festival and Pride Northwest’s year- round work. Donate ahead of time or pay it forward: Donate GET TICKET – 2026 Portland Pride Waterfront Festival and Parade – Tom McCall Waterfront Park

About the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs:

Access resources and program information on the ODVA website: Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs : Welcome Page : State of Oregon

Learn more about Oregon’s LGBTQ+ Veterans Program: Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs : LGBTQ+ Veterans : Resources For... : State of Oregon

Listen to this episode and all previous episodes on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast platform!

PrideScape

Formally known as the PrideScape Podcast, PrideScape is the evolving storytelling platform of Pride Northwest. Through podcasts, articles, videos, and more, we bring together multiple outlets for stories, discussions, important news and information affecting Oregon and SW Washington's LGBTQ+ community. Learn more: PrideScape Media | PRIDE NORTHWEST, INC.