BUCHANAN — Draped in the rainbow-colored pride flag, Alexis Wyatt, 15, joined more than 30 people in celebrating the LGBTQ community for the inaugural Pride Night at Union Coffee House.

For Wyatt, the evening was more than a chance to enjoy some coffee — it was a chance to feel accepted by her own community. 

“To know that my town is offering something like this makes me feel wonderful and accepted,” Wyatt said. “Because it means that the town and the community are being accepting toward something that maybe others don’t consider the norm.”

The event was organized by One Buchanan — a recently formed group of community members whose mission is to highlight diversity and make the city more inclusive. Megan Goodrich, 25, of Buchanan, is a member of the organization and works at Union Coffee House. Goodrich worked with One Buchanan to make the event a reality.

“One of the issues that relates to me is the LGBTQ community, because I am part of that community,” Goodrich said. “I just wanted my small town to have a fun night to celebrate this version of diversity.”

Those who took part in Pride Night gathered to share their support, listen to music and dance. People also had the chance to share how they want to be represented in the community. They were encouraged to jot these thoughts down on several paper tablecloths throughout the coffee shop.

Mary Jo Schnell, executive director of the Out Center, also addressed the crowd to share a bit about the nonprofit, the resources it offers and the issues it is working to address.

According to Schnell, the Out Center in Benton Harbor is one of only eight LGBTQ community centers in the state of Michigan.

While youth are a major focus, Schnell said the center offers a variety of programs and resources, including a drop-in center, free counseling, diversity training, as well as community events like an annual prom.

Schnell asked those in attendance to get involved and be part of the positive change in their communities and help all people to feel represented and supported.

“Hey, Michigan has got some issues, right?” Schnell said. “This country has got some issues, but what we realize as we move through challenges is that it is up to communities like this one. We can take what we have and make communities that care.”

She thanked One Buchanan for putting on the event and reminded those at Pride Night that they could find support in their Berrien County community.

“We have a lot of people showing up authentically themselves and caring great deals for people like us,” Schnell said. “We are here for you and there are a lot of resources for you.”