Digest | February 20 – March 5, 2026
Welcome to CWPride News!
Spring is just around the corner and we just can't wait for warmer weather! Our first event of the season, the LGBTQ+ Spring CampOUT, is just over three months away. Camping registration for the Spring CampOUT, CWPride, and Call of the Wild are now open at centralwipride.org.
We're bringing you an array of news, LGBTQ+ history, and events of interest. This newsletter is here for you to enjoy and stay connected with our community.
📍 CENTRAL WISCONSIN PRIDE NEWS
🎤 Open Call for Performers!
At Central Wisconsin Pride, we firmly believe that entertainment is by the community, for the community. We strive to include as many people as time permits!
If you are a drag performer, king, queen, trans, alt, AFAB, singer, comedian, magician, or have a talent of interest—please apply to perform. Most first-time CWP drag performers have an opportunity to strut their stuff in the Newcomers Show on Friday evening before the pageant.
Saturday features two shows: an afternoon family show and the evening feature, with limited spots available. Saturday also has opportunities for non-drag performers. Sunday brunch features CWPride core performers.
Want to compete? Anyone can compete for Miss or Mr. Central Wisconsin Pride on Friday night. Winners are eligible to compete for Miss or Mr. Club Wisconsin!
Applications close March 10, 2026. To apply, message Mistruss Lola on Facebook.
🏛️ Top National Stories This Fortnight
1 Health Organizations Urge $26 Million Investment to Protect Transgender Health Care
A massive coalition of LGBTQ+, health care, and civil rights organizations is urging state leaders to approve emergency budget investments to protect access to medically necessary health care for TGI individuals.
- Creates a state-level blueprint for protecting care networks against federal funding cuts.
- Highlights the power of grassroots coalitions in shielding vulnerable youth.
- Demonstrates how regional leadership can stabilize critical health services.
2 ACLU Maps Escalating Legislative Attacks on LGBTQ Rights in 2026
The ACLU is currently tracking over 420 anti-LGBTQ bills across various U.S. state legislatures for the 2026 session, targeting schools, identification, and healthcare.
- Emphasizes the critical need for localized, state-by-state advocacy.
- Shows a coordinated effort to restrict the everyday existence of transgender individuals.
- Provides allies with clear data to focus organizing and lobbying efforts.
3 New Federal Executive Orders Target LGBTQ+ Health Equity Programs
Recent executive actions have rescinded key policies championing LGBTQ+ equity and non-discrimination in healthcare and schools.
- Threatens federal funding for inclusive health programs and community centers.
- Could lead to a reduction in oversight and tracking of health disparities.
- Has sparked immediate legal pushback from multiple civil rights groups.
📜 On This Fortnight in LGBTQ+ History
February 25 – March 5: Milestones That Shaped Our Movement
- February 25, 1982 – Wisconsin becomes the first U.S. state to legally protect lesbians and gay men from discrimination in employment and housing. Learn more →
- March 1, 2014 – The first Zero Discrimination Day is observed by UNAIDS as a global call to end stigma. Learn more →
- March 3, 2010 – Same-sex marriage licenses begin being issued in Washington, D.C., marking a major milestone near the federal heart of the country. Learn more →
🌟 Historic Figure Spotlight: David Clarenbach
David Clarenbach (1953–present) was the former Wisconsin State Representative and chief legislative architect of the nation's first gay rights law.
Serving in the Wisconsin State Assembly from 1974 to 1993, Clarenbach was a trailblazing openly gay politician who authored Assembly Bill 70. He successfully built a bipartisan coalition to outlaw discrimination based on sexual orientation and later authored the Consenting Adults Act to decriminalize homosexuality in the state.
Clarenbach's brilliant political maneuvering proved that systemic change is possible, forever cementing Wisconsin's legacy as the "Gay Rights State." Read more →
📅 Upcoming Events Calendar
Mark Your Calendars for 2026!
🏕️ May 28–31 – LGBTQ+ Spring Campout
Join us for a weekend of camping, connection, and community at Motorama Events Grounds.
🏳️🌈 June 13 – Fox Valley Pride
Celebrate Pride with our friends in the Fox Valley community!
🏳️🌈 June 18–21 – Central Wisconsin Pride Festival
Our flagship 4-day festival featuring entertainment, vendors, and celebration for all!
🌲 July 18–20 – Call of the Wild
Experience nature, community, and adventure at our summer campout event.
💎 Emerald Nightclub – February Events
2/13 – DRAG SHOW
2/14 – STOPLIGHT PARTY
2/20 – KARAOKE
2/28 – DJ
🏳️🌈 OUTLoud inc.
Marathon County LGBTQ+ Center
The only LGBTQ+ Center in Central Wisconsin.
Providing support to the LGBTQ+ community creates inclusive communities where everyone can live
and thrive, free from discrimination and prejudice.
We offer peer and family support, advocacy services, and resources for the entire LGBTQ+ community in Marathon County. Whether you're seeking connection, support, or just a safe space to be yourself—we're here for you.
Visit Our Center🤝 LGBTQIA+ Support Group
The Centre for Well-Being, Inc. (Weston)
"You are not alone; you are warmly welcomed here."
The Centre for Well-Being, Inc., takes pride in providing a nurturing space for individuals who identify as LGBTQIA+, allies, and friends.
When: 1st & 3rd Saturday | 12:00 – 1:30 PM
Where: 4601 Camp Phillips Road, Weston, WI 54476 (Park in Back – South Entrance)
No registration required. Free and confidential.
Visit Website Call (715) 848-5022
