History and Formation

Out Montclair was founded in 2021 with a clear and urgent purpose: to create meaningful connection, visibility, and support for the LGBTQIA+ community in Montclair and the surrounding region.

What began in August 2020 as a grassroots effort led by Peter Yacobellis, Madeline Gale, Reubena Spence, and a growing circle of community advocates quickly evolved into a formal organization. By April 2021, Out Montclair was established as a nonprofit, with an inaugural Board of Trustees composed of dedicated leaders committed to building a more inclusive and vibrant community.

From the outset, Out Montclair focused on fostering connection, creating safe and affirming spaces, advancing public education, and advocating for LGBTQIA+ visibility and rights. Its first public program—a virtual workshop on gender terminology held in April 2021—welcomed over 100 participants and set the tone for the organization’s commitment to accessible, impactful programming.

That same spring and summer, Out Montclair brought the community together in new and visible ways, including Montclair’s first Pride flag raising at the Municipal Building and early in-person gatherings that quickly drew strong attendance and engagement. A passionate and committed volunteer base emerged, helping to lay the foundation for what would become a defining initiative of the organization.

In June 2022, Out Montclair proudly produced the inaugural Montclair Pride™, welcoming more than 14,000 attendees and establishing what would quickly become one of New Jersey’s largest and most dynamic Pride celebrations. The event marked a turning point—not only for the organization, but for the region—creating a powerful, visible expression of community, solidarity, and joy.

Since then, Montclair Pride™ has grown significantly each year, alongside Out Montclair’s expanding year-round programming. Signature initiatives now include Out Montclair Teens, Out Montclair 50+, Out at Night, Out Montclair Families, and Trans programming, as well as ongoing public education and community-building efforts. These programs serve hundreds of participants and reflect the organization’s deep and ongoing commitment to meeting the diverse needs of the community.

The second annual Montclair Pride™, held in June 2023, welcomed over 26,800 attendees, further solidifying its place as a leading Pride event in New Jersey. Each year, the festival continues to grow in scale, impact, and recognition, drawing tens of thousands of attendees and supporting Out Montclair’s mission-driven work throughout the year.

Today, Out Montclair stands as a trusted and established nonprofit organization, producing Montclair Pride™ and delivering impactful programming that uplifts, connects, and advocates for LGBTQIA+ individuals across Montclair and beyond. As the organization continues to evolve, it remains grounded in its founding vision: to build a community where everyone is seen, supported, and celebrated.

Montclair Pride™ is produced and funded exclusively by Out Montclair, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.