Pride celebrations have been held in Portland since the 1970's. In 1994, the original board of directors of Pride Northwest created a 501c3 organization and held their first meeting. Since that time, the board and the event has grown considerably. Today, Pride Northwest is made up of a dynamic group of individuals from many different backgrounds who are dedicated to providing a venue for the queer community to gather and celebrate. The mission of Pride Northwest, Inc. is to encourage and celebrate the positive diversity of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and queer communities, and to assist in the education of all people through the development of activities that showcase the history, accomplishments, and talents of these communities.