At just 13-years-old, Molly Pinta’s goal of bringing a Pride Parade to her hometown of Buffalo Grove, IL became a reality in June 2019. Pinta, who came out as gay in 2018, was inspired to stage a Buffalo Grove Pride event after attending the inaugural Pride Parade in nearby Aurora, IL. Pinta and her parents, who have long been advocates for social justice is their town, founded the nonprofit Pinta Pride Project to support their cause. Pinta's overwhelming success in spearheading the effort made the local news and landed her on the Today Show in New York City. An active singer, actor and dancer in local productions, she wants to follow in her parents' footsteps and become a teacher while continuing to run their new nonprofit to keep pride coming to Buffalo Grove every year.

Listen to Pinta discuss the importance of having a support system: 

Submit a Story
By using our site, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy