LA Pride Celebration
LA Pride soaring kick off with Paula Abdul

Paula Abdul perfoms on Day One of LA Pride at West Hollywood Park on June 7, 2019 in West Hollywood, California. (Photo by Chris Tuite)
“LA Pride: are you ready to have some fun?”
So proclaimed iconic GRAMMY and EMMY Award-winning artist Paula Abdul during her headlining set on Friday night’s inaugural LA Pride Opening Ceremony in West Hollywood Park. Judging by the night’s festivities, festival goers are certainly ready to let loose and celebrate the LGBTQ community this weekend at Pride.
Amidst rainbow headbands, sparkles, and mesh galore, thousands descended on Santa Monica Boulevard and West Hollywood Park to officially kick off LA Pride weekend. Free to the public, this new aspect of LA Pride weekend (presented by Johnson & Johnson) is a response to a community desire to have access to public Pride celebrations without having to purchase a Festival ticket. The event delivered, with show-stopping performances from both Abdul and Todrick Hall.
Adbul took to the stage in an hour-long set that dazzled the adoring crowds. Entering on a platform dramatically carted to center stage by male dancers, Adbul’s set took the form of a full production, complete with strobe lights, electronic background visuals, and dancers interacting with the pop diva. A storyline even journeyed watchers through Abdul’s career, from her days as a Laker Girl and fighting her record label to get Opposites Attract released as a single to her struggles with recovering from injuries sustained in a plane crash.

Paula Abdul. (Photo by Austin Mendoza)
Hits including Cold Hearted (performed as to give Abdul multiple sets of arms while singing), Opposites Attract, and (It’s Just) The Way That You Love Me were performed. Abdul’s choreography included, besides tightly-worked ventures around the stage with her dancers, being thrown back-and-forth through the air and jumping off a platform at least ten feet tall into her dancers’ waiting arms – twice. These stunts attracted rapturous cheers, but the loudest crowd reactions were reserved for the performances of Straight Up – punctuated by chants of “Go Paula! Go Paula!” – and Forever Your Girl, accented by blasts of streamers and confetti. All of this, and I haven’t even mentioned that Adbul had no fewer than six distinct outfits prepared for her performance.

Todrick Hall performs on Day One of LA Pride at West Hollywood Park on June 7, 2019 in West Hollywood, California. (Photo by Chris Tuite)
Todrick Hall was also no stranger to costume changes, showcasing four outfits himself during his set. Hall, known as a performing artist, choreographer, and frequent collaborator on RuPaul’s Drag Race, is also no slouch on choreography, matching Abdul’s moves with his own group of dancers performing flawlessly executed steps.
Emerging after a montage of his past hits were flashed on the screen, Hall opened with Attention, off his new EP Haus Party, Part 1. He continued in a leather unicorn number for Dem Beats, to the thrill of the thousands gathered. Hall and his troupe then showed off their versatile choreo over a melody of 90s classics in a show-within-a-show full of nostalgia and witty visuals. Closing with Nails, Hair, Hips, Heels (also played multiple times as dance music throughout the night as the song du jour of LA Pride), Hall brought out the fans, emblazoned with timely rainbow colors as audience members clapped along.

John D’Amico, Lindsey Horvath, John Heilman, Lauren Meister and John Jude Duran at West Hollywood Park. (Photo by Jon Viscott for LA Pride)
Prior to the performances, local elected officials and Christopher Street West organizers officially kicked off LA Pride in a ceremony full of pomp and circumstance, after witnessing a blessing over the festival by a Tongva Two-Spirit leader. Joining stage host Billy Francesca between the musical sets, they expressed their gratitude and support of the West Hollywood community.
“Our city is the seat of LGBT pride for the entire country,” proclaimed West Hollywood Mayor John D’Amico. Councilmember and Mayor Pro Tempore Lindsey Horvath concurred: “We gather together today – but we celebrate Pride here all year long.”
“We’re celebrating fifty years of the Stonewall Riots…this weekend, we’re celebrating all of the victories we’ve achieved,” said Estevan Montemayor, Board President of Christopher Street West.

Christopher Street West Executive Director Madonna Cacciatore, Paula Abdul and Christopher Street West President Estevan Montemayor pose on the Red Carpet on day one of LA Pride at West Hollywood Park on June 7, 2019 in West Hollywood, California. (Photo by Chris Tuite)
Francesca affirmed this in pointing out one of the more simple, yet highly meaningful of these victories. “There are so many parts of the world where [being LGBTQ] is not the norm. How cool is it that this is a place where it’s the norm?”
While not offering all of the booths and events that will grace the Festival grounds on Saturday and Sunday, Friday’s Opening Ceremony had activities throughout the grounds in addition to the main stage happenings. A vogue ball was held on the smaller MAC Stage, featuring local ball culture leaders and a performance by drag queen Kornbread Jeté. Over on the Plaza Stage, Verizon Media premiered 5B, a documentary about the work of nurses and caregivers at America’s first AIDS ward unit in San Francisco. Outside the Festival grounds, LGBTQ women paraded down Santa Monica Boulevard in the annual Dyke March.
Adbul capped off the night’s festivities by expressing her gratitude to her loyal LGBTQ fans, as fireworks exploded above her in the West Hollywood sky. “I would not be anywhere without this community. The love and support you’ve given me leaves me breathless.”
Pride Special
Marching in LA’s Pride Parade? Gay clothes that do the most
“What should I wear to Pride?” As June approaches, this question is filling search engines, Reddit forums, gay blogs, and TikTok reels. Gay clothes have become such an integral part of Pride Month, so much so that the annual blast of rainbow logos and “Love is Love” campaigns is hard to miss.
This year, LA Pride is anticipating over 100,000 attendees, and 5,000 of those participating are estimated to be marchers. From vendors to celebrities to allies, walking down Hollywood Boulevard means being seen by thousands of bystanders, making it all the more exciting but also stressful. This brings us back to square one: what pride outfits will you be wearing this year?
Gay fashion is a diverse representation of the LGBTQIA+ community itself, complex and intensely personal. Finding pieces that speak the same language requires looking beyond the mainstream, which is why we turned to Differio, a trendy online destination known for challenging the typical, one-size-fits-all menswear mold. From gay clothes to rave outfits to gala statements, the brand offers event-driven men’s clothing styles perfect for year-round parties, dinners, concerts, holidays, and beyond.
Scroll on to discover Differio’s style guide on how to take your pride parade outfits from standard to standout.
Parade Outfit Basics: What to Know Before You March
Any experienced parade-goer will tell you there are a few things to keep in mind before hitting the march. Personal style is important, but never at the expense of comfort. Before you start building your look, keep these tips in mind to make sure your pride outfit works as hard as you do on parade day.
Safety First: Check the parade’s official website for its list of prohibited items, so you know what you can and can’t bring.
Prep Your Feet: The LA Pride march is roughly 1.5 miles, so comfortable shoes are a must. If you’re ordering new shoes, give yourself enough time to buy them in advance so you know they fit properly for parade day.
Weatherproof Your Fit: Choose gay apparel with June’s forecast in mind. Keep yourself cool with summer-friendly items, like hats, bandanas, headbands, sweatbands, sunglasses, and hand fans.
Stay Hands-Free: Bring a small bag to keep essentials on you, like your ID and phone. You can also look for gay clothes with functional details, like cargo pockets and keyrings.
Dress Light: Don’t let heavy items slow you down. Consider lightweight, walking-friendly styles like micro shorts, cotton tops, and activewear leggings.
Top Pride Outfit Ideas for Mainstage Marchers
Marching in the parade? Your outfit might be begging for something more exciting than your average graphic tee. Check out these pride outfit ideas to help you style a look that’s more expressive and elevated this year.
The Unexpected Pride Outfit: Reimagining the Rainbow
Pride outfits might feel incomplete without a rainbow, but don’t feel boxed in by rigid stripes either. You can still rep the iconic pride flag colors with unexpected treatments.
As an alternative to the traditional rainbow, try gay clothes in iridescent or holographic tones for futuristic, multicolored shine. For something softer, look for an ombré rainbow that’ll lend more of a gradient, high-fashion effect. Tie-dye gay clothing is also a great way to play around with rainbow shades while paying tribute to Pride’s beginnings in the late 60s.
The Squad Pride Outfit: Coordinate for Impact
Celebrating with your friends? They say there’s power in numbers, and this definitely applies to gay clothes.
Make the most of your group’s size by dressing as your favorite queer pop culture icons, like The Golden Girls or The Village People. You can rep the pride flag by having each person wear a different color or play off of each person’s unique identity. Don’t forget, you can always enhance the look with face paint, body glitter, and other makeup items for added impact.
The Kinetic Pride Outfit: Find Movement
Ever find yourself drawn to all the streamers and flags at the parade? We’re wired to prioritize moving shapes over static objects (like the way inflatable tube men catch our attention). The same kinetic concept can work with gay outfits.
Simply look for any garment or fabric that naturally sways with the wind or movement. Try gay clothes in airy, loose styles, like fringe pants, tassel earrings, pride capes, or rainbow kilts. You’ll also want to avoid skintight clothing if you want to maximize this motion effect.
The Altitude Pride Outfit: Create Height
Height is something you might not think about, but it’s a great way for your gay clothes to be seen from all angles, even spectators beyond the barricades. Plus, it’s right in line with LA Pride’s theme this year: Rise with Pride!
Start from the ground up with platform shoes, such as platform boots or chunky sneakers, to add a few inches to your height. You can layer more height with towering headpieces, such as flower crowns, spiked hats, feather headdresses, and similar items.
The Hybrid Pride Outfit: Wear It on Repeat
On a budget? Don’t limit yourself to wearing your gay clothes only once a year. When you dress with intention, pride outfits can be recycled for post-parade events, such as after parties, concerts, raves, pool parties, and much more.
As long as you find pieces that can be worn for more than one occasion, you’re on the right track. For example, harnesses are a win-win because they can be styled as lingerie staples, nightlife tops, or even fashion-forward accessories. You can also look for garments labeled as “2-in-1” or “hybrid” for more styling options.
LA Pride Celebration
LA Pride will “Rise with Pride” for 56th year of celebrating queer resilience
The Blade spoke with Christopher Street West board president Lawrence Carroll to learn about this year’s LA Pride Parade, and the vision it sets for year-round advocacy.
Every June, Hollywood Boulevard is transformed into a portal of queer joy as over 100,000 Angelenos gather for the LA Pride Parade. The county’s streets are adorned with rainbow flags, awash with the vibrancy of its local LGBTQ+ communities. Queer locals band together with friends and allies to march in a proud, unified display of their joy and existence, resisting the disapproval and hostility of the federal administration.
In three months, LA Pride will return for its 56th year of celebrating queer visibility and advocacy. The parade takes place on Sunday, June 14, under the bold theme: “Rise with Pride.” Organized by Christopher Street West (CSW), a nonprofit that created the first-ever sanctioned gay parade in 1970, the LA Pride Parade is Southern California’s most historic and long-standing Pride celebration.
This June, the parade will feature over 130 groups composed of bands, dancers, floats, and special guests who embody the spirit of fearless queer liberation. The parade will also honor three grand marshals: people who have defied repression and discrimination through proud, open advocacy, expression, and community service.
Emmy-winning actor and comedian Jeff Hiller will serve as LA Pride’s celebrity grand marshal, prominent transgender criminal defense attorney and LGBTQ+ rights activist Mia Yamamoto will serve as community grand marshal, and the late and beloved humanitarian Shirley “Ms. Shirley” Raines, who transformed and documented L.A.’s unhoused communities, will be recognized as the legacy grand marshal.

LA Pride mirrors the evolution of queer history, progress, and protest in the county. The festivities culminate on one long-awaited day, but its mission is ever-present. It uplifts joy but also contends with the complicated realities LGBTQ+ Angelenos face. Queer immigrants and transgender community members, especially, face high rates of violence and persecution. CSW board president Lawrence Carroll hopes “Rise with Pride” can affirm and support their well-being.
“For a lot of people right now, especially those in our most vulnerable communities, just existing openly can feel like resistance. This theme is about honoring that and making it clear that they are not alone in it,” Carroll wrote to the Blade.
“At the same time, I want it to feel grounded. Not just something we say, but something people can see in how we move. That means creating accessible spaces, programming that reflects real experiences, and partnerships that actually extend resources into the community,” Carroll continued. “If someone walks away feeling seen, supported, and a little less isolated in their experience, then we’re doing what we’re supposed to do.”
“Rise with Pride” is a guide for how CSW intends to show up: not just in June, but year-round. Carroll explained that the organization is building out “Pride 365” programming that holds community needs at its core. Other events include the upcoming “Trans Self Care Sunday” on Mar. 29, the “Salon Series” conversations, as well as “Pride Makes a Difference,” which emphasizes direct services for LGBTQ+ community members.
Other long-term investments include CSW’s Youth Advisory Board, which will support emerging queer voices and youth perspectives in future Pride celebrations. “The goal is to make sure LA Pride isn’t just a moment people show up to, but something that actually shows up for people throughout the year.”
For more information about LA Pride, visit the organization’s website.
Kristie Song is a California Local News Fellow placed with the Los Angeles Blade. The California Local News Fellowship is a state-funded initiative to support and strengthen local news reporting. Learn more about it at fellowships.journalism.berkeley.edu/cafellows.
Arts & Entertainment
Make Your Voice Heard at WeHo Pride: Join the Women’s Freedom Festival and Dyke March
FREE! FREE! FREE! Come celebrate Pride in West Hollywood with these free events
WeHo Pride is now fully underway with an arts festival happening now, leading up to a weekend-long worth of events celebrating the kick-off of Pride season.
On Friday, May 31, the Women’s Freedom Festival will take over the Celebration Stage, celebrating women’s rights — and wrongs. The event is co-sponsored and produced by the L-Project, featuring emerging and local artists from the LGBTQ and QTBIPOC identities, including activists, musicians, poets and comedians.
The exciting lineup of events features an arts festival that is currently hitting the streets of West Hollywood, the historic Dyke March featuring Dykes on Bikes and Pride Riders L.A. — an organization for queer and lesbian women motorcycle riders — and much, much more.
Katrina Vinson is the founder of Pride Riders L.A., working hard over the last few years to bring much-needed visibility to dykes, women who love women and nonbinary people who identify as sapphics.
Her application to start the first Dykes on Bikes Los Angeles chapter is about more than branding. It’s about connection to a legacy of activism — dating back to the group’s 1976 founding in San Francisco, when leather-clad lesbians led the Pride parade in defiance of the police force and society’s patriarchal norms.
“It’s not just about riding,” Vinson says. “It’s about showing up for each other and reminding the world that we’re still here, still loud, still proud — and still riding.”
Pride Riders LA will feature an all-women and nonbinary people lineup of motorcycle bike riders, revving their engines all up and down West Hollywood. Pride Riders LA will roll in following the Women’s Freedom Festival, creating a transition from stage to street. The call for riders is already underway—with an emphasis on inclusivity and outreach to younger riders, trans and nonbinary folks, and LGBTQ+ bikers of color.
Jackie Steele is a multi-faceted community organizer and longtime activist who has built a reputation in queer and sapphic spaces. She is the Los Angeles District Attorney LGBTQ+ Advisory Board Chair, LA County Sheriff Robert Luna LGBTQ+ Advisory Board Member, and was previously the Public Safety Commissioner for the City of West Hollywood, Co-Chair of the LGBTQ+ Advisory Board of the City of West Hollywood and a self-proclaimed militant queer.
“Chris Baldwin runs the L-project and what they’ve put together is a concert and an event that is a true celebration of intersectional queer identities,” said Jackie Steele. “We worked really hard to work with the city to create a space that was accessible for everybody, where folks can just come out, enjoy the street fair and enjoy themselves.”
This year, they are expecting around 50 bikes to roll through for the Dyke March, so if you’ve never been, this will be a moment to remember, some might even call it a canon event.
“If you’ve never been, Dyke March is a celebration of dykes and what lesbians have done in the community — which is often under-celebrated,” said Steele. “There’s going to be bikes everywhere, engines roaring, a live program on stage and we will be fists in the air, standing together.”
WeHo Pride will take over Santa Monica Blvd., over the weekend. Check the West Hollywood Pride events page to keep up with street closures, parking information and full lineup of performers and events.
LA Pride Celebration
Pride is a protest, even more so today
Pride is never just a party. It’s a political act — and an act of protest that reminds us how far we’ve come and that we must not stop fighting for the future we deserve
By John Erickson, City of West Hollywood
Every June, rainbow flags rise above Santa Monica Boulevard and all across West Hollywood. Music pulses from our parks and the city becomes a beacon for millions who come to celebrate LGBTQ Pride. But for those of us who live here, serve here and fight here, Pride is never just a party. It’s a political act — and an act of protest that reminds us how far we’ve come and that we must not stop fighting for the future we deserve.
West Hollywood wasn’t built on complacency. It was built with the mission of serving a greater purpose by activists, trailblazers, and everyday people who refused to be silent. In West Hollywood, we fought for safe housing for people with HIV and AIDS in the 80s and 90s — a fight we continue to this day. We marched in the streets for marriage equality and trans rights long before the national conversation caught up with us. We organized, advocated, and showed up — even when it was dangerous.
That’s what Pride means here and in 2025, as we confront the legacy of a second Trump administration and brace for what may come next, our fight is far from over.
We Must Protect What We’ve Won and Push Harder Than Ever
Let’s be clear: the Trump administration is leaving deep scars on our community. Every day, I hear from residents fearful of so many things, from rolling back healthcare protections for trans people and the proposed ban on transgender troops; to “religious freedom” laws that allow discrimination under the guise of faith — moves that are direct attacks on our rights, our dignity and our lives.
We cannot afford to be passive; we must not look away. The rise in anti-LGBTQ legislation across the country — from drag bans to book bans — is a coordinated backlash against our visibility and progress. And while Los Angeles County may feel like a haven, we must have a responsibility to lead by example. Pride in West Hollywood isn’t just about celebration — it’s about organizing. It’s about raising our voices in solidarity with our siblings in states like Florida, Texas and Tennessee who are facing existential threats. Just a few weeks ago, I was out in the community enjoying a wonderful evening and met a person from Florida. We began speaking and they said that they extended their stay for an extra evening because they didn’t want to go back to hiding their true identity in the state they were from.
The Fight for Trans Rights Is the Fight for Our Future
This leads us to one of the most urgent fronts in this fight: protecting our trans community. Statistics show trans women of color continue to face disproportionate levels of violence and discrimination. Black and Latinx trans people experience higher rates of homelessness, unemployment and police harassment. If we’re serious about equality, we must center trans lives in our activism and policymaking. Across L.A. County, we must demand that every city follow suit.
HIV/AIDS: The Fight Is Not Over
While medical advances like HIV prevention medication (PrEP) and undetectable equals un-transmittable (U=U), have changed the landscape of HIV prevention, the fight against HIV/AIDS is far from over. This is especially true for communities of color and LGBTQ youth. Nationally, Black gay and bisexual men account for nearly one in four new HIV diagnoses and young people between the ages of 13 and 24 account for over 20% of new infections. These drastic cuts in HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment funding at both the federal, state, and county levels are disastrous for our communities.
In West Hollywood, we have never wavered in our commitment to ending the epidemic and we won’t stop now. From free testing to access to treatment, we must continue to invest in the tools and care our community needs.
LGBTQ Youth Deserve More Than Survival
LGBTQ youth today are growing up in a nation that sends them mixed signals: celebration during Pride month, but censorship in their classrooms, validation on TikTok, but violence in their neighborhoods. We cannot let them down.
According to The Trevor Project’s 2024 National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health, 41% of LGBTQ youth seriously considered suicide in the past year. Among transgender and nonbinary youth, that number climbs even higher. These numbers aren’t just statistics — they’re a call to action, and in West Hollywood, we answered that call.
This coming budget season, we’re investing in mental health resources, funding youth-led organizations, and creating safe, affirming spaces in our city, and we’re pushing for more across LA County. Because every queer kid deserves a future — not just to survive, but to thrive.
Pride Is a Promise
Pride is not a luxury. It’s not a brand. It’s a promise: to protect each other, to show up for the most vulnerable among us, and to never forget those who came before us. Together, we must fight for the existence, dignity, and respect of our entire community — for the queer kids back in Ripon, Wisconsin, where I come from and for the friends and family that we all know across the country.
In West Hollywood, we honor that promise every day, not just in June. We’re proud to stand on the frontlines of justice, love, and liberation. And we invite every Angeleno to stand with us.
Because Pride didn’t start as a parade — it started as a riot and we’re not done fighting.
Happy Pride Month, all. Let’s celebrate now, more than ever.
California
Long Beach Pride reaffirms community focus for this year’s festival
This year’s theme is ‘Power of Community’
Long Beach Pride 2025 will take place on May 17 and 18 at Marina Green Park, emphasizing focus on grassroots organizations and local community performers.
“Long Beach Pride has always been more than just a festival—it’s a movement,” said Elsa Martinez, interim president of LB Pride. “This year, more than ever, we’re celebrating the strength, creativity, and unity of our local community.”
Martinez also notes that all the ticket sales directly go toward funding on-the-ground resources.
“As a nonprofit organization, every aspect of the Pride Festival—from ticket sales to vendor partnerships—directly funds our work in the community,” noted Martinez. “This is a festival with purpose.”
As LB Pride amps up for its 42nd annual celebration, the organization has stated that this year marks the return to the roots of Pride. LB Pride stated that they are committed to emphasizing what makes the local community so special and spotlighting local performers, musicians and entertainers.
The organization has also stated that they are committed to ‘justice, inclusion, and the celebration of queer joy.’
“Our strength has always been our solidarity,” said Martinez. “This year’s festival is a reminder of what we can achieve when we lift each other up.”
This year, the main stage will feature a lineup of pop, Hip-hop and Latin talent.
Performers include HYM the Rapper, George Michael Reborn Tribute, Tori Kay, Jewels Drag Show Extravaganza, Secret Service, Tiancho and music mixes by DJ BSelecta, DJ Icy Ice and DJ 360.
For updates, tickets, and volunteer opportunities, please visit https://longbeachpride.com and follow @LongBeachPride on social media.
Pride Special
South Los Angeles came out for Pride!
This year’s South Los Angeles Pride theme – #WeOutside – embodied the celebration of being outside and visible
LOS ANGELES – Los Angeles Council President Pro Tem Marqueece Harris Dawson, Councilmember Heather Hutt, Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove, Supervisors Holly Mitchell and Lindsey Horvath, South LA Pride Board Chair Jasmyne Cannick, and hundreds of people came out to celebrate the intersectionality in the LGBTQ+ community at South LA Pride Sat. Jul 15 at the Michelle and Barack Obama Sports Complex.
This year’s South LA Pride theme – #WeOutside – embodied the celebration of being outside and visible while standing proudly together in South Los Angeles.
Presented by South Los Angeles Councilmembers Marqueece Harris-Dawson, Heather Hutt, and Curren Price, the epic free one-day festival centered on the talents of artists who are queer Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) in South Los Angeles.
The 2023 South LA Pride Festival was sponsored in part by Community Coalition, Supervisor Holly Mitchell, Supervisor Lindsey Horvath, the LGBT Center, Gilead, Los Angeles Chargers, and KPFK 90.7FM.
Additional details about South LA Pride are on social media. Follow the hashtag #SouthLAPride on Facebook, Twitter, and on Instagram, or visit southlapride.com for the latest updates.
Photo Gallery:










Pride Special
Durand Bernarr will headline the 5th annual South LA Pride
Activities include a ballroom voguing competition; softball game; women’s tackle football; drag performances & an outdoor dance floor
LOS ANGELES –South LA Pride announced today that following his sold-out tour and viral NPR Tiny Desk Concert, Durand Bernarr will headline the 5th annual event on JULY 15 at the Michelle and Barack Obama Sports Complex (formerly Rancho Cienega Park) in Baldwin Hills.
The epic FREE one-day festival lineup for South LA Pride will once again center the talents of artists who are queer Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) and/or are from South Los Angeles including drag performances by Amber Crane, Sole Valentino, and Porshaa Lejayy. Additional performances include Ginger Roots, Devan M, the Trans Chorus of Los Angeles, Lost Angeles, Yalla the Melodica, disco queen Kiki Kyte, rappers Freaky Boiz, and more. Gates open at 11 a.m. and the stage and dance floors open at noon. A full lineup can be found here.

In addition to the main stage, other activations include a ballroom voguing competition with Season 1 winner of HBO MAX’s “Legendary” Torie Amour Bodega, a softball game hosted by the Greater Los Angeles Softball Association, yoga with WalkGoodLA at 11 a.m., a meet and greet with the LA Legends Women’s Tackle Football team, and an outdoor dance floor with various DJs mixing throughout the day.
This year’s emcees include journalist Shar Jossell and content creator and comedian Jade Fox.

Presented by South Los Angeles Councilmembers Marqueece Harris-Dawson, Heather Hutt, and Curren Price, South LA Pride is a family-friendly event that is free and open to all to attend. There will be food trucks, a vendor village marketplace, live DJs, games, and more. Attendees are welcome to bring their food and drinks or can opt to purchase food and drinks from the onsite food vendors.

(Photo Credit: City of Los Angeles Media Relations)
“I am honored to support the LGBTQIA+ community at the 5th Annual South LA Pride Celebration,” remarked Councilmember Marqueece Harris-Dawson. “While love knows no boundaries, it is crucial to confront the harsh reality of unjust laws that infringe upon human rights. I stand united with my colleagues and our city in our dedication to champion freedom for everyone.”
This year’s honorees include:
- Garth Gerald, Executive Director of the AMAAD Institute
- Liliana Perez, Cultural Affairs Director for the Los Angeles Chargers; and
- Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence
“South LA Pride is a powerful experience that amplifies the voices and experiences of the LGBTQ+ community in South L.A., while also celebrating its diversity, resilience, and strength,” said Councilmember Heather Hutt. “It’s important that LGBTQ+ individuals in our community feel a sense of belonging and love from their constituents and their City, and this gathering is a testament to that commitment. Join us as we create a safe space where everyone can proudly express their authentic selves, and together, we’ll ignite change, foster peace, and promote acceptance of all!”
South LA Pride Chair and Director Jasmyne Cannick added, “South LA Pride is a celebration that recognizes and embraces the intersectional identities that exist within our communities. The queer community is not a monolith and we don’t all live in West Hollywood. Celebrating pride means celebrating all of who we are, where we are. We don’t have to–and we won’t–leave our community to celebrate pride.”

The 2023 South LA Pride Festival is sponsored in part by Community Coalition, Supervisor Holly Mitchell, Supervisor Lindsey Horvath, the LGBT Center, Gilead, Los Angeles Chargers and KPFK 90.7FM.
Additional details about South LA Pride will be made available on social media. Follow the hashtag #SouthLAPride on Facebook, Twitter, and on Instagram, or visit southlapride.com for the latest updates.
WHAT:
5th Annual South LA Pride
A free, family-friendly LGBTQ+ pride festival in South Los Angeles hosted by Councilmembers Marqueece Harris-Dawson, Heather Hutt, and Curren Price.
WHEN:
Saturday, July 15, 2023
12 p.m. to 8 p.m.
WHERE:
Michelle and Barack Obama Sports Complex
5001 Obama Blvd.
Los Angeles 90016
COST:
Free
Attendees are encouraged to pack their picnic baskets, blankets, and lawn chairs.
MORE INFORMATION:
Hashtag to follow #SouthLAPride
Related:
Pride Special
Politics & Pride 2023 celebrations as Pride Month comes to a close
From San Francisco to New York and across the world too cities large & small marked the end of Pride Month 2023
LOS ANGELES – From San Francisco to Denver to Chicago and then New York, cities large and small marked the end of Pride Month 2023 in parades and gatherings. Across the globe there were also celebrations including the 40th anniversary of Dublin Pride in Ireland and in the true spirit of that very first Pride gathering, thousands took to the streets in Istanbul, Türkiye in defiance of the ban on Pride by the government of Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.
As LGBTQ+ communities celebrated they were joined by elected leaders and representatives.
Here are some highlights of Pride 2023:
Illinois Governor Jay Robert “J.B.” Pritzker:
I’ve been marching for LGBTQ+ rights since Pride was thought of as a protest — and I’m proud to keep marching as a celebration of hope and recommitment to the fight for equality today. pic.twitter.com/kyjhROgh3h
— Governor JB Pritzker (@GovPritzker) June 25, 2023
Colorado Governor Jared Polis:
Happy Pride from Colorado State Employees! ❤️🧡💛💚💙💜
— Governor Jared Polis (@GovofCO) June 25, 2023
We love celebrating a Colorado for All! pic.twitter.com/fUmLq1SckG
New York Governor Kathy Hochul:
New York is the birthplace of the LGBTQ+ rights movement and today, thousands of New Yorkers came together to show our #StrengthInSolidarity. Happy #Pride! pic.twitter.com/GqdwuJuIAs
— Governor Kathy Hochul (@GovKathyHochul) June 25, 2023
NBC Bay Area, KNTV 11:
San Francisco celebrated its 53rd annual Pride Parade Sunday, with a crowd nearing a million people. The theme of this year's parade was about “looking back and moving forward.” https://t.co/HTIA85kueg pic.twitter.com/dHV3ZEOIBF
— NBC Bay Area (@nbcbayarea) June 25, 2023
California Lt. Governor Eleni Kounalakis:
Happy Pride, San Francisco 🌈❤️💜💙💚💛
— Eleni Kounalakis (@EleniForCA) June 25, 2023
Proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with our incredible LGBTQIA+ community today as we celebrate diversity and continue the fight for equality. California is with you! pic.twitter.com/TDJU9Mofap
Mayor of the City of Houston, Texas, Sylvester Turner:
In the most diverse city in the nation, we chose to continue embracing the unity, inclusiveness, and ability to express ourselves for who we are.
— Sylvester Turner (@SylvesterTurner) June 25, 2023
It was great to see many Houstonians attend this year’s @PrideHouston parade last night in @downtownhouston. #Pride pic.twitter.com/t6DO3v6mrG
The prime minister of the Republic of Ireland, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar:
We marched in Dublin's Pride parade today! #HappyPride 🏳️🌈 pic.twitter.com/BEpUezcbWo
— Fine Gael (@FineGael) June 24, 2023
Türkiye İYİ LGBTİ:
Susmuyoruz, korkmuyoruz itaat etmiyoruz! 🏳️🌈🏳️⚧️#Istanbulpride #OnurYürüyüşü #Dönüyoruz pic.twitter.com/nBNnh2inbp
— 🇹🇷 İYİ LGBTİ ☀️🌈 (@IYILGBTI) June 25, 2023
Maryland Governor Wes Moore:
In our state, no matter who you love or who you are, you are welcome and you are loved.
— Governor Wes Moore (@GovWesMoore) June 25, 2023
Happy #Pride, Maryland! pic.twitter.com/Ff6BtwOM9W
Toronto Pride 2023:
Happy Pride! #Pride2023 #TorontoPride pic.twitter.com/y5v7B8Ax8G
— blogTO (@blogTO) June 25, 2023
Member of Parliament for Whitby, Southern Ontario, Ryan Turnbull:
In Canada, we believe in the freedom to “love who you love, and to be who you are!” Happy Pride!! #cdnpoli #Whitby #Toronto #Pride2023 pic.twitter.com/I0R048VkCa
— Ryan Turnbull 🇨🇦🇺🇦 (@TurnbullWhitby) June 25, 2023
Pride Mexico City 2023 via Reuters:
Thousands of revelers crowded the streets of Mexico City to celebrate the Pride parade pic.twitter.com/5oRnAFBUIb
— Reuters (@Reuters) June 25, 2023
Twin Cities Pride via The Star Tribune; First Lady Dr. Jill Biden:
First lady Jill Biden made an appearance at Twin Cities Pride in Minneapolis. pic.twitter.com/1eoKz82mcC
— Star Tribune (@StarTribune) June 24, 2023
Pride in Edinburgh, Scotland 2023:
Happy Pride 🏳️🌈 #PrideEdinburgh #Pride2023 https://t.co/jaESsSOVpJ
— The City of Edinburgh Council (@Edinburgh_CC) June 24, 2023
Seattle Pride 2023:
Organizers estimate nearly 300,000 people were out and about, proud to be part of the 49th Annual Seattle Pride Parade. https://t.co/OBvR7q2sBK
— KING 5 News (@KING5Seattle) June 26, 2023
Metro Manila Pride, Philippines 2023:
Flags, Friends, and Feathers: The 2023 Metro Manila Pride March 🏳️🌈🏳️⚧️
— Ralph Revelar Sarza (@walphs) June 25, 2023
FULL VIDEO: https://t.co/ITqf9d2Jnq#TAYOangKULAYAAN#JUSTICEforCHADBOOC#JUSTICEforNewBataan5#Pride2023#PrideMarch2023#PrideMonth2023 @mmprideorg
Watch in 4K: https://t.co/HtfjqMpWsi pic.twitter.com/Hr8vhN3XWK
Rep. Jerry Nadler (D-NY):
Happy Pride NYC! I've never missed a march in over 30 years, and with the LGBTQ+ community facing increased attacks, it's more important than ever to celebrate visibility & diversity. pic.twitter.com/zQa6pHsNST
— Rep. Nadler (@RepJerryNadler) June 26, 2023
Oklahoma City Pride 2023:
It was amazing to see our Indigenous brothers and sisters at OKC Pride today. Sending love and hugs to my Two Spirit siblings! pic.twitter.com/XOCsOzmnWp
— ᒪᗩᑎᑕᗴ 🏳️🌈 (@LanceUSA70) June 25, 2023
Pride Special
KABC: LA Pride Parade draws thousands to Hollywood
The 53rd annual L.A. Pride Parade rolled through the historic heart of Hollywood Sunday, featuring hundreds of marchers & colorful floats
HOLLYWOOD – The LA Pride Parade made its way through Hollywood on Sunday, highlighting the last day of this year’s weekend-long Pride celebration.
Pride Special
L.A. Pride Parade Sunday will be live on KABC7
ABC7 is your official L.A. Pride station! Join our hosts Ellen Leyva and Christiane Cordero as we broadcast the parade on ABC7
LOS ANGELES – (KABC7) The 53rd annual L.A. Pride Parade will be rolling through the historic heart of Hollywood Sunday, and you can watch the celebration on ABC7.
The grand marshals for the parade this year are Margaret Cho, the ACLU SoCal and the late Leslie Jordan – a family member will represent Jordan.
The parade will feature a special performance presented by the ACLU SoCal and staged by Morgan McMichaels to music by 14-time Oscar nominee Diane Warren.
The parade features hundreds of marchers, colorful floats, celebrity guests, and there will be a few big surprises too.
There is a new route and direction this year. The parade will start at Sunset Boulevard and goes up Highland, and then turns right on Hollywood Boulevard, rolling all the way to Cahuenga where it makes a final right turn heading back to Sunset Boulevard.
It all begins Sunday, June 11 at 11am.
ABC7 is your official L.A. Pride station! Join our hosts Ellen Leyva and Christiane Cordero as we broadcast the parade on ABC7, Hulu and wherever you stream ABC7 Los Angeles.
Check out abc7.com/pride for stories about the LGBTQIA+ community and their allies, and share your Pride with #abc7eyewitness.
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