World Pride 2025 kicked off in Washington, D.C. this weekend, and let’s be clear: it’s not just a celebration — it’s a declaration. With hundreds of events planned, from Trans Pride and Black Pride to drag-powered after-after-parties, the city is bursting at the sequined seams with queer joy. But as rainbow flags wave down Pennsylvania Avenue, there’s a dark cloud hovering over the festivities — and it has a comb-over.
President Donald Trump’s return to the White House brought with it a wave of anti-trans and anti-drag policies, sparking fear, outrage, and some very fierce protest art. With Trump’s administration doubling down on its binary-only gender policies, slashing federal funding for gender-affirming care, and trying to evict trans folks from sports and the military, international LGBTQ travelers are being told to think twice before entering the U.S. Canada’s Egale and the African Human Rights Coalition have already issued advisories, and attendance is expected to dip.
But the party goes on — and with a purpose.
Resistance, Remixed
The response from queer leaders and Pride organizers? Show up, show out, and be seen. “We know that there’s an urgency and importance to showing up and making sure we remain visible and protect our freedoms,” said Ryan Bos of the Capital Pride Alliance.
From the grassy steps of the National Mall, where a giant “Freedom to Be” quilt was unfurled, to the soon-to-be-filled Nationals Stadium, where Shakira will headline the May 31 concert, the message is clear: we’re here, we’re queer, and we’re not letting fascism ruin our block party.
Still, not everyone feels safe making the trip. Some international artists, activists, and visitors have decided to boycott. Others, like Argentinian activist Mariano Ruiz, argue that backing down is exactly what oppressive leaders want. “What more powerful declaration than standing visible where he would rather we vanish?” Ruiz wrote. He’s got a point — when Trump tried to cancel drag at the Kennedy Center, organizers simply relocated the “Tapestry of Pride” series. The glitter cannot be stopped.
Pride, With Purpose
While hotel bookings are slightly down, organizers believe local and national attendance will pick up the slack. D.C. Council Member Zachary Parker, who is gay, summed it up: “There is no greater demonstration of resistance than being present and being you.”
And for the LGBTQ community — especially trans, nonbinary, and gender-diverse individuals — visibility is more than protest. It’s survival. Pride this year isn’t just about celebration; it’s a stand against erasure, a moment of defiance in the capital of a president who wants to write us out of existence.
So yes, there’s fear. But there’s also music, laughter, sequins, and a hell of a lot of eyeliner. And come June 7 and 8, when Cynthia Erivo and Doechii close out the festivities on Pennsylvania Avenue, there will also be hope — and the roar of a community that refuses to disappear.
Because if Trump’s counting on us to sit down and be quiet, he clearly forgot who he’s dealing with.