WorldPride 2025 is officially underway in Washington, D.C., and with the event taking place on the metaphorical doorstep of lawmakers in the USA, its power should not be underestimated.
In fact, as of 16 May, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) is tracking 588 anti-LGBTQ+ bills in the country.
These include laws targeting gender-affirming care, which bathrooms trans people use, and even attempts to force teachers to out students.
From the AIDS movement to Black Lives Matter, D.C. has always been the hub of activism in the USA – and WorldPride will be no different.
Over the coming weeks, hundreds of LGBTQ+ rallies, seminars and parties will take place in the political heart of the country.
Potentially millions of LGBTQ+ people and their allies will demand equality right on the government’s doorstep, which lawmakers won’t have the opportunity to ignore.
This includes the International Rally and March on Washington for Freedom that starts on the iconic steps of the Lincoln Memorial, culminating in a march towards the US Capitol Building where so many legislative battles take place.
There’s also a Human Rights Conference, which is set to see changemakers, advocates and allies come together in a powerful call to action for global lawmakers.
And let’s not forget star-studded musical performances from the likes of Jennifer Lopez, Troye Sivan, and RuPaul, which will take place right in front of the Capitol Building.
To learn more about WorldPride, click here.
