Capital Pride Alliance Celebrates DC Government Keeping Pride Alive in Nation’s Capital
WASHINGTON D.C., June 8, 2022 — The Capital Pride Alliance (CPA) today welcomes and celebrates the support of Mayor Muriel Bowser and the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (DMPED) for the 2022 Pride celebrations. Thanks to investments from Mayor Bowser, this year’s Pride Festival and Concert will remain one of the last in the nation that is free to the public; continued support will also help usher in the 50th anniversary of Pride in the Nation’s Capital in 2025.
“Washington, DC is the #District of Pride and we are proud to host one of the largest LGBTQ+ festivals in the nation, celebrating our DC Values of diversity, inclusivity, and recognizing the contributions of our LGBTQ+ community,” said Mayor Muriel Bowser.
After two difficult years, Capital Pride is returning with celebrations throughout the month of June, including the Pride Parade and Block Party on June 11 and the Pride Festival and Concert on June 12. It has become increasingly challenging to produce large-scale events that are free for the general public due to increasing costs from city services, insurance, and general infrastructure, to name a few. “CPA is thrilled that Mayor Bowser and the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development, has become a strong partner to ensure that we can continue to exercise our First Amendment rights,” stated Ashley Smith, Board President of the CPA.
“The Capital Pride Alliance has a record of producing high quality and engaging events for our LGBTQ+ community and all DC residents and visitors. Through the Special Event Relief Fund, DMPED supports these organizations and these types of events, which empower our LGBTQ+ community and bring in tourists from all across the globe,” said John Falcicchio, the DMPED.
As we approach the 50th celebration of Pride in the Nation’s Capital, CPA looks forward to continuing this partnership with the DC Government. “The Capital Pride Celebration provides robust economic benefits to the region’s local businesses, nightlife, and entertainment industry.” said Ryan Bos, Executive Director of CPA. “These events sustain jobs and enhance the vibrant culture of the DC area as a welcoming and safe travel destination,” Bos continued.
“In addition to being our First Amendment right to gather, hosting a world-class Pride celebration requires significant investment from the community and government partners. The continued success and support of this event counters the growing nationwide anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric and demonstrates that our DC Values overcome any and all forms of discrimination and hate,” said Director of the Mayor’s Office of LGBTQ Affairs, Japer Bowles. CPA also relies on the generosity of stakeholders and the local community to help us remain strong and resilient and keep the legacy of Pride alive for years to come. To support the DMV’s LGBTQ+ community and Pride celebrations, please visit CPA’s website.
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The Capital Pride Alliance (CPA), located in Washington, DC, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the needs of the LGBTQ+ community all year long, through educational programs, major events, fundraising, outreach and advocacy, providing platforms for visibility, and supporting the work of our many community organizations and local businesses.
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