World Pride 2025: Celebrations relocated to Washington, D.C., following Kennedy Center decisions
The World Pride organization has relocated several events scheduled at the Kennedy Center after the institution suspended contracts following management changes under president Donald Trump.
Several cultural and artistic events scheduled for World Pride 2025 have been relocated from the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. The decision comes after the Kennedy Center canceled contracts with the organizers, raising concerns among participating LGBTQ+ groups.
The events occurred after the abrupt dismissal of members of the Kennedy Center's Board of Trustees by president Donald Trump, who subsequently declared himself president of the organization. Following these changes, several organizers took the initiative to relocate their activities in the face of institutional uncertainty and public statements opposing Pride events.
Canceled events and new venues
Among the affected events were an International Pride Orchestra concert, a drag story hour, and an exhibit featuring panels from the AIDS Memorial Quilt. Following the Kennedy Center's cancellation of contracts, organizers sought new locations to ensure the continued existence of World Pride.
Most activities have been relocated to the World Pride Welcome Center in downtown Washington, while the International Pride Orchestra concert will now be held at Strathmore, a cultural space located in Bethesda, Maryland. The organization highlighted the support of this new venue and its willingness to host the event at a significant moment for the LGBTQ+ community.
The 2025 World Pride event moves to Washington, DC, with thousands expected. Photo: NBC4
Organizers' reactions and political context
Ryan Bos, executive director of the Capital Pride Alliance, indicated that Trump's social media statements were interpreted as a clear sign of rejection of Pride programming at the Kennedy Center. Bos emphasized the importance of keeping the events going and ensuring safe spaces for the communities represented.
Michael Roest, artistic director of the International Pride Orchestra, said the news of the cancellation was saddened, but he appreciated the solidarity shown by Strathmore. Both leaders emphasized the need to move forward with Pride 2025, especially in a year in which Washington commemorates 50 years of annual Pride celebrations.