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As DC World Pride nears, excitement and concern grow
As DC World Pride nears, excitement and concern grow
Alan Etter | alan.etter@wtop.com
March 26, 2025, 5:59 PM
As excitement builds for D.C.’s World Pride this June, there are concerns about how current federal government policies regarding LGBTQ+ issues might impact the festivities. … World Pride events run from May 17 to June 8 and are expected to pull over two million visitors, organizers said.
“I think we’ll see a decline in the international travel that was planned,” said Stephen Rutgers, owner of Crush Dance Bar at 14th and U Streets, NW, which is one of about 20 bars and restaurants in D.C. that cater to the LGBTQ+ community.
He notes that Egale Canada, Canada’s largest LGBTQ+ advocacy group, has already decided not to participate in World Pride this year. InterPride, one of the event’s organizers, has also issued a travel warning to queer and transgender individuals who might want to attend. … Both organizations cite the anti-trans policies of President Donald Trump’s administration, explaining that they create a dangerous environment.
Rutgers agreed the current federal posture has created negativity within the community, but he remains hopeful for a good turnout…. “Most everything being planned is on District property,” Rutgers said, adding how that avoids having to get permits approved by the National Park Service.
{snip}
Alan Etter | alan.etter@wtop.com
March 26, 2025, 5:59 PM
As excitement builds for D.C.’s World Pride this June, there are concerns about how current federal government policies regarding LGBTQ+ issues might impact the festivities. … World Pride events run from May 17 to June 8 and are expected to pull over two million visitors, organizers said.
“I think we’ll see a decline in the international travel that was planned,” said Stephen Rutgers, owner of Crush Dance Bar at 14th and U Streets, NW, which is one of about 20 bars and restaurants in D.C. that cater to the LGBTQ+ community.
He notes that Egale Canada, Canada’s largest LGBTQ+ advocacy group, has already decided not to participate in World Pride this year. InterPride, one of the event’s organizers, has also issued a travel warning to queer and transgender individuals who might want to attend. … Both organizations cite the anti-trans policies of President Donald Trump’s administration, explaining that they create a dangerous environment.
Rutgers agreed the current federal posture has created negativity within the community, but he remains hopeful for a good turnout…. “Most everything being planned is on District property,” Rutgers said, adding how that avoids having to get permits approved by the National Park Service.
{snip}