Photos: Lauren Herz

What began as a commemoration of the 1969 Stonewall Riots has since evolved into one of the oldest and largest LGBTQ+ demonstrations in the world. New York City’s annual Pride Weekend returned for its 57th year, once again attracting thousands of participants. On June 28, marchers descended upon Lower Manhattan to celebrate the resilience of the community. 

NYC Pride continues to honor the work of activists. This year, one of the most memorable marchers also served as a homage: The Gays Against Guns participants commemorated the 2016 Pulse nightclub tragedy in Florida by carrying photographs of the 49 victims.

Everyone is a Star at the Pride March

Throughout the afternoon, marchers and attendees carried rainbow flags, handmade signs, and clothing adorned with LGBTQ+ imagery. Supporters cheered from the sidewalks as community floats, marching bands, and cheerleading troupes filled the streets.

Heritage of Pride, the nonprofit behind NYC Pride, chose five Grand Marshals this year: comedian Bowen Yang, subway announcer Bernie Wagenblast, Gays Against Guns, Pose star Dominque Jackson, and Peppermint, a RuPaul’s Drag Race star.

DOWNTOWN’s Lauren Herz and friend Kaia Hansen

Marchers Nancy Goldstein and Gail Cohan

The Marshals’ appearances sparked screams from spectators lining the barricades. Rachel Herz, a New Jersey resident, described her experience: “The energy of the crowd was incredible. It was great to see New York’s enormous support of the LGBTQ+ community. I’m grateful to have attended.”

PrideFest

Just blocks away from the parade, Greenwich Village was transformed into a lively street fair featuring local businesses, nonprofits, and live entertainment. Visitors explored booths highlighting LGBTQ+-owned businesses and advocacy organizations while musicians performed throughout the day.

PrideFest offered attendees another opportunity to celebrate in a more relaxed setting while learning about opportunities to serve the LGBTQ+ community year-round.

Dyke March

In addition to the official NYC Pride events, there were several independent demonstrations throughout the weekend, including the annual Dyke March. On June 27, the march brought thousands of women together for its annual protest through Manhattan. The demonstration is organized as “a protest march and not a parade.”

Lucy Anderson, editor-in-chief of 47 Magazine, attended on Saturday. “All around it was a fantastic experience filled with community love, laughter, and sore legs from a long walk! The volunteers were fantastic, and the energy of the crowd was amazing the entire march,” she exclaimed. 

NYC Pride March

Together, the demonstrations reflected the resilience and strength of New York City’s LGBTQ+ community, and serves as a reminder of the continuous fight for equality.