At Stonewall Columbus, we believe that Pride belongs to the people—all people who are committed to supporting and uplifting the LGBTQ+ community.
Our Pride March is open to LGBTQ+ affirming people and organizations, and while we recognize that each person or group may express support through different messages, we welcome those who stand in solidarity with our community. Unity does not require uniformity—and our diversity of voice, experience, and expression is a reflection of the beautiful complexity of our movement.
We must also remember: Pride was born from protest. The first marchers after the Stonewall Uprisings weren’t parading—they were demanding to be seen, to be protected, and to live freely. Their signs spoke of struggle. Their presence challenged norms. Their courage laid the groundwork for everything we celebrate today.
We are living in a moment that echoes theirs.
With escalating attacks on trans and queer people, with legislation attempting to erase our identities and silence our stories, we are reminded that not all Pride messages will be joyful—but all are necessary.
This year, as we march together, we do so in the spirit of truth-telling and transformation. We do so to celebrate—but also to challenge. We do so knowing that protest is part of our Pride—and always will be.
If you’re someone whose company or employer has pulled back from Pride participation this year, please know:
You are still welcome.
You are invited to march with the Stonewall Columbus contingent—to be seen, to be proud, and to take up space in a moment that needs your voice.
We do ask that everyone register/let us know their desire to be a part of this moment, this continued movement: https://stonewallcolumbus.org/pride/march/register-to-march/
Stonewall Columbus welcomes LGBTQ+ affirming organizations and individuals to march with us—because your support, your presence, and your voice matter. Together, we show the world that our community is united in power, purpose, and pride.
In solidarity,
Densil R. Porteous (he/they)
Executive Director
Stonewall Columbus
