June 14-28, 2020 CANCELLED - STATEMENT BELOW.
Heritage of Pride, in partnership with the City of New York, announced today that the NYC Pride 2020 roster of events, originally scheduled for June 14-28, will not take place as planned. Due to the collective concern for the overall safety of the community, the organization has worked closely with the City to arrive at this decision.
“New York City is the birthplace of the modern LGBTQ rights movement. We’ve come a long way since the first Christopher Street Liberation Day March 50 years ago, which is a testament to the bravery and resiliency of LGBTIA+ New Yorkers in the struggle for equality,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio. “While this pandemic prevents us from coming together to march, it will in no way stop us from celebrating the indelible contributions that the LGBTIA+ community has made to New York City or from recommitting ourselves to the fight for equal rights.”
"As the days have passed, it has become more and more clear that even with a decline in the spread of COVID-19, large-scale events such as ours are unlikely to happen in the near future,” said Maryanne Roberto Fine, NYC Pride Co-Chair. “We understand that we need to reimagine NYC Pride events - and have already begun to do just that."
“Pride is a staple in New York City, and is oftentimes a safe space for many,” said David A. Correa, Interim Executive Director. “This weighed on our members, board, and staff, knowing that we serve as a haven for vulnerable communities. It was not easy to arrive at the decision to cancel pride as we have come to know it over the years, especially given the financial impact this could have on LGBTQIA+ people and businesses, but our top priority remains the health and well-being of all those that participate with us. ”
Aside from the changes in event programming, NYC Pride will continue to focus on initiatives like Pride Gives Back. This grant program was created to support LGBTQIA+ organizations from some of the most marginalized communities to develop much-needed programming. The success of WorldPride | Stonewall 50 made it possible to increase the total number of grants awarded this year. NYC Pride is honored to be able to help sustain these organizations during this time of financial uncertainty and unprecedented challenges.
“We are a community that thrives when we are united,” added Correa. “We may not fill the streets of New York City this year, but LGBTQIA+ people carry pride with them all year long. I have no doubt that we will be together again soon.”
“WABC Channel 7 will continue to support Heritage of Pride this year by broadcasting a special NYC Pride programming event in June to all communities across the NYC and tri-state area. This virtual event will shine a light on Pride month and the incredible stories of unity and strength by utilizing the powerful reach of ABC-7, the number one station in the market, and the deep connection we have with our viewers and communities,” said Debra O’Connell, WABC-TV President & General Manager.
As a founding member of InterPride, the board and membership of Heritage of Pride have agreed to participate in the virtual Global Pride event on Saturday, June 27, 2020. Additionally, NYC Pride will continue to evaluate the situation and work toward creative ways to celebrate pride.