NYC Pride announces the official theme for 2023, “Strength in Solidarity,” as the kick-off to this year’s events and programming. Amidst a backdrop of increased attacks against members of the LGBTQIA+ community, especially in the form of legislation and physical violence that directly targets trans and BIPOC individuals, NYC Pride seeks to spotlight the power and resiliency of the community and its allies. This year’s theme highlights the cultural significance of the LGBTQIA+ community within the fabric of modern society while acknowledging every individual’s uniqueness and ability to wield tremendous power when united with others. In a world where platforms of hatred and violence are upheld and even celebrated, NYC Pride seeks to illuminate the good that can and has been accomplished through uplifting and supporting one another. Fear and intimidation only serve to isolate and diminish the community and its allies, but when individuals unite, Strength in Solidarity is truly unlimited.
“Many individuals within our community are recognized for their unyielding creativity and ingenuity, and when we blend the individual threads of our community with those of our allies, together we can see the magnificent tapestry our combined effort produces,” said NYC Pride Executive Director Sandra Pérez. “The fact that 91% of anti-LGBTQIA+ bills in 2022 failed to become law is an example of our strength in solidarity. Yet already in 2023, lawmakers across the country have introduced nearly 400 bills restricting the rights and freedoms of LGBTQIA+ people, including two in Connecticut and six in New Jersey. Many of these bills directly target trans people and their families. These attacks against our community require not only us but especially our allies to vocally and visibly reinforce commitments to embracing our individual talents, empowering our collaborations, fortifying our bonds, and joining as a cohesive community of LGBTQIA+ people and allies so we can persevere and thrive.”
“Following the successful return to fully in-person programming in 2022, NYC Pride is thrilled to convene again and to celebrate every facet of our vibrant community, both within New York City and beyond,” said André Thomas, NYC Pride Co-Chair. “The blood, sweat, and tears of the LGBTQIA+ community is a foundational component of the identity and culture of New York City and our nation. We look forward to uplifting the individual and collective efforts of all LGBTQIA+ people—especially those among us who are the most marginalized—and showcasing the community’s contributions to everything people know and love.”
The NYC Pride 2023 calendar will feature legacy events including The Rally on Saturday, June 17 as well as the annual NYC Pride March, PrideFest, and Pride Island on Sunday, June 25.
