WILSON CRUZ, RAVEN-SYMONE, TRACE LYSETTE, LAITH ASHLEY, AND BRIAN MICHAEL SMITH JOIN “IN THE SPOTLIGHT" PANEL AT THE WORLD PRIDE DC 2025 HUMAN RIGHTS CONFERENCE
The Powerful Conversation Will Explore the Power and Responsibility of Openly Queer Artists and Activists
WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 20, 2025) – Organizers of the WorldPride 2025 Human Rights Conference today announced “In the Spotlight: The Power and Duty of Storytelling in Human Rights” a powerful session on LGBTQ+ visibility in media and entertainment, featuring trailblazing voices across film, television, and music.
The “In the Spotlight” panel takes place on Thursday, June 5, from 4:00 PM – 4:50 PM EDT at the JW Marriott in Washington, DC. Moderated by Wilson Cruz, the panel will bring together celebrated queer trailblazers including actor Raven-Symoné, actress Trace Lysette, musician and model Laith Ashley, and actor Brian Michael Smith.
“We’re bringing together bold, influential voices who have helped redefine what visibility looks like on screen and in society,” said Ryan Bos, Executive Director of the Capital Pride Alliance, host of WorldPride 2025. “This panel is a celebration of progress and a call to action to continue expanding representation and access in media, culture, and beyond.”
The In the Spotlight panel brings together influential queer LGBTQ+ individuals who are leveraging their platforms to drive social change and challenge harmful norms. Through thoughtful discussion, panelists will reflect on their experiences navigating public visibility, the complexities of advocacy, and the responsibility that comes with being a vocal member of the LGBTQ+ community. With a focus on both personal and professional journeys, the conversation will explore how visibility can serve as a powerful tool for advancing equality, amplifying marginalized voices, and reshaping societal perceptions of LGBTQ+ identities.
The “In the Spotlight” panel adds to a robust lineup of speakers and sessions at the Human Rights Conference, which will feature workshops, keynotes, and roundtables on pressing global and domestic LGBTQ+ issues. Previously announced speakers include The Right Reverend Mariann Edgar Budde, Dr. Lady Phyll, T.S. Madison, Richa Tripathi, Yasmin Benoit, and dignitaries and thought leaders from Iceland, Australia, and the U.S., alongside artists such as Courtney Act, Bob the Drag Queen, and Peppermint. Participating advocacy organizations include GLAAD, Human Rights Campaign, and the LGBTQ+ Victory Fund.
The WorldPride DC 2025 Human Rights Conference, taking place June 4–6, is a global convening of changemakers, artists, advocates, and allies united by a shared mission: to create a world where human rights are universally respected and the dignity of all people is upheld. Hosted at the JW Marriott in the heart of the U.S. capital, the conference will serve as a platform for action, storytelling, and collaboration. Through compelling programming and meaningful dialogue, participants will leave empowered with the tools, knowledge, and community to drive change on both global and local levels.
Registration for in-person attendance will remain open as space is available. Virtual attendance is available as well. Full information on individual, corporate, and non-profit registration is available online.
For the latest updates on WorldPride programming and events, visit WorldPrideDC.org.
About The Capital Pride Alliance
The Capital Pride Alliance (CPA), located in Washington, DC, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the needs of the LGBTQ+ community all year long, through educational programs, major events, fundraising, outreach and advocacy, providing platforms for visibility, and supporting the work of our many community organizations and local businesses.
About WorldPride DC 2025
WorldPride DC 2025, hosted by the Capital Pride Alliance, will take place in the heart of the nation’s capital from May 17 to June 8, 2025. The global celebration will feature two weeks of parades, festivals, marches, exhibits, and cultural programming. For more information, visit www.worldpridedc.org.
About InterPride
InterPride brings together Pride organizations from around the world, as well as regional, national, and local Pride networks, therefore contributing to the global coordination of Pride efforts. InterPride has over 375 member organizations in over 70 countries. Its work impacts millions worldwide through our members, InterPride is also the owner and licensor of the WorldPride brand, and InterPod, The Global Voices of Pride Podcast, the official podcast powered by InterPride.
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