CPA Board President Responds to The Blade's article about Vince Micone's Resignation

I am writing on behalf of my colleagues on the Capital Pride Alliance (CPA) board and the entire team in response to the recent misleading news about Vince Micone. Vince was a volunteer of Capital Pride since the 1990s and a board member since 2010. His commitment to Capital Pride has been steadfast. I am deeply grateful to him for his guidance, support, and commitment.

Many career employees serve in acting capacities during transition times and Vince is one of hundreds of thousands of federal government employees whose work persists regardless of who is in the White House. He is a member of the Senior Executive Service and has had a 30-year-long career as a federal civil servant. A few days ago, Vince informed me of his temporary designation as Acting Secretary of Labor and made the decision to step aside from his role on our board to avoid any conflicts. He will be in this position until President Trump’s nominee is confirmed by the U.S. Senate.  This decision weighed very heavily on him as his passion for our community is relentless. I thanked him for his commitment and service to Capital Pride.

Since the article published by the Washington Blade, I have received numerous messages about our commitment to our LGBTQ+ community. I know how serious the threats are to the rights, safety, and dignity of marginalized communities.

The Capital Pride Alliance remains unwavering in its dedication to uplifting and protecting our community, especially during these challenging times. We are deeply alarmed by the increasing threats against the LGBTQ+ community, especially our youth, the transgender and non-binary communities, immigrants, and Black and People of Color. We anticipated a disinvestment in diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) programs and the punitive measures aimed at agencies, organizations, and companies that support these critical initiatives. These attacks require us to double down on our efforts to protect the most vulnerable among us and to amplify the voices of those who have been silenced for too long. As we prepare to mark 50 years of celebrating Pride in the nation’s capital, and with WorldPride coming to Washington, DC, this summer, we recognize the profound importance of our mission. We are united in our resolve to ensure that our history is not erased, our community is not forgotten, and our fight for equality and safety continues.

This work is bigger than any one individual—it is a collective effort grounded in love, solidarity, and resilience. To our local, national, and international LGBTQ+ family: we stand with you, and we will continue to advocate, protect, and celebrate our vibrant community with unwavering determination.

Sincerely,

Ashley Smith

The Capital Pride Alliance, Board President