THE CAPITAL PRIDE ALLIANCE ANNOUNCES THIS YEAR‘S THEME AS “TOTALLY RADICAL” EMBRACING THE PASSIONATE SPIRIT OF THE LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY AND ADVOCATES EVERYWHERE

Capital Pride Reveals 2024 Theme and Community Programming for This Year’s Celebration

Theme video available here

 

WASHINGTON, DC (March 1, 2024) – Yesterday, the Capital Pride Alliance (CPA) proudly announced the theme for this year’s much-anticipated Pride celebration. The theme “Totally Radical” embraces the vibrant energy of the LGBTQ+ community and pays homage to the radical spirit that defined the activism and progress of the 1980s and ‘90s.

The LGBTQ+ community has consistently been at the forefront of social and political movements, confronting challenges with resilience and determination. From the activists who led ACT UP during the HIV/AIDS epidemic to those who spearheaded the fight for legal recognition of rights and equality, this community has continuously pushed boundaries and embraced radical change. From pink triangles and Freedom Rings to cultural icons like George Michael, Ellen DeGeneres, k.d. lang, and RuPaul, the LGBTQ+ community has made its presence felt through activism and remarkable cultural contributions.  

“Capital Pride’s 2024 theme celebrates the courageous spirit and unwavering strength and resilience that defined the LGBTQ+ community during the transformative decades of the 1980s and ‘90s,” said Ryan Bos, Executive Director of CPA. “It’s about embracing our authenticity, pushing boundaries, and advocating for a world where everyone can live their truth without fear or discrimination.” 

Throughout history, radical changes have shaped the LGBTQ+ movement, from the Stonewall Riots to the fight for marriage equality. These moments have inspired generations to stand up, speak out, and demand justice.

“As we reflect on our past and look towards the future, we are reminded of the power of unity and resilience,” said Ashley Smith, CPA Board President. “The ‘Totally Radical’ theme embodies the boldness and determination of our community as we continue to fight for equality and acceptance.”

For more information on this year’s theme please see the full statement here. Theme video available here.

Capital Pride 2024 will feature a diverse range of events, including the Pride Parade, Block Party, and Pride Festival and Concert, all infused with the Totally Radical spirit of celebration and activism. In anticipation of WorldPride, Washington, DC 2025, a streamlined Parade route has been unveiled for 2024. The new, two-mile route will begin at 14th and T Streets NW and conclude at Pennsylvania Avenue and 9th Street NW on June 8th, traversing through the heart of the nation’s capital and adjacent to over 100 viewing areas via bars, eateries, hotels, and rooftops. The Capital Pride Block Party and Family Area will remain in the historic core of the Dupont Circle neighborhood, in partnership with local organizations and businesses. For the first time, an outdoor celebration and Tea Dance party will also take place on Constitution Avenue NW near the Parade finish line, featuring food vendors, beverage gardens, and entertainment throughout the day. The Capital Pride Festival and Concert, the largest event of its kind in Washington, D.C., will take place the next day on June 9th, along Pennsylvania Avenue NW, featuring multiple stages, hundreds of exhibitors, food and beverage gardens, and a re-imagined VIP experience. 

In addition to the festivities, The Capital Pride Alliance and the DC LGBTQ+ Community Center are preparing to unveil one the largest and most innovative LGBTQ+ centers in the region. “We are asking the public to help us raise 1.5 million dollars to make this new state-of-art center a reality for our community,” said CPA Executive Director, Ryan Bos. The new center will allow many of DC’s beloved LGBTQ+ organizations and charities to gather under one roof to streamline resources and expand critical services and community programming. 

 

The Capital Pride Alliance looks forward to honoring the legacy of the ‘80s and ‘90s and celebrating the progress that has been made while continuing to push for a future where everyone can live authentically and proudly.

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.

 

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Media Contacts: 

Lucky Break PR: 

Mark Umbach, [email protected] 

Briana Velasco, [email protected]