WorldPride 2025 is set to take place in Washington, D.C., highlighting the city’s deep-rooted LGBTQ history and ongoing efforts for civil rights.
The Human Rights Conference begins this Wednesday and features prominent speakers, including Jessica Stern, former special U.S. envoy for the promotion of LGBTQ and intersex rights, and Right Rev. Mariann Edgar Budde, the bishop of the Diocese of Washington.
Stern was appointed by former President Joe Biden in 2021 and has voiced criticism towards the previous administration’s actions, stating that the Trump-Vance administration systematically dismantled the progress made for LGBTQ rights.
Bishop Budde made headlines earlier this year when she urged President Donald Trump “to have mercy” on marginalized groups during a service attended by him and Vice President JD Vance at the Washington National Cathedral.
Despite facing backlash from Trump for her comments, Budde’s advocacy reflects a broader movement of support for LGBTQ rights.
The conference will be held at the JW Marriott (1331 Pennsylvania Ave., N.W.) through Friday and will include a lineup of influential speakers such as Icelandic Industries Minister Hanna Katrín Friðriksson, Spanish Sen. Carla Antonelli, D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb, and Rayceen Pendarvis.
As the world gathers in Washington for WorldPride, it is vital to acknowledge the city’s historical significance in shaping both local and national LGBTQ rights movements.
One of the most notable locations, Dupont Circle, has been a central hub for LGBTQ life since the early 20th century, serving as a stage for Pride parades, Dyke Marches, and multiple protests.
Key landmarks in the Dupont Circle area include the Washington Hilton, which hosted the first major hotel drag event in D.C. in 1968, and the former Lambda Rising Bookstore, the city’s first LGBTQ bookstore, where the inaugural Pride celebration was born in 1975.
Nearby, the 17th Street NW Corridor stands as the core of D.C.’s LGBTQ business district, famed for the annual High Heel Race in October and the June Block Party that celebrates D.C. Pride’s origins.
In Capitol Hill and Southeast D.C., several venues like Tracks, formerly the largest gay club in the city, and Ziegfeld’s / The Other Side, a legendary drag venue, contributed to the nightlife culture.
Historical sites such as the Congressional Cemetery, which is the resting place of notable LGBTQ figures, and Mr. Henry’s bar, a cornerstone since 1966, highlight the area’s vibrant history.
In the National Mall area, the grounds have been significant for LGBTQ activism and remembrance, marking events like the AIDS Memorial Quilt display in 1987 and hosting major civil rights marches.
The Dr. Franklin E. Kameny House in Northwest D.C. stands as a national landmark, honoring the gay rights pioneer and the Mattachine Society he led.
Another historic landmark, the General Post Office in Penn Quarter, now the Kimpton Hotel Monaco, is set to feature a unique Pride Suite designed to celebrate the spirit of the LGBTQ community.
Michelle Ison, the designer behind the “Free to Fly” suite, describes it as bursting with color and joy, featuring butterfly motifs and nods to LGBTQ cultural icons throughout the space.
Rates for booking this specially designed suite begin at $289 per night through the Kimpton Monaco’s website, offering both individual and package options with various treats and donations to LGBTQ charities like the Trevor Project.
In addition to the Pride Suite, the hotel will celebrate WorldPride with a series of events, including a Drag Brunch featuring RuPaul’s Drag Race star Alyssa Edwards.
With an expected two million visitors during the two-week-long celebration, the KINETIC Presents events are geared to create a dynamic and diverse experience.
Starting on June 5, KINETIC will introduce a weekend of festivities culminating in the flagship event, Fabric of Freedom: Massive Main Event, taking place in a sprawling indoor-outdoor venue.
This grand celebration will feature multiple stages and renowned DJs, emphasizing inclusivity and the spirit of community.
The festival promises an electrifying atmosphere filled with music, dance, and performances designed to unite diverse communities from around the globe.
Renovates, one of the event’s producers, emphasizes that the essence of WorldPride lies in creating unforgettable experiences as a worldwide movement for recognition and love.
With plans for tattoo pop-ups, vibrant décor, and activities extending into the morning hours, D.C.’s WorldPride is expected to leave a lasting impact on both locals and visitors alike.
As WorldPride begins, the city of Washington, D.C. stands poised to celebrate its history, culture, and ongoing fight for equality together in an unforgettable way.
image source from：https://www.washingtonblade.com/2025/06/04/jessica-stern-d-c-episcopal-bishop-to-speak-at-worldpride-conference/
