The vibrant Stonewall Pride Parade and Festival is now officially titled “The City of Wilton Manors Stonewall Pride Festival and Parade.” After a unanimous vote given in favor by Wilton Manors city commissioners, Wilton Manors has become the exclusive title sponsor of Stonewall Pride. Wilton Manors is one of America’s most recognized and famous LGBTQ+ communities and the Stonewall Pride Parade and Festival is the largest event in the city. The city has ensured the strength of the continuation of Stonewall Pride amidst several years of tremendous challenge. First, like the rest of the world, Pride faced cancellations because of Covid-19. Emerging from those challenges then faced substantial issues related to political responses to ‘Don’t Say Gay’, Drag Queen bans and more. Weather in 2023 added another level of difficulty. For 2024, the city of Wilton Manors announced this significant partnership. Mayor Scott Newton said “Stonewall Pride is now and forever and this effort helps continue that legacy.” This latest action shows a strong commitment of the city in supporting the LGBTQ+ community. This comes at a time when many other cities have stepped back as State anti-LGBTQ+ efforts have become more commonplace. Wilton Manors has stood up against those attacks. As a nonprofit, Organizers, led by Stonewall CEO Jeff Sterling, are optimistic about this year’s festivities. Sterling told Queer News Tonight “This is an historic year for Stonewall Pride. 2024 is proof that our LGBTQ+ community needs allies including business, political, nonprofit, really everyone to stand up and show their support. That is exactly what is happening. That is the story for 2024.” Mark your calendar to come to Wilton Manors and celebrate all the beautiful ‘Stories Of Stonewall Pride’ on June 15.
