Tennessee’s largest Pride celebration is facing an uncertain future. Nashville Pride announced Wednesday that it must raise $250,000 by October 11, which is National Coming Out Day, or risk shutting down. Organizers described the situation as a state of emergency, citing what they call unprecedented anti-LBGTQ+ attacks.
In a statement on its website, the group said: “At a moment of unrelenting attacks on LGBTQ+ Nashville Pride is in a state of emergency. In the face of unprecedented anti-LGBTQ+ attacks, we are fighting to keep our city’s largest celebration of queer joy, visibility, and resistance alive. We don’t need corporations to define Pride — but their funding makes the festival possible. The sudden withdrawal of longtime sponsors has left a massive hole in our budget, putting the future of Pride in jeopardy.
According to Nashville Pride, corporate sponsorships dropped by $270,000, nearly 40 percent, compared to last year. Some pulled out as little as 30 days before the festival. Medical support was also canceled last minute, leaving an unexpected $30,000 bill. On top of that, organizers say security costs have more than doubled amid rising threats.
Founded in 1988, Nashville Pride drew more than 150,000 people last year. But this year, severe weather cut attendance by over 15,000. Organizers warn that without urgent donations, they could lose far more than a festival: “If we don’t meet this goal, we risk losing not just a weekend of celebration — but a safe space for tens of thousands of LGBTQ+ people and allies all year long. The future of Nashville Pride is at stake.” Donations can be made at actblue.com/donate/SaveNashvillePride.
