NYC June 30, 2025

I spent this past weekend in Manhattan. I was there to run a few races to earn credit for my entry into the 2026 TCS NYC Marathon and visit a good friend. This weekend also happened to coincide with the NYC Pride Parade, an annual demonstration (celebration) honoring the Stonewall Riots of 1969. I decided to go for the first time, and to be a part of the countless others celebrating queer identities. I wanted my voice to be heard, as an ally, as a teacher to queer students, as a family member, and as an empathetic human being. The theme of the parade this year was “Rise Up: Pride in Protest” and what better way to protest the current administration’s war on differences, their disgusting racist, homophobic, misogynistic policies which are destroying my beloved country and homeland. 

I didn’t know what to expect and I was not suitably prepared (note to self: bring water, snacks, sunscreen, a phone charger, and more glitter) but I fell even more in love with the queer community as I watched the energy, the creativity, the love, and the honesty pour from every participant and spectator. There were millions of us lining the street, cheering, sharing, and supporting. Karine Jean-Pierre was the Grand Marshal, and Zohran Mamdani made an appearance, walking alongside Letisha James. The crowds roared as they walked by, huge smiles and waving the trans pride flag. I danced, I cheered, I laughed, I learned. I even ran into a former student, all from my spot between East 20th and 21st streets. NY did not disappoint, although, for me, the city has always enveloped me in its arms each November as I make my way from Staten Island to Central Park. 

There were only a few counter protestors, calling participants sinners and spewing hate in Jesus’ name. They did not overshadow the joy, and some scantily clad folk made it a point to hang out in their general vicinity, taking advantage of the shady side street. They do not speak for the Jesus I grew up with and their pleas to pray for our souls fell on deaf ears. This parade showcased my God’s gifts of creativity.

I did not last through the entire parade however, leaving a mere three hours after the start, an exhausted overheated but happy ally. Until next year!