The board said the decision to cancel the Pride celebration was made due to the “current political and economic climate.”
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It includes “challenges with corporate sponsorships, reductions in county, state and federal grant funding, and the discontinuation of DEI programs under Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, has made it increasingly difficult for our organization to sustain ongoing operations for 2026,” the post read.
The cancellation includes the Tampa Pride Festival and Diversity Parade, which was held in Ybor City in March — along with other associated events.
“We recognize the festival and parade’s significant financial contribution to local businesses and its vital role to our LGBTQIA+ community,” the post read. “However, this pause is necessary for the organization to regroup, reassess our long-term strategy, and identify additional avenues of funding to secure the future stability of Tampa Pride events.”
The board credited West’s “remarkable dedication and unwavering service” during her 12 years as president.
“The Board, Directors, committee members, and the community are profoundly grateful for your tireless efforts and leadership, which have left a lasting impact on our organization and the many events you have brought to the city and county that had showcased our unique inclusive area across the country,” the post read.
There was no word as far as specific plans to resume the parade in 2027.
Carl Lisciandrello is Assistant News Director at WUSF, the NPR station for the Tampa Bay area.
Ryan Todd
September 22, 2025at8:58 pm
Well said, Richard.
Richard Courson
September 22, 2025at7:29 pm
I’ve had many gay friends over the years and none of them pranced around in drag with rainbow flags exclaiming their sexual preference. Why does it seem necessary to shove their lifestyle in our faces and schools and libraries, etc.? Keep those things private like the rest of us. We don’t want to see this stuff. The “normal” gay community has been hijacked by the radical and violent transgenders and they don’t like it. I, for one, and I know there are many, am happy that there will no longer be a public spectacle in front of children. Celebrate whatever you want, just have your own private event, don’t force it on the rest of us, and I speak for many gays who just want to live their lives without being on stage.
Debra Roman
September 22, 2025at3:31 pm
Sad times we’re living in.