June 29, 2025 New York City is gearing up for one of the world's largest LGBTQIA+ demonstrations this Sunday, as over a million spectators, community members, and allies are expected to converge for the annual NYC Pride March. This year's theme, "Rise Up: Pride in Protest," powerfully echoes the movement's defiant origins and calls for continued activism in the face of ongoing challenges.

A Legacy of Protest and Progress

Organized by Heritage of Pride, the NYC Pride March stands as a global symbol of resilience, unity, and the enduring fight for LGBTQIA+ rights. Its roots trace back to the pivotal 1969 Stonewall Riots, a spontaneous uprising at the Stonewall Inn following a police raid. This act of defiance, partly led by transgender women of color, ignited a global movement for liberation and equality.

The very first Pride March in New York City, then known as the "Christopher Street Gay Liberation Day" march, took out on June 28, 1970, commemorating the one-year anniversary of Stonewall. For more than half a century, these annual demonstrations have served as crucial platforms to demand action on critical issues, from the AIDS epidemic to the fight for same-sex marriage, while also providing a vibrant public celebration of identity and community.

"Rise Up: Pride in Protest" - A Call to Action

"This year, more than ever, we acknowledge that Pride can be celebrated in many ways, but at the heart of our mission, we recognize that we must also remain steadfast in protest," stated Kazz Alexander, NYC Pride Co-Chair. The 2025 theme is a direct response to the current political climate, emphasizing the need for solidarity and collective action. "The challenges we face today...require us to stand together in solidarity. We must support one another, because when the most marginalized among us are granted their rights, all of us benefit. Pride is not merely a celebration of identity—it is a powerful statement of resistance, affirming that justice and equity will ultimately prevail for those who live and love on the margins."

Grand Marshals Leading the Way

This year's march will be led by an inspiring group of Grand Marshals, recognized for their unwavering resilience, activism, and diverse contributions to uplifting the queer community and advancing LGBTQIA+ progress. The distinguished list includes:

• Karine Jean-Pierre
• Marti Gould Cummings
• DJ Lina
• Elisa Crespo
• Trans formative Schools

According to NYC Pride, these individuals and organizations were selected for their profound impact in New York City and beyond. Alexander emphasized, "Our marshals this year remind us that we are stronger when we are united in our fight for equality and liberation. They reflect the understanding that LGBTQIA+ rights are human rights."

Enhanced Security and Street Closures

As with any major event in New York City, security will be a top priority. The NYPD has significantly increased its presence, deploying 10,000 metal barriers, along with sanitation trucks, police cars, and uniformed officers along the march route. While there are no credible threats, Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch confirmed that some procedures will be amplified due to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.

"New York City will always be a place where every person can freely and openly be who they are, everywhere, all the time," Tisch affirmed, highlighting the city's commitment to inclusivity and safety.

Spectators should anticipate limited pedestrian crossings and extensive street closures to accommodate the march.

March Route and Street Closures:

The march is set to kick off at 26th Street and Fifth Avenue at noon, proceeding through Lower Manhattan, and ultimately dispersing at 15th Street and 7th Avenue.

Please note the following streets will be closed at the discretion of the NYPD:

Formation Area:

• 5th Avenue between 33rd Street and 25th Street
• West/East 33rd Street between 6th Avenue and Madison Avenue
• West/East 32nd Street between 6th Avenue and Madison Avenue
• West/East 31st Street between 6th Avenue and Madison Avenue
• West/East 30th Street between 6th Avenue and Madison Avenue
• West/East 29th Street between 6th Avenue and Madison Avenue
• West/East 28th Street between 6th Avenue and Madison Avenue
• West/East 27th Street between 6th Avenue and Madison Avenue
• West/East 26th Street between 6th Avenue and Madison Avenue
• West 25th Street between 6th Avenue and 5th Avenue

March Route:

• 5th Avenue between 25th Street and 8th Street
• West 8th Street between 5th Avenue and 6th Avenue
• Greenwich Avenue between 6th Avenue and Christopher Street
• Christopher Street between Greenwich Avenue and 7th Avenue South
• 7th Avenue between Christopher Street and 16th Street

Dispersal Area:

• 7th Avenue between 15th Street and 19th Street
• 16th Street between 8th Avenue and 6th Avenue
• 17th Street between 9th Avenue and 6th Avenue
• 18th Street between 8th Avenue and 6th Avenue
• 19th Street between 9th Avenue and 6th Avenue

Miscellaneous Closures:

• Christopher Street between West Street and 7th Avenue South
• Greenwich Avenue between 6th Avenue and 8th Avenue

Whether you're marching, cheering from the sidelines, or following the events from afar, the 2025 NYC Pride March promises to be a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of the LGBTQIA+ community and its allies.