District of Columbia
Faith and interfaith-based events for WorldPride
Whatever you hold sacred this Pride is a faith-based event
As WorldPride begins, the Washington LGBTQ+ community is eager to welcome our queer neighbors from around the country and around the world. From the ASL Open Mic to the Art Tour of Queer Icons and Trailblazers, WorldPride is hosting a diverse selection of events catered to the varied interests, identities, and actions of the wider LGBTQ+ community.
Faith communities from across the Washington, D.C. area have planned individual and interfaith events for LGBTQ+ visitors. Faith communities acknowledge that religion is not a vital part of all LGBTQ+ peoples’ lives. Around the world, queer people have been hurt by religious institutions (through conversion therapy, colonial violence, and other forces of harm). At the same time, for many LGBTQ+ individuals, faith is an important way in which they navigate the world, make meaning, and connect with others who have shared experiences.
A clear statement of faith and spirituality was launched this week at WorldPride. The Lavender Interfaith Collective’s call to action for WorldPride was published yesterday in the Blade.
This call was released to counteract the virulent increase in anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and violence. The message of the interfaith call to action calls everyone to the essential work of sustaining queer joy as celebration, resistance and liberation. The call to action opens with the clear affirmation that “across faiths, identities, and nations, we are united by one unshakable truth: every person is worthy, every voice sacred, every body divine. Our unity is not rooted in a single tradition but in a collective belief in the sacred worth of every person.”
Hosting both faith and interfaith events this year highlights the region’s commitment to queer-affirming, multi-faith community, such as the Pride Interfaith Service, whereas others, such as the Interfaith Community Tour at the Rainbow History Project’s Pickets, Protests, and Parades: The History of Gay Pride in Washington exhibition, are tailored to this particularly historical moment and looking back on the rich history of D.C.’s LGBTQ+ community.
In order to raise awareness for what is scheduled, here is a list of the broad strokes of faith-based events that are scheduled for WorldPride this year. This list is not comprehensive because faith is multi-faceted and applies to any experience that a person views as sacred, which can include everything from protesting to prayer to cheering on your favorite drag king. So in many ways, whatever you hold sacred this Pride is a faith-based event.
May 16-January 4: LGBT Jews in the Federal City
Lillian and Albert Small Capital Jewish Museum, 575 3rd Street Northwest, Washington, DC 20001
Lillian and Albert Small Capital Jewish Museum’s “LGBT Jews in the Federal City” explores a turbulent century of celebration, activism, and change in the nation’s capital. This landmark exhibition is the first of its kind to explore DC history, Jewish history, and queer history together, drawing from the Museum’s robust LGBTQ+ archive. Immerse yourself in historical and contemporary photography, artifacts, and oral histories. Learn about legal milestones, far-ranging protests, vibrant cultural life, and change in religious spaces.
The exhibition will open in time for Washington, D.C.’s observation of its 50th Capital Pride celebration and as the city hosts WorldPride for the first time, offering an unprecedented opportunity to infuse Pride with local Jewish history.
June 1, 1:30-3:30 pm: Pride in Religious Pluralism Seminar
Metropolitan Community Church Washington, DC
Coordinated by The LGBTQ Task Force
This panel brings together historians, organizers, and leaders dedicated to working at the intersection of interfaith cooperation and 2SLGBTQIA+ representation and advocacy. Come and learn about the ways that we protect and uplift the work of our movements while reimagining the ways in which our communities work together for a collective vision of peace.
The event is co-hosted by the National LGBTQ Task Force, CapitalPride Alliance, and the Lavender Interfaith Collective (LInC).
Please register at this link.
June 1, 4-5:45 pm: Sunday Choral Evensong with Acolyte Valediction
Washington National Cathedral, 3101 Wisconsin Avenue, Washington, DC 20016
Brought to you by Washington National Cathedral
This centuries-old service blends prayers and Psalms with congregational hymns, showcasing the best of Anglican tradition. This service of sung prayer closes the day in praise to God, led by the Cathedral Choir. This service includes the Cathedral’s premiere of Our Wildest Imagining, a choral anthem commissioned in honor of the Right Rev. V. Gene Robinson, the first openly gay bishop in the worldwide Anglican Communion.
The cathedral is pleased to be among a group of churches and performing arts organizations from around the country who commissioned the piece by Philadelphia composer Dominick DiOrio. The anthem text features words from sermons, stories, and sayings by Bishop Robinson, as well as selections from Psalm 27, which was personally meaningful to Bishop Robinson during some of his darkest times. Join them in-person, or watch the livestream on our Evensong page or on the Cathedral’s YouTube channel.
Please register at this link.
June 1, 6-9 pm: DMV World Pride Mass Choir
Covenant Baptist United Church of Christ, 3845 South Capitol Street Southwest, Washington, DC 20032
Brought to you by Covenant Baptist United Church of Christ
An evening of celebration, faith and worship in the Black church tradition, featuring the most gifted Gospel artists in the region. are assembling choirs and congregations from Open and Affirming (ally) churches across the DMV to join this regional mass choir! Rehearsals are May 27 and 30th. The concert will be Sunday June 1 at 6pm at Covenant Baptist UCC.
June 2, 5-6 pm: Interfaith Community History Tour
Freedom Plaza, Washington, DC
Coordinated by Center Faith
This special tour will explore LGBTQ+ faith and interfaith history in the Washington, DC area. Although there has been considerable scholarship focused on LGBTQ community and advocacy in D.C., there is a deficit of scholarship focused on LGBTQ religion in the area. Religion plays an important role in LGBTQ advocacy movements, through queer-affirming ministers and communities, along with queer-phobic churches in the city.
Part of this tour will draw on the three-part series that I published in the Blade that references the online exhibition LGBTQ+ Religion in the Capital that I published with the Rainbow History Project. Eric Eldritch and I will lead this tour and discuss the beginnings of the new Center Faith History Project focused on collecting these histories. Please register at this link.
June 3, 7 pm: World Pride DC Interfaith Service
All Souls Church Unitarian Washington, DC
Brought to you by Center Faith, a program of the DC LGBTQ+ Community Center
The Capital Pride Interfaith Service is an integrated service respectfully demonstrating the breadth, depth, and sincerity of our faith, countering any misconception that anti-gay fundamentalists have a monopoly on faith and religion. We take pride that our community expresses its religious faiths in a myriad of ways, each sacred and revered with years of tradition.
Join us for the 42nd anniversary of our local LGBTQ+ community celebration of religious pluralism and interfaith collaboration. You can read more about past Pride Interfaith Services based on my reflections of the 2023 and 2024 services in the Blade.
Please register at this link.
June 6, 9 am-4 pm: Trans Visibility, Empowerment, Aid and Wellness Day
National City Christian Church Washington, DC
Coordinated by National Trans Visibility March and the United Church of Christ
A day dedicated to mental, spiritual, financial, and emotional empowerment through gatherings, and workshops. For people of faith, they may specifically be interested in the Empowerment Service, scheduled from 1:40-2:40 pm at the United Church of Christ, Washington, DC. This is a session dedicated to spiritual and emotional well-being.
Find a breakdown of the events at this link.
June 6, 6-9 pm: World Pride Shabbat Service and Dinner
Adas Israel Congregation Washington, DC
Brought to you by Bet Mishpachah
Join Bet Mishpachah, DC’s LGBTQ+ Synagogue, the World Congress of LGBT Jews, Washington Hebrew Congregation, GLOE, Sixth and I, The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington, The Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Washington, NJB+, and Temple Sinai for World Pride Shabbat hosted at Adas Israel Congregation. Join us for a joyous celebration of love, unity, and community. Come together for drinks, snacks, and a warm atmosphere to honor our LGBTQ+ Jewish community.
Following the happy hour, we will gather for a Pride Shabbat service led by Rabbi Jake Singer-Beilin and featuring clergy from around the Washington community. Let’s raise a glass to inclusivity and acceptance! Immediately following the service will be a Shabbat dinner. Space is limited, so register as soon as possible.
Please register at this link.
June 6, 7:30 pm: Lavender Light Gospel Chorus (NYC) + three more choruses
National City Christian Church Washington, DC
Please join a celebration featuring the Lavender Light Gospel Choir (New York, NY), Rock Creek Singers (Washington, DC), Seasons of Love (Washington, DC), and Twin Cities Gay Men’s Chorus.
June 7, 9:30-12:30 am: Eid al-Adha for All: An Inclusive Celebration for Queer Muslims & Allies
Foundry United Methodist Church Washington, DC
Coordinated by QTAPI Pride Coalition/ AQUA DC
Location: Foundry UMC1500 16th Street Northwest, Wash. DC 20036
Join Hidayah US and DC Queer Muslims, in partnership with AQUA DC and API Pride, for an inclusive Eid al-Adha prayer service in celebration of World Pride 2025. Taking place on Saturday, June 7 at Foundry United Methodist Church, this gathering will include a khutbah (sermon), congregational Eid salah (prayer), and a reception with light refreshments and community tabling. This event aims to create a safe space for queer Muslims to celebrate this important holiday together.
The prayer will follow an open arrangement where attendees may stand wherever they feel most comfortable, regardless of gender or sexual identity. This event is free and open to LGBTQ+ Muslims and allies, ages 18 and older (or younger if accompanied by a guardian).
All attendees must agree to the event’s safeguarding policies, which include a commitment to respect the Muslim and LGBTQ+ communities and a prohibition on audio or video recording during the event. Let’s come together to honor traditions, build connections, and share in the spirit of love and acceptance. We look forward to seeing you there! Then join us to march in the Parade afterwards!
Please register at this link.
June 8, 2-3:30 pm: Join QTAPI for King Kamehameha Lei Draping Ceremony
US Capitol Building, Statuary Hall, 1st Street Southwest, Washington, DC 20515
Join QTAPI Coalition, the first and only explicitly queer delegation, to present leis at the King Kamehameha Lei Draping Ceremony at the U.S. Capitol; an annual event held to honor King Kamehameha I, the first monarch and unifier of the Hawaiian Kingdom. This traditional ceremony typically takes place in June to coincide with King Kamehameha Day celebrations in Hawaii. The ceremony is centered around the statue of King Kamehameha I, which is part of the National Statuary Hall Collection in the U.S. Capitol and the only monarch in the collection.
After cultural performances and keynotes from dignitaries and the Hawaii congressional delegation, the statue is adorned with beautiful and long lei, symbolizing respect and admiration for the great king. All are welcome to join in on celebrating and highlighting native Hawaiian, and Polynesian culture, history, and ritual! This ceremony is attended by Hawaii officials, including members of Hawaii’s Congressional delegation, Office of Hawaiian Affairs trustees, and state and county officials, in addition to other US territory delegates and DC officials.
Registration required to enter Statuary Hall, dress code: Hawaiian business casual. Indicate “AQUA – API Pride” for “Organization or Group.”
Please register at this link (by June 1st).
District of Columbia
Drive with Pride in D.C.
A new Pride-themed license plate is now available in the District, with proceeds directly benefiting local LGBTQ organizations.
Just in time for Pride month, the D.C. Department of Motor Vehicles has partnered with the Mayor’s Office of LGBTQ Affairs to create a special “Pride Lives Here” license plate.
The plate, which was initially unveiled in February, has a one-time $25 application fee and a $20 annual display fee. Both fees will go directly to the Office of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning Affairs Fund.
The MOLGBTQA Fund provides $1,000,000 annually to 25,000 residents through its grant program, funding a slew of LGBTQ organizations in the DMV area — including Capital Pride Alliance, Whitman-Walker, the D.C. Center for the LGBTQ Community, and the Washington Blade Foundation.
The license plate features an inclusive rainbow flag wrapping around the license numbers, with silver stars in the background — a tribute to both D.C.’s robust queer community and the resilience the LGBTQ community has shown.
The “Pride Lives Here” plate is one of only 13 specialty plates offered in the District, and the only one whose fees go directly to the LGBTQ community.
To apply for a Pride plate, visit the DC DMV’s website at https://dmv.dc.gov/
District of Columbia
Drag queens protest Trump at the Kennedy Center
President attended ‘Les Misérables’ opening night on Wednesday
On Wednesday night, four local drag performers attended the first night of the Kennedy Center’s season in full drag — while President Donald Trump, an outspoken critic of drag, sat mere feet away.
Three queens — Tara Hoot, Vagenesis, and Mari Con Carne — joined drag king Ricky Rosé to represent Qommittee, a volunteer network uniting drag artists to support and defend each other amid growing conservative attacks. They all sat down with the Washington Blade to discuss the event.
The drag performers were there to see the opening performance of “Les Misérables” since Trump’s takeover of the historically non-partisan Kennedy Center. The story shows the power of love, compassion, and redemption in the face of social injustice, poverty, and oppression, set in late 19th century France.
Dressed in full drag, the group walked into the theater together, fully aware they could be punished for doing so.
“It was a little scary walking in because we don’t know what we’re going to walk into, but it was really helpful to be able to walk in with friends,” said drag queen Vagenesis. “The strongest response we received was from the staff who worked there. They were so excited and grateful to see us there. Over and over and over again, we heard ‘Thank you so much for being here,’ ‘Thank you for coming,’ from the Kennedy Center staff.”
The staff weren’t the only ones who seemed happy at the act of defiance.
“We walked in together so we would have an opportunity to get a response,” said Tara Hoot, who has performed at the Kennedy Center in full drag before. “It was all applause, cheers, and whistles, and remarkably it was half empty. I think that was season ticket holders kind of making their message in a different way.”
Despite the love from the audience and staff, Mari Con Carne said she couldn’t help feeling unsettled when Trump walked in.
“I felt two things — disgust and frustration,” Carne said. “Obviously, I don’t align with anything the man has to say or has to do. And the frustration came because I wanted to do more than just sit there. I wanted to walk up to him and speak my truth — and speak for the voices that were being hurt by his actions right now.”
They weren’t the only ones who felt this way according to Vagenesis:
“Somebody shouted ‘Fuck Trump’ from the rafters. I’d like to think that our being there encouraged people to want to express themselves.”
The group showing up in drag and expressing themselves was, they all agreed, an act of defiance.
“Drag has always been a protest, and it always will be a sort of resistance,” Carne said, after pointing out her intersectional identity as “queer, brown, Mexican immigrant” makes her existence that much more powerful as a statement. “My identity, my art, my existence — to be a protest.”
Hoot, who is known for her drag story times, explained that protesting can look different than the traditional holding up signs and marching for some.
“Sometimes protesting is just us taking up space as drag artists,” Hoot added. “I felt like being true to who you are — it was an opportunity to live the message.”
And that message, Ricky Rosé pointed out, was ingrained with the institution of the Kennedy Center and art itself — it couldn’t be taken away, regardless of executive orders and drag bans
“The Kennedy Center was founded more than 50 years ago as a place meant to celebrate the arts in its truest, extraordinary form,” said Ricky Rosé. “President Kennedy himself even argued that culture has a great practical value in an age of conflict. He was quoted saying, ‘the encouragement of art is political in the most profound sense, not as a weapon in the struggle, but as an instrument of understanding the futility of struggle’ and I believe that is the basis of what the Kennedy Center was founded on, and should continue. And drag fits perfectly within it.”
All four drag performers told the Washington Blade — independently of one another — that they don’t think Trump truly understood the musical he was watching.
“I don’t think the president understands any kind of plot that’s laid out in front of him,” Vagenesis said. “I’m interested to see what he thinks about “Les Mis,” a play about revolution against an oppressive regime. I get the feeling that he identifies with the the rebellion side of it, instead of the oppressor. I just feel like he doesn’t get it. I feel it goes right over his head.”
“Les Misérables” is running at the Kennedy Center until July 13.
District of Columbia
Man arrested for destroying D.C. Pride decorations, spray painting hate message
Prosecutors initially did not list offense as hate crime before adding ‘bias’ designation
D.C. police this week announced they have arrested a Maryland man on charges of Destruction of Property and Defacing Private Property for allegedly pulling down and ripping apart rainbow colored cloth Pride ornaments on light poles next to Dupont Circle Park on June 2.
In a June 10 statement police said the suspect, identified as Michel Isaiah Webb, Jr., 30, also allegedly spray painted an anti-LGBTQ message on the window of a private residence in the city’s Southwest waterfront neighborhood two days later on June 4.
An affidavit in support of the arrest filed by police in D.C. Superior Court on June 9 says Web was captured on a video surveillance camera spray painting the message “Fuck the LGBT+ ABC!” and “God is Real.” The affidavit does not say what Webb intended the letters “ABC” to stand for.
“Detectives located video and photos in both offenses and worked to identify the suspect,” the police statement says. “On Sunday, June 8, 2025, First District officers familiar with these offenses observed the suspect in Navy Yard and made an arrest without incident.”
The statement continues: “As a result of the detectives investigation, 30-year-old Michael Isaiah Webb, Jr. of Landover, Md. was charged with Destruction of Property and Defacing Private Property.”
It concludes by saying, “The Metropolitan Police Department is investigating this case as potentially being motivated by hate or bias. The designation can be changed at any point as the investigation proceeds, and more information is gathered. A designation as a hate crime by MPD does not mean that prosecutors will prosecute it as a hate crime.”
The online D.C. Superior Court docket for the case shows that prosecutors with the Office of the United States Attorney for D.C. charged Webb with just one offense – Defacing Public or Private Property.
The charging document first filed by prosecutors on June 9, which says the offense was committed on June 4, declares that Webb “willfully and wantonly wrote, marked, drew, and painted a word, sign, or figure upon property, that is window(s), without the consent of Austin Mellor, the owner and the person lawfully in charge thereof.”
But the initial charging document did not designate the offense as a hate crime or bias motivated crime as suggested by D.C. police as a possible hate crime.
A spokesperson for the U.S. Attorney’s office on Tuesday didn’t immediately respond to a request from the Washington Blade for an explanation of why the office did not designate the offense as a hate crime and why it did not charge Webb in court with the second charge filed by D.C. police of destruction of Property for allegedly destroying the Pride decorations at Dupont Circle.
However, at 12:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 11, the spokesperson sent the Washington Blade a copy of an “amended” criminal charge against Webb by the U..S. Attorney’s office that designates the offense as a hate crime. Court records show the amended charge was filed in court at 10:18 a.m. on June 11.
The revised charge now states that the criminal act “demonstrated the prejudice of Michael Webb based on sexual orientation (bias-related crime): Defacing Public or Private Property” in violation of the D.C. criminal code.
The U.S. Attorney’s office as of late Wednesday had not provided an explanation of why it decided not to prosecute Webb for the Destruction of Property charge filed by D.C. police for the destruction of Pride decorations at Dupont Circle.
The online public court records show that at a June 9 court arraignment Webb pleaded not guilty and Superior Court Judge Robert J. Hildum released him while awaiting trial while issuing a stay-away order. The public court records do not include a copy of the stay-away order. The judge also ordered Webb to return to court for a June 24 status hearing, the records show.
The arrest affidavit filed by D.C. police says at the time of his arrest, Webb waived his right to remain silent. It says he claimed he knew nothing at all about the offenses he was charged with.
“However, Defendant 1 stated something to the effect of, ‘It’s not a violent crime’ several times during the interview” with detectives, according to the affidavit.
The charge filed against him by prosecutors of Defacing Public or Private Property is a misdemeanor that carries a possible maximum penalty of 180 days in jail and a fine up to $1,000.
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