Arts & Entertainment
‘Empire’ cast endorses Hillary Clinton
group explains why Democratic candidate is best choice
(Screenshot via YouTube.)
The “Empire” cast and creator have publicly voiced their support for a presidential candidate in a video endorsing Hillary Clinton.
In the campaign ad titled “What Will I Say?” cast members Grace Byers, Trai Byers, Bryshere Gray, Taraji P. Henson, Gabourey Sidibe, Tasha Smith, Jussie Smollett and co-creator Lee Daniels explain why they are giving their support for the Democratic candidate. Only Terrance Howard, who stars as Lucious Lyon, did not appear.
They urge against voting for Donald Trump’s “violence and nasty rhetoric” and say “there’s only one person in this race who said Black Lives Matter.” The group also applauds Clinton’s stances on Obamacare, gun control and women’s rights.
This isn’t the first time Daniels has supported Clinton. He gave a speech in support of Clinton at the Democratic National Convention this summer.
Watch below.
The Capital Pride Alliance presented the 2026 Capital Pride Honors at “The Audacity Brunch: In Full Fuchsia” at the Four Seasons Hotel Washington, D.C. on Sunday, June 7.
(Washington Blade photos by Landon Shackelford)
Out & About
Congressional Cemetery hosts Gays & Graves
Daylong Pride celebration blends history, remembrance, art and community
Historic Congressional Cemetery will host the second annual “Gays & Graves: A Big Gay Festival” on Sunday, June 14 at 11 a.m.
The event will feature pioneering activist Randy Wicker, the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, and new public art installations and programs celebrating LGBTQ+ history. Gays & Graves is an official partner event of Capital Pride 2026.
This event is a daylong Pride celebration blending history, remembrance, art and community. Visitors can shop from LGBTQ+ and allied artists and makers, experience performances and interactive installations, and engage with programs exploring LGBTQ+ history and lived experience.
For more details, visit the cemetery’s website.
Baltimore Pride is underway, taking place from June 8-14.
The Pride Parade will be on Saturday, June 13 at 12 p.m. at Charles Street & North Avenue, followed by the Pride Block Party at 1 p.m. at Druid Hill Park. And then the Pride Festival will be held on Sunday, June 14 at 12 p.m. at Druid Hill Park.
There will be an array of additional events including: a fashion show, a “Suits and Sneakers” reception and a 5k race, among many other events.
For more details, visit Baltimore Pride’s website.
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