Arts & Entertainment
Scientists say glitter is bad for the environment and should be banned
microplastics are threatening marine life
(Photo via Wikimedia Commons.)
Glitter’s sparkly fun has been killing the environment, according to scientists.
The majority of glitter is comprised of microplastic, tiny plastic pieces estimated at less than 5 millimeters in length. Their small size can find its way into the ocean making it a dangerous food for marine life including whales.
Some microplastic estimates in the ocean range as large as 51 trillion fragments.
“I was quite concerned when somebody bought my daughters some shower gel that had glitter particles in it,” marine biologist Richard Thompson told the Independent. “That stuff is going to escape down the plughole and potentially enter the environment.”
Glitter’s impact reaches beyond a fun party decoration. Items such as lipstick, eyeshadow and other cosmetic products can include the pesky microplastics.
“I think all glitter should be banned,” environmental anthropologist Trisia Farrelly told the Independent. “When people think about glitter they think of party and dress-up glitter. But glitter includes cosmetic glitters as well. The more everyday kind that people don’t think about as much.”
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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