Dear Pride Bands Alliance Family:
As we move forward from this election, we know it’s a time of mixed emotions and reflection for many in our community. In moments like these, we find strength and reassurance in our shared commitment to creating a vibrant, inclusive space where LGBTQ+ voices and music thrive. This band community is more than a home; it’s a powerful platform for pride, resilience, and unity.
Pride Bands Alliance remains dedicated to promoting LGBTQ+ visibility, celebrating diversity, and fostering connections that uplift us all. Through music, we stand as a beacon of hope, resilience, and pride, using every note to foster acceptance, unity, and equality. Our journey forward will see us bringing communities together, one performance at a time, and creating spaces where everyone can feel seen, valued, and celebrated.
The Pride Bands Alliance cited concerns for the safety and security of its members as the primary reason for withdrawing their application. Recent political rhetoric and actions, specifically the president-elect’s recent “they/them” versus “you” campaign ad with its divisive language targeting transgender and nonbinary individuals, have created an environment where many members of the LGBTQ+ community feel unsafe and vulnerable. This is particularly concerning given the president-elect’s history of executive orders and administrative actions that have negatively impacted the LGBTQ+ community.
“The safety and well-being of our members is our top priority,” said David Doan, President of the Pride Bands Alliance. “We cannot in good conscience expose our members to potential harm or discrimination. The current political climate has created an atmosphere of hostility towards the LGBTQ+ community, and we will not put our members at risk.”
Commitment to Music and Visibility Remains Strong
Despite withdrawing from the parade, the Pride Bands Alliance remains committed to its mission of fostering musical excellence and promoting visibility and acceptance for LGBTQ+ musicians. The organization plans to continue seeking opportunities to share its music and message of pride with audiences across the nation.
“Our decision to withdraw from the parade is not a retreat,” said Doan. “It is a reaffirmation of our commitment to our values and our community. We will continue to use our music to promote inclusivity, equality, and acceptance for all.”
The Pride Bands Alliance remains optimistic that future political climates will allow for their participation in future presidential inaugural parades.
About Pride Bands Alliance:
The Pride Bands Alliance is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and promoting LGBTQ+ musical ensembles. Through performance opportunities, educational initiatives, and community outreach, the Alliance strives to create a world where all musicians, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, can express themselves freely through music.
Contact:
David Doan, President
