Queens Pride organizers cancel in-person celebrations

A Queens Pride parade participant brightened the route in Jackson Heights last year. Eagle file photo by Walter Karling

By Rachel Vick

The organizers of Queens Pride, New York City’s second-largest LGBTQ rights celebration, announced Monday that they would cancel all in-person events this June due to the coronavirus.

The celebration has flowed through the streets of Jackson Heights every year since 1993, organized following the brutal murder of Julia Rivera, a gay man killed by homophobic attackers.

“Queens Pride provides LGBTQ folx an opportunity to gather in community; to be seen, appreciated, and respected,” said event Co-Chair Zachariah Boyer. “This is the World’s Borough and every single time we march through Jackson Heights, we remind the world that no matter what you throw at us, we’re not going anywhere.”

“We must do all we can to keep members of our communities safe and healthy right now,” Boyer added. “Queens Pride will be there- ready to celebrate with you- once this has passed.”

The Queens Pride Board will now focus on organizing a virtual celebration for June 7. They will also announce ways for Queens residents to participate in the virtual Global Prode event slated for June 27.

“This year, we will continue to be visible and celebrate who we are, but will do so in a safe and responsible manner,” said Councilmember Daniel Dromm. “This will take some creativity and will look very different from past pride months, but I know we can do it.”