FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
34th Annual Parade and Multicultural Festival to Take Place June 7, 2026 in Jackson Heights
Queens, NY (February 26, 2026) — The New York LGBT Network today announced that FDNY Commissioner Lillian Bonsignore will serve as one of the Grand Marshals of the 34th Annual Queens Pride Parade and Multicultural Festival, taking place Sunday, June 7, 2026, in Jackson Heights, the historic birthplace of Queens Pride.
Commissioner Bonsignore’s selection recognizes her distinguished career in public service and her leadership protecting the people of New York City. Her participation reflects Queens Pride’s longstanding tradition of honoring leaders whose work embodies courage, service, and commitment to community.
The announcement also marks the unveiling of this year’s theme, “Unstoppable Pride,” reflecting the continued strength, visibility, and resilience of LGBTQ+ communities.
Last year, more than 150,000 people participated in Pride celebrations across Queens and Long Island under the theme Defiant Joy. This year’s theme builds on that momentum and speaks to the collective power of LGBTQ+ communities in the face of ongoing challenges.
“In a time when LGBTQ+ people continue to be targeted in schools, legislatures, and courts, our community remains unstoppable — in our love, our leadership, and our fight for justice,” said David Kilmnick, PhD, MSW, President and Founder of the New York LGBT Network. “Unstoppable Pride reflects a simple truth: we are here, we are present, and we are not going anywhere.”
The theme is accompanied by the message “Here. Now. Always.” underscoring the enduring presence, history, and contributions of LGBTQ+ people across generations.
Queens Pride is widely recognized as one of the most culturally diverse Pride celebrations in the nation, drawing tens of thousands of attendees annually for a full day of marching, performances, community organizations, local businesses, and cultural programming that reflects the global diversity of Queens.
Registration is now open for marchers, community groups, vendors, and festival participants at newqueenspride.org. Additional announcements, including entertainment and program details, will be released in the coming weeks.
“Pride is both a celebration and a declaration,” Kilmnick added. “Unstoppable Pride affirms that together, we will continue building a future rooted in dignity, safety, and belonging for all.”
