Photo by Angelica Vivas
June 19, 2024 By Angelica Vivas
Over 1,000 New Yorkers dressed in colorful attire and holding rainbow flags gathered under the 7-train viaduct on Friday, June 14, to celebrate Pride Month in Sunnyside.
The Sunnyside Shines BID organized the event for the third consecutive year, with Executive Director Dirk McCall de Palomá as the driving force behind the celebration.
McCall de Palomá expressed gratitude to all the contributors to Sunny Pride’s gradual success, which has attracted an increased number of sponsors, including Council Member Julie Won.
Photo by Angelica Vivas
Won emphasized unity and strength before the march down Queens Boulevard, not only as a member of local government but as an ally of the queer community.
“We want to make sure that we are inclusive and that we are continuing to affirm everyone’s identities,” said Won.
Photo by Angelica Vivas
Bursting with energy, Fogo Azul NYC was the drum group that led the march in a roaring fashion, followed by Cheer New York and the rest of the pride attendees.
Photo by Angelica Vivas
Cheer New York is a non-profit organization that advocates and empowers the LGBTQ+ community through charitable donations. This year, they are raising money for Love Wins Food Pantry, a queer organization that addresses food insecurity.
“We’ve participated in pride celebrations all throughout June and all the boroughs,” said Kathy Shen, Cheer New York Member. “We’re really excited just to live and serve for the community.”
Photo by Angelica Vivas
At Bliss Plaza, energy filled the air when drag performances commenced on the main stage, with performers wearing sequined dresses and bodysuits.
Vendors from all over the city filled stands with paintings, bedazzled accessories, homemade jewelry and more to promote their queer brands. The Queer Makers Market also featured local organizations furthering their mission to aid the community.
“You have to be visible and out there living,” McCall de Palomá said. “You need to speak truth to power.”
Photo by Angelica Vivas
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8 Comments
Sunnysiders deserve a better local rag. Why did the new “owners” destroy Sunnyside Post like this?? Keep ’em uninformed and misinformed so they can be controlled??
This makes me very happy that I am now 2500 miles away.
The parade and drag show was a blast and my friends convinced me to try a new local Ramen place, so I think everybody won!
Did crackhead Barney show up ? She’s quite the role model
Haaaaaaa crack head barney loooooooves this events. Role model for sure !
That Julie Won is more worried about pride than crime. I am sure if a Gay person got robbed or murder she would do something about it. NO ONE should be afraid to go outside. WON and the rest of the progressive city council idiots should make sure these criminals don’t get out to commit more crimes. AMAZING What there priorities are!!!!
no, your mother stayed home that day
This parade is an immoral and disgusting event.