News Summary
Huntington Beach is gearing up for its second unofficial Pride celebration on May 19, coinciding with Harvey Milk Day. Organized by Pride at the Pier, the event will feature live performances, resources, and a vibrant atmosphere for the LGBTQ community and allies. Following a protest against the city council’s decision to ban the LGBTQ Pride flag, the event aims to emphasize visibility and support for LGBTQ identities. The gathering is expected to be larger than last year, encouraging community involvement and celebration of love and diversity.
Huntington Beach Gears Up for Second Unofficial Pride Celebration on May 19
Get ready, Huntington Beach! The city is set to host its second unofficial Pride celebration on May 19, coinciding with the vibrant Harvey Milk Day and marking the one-year anniversary of last year’s significant protest. This initiative is spearheaded by the nonprofit organization Pride at the Pier, which aims to bring together the local LGBTQ community and their allies in a spirit of joy and support.
Remembering the Protest
Last year, over 100 passionate individuals took to the streets in protest after the Huntington Beach City Council made the controversial decision to ban the LGBTQ Pride flag from city property. This move ignited a sense of urgency for many in the community, emphasizing the need for visibility, acceptance, and celebration of LGBTQ identities.
Here’s What’s Planned
Pride at the Pier is pulling out all the stops this year! Planned activities include live performances by queer artists who will be busking along the pier, and various organizations will be running tables to provide resources, information, and support to attendees. This celebration is expected to be significantly larger and more organized than the previous year, as the group works diligently to secure all necessary permits and collaborate with local officials.
The Growth of Pride at the Pier
This nonprofit organization has evolved impressively from an informal group of concerned citizens to a full-fledged nonprofit, now boasting a dedicated volunteer staff of nine. They are committed to holding regular events that uplift and support the LGBTQ community within Huntington Beach and the wider Orange County area. The success of last year’s protest and events has motivated them to expand their efforts and strengthen their response to the ongoing political climate.
The Current Climate
The current Huntington Beach City Council leans more conservative and has reversed previous policies that allowed the Pride flag to fly on city property. Additionally, city libraries have restricted access to books with sexual content for children, intensifying the call for action and representation in the face of such decisions. A recent announcement about Measure A, a ballot measure that would require voters to show identification in municipal elections, is also anticipated to pass this month.
Community Involvement
During last year’s Pride event, many individuals were surprised by the presence of the LGBTQ community in Huntington Beach, expressing a desire to get involved. Such interest only intensifies as local residents seek ways to actively participate in fostering inclusivity and support.
The Importance of Visibility
Kanan Durham, executive director of Pride at the Pier, has consistently highlighted the significance of visibility for the LGBTQ community. The upcoming event is more than just a celebration; it represents a commitment to joyous resistance and the ongoing struggles faced by LGBTQ individuals in Huntington Beach. The timing of the event is also strategically planned, allowing attendees from the Long Beach Pride parade to join the festivities later in the afternoon.
Join the Celebration!
If you’re looking to be part of this monumental occasion, don’t forget to check for updates on Pride at the Pier’s social media accounts. Follow their Instagram page to stay informed about all developments and encourage your friends and family to join in on the celebration. This is an event that promises to be both memorable and impactful, celebrating love, diversity, and resilience within the community.
Mark your calendars for May 19 and prepare for an afternoon full of entertainment, community spirit, and heartfelt celebration at the Huntington Beach Pier. Together, let’s embrace and honor the vibrant LGBTQ community!
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Additional Resources
- LAist: Huntington Beach Pride to Return
- Google Search: Huntington Beach Pride 2025
- Los Angeles Magazine: West Covina Rainbowfest
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Pride Events
- Los Angeles Times: Huntington Beach and Controversy
- Google Scholar: Huntington Beach Pride
- NBC News: Huntington Beach Flags Controversy
- Google News: Huntington Beach
- Orange County Register: US Open of Surfing
- Wikipedia: Huntington Beach
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTINGTON BEACH
The Huntington Beach Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntington Beach, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Huntington Beach Surf City USA Marathon, the U.S. Open of Surfing, Fourth of July celebrations at the Huntington Beach Pier, and community festivals at Huntington Beach Central Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntington Beach Chamber of Commerce and Visit Huntington Beach, plus leading businesses in retail, hospitality, and outdoor recreation that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
