WILTON MANORS, Fla. — Setup is underway for a party as diverse as the colors on the flags.
The Wilton Manors Stonewall Pride — the biggest party in South Florida celebrating love, diversity, equality and inclusion — is happening this weekend, despite fears it may not even happen.
“It has been daunting,” said Stonewall Pride Producer Jameer Baptiste.
Legislation passed by the state of Florida earlier this year bars local governments from spending on diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives or events like Pride. Soon after, many sponsors pulled out.
“There have been people that have backed out — businesses, companies,” Baptiste said. “You’ve been a sponsor with us over five years, over a decade, and now you’re pulling out — is it truly because your budget has shrunk or is it because of what’s going on politically?”
The city of Wilton Manors, where most of its elected officials are LGBT+, stepped in to provide safety.
in 2025, a man was detained after police say he tried entering the parade with a weapon, which is not allowed. It was the first time metal detectors were used — and they went off, helping police make the arrest. Organizers say they’re spending more on security this year than ever before.
Still, the spirit of the event is very much alive.
“It’s really reinvigorating our community to come together and show our strength and resilience,” Baptiste said. “So while you’re out having fun out there, remember that hard work, sweat and tears went into making this possible — that your light isn’t dimmed.”
The Saturday event features a glow night parade, entertainment and food.
“Everybody come out — make sure if you’re an ally, support, come out,” Baptiste said. “It’s all about that resilience and the definition of unity, community and belonging.”
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