A Night of Celebration and Community: Inside the Capitol Pride Honors Gala

WASHINGTON, DC (7News) — The Capital Pride Alliance recently hosted its much-anticipated Capitol Pride Honors Gala, themed "Freedom to Lead." This powerful evening brought together community leaders, advocates, and allies to recognize those who are paving the way for equality, especially at a time when the LGBTQ+ community continues to face significant challenges.

Ryan Voss, Executive Director of the Capital Pride Alliance, reflected on what the event and the broader WorldPride DC celebrations have meant so far. “The last several months have been really hard for our community,” Voss shared. “Personally, it’s been painful to witness the rising fear and backlash, especially in the form of rollbacks on our freedoms.”

But amidst the uncertainty, the Pride movement has offered a powerful sense of hope. “Being among community at these events—nearly 300 in total—has been incredibly fulfilling. You see joy in people’s faces, and it’s healing to celebrate love and unity together.”

This year’s Gala was held at the National Building Museum, an elegant venue befitting the grandeur of the evening.

Pride weekends in recent history.

The heart of the Capitol Pride Honors Gala remains centered on honoring individuals who have made a real impact on the LGBTQ+ community. “The gala is about recognizing the leaders who are doing the hard work,” said Voss. “It’s great to celebrate WorldPride, but we also know that we have so much more to accomplish—and these honorees are the ones helping to carry the movement forward.”

One particularly meaningful honoree this year is Cathy Renna, who is receiving a Hero Award for her decades-long commitment to LGBTQ+ visibility and advocacy. “Cathy has been an essential voice in our community for many years. I’m personally very proud to be honoring her tonight,” Voss added.

Pride is more than a parade or a single weekend—it’s a year-round commitment. That’s where the Pride365 Fund comes in. This initiative supports a range of essential community organizations, including the DC LGBTQ+ Community Center, SMYAL (Supporting and Mentoring Youth Advocates and Leaders), and the Wanda Alston Foundation.

“By donating to the Pride365 Fund, you’re helping sustain the vital services these organizations provide all year long, especially when resources are tight,” Voss emphasized. “Pride is every day—not just June.” To learn more, get involved, or plan your visit, head to WorldPrideDC.org. Support critical services to the LGBTQ+ community year-round at WorldPrideDC.Org/Give.