• LGBTQ+ community celebrates WorldPride in Washington, highlighting resistance against Trump policies.
• March and rally emphasize the impact of executive orders limiting transgender rights.
• The Lincoln Memorial hosts a political rally, echoing themes of civil rights.

LGBTQ+ people from around the world gathered in Washington for WorldPride, marching through the streets in a vibrant celebration meant to defy President Trump’s rollback of queer rights. The parade route passed within one block of the White House, marking one of the critical events in a series of celebrations spanning weeks. A political rally was scheduled for Sunday at the Lincoln Memorial, a historic site significant to civil rights movements, including Martin Luther King Jr.’s famous “I Have a Dream” speech in 1963, according to SCMP, Reuters, and Channel News Asia.

Attendees expressed joy and defiance against various executive orders from the Trump administration limiting transgender rights and rescinding anti-LGBTQ+ policies. The administration has also been criticized for its stance on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. Nonetheless, White House spokesperson Harrison Fields mentioned that the administration appointed openly gay officials to key positions, indicating an effort to serve all Americans, according to Reuters and SCMP.

The rally at the Lincoln Memorial transformed from the festive atmosphere of the earlier parade into a politically charged event where various speakers lamented setbacks in LGBTQ+ rights. Activists highlighted serious issues at stake for the trans community, notably laws aimed at banning supportive healthcare for minors. They decried what was described as a personal assault on the well-being and safety of LGBTQ+ individuals, especially the transgender community, according to Reuters and SCMP.

With participation reportedly diminished compared to previous years, rally organizers noted increased fears surrounding travel to the U.S. for LGBTQ+ events due to concerns over harassment or backlash against Trump's policies, indicating a challenging climate for activism. The importance of community solidarity was emphasized as crucial in combating these challenges, according to Channel News Asia and SCMP.