Who We Are and What We Do

Newark Gay Pride is a regionally anticipated signature event that is projected to draw 2,000+ attendees for its year long agenda of social, educational, and cultural programs for adults, youth, families, and allies.

Newark Pride Week was founded shortly after the horrific death of Sakia Gunn, a teenager who was targeted and murdered because of her sexual orientation in the heart of downtown Newark. Through grassroots organizing, Newark’s LGBTQ community advocated for safe spaces and programming. As a result, in 2005, Newark Gay Pride, Inc. held its inaugural week-long Pride celebration.

Over ten years later, Newark Pride has evolved with the city’s changing landscape and has grown into a regionally anticipated event, drawing thousands of people to Newark’s Downtown Business District.

Hosted in the heart of downtown Newark, Newark’s Gay Pride events are hosted in an area brimming with activities, attractions and adventures! These events increase awareness of the city and its vast culture, while increasing revenue and visibility for corporate sponsors and local businesses alike. Indeed, Newark Gay Pride offers a unique opportunity to view the ways Newark’s LGBTQ community is flourishing concurrently with the city’s cultural and economic boom. From thriving cultural institutions like NJPAC, Prudential Arena and The Newark Museum to a variety of new restaurants, hotels, and luxury apartments that are transforming the downtown area – Newark is on the rise.