Take Action Now: Proposed Budget Cuts Threaten Pride & Local Arts

On April 15, the Mayor released his proposed budget for FY27. To address an $118 million deficit, the proposal includes $11.8 million in cuts to the arts by eliminating critical arts and culture grants that San Diego Pride and hundreds of other nonprofits depend on to operate.

For San Diego Pride, these cuts would reduce city funding in our current fiscal year from nearly $400,000 to zero. This support primarily sustains our festival talent, the majority of whom are local and BIPOC artists. This loss would significantly undermine our financial stability and hinder our ability to fulfill our mission of fostering pride, equality, and respect for all LGBTQ+ communities locally, nationally, and globally.

And we are not alone. From the Office of Child & Youth Success (OCYS) to our libraries, parks and recreation centers, the proposed cuts will impact the services that countless San Diegans rely on for resources, opportunities, and community.

At a time when queer and trans communities are facing escalating attacks nationwide, it would be deeply disheartening to see the support San Diego Pride receives from the city reduced to zero, particularly in a city led by its first openly gay mayor and one of the most LGBTQ+ City Councils in its history.

How You Can Help

Reach out to the Mayor and Council members. Make your voice heard by urging city leadership to oppose cuts of this scale to arts and culture organizations. We’ve made it simple! Click here and enter your address to identify your representatives and send a customizable message directly to their offices. 

Speak Out at the Budget Review Committee Public Hearing

Join us at the City Budget Review Committee’s Public Hearing to provide public comment on budget priorities and share why it is important that City Council prioritizes funding for arts and culture. Need help writing your public comment? Reach out to us at advocacy@sdpride.org 

When: Monday, May 4 – 6:00 P.M.

Where: City Administration Building, 202 C Street, San Diego, CA 92101

Engage with your Local Community

Do you live in District 3 or 6? Stop by one of these upcoming budget town halls to share your budget priorities with your community and Council Member.

Thursday, May 7 – 6:00 P.M. District 6 Budget Townhall | Mira Mesa Library

Tuesday, May 12 – 6:00 P.M. District 2 Budget Townhall | City Hall

Donate with Pride 

If enacted, these cuts would leave a significant gap in the funding needed to sustain our year-round programming. Grassroots support has always been one of the most powerful ways our community shows up for one another, your contribution can help ensure this work continues.

San Diego Pride

Arrive early and enjoy our pregame happy hour in Gallagher Square with Party in the Park, presented by Southwest Airlines, from the time gates open until first pitch (approximately 4-6:30 PM).

May 1, 2026, 4:00 pm
100 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101, US

Primary Election Day: June 2, 2026

The next gubernatorial primary election comes up on June 2, 2026. In addition to the race for California’s next Governor, you will also be voting on local elected officials and multiple state and local ballot measures. Ballots will be mailed out starting May 4, 2026  for all registered voters. You can vote by mail, drop off your mail-in ballot at drop-off locations, or you can vote in-person at select locations.Will you pledge to cast your ballot in the 2026 Primary Election? Let us know below!

Volunteer Sign Ups Now Open! Pride doesn’t just happen—it’s built by an incredible community of volunteers! With Pride Week 2026 on the horizon, now is the time to jump in and be part of making it all happen! Whether you’re a returning volunteer or joining us for the first time, there are so many ways to get involved, connect with community, and help create a safe, joyful, and unforgettable experience.

Learn more and sign up at sdpride.org/volunteer!

Get tickets before headliners and major announcements are revealed and save.

When:
Saturday, July 18, 2026 @ 12 PM – 10 PM
Sunday, July 19, 2026 @ 12 PM – 9 PM