San Francisco Pride, one of the largest LGBTQ+ celebrations globally, is grappling with financial challenges following the withdrawal of several major corporate sponsors. The event, which significantly boosts San Francisco's economy, has lost approximately $300,000 in funding after companies such as Comcast, Diageo, Benefit Cosmetics, and Anheuser-Busch decided to pull their support. This departure has raised concerns about the future of the event, although its organizers are committed to proceeding as planned.
Suzanne Ford, the executive director of San Francisco Pride, attributes the sudden withdrawal of these long-term sponsors to the current political environment, which she believes is influenced by policies from the Trump administration. The administration has been criticized for its stance on LGBTQ+ rights and diversity initiatives, which Ford suggests may impact corporate decisions on sponsorship.
“The backtracking on rights for the LGBTQ community certainly have to be part of any cooperation’s calculus on whether they give us money so I can’t pinpoint the exact reason, but, as we all know now, it’s more difficult than ever to stand up and say you support rights of LGBTQ people,” Ford said.
Despite the financial setback, San Francisco Pride has received inquiries about new partnerships and managed to gather about $5,000 in individual donations since news of the sponsorship losses emerged. The organization remains determined to hold the event and ensure its success.
“We’re going to have the event. We’re going to find the money if we have to knock on every door in San Francisco,” Ford affirmed.
San Francisco Pride's decision to end its long-standing partnership with Meta, following the company's termination of its DEI programs, underscores the organization's commitment to supporting diversity and inclusion efforts.
Ford emphasized that the event has been a cornerstone of Pride for decades and anticipates facing more challenges this year. Increased security measures are planned to address any potential threats.
“Right now you see a lot of negative attention on the LGBTQ community and maybe people are making this decision from a marketing point of view. I think that is a very short-term view and I think it’s dangerous for companies to take that view,” Ford commented.