Overview
- A joint statement from the City of West Hollywood, the WeHo Pride production team, and Kathy Hilton announced Wednesday that Hilton will not serve as the 2026 Grand Marshal Icon.
- Indigenous Pride LA withdrew from the June 7 parade in protest of Hilton’s selection, saying the choice did not align with the values and lived experiences of Two‑Spirit, Indigiqueer, and Indigenous LGBTQPAI+ communities.
- Criticism of Hilton focused on reported ties to President Donald Trump and a disputed allegation that she used a homophobic slur during a 2022 Real Housewives of Beverly Hills trip; Hilton denied the claim and Bravo said its internal review was inconclusive.
- Organizers said the parade will go forward with nearly 120 entries this year and that they welcome ongoing community conversations about representation and inclusion.
- The controversy has prompted broader questions about how public figures are vetted for visible Pride honors and could lead organizers to change selection practices to better center longtime local LGBTQ+ activists and community members.