Overview

• The Tampa Pride Board announced a one-year hiatus for all 2026 events in a letter dated Aug. 1 that was posted publicly in mid-September.
• Organizers cited a difficult political and economic climate, including lost corporate sponsorships, reduced public grants, and the rollback of DEI programs under Gov. Ron DeSantis.
• Longtime president Carrie West’s contract ended Aug. 31 and was not renewed, and he said the nonprofit will not take on debt to stage the events.
• West reported steep declines in donations from companies and estimated the group needs roughly $225,000 to $275,000 to bridge costs that can total about $426,000 a year for permits, security, and insurance.
• Leaders expressed hopes for a future return but offered no guarantee for 2027, while St. Pete Pride said preparations for its 2026 celebration are already underway.