When we think about joy, we often picture moments of celebration, laughter, and the warmth that comes from feeling supported by those around us.
But at Pridelines, joy is more than just a fleeting emotion — it’s a mission. The Joy Ride stands as a powerful testament to this mission, expanding beyond the vital work of funding HIV/AIDS initiatives to embrace a holistic vision of what it means to uplift the LGBTQ community. It’s a ride for the heart, the spirit, and the future of those we serve.
At its core, The Joy Ride represents community. It’s about the love, friendship, and unshakable support we give and receive from one another. In a time when so many in our community face challenges — whether it be discrimination, health disparities, housing insecurity, or mental health struggles — this event serves as a reminder that we are not alone. It brings together individuals from all walks of life, united by a common cause: to uplift, empower, and fight for the community we cherish.
But The Joy Ride transcends raising funds; it’s about raising spirits. It’s a movement — one that embodies the miracles of love and pride that our services bring to those we support. Yes, we still fight against HIV/AIDS with unwavering determination, but we also recognize that healing and joy go beyond medical care. This event’s expanded focus on holistic services highlights the interconnectedness of health, well-being, and community support.
What does joy truly mean to us? It’s found in the warm meals we provide to those facing food insecurity, the shelter we offer to LGBTQ youth experiencing homelessness, and the mental health counseling that reminds our clients they are worthy of love and acceptance. It’s in every PrEP prescription filled, every community center event where friendships blossom, and every moment someone walks through our doors and feels, perhaps for the first time, truly seen.
The Joy Ride creates spaces where LGBTQ people feel safe, loved, and celebrated. It’s about continuing the work that brings not only hope but tangible change to people’s lives. The ride serves as a reminder that in fighting for our community, we are also building a future where joy is not a luxury but a right.
This year’s Joy Ride promises to be epic — not only because of the people who will come together, but because of the movement it represents — a movement toward a world where every LGBTQ person can thrive. It symbolizes a journey towards ensuring that joy, in all its forms, is accessible to everyone in our community.
As Michelle Obama once said, "Do something to support your LGBTQ community." The Joy Ride is our chance to do just that. I stand with my fellow advocates, including Nicolle Burrell, Broward House, Julie Seaver, Compass, Joy Winheim, EPIC, and Angus L. Bradshaw, Jr., Miracle of Love, in our enthusiasm and excitement for the ride, and we invite you to join us in November for this incredible event.
When we ride, we ride for more than just ourselves. We ride for those we have lost to HIV/AIDS, for those who are still fighting, and for those who are just beginning their journey of
self-discovery and acceptance. We ride for love, for pride, and for the unwavering belief that together, we can bring joy to all corners of our community.
As Vice President Kamala Harris said, "Generations before us have led the way. Now the baton has been passed to us." The Joy Ride is our opportunity to carry that baton forward, continuing the fight for equality, love, and joy for all.
You can join our efforts by volunteering, riding, crewing, partying, or cheering us on. Just contact us at thejoyridefl.org. We deeply appreciate and are honored by the privilege to do this work, and we welcome you to be part of this journey with us.
Join us for The Joy Ride. Let’s continue the movement. Let’s spread the joy.
