Pride Month will begin with sequins, champagne, and recognition for three prominent leaders when Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood hosts its annual Pride Drag Brunch benefiting The Pride Center at Equality Park on May 31.
“Pride is about joy, visibility and showing up for one another,” Robert Boo, CEO of The Pride Center, said in a statement. “This event captures that spirit while directly supporting programs that change lives.”
The fundraiser comes at a critical time for The Pride Center, which recently lost state funding for HIV testing programs. Organizers say community support is more important than ever as the center works to maintain free testing, prevention, and other vital services.
The event will feature performances by Mia Starr, from RuPaul’s Drag Race, alongside South Florida entertainers Daisy DeadPetals, Erika Norell, TP Lords, Twink, and Christopher Peterson.
The brunch will also serve as the setting for The Pride Center’s annual Icon Awards ceremony, recognizing leaders who have made significant contributions to the local LGBTQ community and beyond.
This year’s honorees are Kevin Jennings, CEO of Lambda Legal; Katie Phang, senior advisor for Democracy Defenders Fund; and William C. Schultz, chief of police for the City of Fort Lauderdale.
Jennings is being recognized for decades of LGBTQ advocacy, including his role founding the GLSEN and his leadership of Lambda Legal. Phang is being honored for her work as a trial lawyer, journalist, and advocate for democracy. Schultz will receive recognition for his public service and efforts to foster trust and safety throughout the community.
The celebration begins with a cocktail reception from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., followed by the drag show and awards ceremony from 1 to 3 p.m. WSVN Deco Drive personality Alex Miranda will host the awards presentation.
Guests can expect a chef-curated brunch, premium open bar, espresso martini bar, champagne station, specialty cocktails, and what organizers describe as a “glittering Pride playground” inside the ballroom.
“At Seminole Hard Rock, ‘Love All, Serve All’ isn’t just a motto, it’s how we show up,” Erick Eldridge, the resort’s director of special events, said in a statement. “We’re proud to celebrate Pride in a way that’s vibrant, inclusive and impactful.”
General admission tickets are $175 and VIP tickets are $225, with proceeds benefiting The Pride Center’s programs and services. You can also donate to the Pride Center here.
Artificial intelligence assisted with the production of this article.
OutSFL is a media sponsor of this event. Our editorial team retains full independence in reporting and was not compensated for this coverage.
