A Glimpse into LGBTQ+ History in Utah

Ted Nicholls, Director of Operations & Special Events at the Utah Pride Center and a native Utahan, has witnessed firsthand the ongoing resilience of the LGBTQ+ community. Nicholls, who is also a drag artist, traces the rich tradition of drag expression in Salt Lake back to the 1800s. “There is this misconception that this is a lifestyle, or a new thing…but that couldn’t be further from the truth,” he says.

The present-day queer community “is so successful and visible,” he says, because of those in the community who championed queer visibility and artistry. “When you grow up in any environment that tells you you’re not worthy or valid, whether it’s because of a gender identity or a sexual orientation, that causes a craving for community. That is what spawned a lot of the growth for our community,” Nicholls says.

The Utah Pride Center, established officially in 2005, serves as a beacon of support and community for LGBTQ+ individuals across the state, offering a diverse array of services and events year-round. 

The Utah Pride Festival: A Beacon of Community

The Utah Pride Festival stands as the Utah Pride Center's flagship event, embodying the spirit of the LGBTQ+ community's resilience and vitality. Unlike corporate-sponsored events, the festival is a grassroots celebration organized by dedicated staff, volunteers, and community members. Alongside the Utah Pride Center, organizations such as Equality Utah, Stonewall Sports, and Genderbands play pivotal roles in advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and fostering community connections. 

Pride 2024: Embracing Diversity and Inclusion 

Pride 2024 aims to be a beacon of hope and resilience, amplifying the voices of the LGBTQ+ community louder than ever before. With a renewed focus on inclusivity and quality programming, the festival promises an unforgettable experience for attendees of all backgrounds. From engaging entertainment to thought-provoking discussions, Pride 2024 seeks to inspire meaningful conversations and foster greater understanding and acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals and their allies. 

Day 1: Saturday, June 1st 

Kick off the Utah Pride Festival 2024 on Saturday, June 1st, from 11:00AM to 10:00PM at Washington Square Park in Salt Lake City. March down from the State Capitol, or venture directly to the festival to enjoy a full day of festivities including live performances, food vendors, activities, and community engagement. 

Highlighted artists hitting both stages include Antonio Dudley, Cirque du Salt Lake, and Foreign Figures. 

Day 2: Sunday, June 2nd 

Don’t miss the Pride Parade on Sunday, June 2nd at 10:00AM, taking place in Downtown Salt Lake. Experience the excitement and energy as participants march through the streets, promoting visibility, acceptance, and unity for all. 

Continue the celebration from 12:00PM to 7:00PM at Washington Square Park for Day 2. Enjoy another day of entertainment, vendors, activities, and community spirit. Taking the stage will be acts ranging from Salt Lake Men’s Choir to SLC based DJ, Moonchiild.