Pride Sponsors Withdraw Support Amidst Backlash Over LGBTQ+ Rights
San Francisco Pride, facing a significant funding shortfall, has lost approximately $300,000 in corporate sponsorship. Several long-term sponsors cited budget constraints, a decision that the Pride executive director attributes to the increasingly hostile political climate toward the LGBTQ+ community. This loss comes amidst a broader trend of corporations scaling back diversity and inclusion initiatives. Despite the shortfall, organizers remain committed to holding the event, actively seeking new funding sources to cover increased security costs and maintain the free community celebration. A positive development saw Benefit Cosmetics reverse its initial withdrawal and recommit to participation.
John Q. Hosedrinker