Blog
Pride, Purpose, and Possibility: Our Youth Shine at Pittsburgh Pride Parade
July 15, 2025
This year's Pittsburgh Pride Parade was one for the books - and for our TAY (Transition-Age Youth) clients, it was a celebration filled with firsts, reunions, creativity, and community. With over 18 youth in the Parade, and the crowd that showed up in attendance, it was the largest turnout yet. Stretching from downtown Pittsburgh, over the golden arches, and into Allegheny Commons Park, the energy of the parade was electric - and our youth were right at the heart of it. Some clients joined us for their very first Pride, while others who have since transitioned out of our programs returned to march by our side once again.
In the weeks leading up to the event, the Youth Zone's LGBTQIA affirming group, Rainbow, collaborated to create this year's theme and designs, proudly matching behind a bold banner reading "You can't take our Pride." Youth also designed and tie-dyed their own swag bags, which they used to carry fun, affirming items to pass out to the crowd. The experience gave our clients a chance to express themselves creatively while taking ownership of their presence in the parade. And for many, it was about more than just visibility - it was about connection. "I really enjoyed my first Pride Parade, and felt safer going in a group that I am familiar with," shared one client. Another added, "This has been so much fun, I have tons of ideas now for next year."
After the parade, the group gathered for a shared bag lunch before pairing off for their own adventures at the festival. The park was alive with music, art, and affirming community - a space where our youth could safely explore, celebrate, and dream. One of the most touching moments for many clients was receiving warm embraces from volunteers wearing "Mom Hugs" and "Dad Hugs" shirts, a gesture that reminded them they are seen, valued, and loved.
As one returning alum said, "It's so nice to come back and march with the Youth Zone every year." Moments like these are at the core of our mission - creating opportunities for TAY clients to build life skills, explore new experiences, and find community. We are already looking forward to next year, and so are our youth.
In the weeks leading up to the event, the Youth Zone's LGBTQIA affirming group, Rainbow, collaborated to create this year's theme and designs, proudly matching behind a bold banner reading "You can't take our Pride." Youth also designed and tie-dyed their own swag bags, which they used to carry fun, affirming items to pass out to the crowd. The experience gave our clients a chance to express themselves creatively while taking ownership of their presence in the parade. And for many, it was about more than just visibility - it was about connection. "I really enjoyed my first Pride Parade, and felt safer going in a group that I am familiar with," shared one client. Another added, "This has been so much fun, I have tons of ideas now for next year."
After the parade, the group gathered for a shared bag lunch before pairing off for their own adventures at the festival. The park was alive with music, art, and affirming community - a space where our youth could safely explore, celebrate, and dream. One of the most touching moments for many clients was receiving warm embraces from volunteers wearing "Mom Hugs" and "Dad Hugs" shirts, a gesture that reminded them they are seen, valued, and loved.
As one returning alum said, "It's so nice to come back and march with the Youth Zone every year." Moments like these are at the core of our mission - creating opportunities for TAY clients to build life skills, explore new experiences, and find community. We are already looking forward to next year, and so are our youth.