LGBTQ+ pride takes center stage in Downey

Protesters shout at LGBTQIA+ supporters at the Downey Pride Festival after Downey Police Department officers approach them on Saturday, August 9, 2025. (Photo by Vince Medina)

DOWNEY — The 5th annual Downey Pride Festival attracted hundreds of allies, advocates and local businesses to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community on Saturday.

Downey Avenue was blocked off between 2nd Street and 5th Street for the festival, and local organizations used the opportunity to promote queer artists, connect LGBTQIA+ small business owners and encourage inclusivity in Los Angeles County.

Downey City Councilmember Mario Trujillo emphasized the importance of the Pride Festival and the message the event aims to send to the community.

“Even if someone is different, they deserve to be treated with respect and they deserve equal rights,” said Trujillo. “So this festival is important because it’s about inclusivity. It’s about acceptance, it’s about telling the (LGBTQIA+ community) they are welcome here.”

However, Trujillo acknowledged the difficulty in conveying this message after the Downey City Council voted to remove the LGBTQIA+ Pride Flag from city government buildings in May 2024.

The festival was sponsored and coordinated by L.A. CADA (Los Angeles Centers for Alcohol and Drug Abuse). The nonprofit’s CEO, Juan Navarro, shared that the organization provides services to those who struggle with drug and alcohol abuse. He explained that L.A. CADA is inclusive with its services to support the LGBTQIA+ community as well as provide education and substance abuse prevention.

A small group of anti-LGBTQIA+ protesters attempted to disrupt the event. They gathered just outside the festival entrance and began shouting homophobic rhetoric through their microphone and speaker. The group, which was majority men, began citing scripture from the Christian Bible, which they believe condemns same-sex marriage.

However, members of the congregation from the Long Beach Christian Fellowship counter-demonstrated across the street from the small group. Tina Ying, an elder board member of the fellowship, held up a pride flag, which received a strong reaction from the protesters.

“What that group is sharing is misinformation; Jesus loves everybody,” said Ying. “The church has been harmed by those who twist His words. We affirm the LGBTQIA+ community belongs here and is welcome in our community.”

She cited scripture from the Bible to counterpoint the anti-LGBTQIA+ protesters, referencing Proverbs 5:18-19, Galatians 5:13-14 and Romans 12:1-2.

Proverb 5:18-19 discusses a heterosexual marriage but different interpretations focus on finding fulfillment in a partner within a dedicated and intimate relationship.

Galatians 5:13-14 carries the theme of caring and providing service to others, as well as fulfillment of the law.

Romans 12:1-2 shares the message of transformation and not conforming to societal norms.

At around 7:30 p.m., multiple Downey Police Department officers approached the anti-LGBTQIA+ group, and after a brief discussion, the protesters lowered the volume on the speaker. The group dispersed shortly thereafter.

Entertainment during the festival featured drag performers and live music, including drag artist Lushious Massacr, known for her dynamic stage presence.

The Downey Art Coalition also had a booth during the festival, and used a large portion of their display to highlight queer artists. Pat Gil, president and founder of the coalition, said LGBTQIA+ artists should have the opportunity to express themselves.

Works from artists such as Amalia K (Reartify) and Lindsay Parks were displayed next to LGBTQIA+ pride flags.

“The creative arts have always been a part of the LGBTQIA+ community,” said Gil. “They should not have to fear showing who they are, and they should know that Downey is a safe place.”