Councilwoman Laura Pastor Named Grand Marshal of 2026 Phoenix Pride Parade

PHOENIX — District 4 Councilwoman Laura Pastor has been named a Community Grand Marshal of the 2026 Phoenix Pride Parade, recognizing her longstanding advocacy for and partnership with Phoenix’s LGBTQ+ community.

The Phoenix Pride Parade will take place Sunday, Oct. 11, as Phoenix Pride celebrates its 45th anniversary. The annual parade welcomes more than 2,000 participants and 15,000 spectators to celebrate LGBTQ+ pride and visibility.

“The LGBTQ+ community has fought hard to be able to live openly and proudly, and Pride is a celebration of that progress,” Councilwoman Pastor said. “I am deeply honored to serve as a Grand Marshal this year and help celebrate 45 years of Phoenix Pride.”

Pastor’s advocacy also includes her work as co-chair of the Phoenix Fast-Track Cities Ad Hoc Committee, which brings together the City and community partners in the effort to end the HIV epidemic and reduce stigma.

Pastor will also serve as Honorary Co-Chair of the 2nd Annual Phoenix Pride Community Unity 5K on Sunday, Nov. 15, alongside Audrey Corley, owner of Boycott Bar and Title 9 Sports Grill in the Melrose District. The all-ages event welcomes runners and walkers in support of Phoenix Pride and their work across Arizona.

The Phoenix Pride Parade steps off at 10:00 a.m. at 3rd and Portland streets and travels south to Taylor Street. The parade will end at the Arizona Center, home of the 2026 Phoenix Pride Festival. Proceeds from the parade will benefit Phoenix Pride’s Community Grants and Scholarship Programs.

The Community Unity 5K begins at 9:00 a.m. on Nov. 15 at Charlie’s Phoenix.

For more information about the Phoenix Pride Parade and Community Unity 5K, visit phoenixpride.org.