Oakland Pride 2025: ‘In Unity, We Thrive’

By George J. Smith III–

As we prepare to come together once again on Sunday, September 7, 2025, I’m honored to share this year’s Oakland Pride theme: “In Unity, We Thrive.” With everything happening in the world, this theme couldn’t be timelier. Now more than ever, we must unite. We must come together as a community—to stand up, speak out, and show up—for equality, for justice, and for one another.

June may be nationally recognized as Pride Month, but here in Oakland—and across the Bay Area—we celebrate Pride every day. In a country where our basic human rights are still being debated and challenged, we are proud to live in a region that has long stood strong, fought hard, and led the way in the movement for LGBTQ+ equality.

Pride isn’t just a party. It’s a powerful tradition rooted in resistance, visibility, and love. And when we move together, we create real change. When we support each other, we thrive. This year, we’re calling on our community to get involved: Donate to Oakland Pride to help us keep this event safe, inclusive, and accessible for all. Employers stand in solidarity by supporting your LGBTQ+ staff and showing up as a sponsor or community partner. Local businesses and community groups, we see you. Whether you’re feeding our incredible volunteers, donating services, or sponsoring our VIP areas—your support helps keep the heart of Oakland Pride beating strong.

And to every person who needs to hear this: You are not alone. We see you. We hear you. And we’ll stand with you.

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George J. Smith III is the President of the Oakland Pride Board of Directors. https://www.oaklandpride.org/

Oakland Pride 2025
Published on August 28, 2025