Last night in Chelsea, WABC-TV's Eyewitness News This Morning weather anchor Sam Champion co-hosted the "Pride of Broadway" event to mark the beginning of Pride Month. Champion was joined by actress Cynthia Nixon at the Somewhere Nowhere lounge, where they recognized the contributions of LGBTQ+ individuals and allies within the Broadway community. ABC7NY noted the event as part of its broader Pride Month coverage, which will also feature the NYC Pride March on June 29.
Cynthia Nixon, who appeared on the cover of The Advocate’s Pride issue, took the stage following an introduction by Sam Champion. She shared a story about a friend in Seattle who came across the magazine in a supermarket. According to a speech acquired by Out, Nixon said, "At a time when it is so important to have a free press and it is so important especially to have a queer free press, as they're trying to silence us and erase our beauty, and we always have known that our visibility is the most important thing not only to surviving but to thriving."
In her remarks, Nixon highlighted a concerning trend, pointing out, "I read in The Advocate that I think 14 corporate sponsors have dropped out of Pride this year." Drawing attention to the reduced corporate presence, she noted that four out of five platinum sponsors withdrew their support. Nixon added, "Bigger isn't always better, and that, for me, Pride the last few years has just gotten a little sanitized and corporatized." She emphasized the importance of authenticity and community support rather than relying on corporate backing that may not align with the event's spirit, according to a report from Out.
Moving away from the business aspect, Nixon turned the spotlight to matters weighing personal. In a heart-to-heart shared with Out, Nixon spoke of her son's experience at NYU Langone, where "He received such wonderful care from such an amazing surgeon." Touching personal past with the political, she then addressed the current climate facing women and the queer community, "My kids are thriving; my wife is beautiful. I am happy and have these wonderful projects that are about to come out." She added, "Queer joy and trans joy — I do think that these are political acts." Her family's experiences and involvement in advocacy continue to draw attention and engagement, extending beyond any outside criticism or opposition.
The 'Pride of Broadway' event attracted sponsorships from various brands, with Maybelline New York stepping in as the Red Carpet sponsor and additional support from Gay Water, Heineken, Hornitos Tequila, and official hotel partner Motto Times Square. WABC-TV promises ongoing coverage of Pride Month, giving the community a platform to celebrate and raise awareness for the significant impact of LGBTQ+ members in Broadway and beyond.
