AGMA is proud to be a union with strong representation of LGBTQ+ members, who have helped shape the performing arts (and the world) for the better. Pride Month is a month of protest, education, and celebration. Now more than ever, in an increasingly hostile political climate, we must come together during this month of heightened awareness and visibility and use this moment to fight to preserve and advance queer liberation, especially for our trans and non-binary siblings.
In 2026 alone, 50 (and counting) anti-trans bills have been passed, while 2025 was the sixth consecutive record-breaking year for total bills considered. Still, Pride has always been more than a response to hardship. It is an invitation to protect one another, advocate for dignity and inclusion in our workplaces and communities, and uplift LGBTQ+ voices and artistry.
We must always look for ways to take action on a local and community level:
- Donate to or volunteer at a trans mutual aid fund in your area. You can find a list of organizations from Trans Lifeline and Folx.
- The National Coalition Against Censorship (NCAC) is collecting stories from arts organizations and individuals impacted by grant rules issued by the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) that prohibited grant recipients in 2025 from “promoting gender ideology.”
- Volunteer for Pride events in your area, or get involved with a group in the Pride parade (e.g., your church/faith group, workplace group, neighborhood association)
- Shop at queer-owned local businesses. The Everywhere is Queer app can be a good starting point.
- Vote in primary elections (many of which are in June)! Research candidates’ records and proposals on LGBTQ+ issues and share your findings with your communities. Reach out to local candidates to emphasize the importance of LGBTQ+ issues for you and your vote.
- Be an active ally year-round. Use Pride month to reflect on what you can do and look for opportunities to get involved in continuous action.
- AGMA once again encourages and implores all members and their allies to reach out to their state’s leadership and tell them that everyone deserves the right to live a safe, inclusive, and free life.
“In recent negotiations, AGMA has worked to strengthen protections and inclusion for LGBTQ+ artists through measures such as gender inclusive contract language, protections against discrimination and harassment based on gender identity and expression, greater flexibility around dress codes and costume requirements, inclusive facilities access, and the use of artists’ affirmed names and pronouns in workplace communications and materials. These efforts are aimed at ensuring all artists are able to work in environments that are safe, respectful, and affirming of their identities.” –Tracy Jones, AGMA Director of Collective Bargaining
LGBTQ+ rights are human rights. AGMA remains a supportive voice for LGBTQ+ rights and an ally. No one should have to continue to face discrimination, hate, and violence in their daily lives.
One of the most common ways people celebrate Pride is by attending Pride Parades, rallies, protests, and cultural events that are hosted by hundreds of cities across America and the globe. AGMA is sharing a link to a comprehensive listing of many Pride parades and related events happening this month and beyond. We encourage Members to contact their Area Committee Chairs, the Pride Caucus, and to share their photos with AGMA whenever they feel safe doing so.
The labor movement teaches us that solidarity is not built solely in moments of struggle. It is also built in celebration…in seeing one another fully, protecting each other’s humanity, and creating spaces where people can thrive. AGMA joins in celebrating the diversity and fortitude of the LGBTQ+ community with our members, affiliate unions, and colleagues in the performing arts industry.
To all of our LGBTQ+ siblings: the Arts would not be the same without you. Thank you for sharing your gifts with the world!
In Solidarity,
The AGMA Pride Caucus Steering Committee