Serving as the Local Grand Marshal for Pittsburgh Pride this year is truly an honor. While I’ve always looked forward to Pride, this recognition has prompted me to reflect on my past. I agree that the selection for Grand Marshal is often based on past accomplishments, yet I feel my work is not quite finished. Never did I imagine, especially 44 years ago at the age of 21, that a casual gay pickup softball game would change the course of my entire life, leading me to a lifetime of community building – something I now cannot imagine my life without.
In this forced reflection, I find the greatest satisfaction in knowing that this has been a shared journey. I’ve witnessed the evolution of our community’s identity, from G, then G&L, L&G, LG&B, LGBT, LGBTQ, LGBTQ+, and so on. For me, there has always been a “we” in community. Nothing I have done has been singular; it has always been the result of a successful “we.” Over the years, these partnerships, connections, collaborations, and, most importantly, enduring friendships have flourished. That is the power of “we.”
One last thought when looking back: in a lifetime of shared community victories, it should come as no surprise that we’ve faced far more defeats. Hence, with our current federal administration, we should not be deterred but strengthened. These times will not define us solely by our identity, but by our ability to survive and exist. We are resilient, and together, united, we will emerge even stronger.
My sincere gratitude extends to the countless organizations I’ve been a member of and the numerous others with whom I’ve had the privilege to work together. However, my deepest thanks and appreciation go to our community for a lifetime filled with truly wondrous memories, with way more to come.
Together in Pride,
Jeff Freedman
Co-Creator, QBurgh
Pittsburgh Pride Parade Local Grand Marshal 2025
