Hundreds Join Havana’s Annual Pride March In Vedado
Rainbow flags brightened the streets of Havana on May 10 as hundreds gathered for Cuba’s annual Pride celebration. Marchers moved through the Vedado neighbourhood carrying banners with powerful messages, including “Socialism yes, homophobia no” and “Cuba is love,” creating a vivid display of community solidarity and visibility.
It’s this unique blend of local spirit and universal feeling that makes Havana’s event stand out. The march reportedly kicked off near the Hotel Cohiba, making its way through the heart of Vedado, an area many will know is central to the city’s social life.
This isn’t a new thing for Havana. The Pride conga, usually organised by the National Center for Sex Education (CENESEX), has been a yearly fixture since around 2008, only pausing briefly during the global pandemic.
It’s a tradition that has grown alongside a changing Cuba, especially with the landmark approval of the new Family Code in 2022, which brought in marriage equality and other rights. Each year, these “Jornadas” run for about two weeks in May, coinciding with the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia on May 17th, aiming to foster understanding and respect.
While the path to full equality always has its discussions and complexities unique to each place, the sight of hundreds marching with such openness in Havana is certainly something to see. It’s a reminder of the progress made and the spirit that drives it.
We know the importance of these moments, big or small, around the world. They reflect a shared desire for a world where everyone can live with authenticity and joy.
