OVERVIEW

The San Francisco Pride Band provides for the education and musical development of its members, promotes visibility of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender communities, and with its allies, fosters understanding among diverse communities through public performance.

San Francisco Pride Band is the first openly-gay musical organization in the world, inspiring the formation of LGBTQ+ bands, choruses, and performing groups around the globe.

Founded in 1978 by Jon Sims at the height of Anita Bryant’s anti-gay crusade, the Band has played a pivotal role in advancing LGBTQ+ visibility. Notable moments include marching up Market Street with Harvey Milk in the 1978 San Francisco Gay Freedom Day Parade. The Band continues to perform at a variety of events in the Bay Area and internationally, advocating for equality through music.