New Delhi, June 29 -- New York City's 54th annual Pride March steps off today, Sunday, June 29, at 11 a.m., flooding Manhattan streets with thousands celebrating LGBTQ+ resilience. This year's theme, "Rise Up: Pride in Protest," responds to increased political hostility and scaled-back corporate support, with 39% of companies reducing Pride initiatives.

The 1.8-mile route begins at 26th Street and 5th Avenue, passing the Stonewall National Monument before dispersing at 15th Street and 7th Avenue.Kazz Alexander, NYC Pride co-chair was quoted as saying, "We must support one another, because when the most marginalized among us are granted their rights, all of us benefit."

"Pride is not merely a celebration of identity-it is a powerful stat...