WASHINGTON — After the raucous rainbow-hued festivities of Saturday’s parade, the final day of World Pride 2025 in the nation’s capital kicked off on a more downbeat note.

Thousands gathered under gray skies Sunday morning at the Lincoln Memorial for a rally and protest march, as the community gathers its strength for a looming fight under President Donald Trump’s second administration.

“This is not just a party,” Ashley Smith, board president of Capital Pride Alliance. “This is a rally for our lives.”

Smith acknowledged international attendance numbers for the bi-annual World Pride were measurably down, with many potential attendees avoiding travel to the U.S.

“That should disturb us and mobilize us,” Smith said.

Protesters cheered on LGBTQ+ activists taking the stage while waving traditional Pride flags and flags representing transgender, bisexual, intersex and other communities. Many had rainbow glitter and rhinestones adorning their faces. They held signs declaring “Fight back,” “Gay is good,” “Ban bombs not bathrooms” and “We will not be erased.”

Trump’s campaign against transgender protections and antipathy for drag shows have set the community on edge, with some hoping to see a renewed wave of street politics in response.

“Trans people just want to be loved. Everybody wants to live their own lives, and I don’t understand the problem with it all,” said Tyler Cargill, who wore a costume with a hat topped by a replica of the U.S. Capitol.

The speeches didn’t just target Trump. Some also turned their ire on Democratic politicians, who they say have wilted under GOP control of the White House and Congress.