Your complete guide to the Equality March on Washington DC

If the streets of your city, suburb or even small town are looking a little more rainbow-tinged than usual these days, that’s because June is Pride Month. It was officially declared so by President Bill Clinton in 2000 and every year during the two-term presidency of Barack Obama. But uncertainty surrounding the current administration has brought a new sense of urgency to the fight for equality and thousands will thus gather for the first LGBTQ march on Washington in nearly a decade. Heading to our nation’s capital to show your solidarity? Here is everything you need to know.

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National Equality March | Flickr photo by Boss Tweed

Is the the Equality March for Unity and Pride the same as the National Equality March?
If you Google/Facebook search “equality march” both the National Equality March and the Equality March for Unity and Pride might come up, but they’re different. The National Equality March was a gathering that happened in Washington DC in 2009 to advocate for equal protections for all LGBTQ people. The Equality March for Unity and Pride is a similar March on Washington but happening June 11, 2017.

Where and when is the March happening?
The March happens Sunday, June 11 at 10am EST, but crowds will gather as early as 9am (and perhaps even earlier). The starting point for the March is at the intersection of I Street and 17^th Street just north of the Mall (Metro stops: Farragut North or McPherson Square). It concludes at 2pm in the National Mall.

Does the route pass by the White House?
Absolutely. Marchers will pass by the president’s home shortly after the start of the event.

Is the Equality March for Unity and Pride happening only in DC?
No. The Equality March, like the Women’s March in January, is a global event happening in countries around the world including Canada, Australia, Switzerland and Spain and in numerous U.S. cities, many of which are celebrating Pride that weekend. The name of the march also differs in some cities. In Los Angeles, for example, the event is being referred to as the #ResistMarch. In Albany, New York it’s being referred to as the Unity Rally.

Are all events happening at the same date and time?
No. The DC March happens June 11, 10am–2pm EST, while other cities are organizing versions compatible with their respective time zones. While the vast majority of rallies will happen June 11, some cities have picked a different date altogether. New York City, for example, will host a rally on June 16, while nearby Asbury Park, New Jersey will host its march on June 4.

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Are there rooms still available in Washington DC and elsewhere?
Yes! There are plenty of rooms still available in DC and other U.S. cities ranging in price, size, location and amenities. Visit Orbitz.com and book your favorite hotel before it sells out, and check out a few DC accommodations with presidential pasts here.

Where should I stay in Washington DC?
The sky is the limit! Our nation’s capital is abuzz with vibrant neighborhoods including Adams Morgan, the U Street Corridor, Shaw, NOMA, Brookline, Capitol Riverfront and LGBTQ hub DuPont Circle. Read our complete guide to the District’s most happening ‘hoods here.

LGBTQ pool party | Flick photo by Vito Fun

Are there any other LGBTQ events happening in DC that weekend?
Tons! The Equality March for Unity and Pride coincides with Capital Pride in Washington DC which means there will be plenty to do. A rooftop pool party at VIDA Penthouse Pool & Lounge happens June 8; the Rally for Transgender Equality at Upper Senate Park and the DC Front Runner Pride Run both happen June 9; the Capital Pride Block Party and Pride Parade happen June 10; and Restaurant Urbana is hosting Pride + Shine near the start of the march on June 11. Trust us, you won’t be bored.

What should I do if I’m making a long weekend out of my trip?
DC can be swampy in the summer, so we won’t blame you for wanting to get out of town either before or after the March. The District is located within 75 miles of Shenandoah National Park (click here for a Blueridge Parkway road trip), 100 miles from Virginia Wine Country and only 40 miles from quirky Baltimore. Read all about essential DC overnight adventures right here.

What if I’m traveling elsewhere for Pride Month?
Orbitz has long been committed to the needs of LGBTQ travelers. For vacation guides, travel advice and trends on queer-friendly destinations all over the world, click here.

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Tagged: Washington DC