DC Black Pride 2025 to Kick Off with Opening Reception Featuring Iniko, TS Madison, Kerri Colby & Many More

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Officially one month away! The highly anticipated DC Black Pride 2025 will kick off at the Opening Reception on Friday, May 23, 2025 at 5:00pm at the Capital Hilton. This marquee event, an official World Pride partner celebration sponsored by ViiV Healthcare, will launch an awesome weekend of empowerment, entertainment, and community. Prepare yourselves for an unforgettable experience! 

Hosted by award winning comedian Anthony Oakes, the Opening Reception will feature a premier list of talent, dynamic performances, special guests, and exclusive giveaways, including a must see performance by viral music sensation, Iniko. 

At the forefront of the evening’s entertainment is the genre defying Iniko, whose viral hit “The King’s Affirmation” enthralled audiences worldwide. With their otherworldly vocals, evocative lyricism, and magnetic presence, Iniko has become a force in modern music, blending elements of soul, alternative, and Afrofuturism to create their own sound that is both haunting and empowering. 

Their performance at DC Black Pride 2025 promises to deliver a soul stirring experience, setting the tone for an inspiring and electrifying weekend. 

STAR-STUDDED LINEUP 

• TS-Madison – Media mogul, actress, and trans rights icon known for her groundbreaking reality series TS Madison Experience and judge appearances on RuPaul’s Drag Race 

• Monroe Alise – Actress, LGBTQ+ advocate, and social media sensation recognized for her raw and authentic storytelling 

• Kerri Colby – RuPaul’s Drag Race star and trans trailblazer celebrated for her advocacy and stunning artistry 

MUSICAL PERFORMANCES 

• Lolita Leopard – Genre defying rap artist delivering high energy and unapologetic performances 

• Lyrical Mar – Soulful singer-songwriter known for emotive and powerful vocals 

• Bang Garçon – Rising artist with infectious beats and captivating stage presence 

ADDITIONAL ENTERTAINMENT

• Comedy sets from Heath Mahogany and Apple Brown Betty, promising a night of laughter and bold humor 

• Spoken word performance by Ink, whose powerful poetry explores themes of identity, love, and resilience 

EXCLUSIVE GIVEAWAYS & PRIZES 

Alongside the celebration, attendees will have the opportunity to win exclusive prizes

• A raffle for two tickets to either the monumental Janelle Monáe & Grace Jones concert or Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter Tour 

• Additional raffles and giveaways throughout the night 

• Weekend Party Pass Distribution will also take place on-site, granting attendees access to more DC Black Pride events 

• The first 500 guests will receive a complementary drink ticket to toast the beginning of an incredible Pride weekend 

Altogether, the DC Black Pride 2025 Opening Reception is a can't-miss event that brings together LGBTQ+ community members, allies, activists, and entertainers to celebrate culture, identity, and resilience. As an official World Pride marquee event, the Opening Reception serves as a powerful kickoff to a historic Pride weekend. 

For more information and to register, visit dcblackpride.org