ABOVE: Tampa Pride’s 2023 grand marshals. Photos via Tampa Pride.
TAMPA | Tampa Pride has officially announced the grand marshals for their upcoming ninth celebration, scheduled for an Ybor return March 25.
As it has in previous years, Tampa Pride solicited supporters to nominate grand marshals in multiple categories. Organizers sought suggestions for a grand couple, trailblazer and more, nominations which closed Jan. 4.
“Tampa Pride would like to formally introduce our grand marshals for Tampa Pride 2023,” the organization’s board announced Jan. 25. “Each individual has shown amazing support for the LGBTQIA+ community, enough so that our fellow community members nominated them to receive this recognition. These are the community’s top nominations this year.”
This year’s honorees include five individuals and one organization. They are Grand Marshal Chuck Henson, former Spectrum News 9 traffic expert and anchor; Grand Couple Michael Wilson and Chou Chou Guilder, managers of Southern Nights Tampa and celebrated entertainer Esme Russell, who will serve as Tampa Pride trailblazer.
CAN Community Health CEO and President Dr. Rishi Patel is this year’s recognized community leader, while Southern Nights Tampa is this year’s recognized community business.
Ahead of the formal announcement, Tampa Pride shared the news via social media.
“Please join us in congratulating the 2023 Grand Marshals! The community is built on individuals who make a difference and we are proud to celebrate this group,” the organization wrote Jan. 23. “We received many nominations for very worthy individuals and businesses. Thank you for your submissions and let’s continue to support our community and support our LGBTQIA+ businesses.”
View a photo gallery via Tampa Pride below.
Planning for Tampa Pride 2023 is well underway and organizers are still seeking sponsorships and entertainment. For more information, visit TampaPride.org.
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