"Pride is essential in every community — especially now, when the rights of LGBTQIA+ Texans are increasingly under attack," said Commissioner Lesley Briones. “When we learned about the last-minute venue cancellation of Katy Pride, my team and I went to work to find a new home for the event. I will always advocate for equality, and I will always stand with Harris County's LGBTQIA+ community!”

Upon learning of the cancellation, Commissioner Briones immediately stepped in, directing Precinct 4 to coordinate permitting, logistics, and security so Katy Pride could continue in a safe, welcoming public setting.

Katy Pride has grown into a major celebration for LGBTQIA+ families, youth, seniors, veterans, small businesses, and nonprofits across west Harris County. Volunteers and vendors have spent the past year preparing. When the original venue withdrew, community members feared a year of planning would be lost — instead, they received a clear message: their county sees them and will protect their space.

“We are so thankful to Commissioner Lesley Briones for coming in and saving our biggest event of the year! The LGBTQIA+ community needs to know that they matter and are seen. While we are disheartened to hear about the baseless security concerns and public pressure, we are happy that elected officials like Commissioner Briones are fighting back against bullies,” said Kristina Shackelford, Katy Pride’s Director of Pride Celebration.

Since taking office, Commissioner Briones has championed LGBTQIA+ visibility: attending Precinct 4's first Houston Pride 365—where she served as Ally Grand Marshal in 2024, defending the Montrose Pride Crosswalk, and establishing Harris County's first LGBTQIA+ Commission. Saving Katy Pride continues that commitment.

The 3rd Annual Katy Pride Celebration takes place Saturday, October 18, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Bear Creek Pioneers Park.