LGBTQ+ Community in D.C. Plans Escapes During Inauguration Weekend

As preparations unfold for the upcoming inauguration of Donald Trump, who is set to become the 47th president of the United States, the city of Washington D.C. is seeing a notable exodus among its LGBTQ+ residents. Trump, known for his controversial stances and rhetoric, will be inaugurated on Monday, with many LGBTQ+ individuals opting to leave the city for the weekend due to concerns about the influx of his supporters.

Nick Gomez, a 27-year-old music director and host of PRIDE Radio, shared his plans to retreat to northern Maryland with friends during this time. Gomez, along with 27 members of his Stonewall Kickball team, intends to spend the weekend away from the anticipated commotion. "It made sense to join some friends on a trip," Gomez explained, highlighting the federal holiday and the desire for a brief escape.

For Gomez, the decision was not made lightly. "I was thinking, ‘What is it going to be like to live in this city while the administration is active outside of just inauguration weekend?’" he noted, expressing concerns about potential tensions associated with the event. "Anything that we can get caught up in on the 19th is just simply not going to be beneficial for queer people in the city, or the city itself."

Voices of Resistance and Retreat

While some, like Gomez, choose to leave, others are determined to stay. Luke Stowell, a 22-year-old assistant music director at the Chevy Chase Presbyterian Church, plans to remain in the city. "I live here. I pay rent here. I’m not going anywhere, just because 650,000 Republicans are coming. This is my home," Stowell affirmed. For Stowell, staying is a form of resistance, a way to claim their space in a city that is predominantly liberal. "I wish that there were a little bit more of a ‘Hey, like, No, we’re actually going to stand our ground,’" they added.

Stowell has, however, considered adjusting their routine to avoid areas expected to be heavily populated by Trump supporters. "They’re saying that there’s a big rally before the inauguration down at Capital One Arena, and that’s actually where my Planet Fitness is," they said, pondering the feasibility of visiting their gym amidst potential crowds.

A Strategic Getaway

For Sam Parker, a 30-year-old political strategist, the inauguration weekend is an opportunity to escape and prioritize personal well-being. "My boyfriend and I are going to Philly for the weekend," Parker shared, reflecting on the last inauguration and his proximity to the event at that time. "I’ve kind of gotten over the idea that there’s some kind of ‘noble aim’ being witness to all this stuff," he remarked, emphasizing mental health over political engagement.

Similarly, Justin Westley and his boyfriend Matt have planned a trip to Boston. "We’re visiting Matt’s sister, who lives up there," Westley said, noting the dual benefits of family connections and political comfort in a predominantly liberal area. Westley echoed Parker's sentiment on prioritizing mental health, stating that "removing myself from the situation felt like the healthiest thing for me."

Celebrations Amidst Uncertainty

Stephen Hayes, a non-profit professional, is also taking advantage of the long holiday weekend. He will celebrate his wedding anniversary in New York, a tradition he and his husband have maintained for years. "I had originally planned to return in time for the inauguration, because I was hopefully optimistic that things would go the other way," Hayes reflected, recalling the initial hope for a different political outcome.

Looking back, Hayes noted the parallels between the current atmosphere and his experience during Trump’s first inauguration. "It feels like there’s a lot of unknown right now," he observed, cautioning the LGBTQ+ community to remain vigilant. "I want to say that queer spaces are safe spaces, but they might be a targeted place," he warned, while expressing optimism that the community will find strength in unity.

As the inauguration approaches, Washington D.C. braces for an influx of visitors and heightened security measures. The Metro system has released information on transportation changes to accommodate the crowds. For those staying in the city, the backdrop of political tension is tempered by the solidarity and resilience of its LGBTQ+ residents.

Whether choosing to stay and resist or to retreat and recharge, the LGBTQ+ community in D.C. is navigating this tumultuous moment with a focus on safety, solidarity, and mental well-being.