Since 2006, Pride & Passion has brought the LGBTQ+ community, allies, artists, patrons, and supporters together to celebrate creativity, connection, and community at the Tampa Museum of Art. What began as a bold and forward-thinking initiative has grown into one of the Museum’s signature events and a lasting tradition in Tampa Bay’s cultural landscape.
The LGBTQ+ community contributes boundless value to the artistic, cultural, and civic life of Tampa Bay and communities around the world. Pride & Passion reflects the Tampa Museum of Art’s commitment to creating a welcoming place where people from all backgrounds can gather, celebrate, learn, and connect through art and shared experiences.
Each year, a committee of volunteers made up of members of the LGBTQ+ community and allies leads the planning and production of Pride & Passion. Their creativity, leadership, and passion for the Museum help transform the event into an unforgettable celebration. The Museum also partners with LGBTQ+ friendly businesses, sponsors, performers, and community organizations whose collaboration and generosity help make Pride & Passion possible year after year.
Pride & Passion directly supports Artful Connections, the Tampa Museum of Art’s art and mental wellness initiative developed in partnership with organizations in the Tampa Bay area that serve individuals of all ages experiencing socio-economic challenges, trauma and stress, social isolation, neurodegenerative conditions and/or memory-related conditions. Through creative expression and guided art experiences, Artful Connections helps participants build confidence, strengthen coping skills, foster social connection, and explore personal growth in a welcoming environment.
Through exhibitions, educational programs, and community partnerships, the Tampa Museum of Art amplifies a wide range of artistic voices and perspectives while encouraging creativity, compassion, and human connection. Pride & Passion stands as both a celebration and a point of pride for the Museum, honoring the people, businesses, and supporters who continue to strengthen a more connected, creative, and welcoming community through the power of art.
History of Pride & Passion at TMA
In 1995, Hillsborough County Commissioners repealed a 1991 ordinance that banned discrimination based on sexual orientation.1 Ten years later, in 2005, opponents of LGBTQ+ rights pushed the county commission further to declare a policy to ban the county from “acknowledging, promoting and participating in Gay Pride recognition and events.”2
In 2005, a group of concerned LGBTQ+ community leaders reached out to the Tampa Museum of Art’s leadership about hosting a private event that would allow the community to convene and celebrate Gay Pride while the public hosted celebrations outside of Hillsborough County. With a resounding yes from the Museum, the LGBTQ+ community partnered with TMA to develop Pride & Passion.
On June 9, 2006, TMA introduced the first-ever Pride & Passion gala, a lively, high-style event designed by a committee of LGBTQ+ community members and allies. The inaugural Pride & Passion event was co-produced by the Tampa Museum of Art, independent public relations consultant Scott Taylor and committee members Carrie Mackin, Scott Moore, Sasha, Eric Siglin and Lorrie White. Guests who attended the first Pride & Passion at the Museum also enjoyed two exhibitions that echoed the themes of diversity and LGBTQ+ contributions to the arts: Keith Haring: Art & Commerce, A Tribute to the Pop Shop and the Family Values Portrait Project.
Aimed at bringing together arts supporters, Pride & Passion also served as a way for the LGBTQ+ community and allies to raise funds that help the Tampa Museum of Art reduce admission barriers and create safe places for people to experience the arts and celebrate local talent.
The LGBTQ+ community played a significant role in reversing the Hillsborough County Gay Pride ban in 2013.1,2 The same community has kept enthusiasm for Pride & Passion growing year after year, making it the Museum’s most popular fundraiser and a favorite event in Downtown Tampa. Each year, this community celebration of diversity is also possible thanks to businesses and individuals who offer financial support, volunteer time, in-kind donations, and discounted services that make each year’s event one of a kind.
The Museum provides year-round opportunities to reflect on and discuss topics that affect marginalized communities. Today, the Tampa Museum of Art is proud to remain a vocal advocate for Gay Pride.
Sources:
- Smith, Nadine. “Equality Means Business.” America, the Owner’s Manual, by Bob Graham and Chri Hand, 2016, p. 177, https://www.socialsciencespace.com/wp-content/uploads/Graham_Ch-7_Equality-Means-Business.pdf.
- Walters, Quincy. “Hillsborough County Ends Ban On Gay Pride Events.” 83Degrees, 6 June 2013, https://www.83degreesmedia.com/features/lgbt060613.aspx.