Shakira cancels World Pride performance over technical difficulties

In the United States, the anticipated kickoff concert for World Pride 2025, scheduled for May 31, 2025, at Nationals Park in Washington, D.C., faced a setback when headlining performer Shakira canceled her appearance due to unforeseen equipment difficulties. This cancellation is particularly significant as it occurred just a day before the event, leading to deep disappointment among both the organizers and the fans who were looking forward to her performance. The Capital Pride Alliance, the primary organizer of World Pride, cited complications arising from equipment issues that had previously affected Shakira’s concert in Boston at Fenway Park, which also had to be canceled just hours before it was supposed to start. Notably, Shakira's entire tour production could not be transported to Washington in time, prompting the cancellation amid immense logistical challenges. The Capital Pride Alliance expressed their disappointment in a public statement, emphasizing their commitment to the event and announcing that updates regarding the relocated opening ceremony would soon be provided. Despite this setback, the Alliance reassured participants that other planned citywide events for opening weekend would continue as scheduled. This cancellation represents a challenge that the organizing body did not anticipate, yet it is crucial to note that it is not political in nature, unlike the broader concerns surrounding international attendance. The concern regarding attendance stems from President Donald Trump's policies, which have sparked fear and boycotts among international LGBTQ+ organizations, further complicating the event's atmosphere. The anticipation for World Pride was already affected by these ongoing socio-political issues, as many potential international attendees have expressed reluctance to travel to the U.S. due to fears of harassment or difficulties related to entry policies, particularly concerning trans and non-binary individuals. This dynamic has been fueled by warnings issued by organizations like Eagle Canada and the African Human Rights Coalition, who cautioned individuals against traveling to the U.S. amid ongoing political discourse regarding LGBTQ+ rights. Despite these hurdles, some community members are rallying support for increased domestic participation to ensure significant attendance at the events. Capital Pride Alliance's executive director, Ryan Bos, noted that enhanced security measures would be implemented for the final two-day concert on Pennsylvania Avenue, signaling ongoing efforts to maintain safety and prominence during the event. While early hotel reservations were reported to be lower than the previous year, recent statements from Destination D.C. indicated a last-minute surge in interest from the national community, perhaps ignited by the concerning international attendance numbers. This spike suggests that local and national mobilization efforts may help in achieving a successful turnout for the planned festivities, despite the earlier challenges posed by Shakira's cancellation and the current political climate surrounding LGBTQ+ rights.