Thousands Celebrate 38th Annual Washington DC High Heel Race

The 38th annual 17th Street High Heel Race in Washington, D.C., a beloved LGBTQ+ tradition that began in 1986 as a friendly wager between drag queens, drew thousands of spectators to the Dupont Circle neighborhood. Participants donned elaborate costumes and raced in heels, celebrating LGBTQ+ culture with music, drag performances, and live acts, embodying the city's commitment to inclusivity and celebration of the community. The event follows D.C.'s recent successful hosting of WorldPride and continues to showcase the city's vibrant LGBTQ+ scene. Meanwhile, Bet Mishpachah, D.C.'s LGBTQ synagogue, is preparing to celebrate its 50th anniversary, marking decades of support and spiritual home for LGBTQ+ Jews and allies, highlighting the intersection of faith and identity. These events underscore the rich history and ongoing vitality of D.C.'s LGBTQ+ community, reflecting both cultural expression and social support. The community also mourns the recent suicide of Troy Masters, a significant figure in LGBTQ journalism, whose loss has deeply affected those who knew him.