Downtown Phoenix Inc. Celebrates “Pride in the City” with Purpose

Inclusivity is at the heart of Downtown Phoenix Inc. (DPI), a nonprofit dedicated to shaping a more vibrant, welcoming, and community-driven Downtown. From spotlighting the growth of Black-owned businesses to honoring Hispanic Heritage Month with a culturally rich celebration, DPI is committed to uplifting the voices that make Phoenix a diverse and dynamic city. This Pride Month, that commitment continues with a campaign recognizing LGBTQ+ leaders and changemakers—those paving the way for future generations and fostering allyship through impactful partnerships, including with organizations like ONE Community.

Downtown Phoenix is home to a vibrant network of LGBTQ+- owned businesses—spanning retail, food and beverage, arts, and entertainment—that contribute to the city’s dynamic cultural fabric. Beyond entrepreneurship, Downtown is also shaped by leaders delivering some of Arizona’s most essential and life-changing services. Organizations like Prisma Community Care, which provides affirming healthcare regardless of socio-economic status, and One•n•Ten, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering LGBTQ+ youth through social programs, are pillars of the community. Often on the frontlines, these groups work tirelessly to ensure that funding, resources, and support remain strong. Advocates like Angela Hughey of ONE Community are helping make Phoenix a more inclusive and welcoming city every day. In 2013, ONE Community launched the “Open for Business to Everyone” initiative and began rallying support for the Unity Pledge—now the largest equality pledge in the nation. This Pride Month, and beyond, DPI is proud to partner with ONE Community to raise awareness about the Pledge and spotlight local businesses that are committed to fairness, equity, and inclusion.

“Downtown Phoenix thrives because of the diversity of the people, businesses, and ideas that shape it,” said Devney Majerle, President and CEO of DPI. “Supporting the Unity Pledge is one way we can demonstrate our commitment to equity and inclusion—not just during Pride Month, but every day. It’s our responsibility to help create a Downtown where everyone feels welcome, valued, and empowered to succeed.”

DPI’s Pride campaign spotlights these trailblazers across multiple platforms—including the organization’s website, DTPHX Insider newsletter, and social media channels, which collectively reach over 336,000 followers. Beyond digital storytelling, DPI will host a community-focused event, “Pride in the City,” in partnership with dialog. Taking place Thursday, June 12, from 4 to 7 p.m. at 1001 N. Central Ave., the event will feature live art, music, shopping, and opportunities to connect with the local LGBTQ+ community and its allies. For more information about DPI’s “Pride in the City” Campaign, please visit dtphx.org.