San Diego Pride cuts staff, rethinks July events amid financial crisis

San Diego Pride is facing a financial crisis that has led to significant organizational changes, according to the Times of San Diego. The organization is preparing to cut its staff from 14 to three part-time employees starting in November, as part of efforts to manage its funding woes.

The current executive director, KishaLynn Elliott, who is the first Black lesbian to lead the organization, is leaving on November 6, largely due to financial reasons. This marks the seventh executive director departure in the last three years for San Diego Pride.

The volunteer board is shifting from a governance role to handling operational duties as staff members leave. During a recent community listening session, the board described the existing model of the flagship July events as unsustainable, especially the large music festival in Balboa Park that serves as a major fundraiser.

In 2026, costs for permits tripled, and fees for police and fire services increased, with the city declining to reduce these fees amid its own budget issues. Additionally, attendance dropped during the July events, reducing revenue from concessions, which further strained the organization's finances.

The board has not yet detailed what the 2027 parade and festival will look like but indicated that the current model is no longer feasible under the financial constraints faced by San Diego Pride.