August 1, 2025

Dear Carrie West,

The Tampa Pride Board regrets to inform you that your employment contract with Tampa Pride will conclude on August 31, 2025. Currently, we are unable to renew your contract.

The current political and economic climate, including challenges with corporate sponsorships, reductions in county, state and federal grant funding, and the discontinuation of DEI programs under Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, has made it increasingly difficult for our organization to sustain ongoing operations for 2026.

Due to these challenges, the Board has made the difficult decision to implement a one-year hiatus of the annual Tampa Pride Festival and Diversity Parade and all the affiliated Tampa Pride events. We recognize the festival and parade’s significant financial contribution to local businesses and its vital role to our LGBTQIA+ community. However, this pause is necessary for the organization to regroup, reassess our long-term strategy, and identify additional avenues of
funding to secure the future stability of Tampa Pride events.

Carrie, your remarkable dedication and unwavering service as President of Tampa Pride over the past 12 years have been deeply valued. The Board, Directors, committee members, and the community are profoundly grateful for your tireless efforts and leadership, which have left a lasting impact on our organization and the many events you have brought to the city and county that had showcased our unique inclusive area across the country.

On behalf of the Board, Thank You for all your commitment and contributions throughout your tenure as a remarkably devoted community individual and leader.

Sincerely,
The Board of Tampa Pride