NPR Pride Rally 2025

Members of Nepal’s LGBTQ+ community, along with supporters, gathered in Kathmandu for an engaging Pride rally on Sunday, marking the first such event since significant funding cuts impacted support services following the cessation of U.S. government aid. Hundreds participated, celebrating in vibrant tradition during the Gai Jatra festival, a time to honor deceased loved ones.

The LGBTQ+ campaign in Nepal has faced challenges since the Trump administration’s decision to downsize initiatives by the U.S. Agency for International Development, critical for humanitarian assistance. Past U.S. funding was essential for operating support centers that provided vital health services, including HIV prevention and counseling. Currently, these offices are closed.

“Due to funding cuts, many of our services have been severely impacted. However, we remain hopeful for alternative sources of support to restart these services,” said LGBTQ+ rights activist Simran Sherchan.

Pride Rally 2025