Janelle Monáe and Billy Porter Lead NYC Pride's Virtual Celebration for 2020

From Harper's BAZAAR

• Janelle Monáe and Billy Porter both took part in this year's NYC Pride event, which took place virtually on account of the coronavirus pandemic.
  

• Porter appeared with global cast members from Kinky Boots the musical, and fellow original stars Stark Sands and Annaleigh Ashford.

• Monáe performed her track "Cold War."

The coronavirus pandemic has forced a plethora of 2020 events to move online, and that includes NYC Pride.

While in-person events are still a long way away, NYC Pride 2020 took place virtually, and was supported by some major celebrities. Per its website, NYC Pride 2020 aims to "virtually advocate, educate, and celebrate for an inclusive and equal future without discrimination."

Janelle Monáe joined NYC Pride to perform her track "Cold War" in front of a Black Lives Matter video, featuring protest footage, photos of George Floyd, and racist statues being removed. Her incredible performance was a call to action.

Meanwhile, Billy Porter joined in with Pride by reuniting with former Kinky Boots cast mates, Stark Sands and Annaleigh Ashford. The trio was joined by performers from around the world for a rendition of the musical's hit song, "Raise You Up."

Porter also took to Instagram to show his support for the San Francisco AIDS Foundation and the Los Angeles LGBTQ Center. He wrote, "Y'all, #pride is a bit different this year, however, it's as important as ever to embrace and support our community. Our Black communities are disproportionately impacted by AIDS/HIV and do not have the same access to healthcare as white communities, which is why I'm helping to raise money for the San Francisco AIDS Foundation and the Los Angeles LGBTQ Center. You can help by going to AIDSLifeCycle.org and clicking on the "donate" button. Any amount helps. 🏳️🌈 On behalf of @HBO and #HumanByOrientation #HBOpartner."

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