As an LGBTQ+ association based in the heart of Gran Canaria’s queer life, GLAY (Gay and Lesbian Associates of Yumbo) has played a central role in the development of Pride in Maspalomas from the very beginning. And as we look ahead to 2026, which marks the 25th anniversary of both Maspalomas Pride and GLAY, we believe the time has come to speak openly – and constructively – about the future of this event.

A recent article in Canarias7 reports that the current semi-commercial organizer is considering shortening the duration of Pride due to a decline in sponsorships and rising organizational challenges. But from our perspective, this is not an isolated issue — it’s part of a broader pattern: a growing disconnect between the Pride organization and the very community it is meant to represent.

From community-led celebration to commercial competition?

In recent years, more and more Pride events have been moved outside the Yumbo Center — a space that has long served as the cultural and social heart of LGBTQ+ life in Maspalomas. At the same time, the official program at the central stage within the Yumbo has been significantly reduced. What we are witnessing is a shift away from inclusion and accessibility — toward fragmentation and profit-driven programming.

Meanwhile, local LGBTQ+ businesses in the Yumbo are still expected to sponsor the event — even as the organizer increasingly competes with them by hosting events elsewhere. This contradiction is not sustainable.

GLAY’s role – then and now

GLAY founded Maspalomas Pride in 2001, with a clear mission: to promote LGBTQ+ visibility, connection, and solidarity. We organized the event until 2015. Since then, we have consistently offered our expertise and support to the new organizing body. Every year, we have reached out. Every year, we have been declined.

But with the 25th anniversary approaching in 2026, we are once again stepping forward — publicly and with conviction.

“The current organizer is increasingly distancing itself from the LGBTQ+ community and the businesses that helped build this Pride. For years, GLAY has offered its support – always sincerely, and always declined. On the occasion of this double anniversary, we’re saying clearly: we are ready to contribute our knowledge and experience. But this event must once again belong to the community.”
– André van Wanrooij, President of GLAY

Our vision: Inclusion, not nostalgia

We are not calling for a return to the past. Pride must continue to evolve. But that evolution should be rooted in shared values, community participation, and local inclusion. We believe it is time to rethink the structure and direction of the event — together.

That means involving local LGBTQ+ people, organizations, and queer-owned businesses in real decision-making processes. It means creating space for diverse voices, and recognizing that Pride is not just an economic opportunity — it’s a statement of identity, visibility, and resilience.

2026 can be a new beginning

Next year’s 25th anniversary holds powerful symbolic meaning. It offers us not only a moment to celebrate what Pride has achieved — but also an opportunity to correct course and rebuild a sense of ownership and belonging.

GLAY is ready. Ready to listen. Ready to contribute. Ready to help create a Pride that truly reflects our community — its history, its diversity, and its future.

Let’s make 2026 a turning point.
Let’s bring Pride back to the people.

Share your thoughts on this year´s GayPride with us: https://glaymaspalomas.org/survey-gay-pride-2025/