This weekend is Pride in NYC, but due to the coronavirus pandemic, the LGBTQ+ community has been forced to raise their flags virtually.  The joyous parades and powerful political demonstrations are being held online.

For the most part, everyone in the LGBTQ+ community appears to be on board.

“As of today, 23 states are seeing an increase in COVID-19 cases,” says out artist Michael Fairman.  “While disheartening that we cannot celebrate who we are in large festival crowds or clubs this year, and spiritually, it’s a letdown, after being cooped up inside for months, it’s best to take precautions.”

David Hernandez, best known for competing on season 7 of American Idol, says he hasn’t heard anyone in the community complaining about it. He also believes the cancellations go beyond COVID-19.  They are a sign of the times.

“I think our attention is needed elsewhere. Black lives continue to be in danger and the protests should not be a moment but a movement.  I’ve seen a lot of my LGBTQ+ community marching for Black Lives Matter and standing next to our black brothers and sisters in solidarity.”

Michael Fairman agrees.  “I have been glad to see so many in the LGBTQ+ community take this time to lend their support for another extremely important movement in our culture, because, yes, Black Lives Matter.”

Artists like Fairman and Hernandez are taking a financial hit as they usually make their money this time of year, performing live Pride stages.  They are taking the new reality in stride.  

Fairman goes as far as to say he appreciates that the pandemic has forced him and other artists to find new ways to create while the recording studios and production facilities were shut down.  He and Hernandez have produced at-home music videos during their time in quarantine.

Additionally, Fairman appreciates the worldwide exposure he is receiving from the virtual pride events he has performed in.

Both men are included in the line-up for this weekend’s GET IN pride show, benefitting homeless LGBTQ+ youth affected by COVID 19.  The event takes place this Friday, June 26 at 8pm on Youtube.  Hernandez will join TV actress Jacqueline Lord, performing a cover of the classic Pride anthem, “True Colors”.  Fairman will perform a cover of a Dua Lipa song.

“(These) virtual Prides are keeping the spirit of Pride alive,” Michael Fairman contends.  “While we may be more isolated than we ever have been before, kudos to the LGBTQ+ community for finding a way to keep our celebration going even through these most challenging of times.”