Grand Marshal Named For 2024 Palm Springs Pride Parade

PALM SPRINGS, CA — Local artist Aaron Allen Marner was selected as grand marshal for the upcoming 2024 Pride Parade, Greater Palm Springs Pride announced Monday.

Marner, originally from Phoenix, is a Palm Springs resident whose portraits and collages often touch upon themes relevant to the LGBTQ+ community, such as social justice, mental health, racial inequality and HIV prevention, according to city officials.

The parade, scheduled for Nov. 3, marks the conclusion of 2024 Pride Week, which carries the theme of "Be You." Events are set to take place downtown and in the Arenas District throughout a four-day stretch.

"Pride is a celebration of love, diversity and equality, and I am proud to be a part of such an important event," Marner said in a statement. "I hope my artwork can inspire others to embrace their true selves and to fight for a more just and equitable world."

Marner has showcased works in galleries across the nation, also acquiring notoriety for large-scale murals and public art installations.

Greater Palm Springs Pride officials said that his "commitment to using his art as a platform for social change" was parallel to the organization's mission.

"Aaron Allen Marner is a true artist and a powerful voice in our community," said Ron deHarte, president and CEO of Greater Palm Springs Pride, in a statement. "His work inspires and challenges us, and we are excited to honor him as our Grand Marshal."