Austin ISD will host its annual Pride Week from March 18-23, aligning with National LGBTQ+ Health Awareness Week.

Pride Week has been hosted by district officials since 2014 to show support for students, staff and families part of the LGBTQ+ community, officials said.

What’s happening?

Each day of the week will comprise of a different theme and events as follows:

• March 18: “All Are Welcome”
• March 19: “Differences are Awesome”
• March 20: “Austin ISD Shows Respect”
• March 21: “Pride and You—Creative Expression”
• March 22: “Local Pride and Spirit Day”

On March 23, the entire AISD community is invited to the Pride Community Event from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at the AISD Performing Arts Center, 1500 Barbara Jordan Blvd., Austin. The event will include food trucks and performances.

Also of note

The district has received criticism in the past from Texas Republicans for the event.

In 2022, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton sent a letter to the district superintendent at the time, Stephanie Elizalde, referring to the week as “sex education,” which Paxton said parents should be in charge of.

What’s next?

Pride Week will begin March 18, when school resumes from spring break. Parents can find more information on activities for the week at the district’s website, www.austinisd.org.