2022 Portland Pride Parade Grand Marshal

Pride Northwest is honored and excited to announce Bolivia Carmichaels as

Grand Marshal for the 2022 Portland Pride Parade!

Bolivia Carmichaels has long been an LGBTQIA2S+ community treasure, particularly in the Portland metro area. Brainchild of lifelong Portlander Daniel Elliott, “Bolivia” was born at the famed City Nightclub in 1994. Since that time, she has become one of the most respected and talented drag performers in Portland, and beyond. Whether hosting at the Embers Avenue nightclub or CC Slaughters, a cast member at Darcelle XV & Co, or headlining at Bally’s Indigo Lounge in Las Vegas, Bolivia’s talent is clear. Whether breaking fundraising records for The Sweethearts of Portland or presenting to and mentoring high school and college students, Bolivia’s joy in performing and love of community has long been apparent.

It is that love of community that truly shone through when crisis hit our region. When the COVID-19 pandemic swept into Portland in March of 2020, Bolivia jumped into action. At a time when her own livelihood was directly threatened by the pandemic shutdowns, she put community at the center. Recognizing the very real isolation looming over our people, in addition to free-to-the-public weekly virtual shows, Bolivia launched a series of traveling performances, Bolivia Carmichaels’ Road Show, across the Portland metro region. North and south, east to west, crowd size was of no concern. Performing in streets, parking lots, and cul-de-sacs, Bolivia hit the road, often multiple shows a day. Wherever invited, Bolivia showed up, bringing smiles and connection during some really dark times. Such generosity with her time and talent was of no surprise to many but is deeply appreciated.

Pride Northwest is honored to recognize Bolivia Carmichaels’ contributions to our community and to have her as the 2022 Portland Pride Parade Grand Marshal!