We know that historically, the Michigan Leather Pride Weekend event has required proof of COVID vaccination in order to attend. We know that these changes to our 2026 policy may mean that some attendees who felt safe to attend in the past will no longer feel that way. We understand your decision and we support your individual decision-making when it comes to COVID risk.
However, for 2026, there will be no vaccination proof required to attend the event. We would request that individuals who have not been boosted in the last 12 months to please wear a K94 or equivalent mask while indoors at the event. We are making this change for a few reasons:
There have been consistently low rates of COVID over the last year in the Midwest, based on routine wastewater testing;
The continued destruction of our public health infrastructure by the second Trump administration make it deeply uncertain as to whether a fall 2026 COVID booster will be manufactured or made available to the public generally;
The anticipated loss of medical insurance coverage for many people, due to cuts in Medicaid or job loss due to economic depression, would likely make vaccination unaffordable.
Masking with a KN94 or equivalent continues to be encouraged for everyone, to protect vulnerable folks in our communities. We would still strongly encourage everyone to get their fall 2026 COVID booster, if available, in order to make the event a safer space for everyone.
If you are having any symptoms of respiratory illness (sniffles, coughing, runny nose, fever, etc.), even if you think they are just allergies, we ask that you please stay home. Refunds are available upon request due to illness, just email us at admin@michiganleatherpride.org.