A Journey Through Hosting Pride: DeMarcio Slaughter Reflects on Two Decades of Growth

For two decades, DeMarcio Slaughter has worked at the heart of Denver PrideFest, both as an emcee and entertainment coordinator for Center Stage. His commitment to curating inclusive, high-energy performances has transformed Denver PrideFest into a vibrant celebration of identity and community. DeMarcio’s unique approach to hosting infuses entertainment with heartfelt connection and has helped foster a welcoming space for attendees of all backgrounds. His efforts have not only elevated the event’s visibility but have also played a pivotal role in creating an atmosphere where people feel seen, celebrated, and safe.

The Early Years: A Different Time for Pride

“I remember going to my first Pride in ’96 or ’97,” Slaughter reminisces. “It was a different time—being able to be openly gay was still so new, and there was a lot of work behind the scenes.” Before Slaughter took over as the host of Center Stage, he had been a part of the Denver Pride’s parade, even helping drag queens prepare floats.

In 2004, DeMarcio Slaughter’s journey with Denver Pride began somewhat unexpectedly. “I was helping out other drag queens who were in charge of the stage,” he recalls. “They asked me to emcee, and I ended up on stage for maybe an hour.” It was a brief but impactful moment for DeMarcio, one that marked the beginning of a two-decade-long commitment to the event. By 2006, he had taken on a larger role, transitioning from a stand-in emcee to an essential figure in shaping the event’s entertainment lineup.

Back then, Pride’s entertainment offerings were local and did not include headliners.

“They hadn’t sought out a professional performer or someone well-known,” DeMarcio explains. “It was very local—drag queens from the community, some of the best bands in Colorado.” This local flavor certainly had its charm, but DeMarcio saw an opportunity to take things to the next level. And so, in 2006, he took a risk and brought in his first headliner: CeCe Peniston.

That move wasn’t without its challenges. With only a $1,500 budget for the entire day, DeMarcio had to get creative to fund Peniston’s $5,000 fee. “I went door-to-door to gay businesses, asking them for $100 or $200 to help cover costs. It was bold, but it worked!” DeMarcio smiles. That year marked a shift from then on with how Denver Pride approached its entertainment.

Building a Vision for Pride: Diversity and Entertainment

Over the years, DeMarcio’s vision for Pride began to take shape. From the start, he knew that he didn’t want the entertainment to be solely about drag performances.

“I didn’t want a six-hour drag show. I wanted variety. I remember saying I wanted it to be like The Muppet Show, and I wanted to be Kermit the Frog, surrounded by all these fun, unique characters.”

Diversity was also crucial for DeMarcio, especially in a city like Denver. “Denver’s not known for its diversity, and I wanted to showcase performers of different backgrounds,” he shares. “My first year, I was very intentional about alternating Black and white performers on the lineup. CeCe Peniston was Black, Tiffany was white, Martha Wash was Black—it was about ensuring that the stage reflected a mix of identities.”

DeMarcio’s approach was ahead of its time, even if he didn’t realize it. “When I started, the word ‘intersectionality’ didn’t exist yet. It was ‘gay and lesbian.’ The ‘BT’ came in a few years later,” he recalls. But his focus on representing the full spectrum of the LGBTQ+ community—and beyond—remained constant. “I wanted to create a show that was entertaining for everyone. People were standing out in 90-degree heat, shoulder to shoulder, with no shade. I wanted to make sure they stayed and had fun.”

The Emotional Impact: A Host’s Responsibility

A significant realization Slaughter has experienced over the years is how Pride is such a safe environment for LGBTQ+ individuals. “Someone recently told me it’s a safe space, and I never thought of it that way,” Slaughter says, reflecting on his years of hosting. “I’m just thinking about how to entertain these people in the heat. But now I realize people are coming because they feel safe, where they can be themselves.”

One of the most profound aspects of Slaughter’s role as host is the emotional connection he builds with the audience, which hadevolved into something far greater than he ever anticipated. “I see everyone in the crowd—I see the signs, the costumes, the rainbow flags. I try to talk to as many people as I can because I want them to feel seen.” He shares a moving story about an audience member who sent him a message after Pride, saying that Slaughter’s compliment on their outfit had saved their life. “They felt so alone, but because of something I said, they felt like they could go on another day.”

“When I started, I just wanted to create a fun show. I didn’t realize that I’d become a part of people’s memories—their first Prides, first dates, even marriage proposals. It’s an honor I don’t take lightly.”

Looking Forward: Pride’s Lasting Legacy

As DeMarcio looks toward the future, he’s proud of how far Pride has come, even as it continues to evolve. His role may have changed over the years, but his dedication to creating an entertaining and inclusive environment for all attendees remains as strong as ever. “I’ve always done this for The Center because it’s important to me,” he says. “Pride is more than just a party—it’s about community, representation, and giving back.”

Pride has grown exponentially in the 20 years since Slaughter first took the mic, and his contribution to that growth is undeniable. As a host and advocate, Slaughter has helped transform Denver’s Pride festival into a beacon of celebration and safety for all who attend.