2.5 weeks until Pride! Announcing more Performers at Suisun Pride! We love our Sponsors! Pre-Pride Drag Show Set! Support your Local LGBTQIA2S+ Center... | | |
Dear Friends,
We are so pleased to announce that we will have the three cultural dance and music groups joining us again, making Suisun Pride the place to experience family friendly musical and cultural diversity! Also, put the Pre-Pride Drag Show on your calendar now! You may even want to get reservations at an area hotel or motel to "Make a Weekend of it!" See more ideas below.
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Ballet Folklorico Netzahualcoyotl
This cultural dance group is focused on achieving exceptional standards of dance. We believe in nurturing creativity and artistic development and offer a warm and positive environment to foster the growth that all dancers want and need. Reach out today to learn more about the classes we offer and how to get involved. Since 1996. Netzahualcoyotl Vidal, known as “Maestro Netza,” born in Nayarit, México. Trained as a professional dancer, and dancing in some of the most prestigious folklorico groups in México. He says, "I've been instructing students of all ages, and performing in theaters and community events throughout the Bay Area. Our mission is to empower the community and to educate the general public by providing a greater understanding and appreciation for Mexican culture and folklore through music, dance, and traditional art forms."
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Kashinoki Taiko is a local Japanese drumming group based in the Suisun City and Fairfield area of Solano County, known for high-energy performances at community events like the Suisun Pride Festival and Fairfield's July 4th parade. They are associated with local,, educational, and cultural performances, often appearing at the Nelson Center in Suisun City. The group performed at the 2025 Suisun Pride event at Harbor Plaza. They won the Sweepstakes & Band Category in the 2025 Fairfield Independence Day Paradeand were honored at a City Council meeting in December 2025. Taiko drumming classes are offered at the Nelson Center (611 Village Dr, Suisun City) on Tuesdays, covering all skill levels.
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Te Mana O Te Ra, Tahitian Dance Company. Lisa Aguilar is the Ra’atira Pupu (Director) and Choreographer for the East Bay-based Tahitian Dance Company. Lisa is working with her third generation of dancers, continuing to embody the beauty of Tahitian dance forms as she has for nearly 40 years, 20 of those with Te Mana O Te Ra. With her husband Rey, who serves the company as its Musical Director, Te Mana O Te Ra has become one of the most well-regarded and powerful Bay Area dance companies sustaining ‘ote’a—the Tahitian dance noted for its quick, rhythmic hip movement that is maintained throughout a series of group formations and additional choreography.
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Adrienne LaCielo is honored to return to Suisun Pride as one of your esteemed Mistresses of Ceremonies! She’s been involved in the event since its inception and is known for her high-energy dancing, lip syncing, live vocals, and original music. You can see her dancing on “The Upshaws,” on Netflix, Keke Palmer’s “Bottoms Up 2.0,” KeyTV’s “Cuzzin M” and more! As a proud UC Irvine Vocal Performance graduate, Adrienne is ecstatic to present “Adrienne’s Draguation: Homecoming” at the Downtown Theatre in Fairfield, CA on August 15th at 7 pm. Adrienne’s Draguation celebrates stunning local drag while raising funds for local youth theatre programs!
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Bella Aldama was born in Guadalajara, Mexico, and began her drag journey 16 years ago with the goal of uplifting and representing the LGBTQIA+ Spanish-speaking community. She launched her career at the iconic Esta Noche Night Club in San Francisco, creating spaces filled with culture, empowerment, and visibility.
Bella has performed at a variety of LGBTQ+ bars, restaurants, and community events throughout the Bay Area, including Club 1220, The Port Bar, Que Rico, and Beaux. She has also hosted and performed at numerous Pride celebrations, including Benicia, Concord, Clayton, Suisun, Richmond, San Mateo and San Francisco and more.
Passionate about community engagement and youth empowerment, Bella has organized and performed at over 50 Drag Queen Story Hour events across counties such as, Contra Costa, Sacramento, Solano, Alameda, and San Francisco. Through her work, Bella Aldama hopes to inspire future drag performers and community leaders by bringing people together, celebrating authenticity, and supporting those in need
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Meet Angel Fox — an upcoming trans artist from Oakland, California, bringing confidence, authenticity, and raw energy to every stage she touches. Known for her bold personality and growing presence in music and entertainment, Angel Fox is building a name for herself through her fearless artistry, unique style, and dedication to representing her community. She continues to expand her platform while connecting with audiences through music, performances, and media appearances.
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Fae Tality is an Alternative Trans drag performer based in bay area California. Fae strives to blur the lines between horror and glamour, spooky and sexy and showing that theres not one way to do drag. She performs all around the state and has two of her own shows supporting queer non profit organizations. And shes here to turn it out!
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Excalibur. With a passion for authenticity and a willingness to stand out, Bay Area rapper, producer and poet Excalibur, breathes life through his art. Born in Vallejo, California, but a native of Suisun City, Excalibur began his artistic journey at fifteen writing rap verses and short stories. In 2019 he became a member of MADDRAMA Performance Troupe and Outspoken Arts Collective during his collegiate journey at Jackson State University. Now a masters graduate of UC Berkeley, he performs across the Bay Area as the first ever Poet Laureate of Suisun City.
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More Drag Performers to be
announced Next Week!
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We Love our Sponsors!
- Office of Assemblywoman Lori Wilson
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Episcopal Churches of Solano County (Church of the Ascension, Vallejo; St. Paul’s Episcopal, Benicia; Grace Episcopal, Fairfield; Church of the Epiphany, Vacaville)
- Cassandra James for Supervisor
- Community Congregational Church of Benicia, UCC
- Unity of the Valley Spiritual Center
- Wanda Williams for Supervisor
- John Garamendi for Congress
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Mark Porter, Financial Planner (Porter, Ritchie and Associates Ameriprise Financial Services , LLC Maek Anthony Porter Private Wealth Advisor)
- Planned Parenthood Northern California
- Community Presbyterian Church, Vallejo
- The Jelly Belly Candy Company
- City of Suisun City: Recreation, Parks and Marina Department, Suisun City
- Solano County Public Health and Behavioral Health
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If you are hungry, please drop by our lobby and take what you need. Or, if you have something to donate, you can drop by bags of unperishable food for others. The lobby will be open, even while the Center won't be if you need to stop by and grab something to eat. If you need more resources, please look at the very bottom of this email for where you can get food or help. See more resources at the bottom of the email. There's a large bag of dog food for anyone who needs food for their pet.
| Drag & Regional events lower in the email... | Like other LGBTQIA2S+ Centers, We Need Your Financial Support! Keep your Local Center Open by giving today! | |
Can you spare a few dollars to help keep the Center open during these trying times? LGBTQIA2S+ Centers across the state are experiencing a drop in donations, and your support is crucial to help us continue delivering the life-saving services our community depends on. We've even put all of our donation and Pride links in the same place above!
We are recognizing that the uncertainty since Trump returned to office has definitely affected giving for our life-sustaining programs. If you are in a place to share financially right now, we definitely need your help right now. You can even set up a monthly donation of as little as $5 a month, which helps us more than you can know.
If you are giving to our General Fund to support all of our programming, you can give through our portal on Zeffy at https://tinyurl.com/Give2SolanoPride. Or, you can check out our new Donations Page, with links to Pride Sponsorships, and Regular Giving here: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/organizations/solano-pride-center. Donate today!
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Will McGarvey
he/they
Executive Director
Solano Pride Center
will@solanopride.org
| 2026 Suisun Pride Updates! | |
This year we've updated our website to include www.suisunpride.com for our May 31st Suisun Pride Festival!
We are pleased to be able to announce that Adrienne LaCielo & Bella Aldama will be our Mistresses of Ceremonies!
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If you want to place an advertisement in our Digital Program at Suisun Pride, please email aaron@suisunpride.com to submit your 1/4, 1/2 or full page ad! Included for sponsors, but anyone can submit an ad, whether a retailer, or someone who couldn't be there that day. Full size ad is 9:16 so it fits a phone screen and we will have qr codes all over for folx to see what is coming up next, and who our Sponsors are!
Want to help with Pride?
We have publicity Posters, Flyers, and Postcards available to help publicize Pride. You can stop by the Center between 8 am and 5 pm Monday to Friday to pick any up to share at your business, congregation or clubs!
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Sponsorship and booths, food booth, or performers have been confirmed for Suisun Pride. Email will@solanopride.org if you want to sign up still.
More updates on the way! Save the night of Saturday, May 30th for our Pre-Pride Drag & Comedy Show in Suisun City!
Can you help us get the word out on FB? Share this link for the event!
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Our next Volunteer Training will be scheduled for Thursday, May 14th at 6 pm on zoom. If you are interested in volunteering, just for special events or on a more regular basis at the Center, please email cristina@solanopride.org with the best times that work for you to be trained. These trainings are necessary for anyone who wishes to volunteer at the Center, in one of our Programs, or even for short term events like our Teen and Adult Proms and June 1st Pride celebration being planned now! Don't miss this informative background on how to help, knowing our best practices and Community Agreements! Parents and youth who want to work with the Youth Department, please contact trystan@solanopride.org.
Volunteering: https://www.solanopride.org/volunteering/
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We are in the midst of putting together another Pre-Pride Drag Show at Lucy's Bar & Lounge across the street from where we will celebrate Pride the next day! Amelia Need Moore is organizing the Drag for the night, and Eli, the new owner of Lucy's has promised to keep the drinks flowing!
Save the date! Saturday, May 30th from 8-11 pm at Lucy's Bar & Lounge, 605 Main Street, Suisun City!
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We've also updated our list of Gay and LGBTQ+ owned and friendly businesses in the region for folx to be able to make a weekend of Suisun Pride!
We heard of families and friend groups coming to Suisun Pride by Train, Ferry or driving to make it a weekend the last couple of years. You can walk to a hotel from the Capitol Corridor Amtrak train! You can grab a Lyft from the Vallejo Ferry to Suisun, and party all weekend! Lots to do, wine to drink, and play to have! We hope to have shuttles for parking to announce soon as well! If you have any other businesses that wish to be listed, please send them to sponsors@suisunpride.com. Download the file as a pdf here.
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Pride Proclamations!
• Rio Vista that we will be given the Pride Proclamation this year on Tuesday, May 19th at their 6 pm meeting at City Hall, 1 Main Street, Rio Vista, CA.
• Vallejo City Council Proclamation, May 26th at 7 pm. Vallejo City Hall. 555 Santa Clara St., Vallejo.
• Benicia City Council meeting Tuesday, June 2 at 6 pm, Benicia City Hall, 250 E. L St., Benicia.
• Suisun City Council Meeting, Tuesday, June 16th at 6 pm. They will have it also available for the Suisun Pride event on May 31st.
Pride Flag Raisings confirmed!
• Vacaville Flag Raising: Monday, June 1st at 8 am, at the three flagpoles, 720 E. Monte Vista Avenue, Vacaville
• City of Vallejo Pride Flag Raising – Monday, June 1st at 10 am. 555 Santa Clara St., Vallejo.
• County Flag Raising: Monday, June 1st at 12:45 pm, 675 Travis St., Fairfield.
• Benicia Flag raising on Thursday, June 4th at 9 am. Benicia City Hall, 250 E. L St., Benicia.
More cities to be confirmed.
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Stephan's Corner
Dear Solano Pride Community,
One of the hardest things about being Queer, is growing up without much knowledge that gender and sexual orientation diversity has always been part of human diversity.
Strategic erasure like what we have been seeing real time, is what causes that vacuum of initial isolation. This causes a lot of trauma for us as we grow up and hopefully we begin to heal when we find each other and places like Solano Pride Center where we are welcome as we are. We also know that this isolation and societal imposed shame, can be bad for us and unfortunately deadly.
One of the ways we combat erasure is by working with municipalities on Pride Proclamations. This is an official event where a city, county, state and country declare something to be true. An official line item is added to record and history is spoken out at board of supervisor meetings, city council meetings and sometimes we even get to see mayors reading them aloud at Pride festivities, like at last year’s Vacaville Pride in the Park, hosted by Vacaville’s People’s Forum, where Vice Mayor Chapman and Dixon’s Mayor Bird read their proclamations and presented the documents to Solano Pride Center.
This year make time to attend these events, to show support and to show yourself as a member of our community. Take friends and family. There may also be a flag raising involved!
This is one way we can show our Pride, be more part of our communities, and combat the erasure being perpetrated against us. Maybe one less human in the closet will feel they need to stay there.
Follow the EBlast and our website for any changes:
https://www.solanopride.org/community-events/
Stephan@solanopride.org
Yo Prez
Stephan L.T. Clifford
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Our counselors have special training and skills in treating a vast number of issues. Their training in treating trauma, depression, anxiety, and grief has been especially helpful as we've navigated the ever-changing and uncertain path of our times. We are fortunate to have counselors with LGBTQIA2S+ cultural competency, so you know they will have heard about your uniqueness just by stepping through our doors! You can sign up for free counseling by calling our confidential Counseling line at 707.389.4520.
There are openings available for those who wish to be seen for counseling services right now! We can even talk to you if you just want to make sense of the times we live in. We are able to see clients for up to six months at no cost to clients, helping you make sense of life as a queer person, get support coming out, or deepening your self confidence by talking about your past. Please call our confidential line to make an appointment at: 707-389-4520.
In addition Solano Pride Center is accepting application from Interns and Student Counseling Trainees needing practicum sites who are interested in providing therapy to the LGBTQ+ community. Please contact our Clinical Director Colin Amato at colin@solanopride.org for more info.
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Have you ever been near the end of your rope, and need someone to help you find the resources you need to survive? Solano Pride Center staff can help!
Many of our staff know much about the County's support system, and can help you sign up for food assistance, Medi-Cal, and even give you referrals to our sister organizations serving those in need around the county. Give Kacen Cosmos, our Associate Clinical Social Worker a jingle, text or email to learn more.
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THE TRANSFORMATION STATION.
This is a place where our Trans/Non-binary folks can come in and pick out any articles of clothing that they need. They will choose from our community's donations.
We are heading into Fall which means it just might be getting a bit chilly....or....you might be looking for a job and making the rounds of interviews....or if you just want to look F-A-B-U-L-O-U-S, we've got your back!
Right now, we are not asking for more donations.
- Please share this opportunity with your Trans, Gender Non-Conforming, Intersex, Drag Queen and other Fabulous Friends! We need folx to come and take some of the clothing before receiving any more.
Please contact cristina@solanopride.org for donations and questions.
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Senior Programs!
Senior Programs: https://www.solanopride.org/senior-programs/
Our next Senior Lunch will be Friday, May 15th in the Conference Room at the Center! No Presentation, but we will meet Marlette online.
June 5th we are planning a Picnic outdoors at Allan Witt Park, in Fairfield. More info to come. The Center is closed on Juneteenth, so we are moving the luncheon from that day to June 26th.
Contact Cristina Zaldana at cristina@solanopride.org for more info. May 1st will have a presentation from Digital Lift on computer literacy that day!
| | Updated Youth Programming | | Next Up for Youth & Young Adults around the county! | | To see all of Youth Programs on our website, please go under the home button in the menu or go to this link. Youth Programs: https://solanopride.org/youth-programs/. Be advised that some of the times of youth events in April have been updated to new time frames. | |
Solano Pride Center Youth Prom Announced for Saturday, May 16th from 6-8 pm for 14-18 year olds!
You can volunteer to help decorate in the Wizard of Oz theme if you are a trained Volunteer. Donations of themed art, food or snacks are welcomed! Let Trystan@solanopride.org know if you are interested in helping in any way.
| | Don't miss the Rio Vista Group on 4th Fridays, May 22nd from 3:30-5:30 pm at Rio Vista Cares! There is always Pizza! May 22nd will be the Pride Walk through downtown Rio Vista sharing Pride packages with local businesses. See below. | | |
Hey Will & Trystan,
You can always reach out to Ricky Gjertsen at RDGjertsen@solanolibrary.gov for more info.
For the month of May, we have two totally tubular events taking place. 🏄♀️🏄♂️ 🌊
On Wednesday, May 13th from 3:30 pm to 4:30 pm we have a Teen Chalk Art on the Sidewalk with SolanoConnex event. This event is geared towards tweens & teens ages 10 to 18.
On Thursday, May 28th from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm we have a Meet & Greet with the Tri-City NAACP event. This event is geared towards all ages.
Attached are the flyers for each event in both Spanish & English. Take care and have a thrilling Thursday! 😀 🎊🎉
Sincerely,
Ricky Gjertsen (He/Him)
Library Associate - Teen Services - Direct: 707-784-1836
Dixon Library, 230 N 1st Street, Dixon, CA 95620-3028
New Email: RDGjertsen@solanolibrary.gov
| | Upcoming Social & Support Groups! | | What should our next Queering Faith group topic be? | To see all of Social and Support on our website, please go under the home button in the menu or go to this link. Social & Support Groups: https://solanopride.org/social-and-support-groups | |
Starting at a new time continuing Thursday, May 14th, 2025 now from Thursdays from 3:30 to 5 pm the rest of March! LGBTQ+ Drama Therapy Group
A free, supportive environment for self-expression and building community.
What is Drama Therapy?
Drama Therapy is a chance to connect with others and explore emotions, identity, and social interactions through the use of theatrical techniques.
Who can participate?
This group is designed for the LGBTQ+ community. It is open to actors and non-actors alike. No prior theater experience is required.
When and where is the group?
We will meet at the Solano Pride Center conference room at 1234 Empire Street in Fairfield, Thursdays.
How can I get more information?
Please reach out to Erik at erik@solanopride.org
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The Gender Expansive Circle will meet again on Friday, May 15th at 5:30 pm at our GEC where we will hear a presentation from Ms. Bob, founder of the Louis Lawrence Transgender Archive.
The Gender Expansive Circle will meet again on Fridays, May 15th at 5:30 pm at the Center for "Do the Clothes Fit?" by Ms. Bobbie Davis. There will be time to see the Transformation Station and Library. This is a great opportunity to learn more about our trans, enby, and gender nonconforming history. Please rsvp to either kacen@solanopride.org or cristina@solanopride.org to attend.
This group normally meets on the first & third Fridays. This group is for Trans, Intersex, Non-binary, Gender Non-Conforming, 2 Spirit and those questioning their gender identity or expression.
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New Group for Women will next meet on Saturday, May 16 from 1-2 pm!
Open to all who identify as women and/or have a lived experience of being a woman. Please let Trystan know (email below) if you have any ideas for topics of conversation, or field trips the group can do together! Contact Trystan@solanopride.org for more information.
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The QR code: Queer Recovery
A secular 12-step LGBTQ+ group for those in recovery for any addictions. The next meeting will be Sunday, May 17th at 7 pm. The group will meet in person at the Solano Pride Center’s Conference Room on every Sunday evening now, at 7 pm. Come to the main doors near our offices and knock to be let in. Hosted by Christopher Cortes (christopher@solanopride.org) with shared leadership from other members of the group. Anonymity will be protected. Here's an article on the number of folx recreating sober nightlight options.
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New group starting for Gender Non-Conforming People to do Drama Therapy/Play together. Four Session, May 6th, 20th, June 3rd and 20th!
Also, the group would then go see The Compton Cafeteria Riot play in San Francisco together. Interested folx should email Kacen or Cristina. Schedule based on those who sign up.
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LGBTQ2S+ Men's Support Group (3rd Wednesdays – May 20th from 6:00 to 7:30 pm – we will meet at the Athenian Grill in Suisun City for dinner and conversation. Let Will or Milton know if you can meet us there.
We will be having an open discussion, so bring a topic to share! This group is for all those who identify as Male or Trans Masc, and is trans inclusive, led by Will McGarvey & Milton Heath Solórzano. Contact us by email for more info at will@solanopride.org or miltonheath@solanopride.org.
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The HIV Positive Support Group will continue as a zoom group on the 3rd Wednesday this month – May 21st – but now from 5:30 to 7 pm.
Contact cristina@solanopride.org for more information. This is the first meeting, so plan on attending to share what you'd like to see in future meetings! Facilitated by Cristina Zaldana.
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Coping with Loss and Grief.
Grief has no set boundaries. Grief comes in many different avenues such as losing a spouse, parents, a sibling, your pet, the loss of a friend or a friendship, even the loss of a job can cause us to grieve.
This new group will continue Friday, May 22nd from 10 - 11:30 am on zoom. The next gathering would be June 12th, also online.
The way in which we cope with the loss is the way in which we begin to heal and move forward with our lives no matter the depth of pain and sorrow we are in. One way and there are many depending on how one copes with the loss is to talk about what we are feeling, what we are going through and share those feelings and thoughts with others who may be experiencing the same just as you are. The grief counseling session is an avenue for people to continue their healing process. More info, including the zoom link, at Kacen@solanopride.org or Tim Meyers at tjm1756@yahoo.com.
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The Singing Tree Mural Project!
Saturday and Sunday, May 23rd and 24th from 10 am to 4 pm in the Conference Room at the Center.
Rsvp to join this intergenerational group of art-making group that will be shared at Suisun Pride!
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We are also adding another Social opportunity for our whole Intergenerational community this Spring on the first Thursday nights of the month!
After May, we will take a break during June and July, so the next Movie Night will be August 6th! in the Conference Room! Knock on the front doors to be let in.
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If you'd like to share an art project, please contact us. Just bring any games you'd like to play or share.
If you'd like to share an art or craft project on September 3rd, please contact us at cristina@solanopride.org.
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New Dungeons & Dragons Group will continue online.
Hey Dungeons and Dragons Adventurers, the orientation begins at 5 pm online on Sat, June 13th. The campaign starts at 1:30 pm Sunday, June 14th in the Conference Room! Please email Stephan@solanopride.org to be added to our DND communications and planning. Next Online game together will be announced soon.
Dungeon Mistress Izzy will contact you about meet ups!
| | Pan-Pagan/Magickal Support Group will cease to meet until we have a number of folx who want to attend on a more regular basis. If you are interested in a Military Group, Bi+/Pan/Omni Group, or Group for Trans Men, please do let us know at will@solanopride.org. | | |
7 Days in June: A National Call to Elevate Health as a Governing Priority.
Health must be treated as a core governing responsibility, regardless of ideology or party. Working together, we can build a healthier nation. Join us on June 5 at sunset in communities around the nation to hold candlelight vigils honoring everyone who has died as a result of cuts to healthcare. Let Will know if you sign up to host an event. https://www.sevendaysinjune.org
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Our last Red Cross Blood Drive was a huge success!
Since May 11, 2023, the restrictions on the LGBTQIA+ community for donating blood were dropped.
This means that we can now donate blood and save a life.
Solano Pride center have been doing their part by partnering with the American Red Cross to serve this community with a blood drive.
We have already facilitated 2 blood drives. Thank you to those who have come out to donate! You are saving lives! Now, we need your help in ensuring that these blood drives can continue! We need at least 35 donors to be able to do this! 35 people that will come in and donate. Please join us for our next blood drive and SAVE LIVES! CONTACT ME and set up a time at: cristina@solanopride.org
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Gen Silent and Cultural Competency Training for those serve LGBTQ+ Seniors!
If your Senior Living setting or agency serving Seniors need Cultural Competency Training for your staff, which is mandated by the state of California, we are willing to come do a training or create a training specifically for your staff and leadership! Contact will@solanopride.org for more info.
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SPC Trainings for your Team
We have Cultural competency Trainings for Schools, Teachers, Professors, Therapists, Social Workers, Case Managers, Businesses, Health Care workers, Senior Centers, and all who work with LGBTQIA2S+ people in every environment. Yes, we have a 2.5 hour long SB 923 training for health systems available now!
Contact will@solanopride.org for more information.
| | We need People of Color from Central and West County, age 21 and up. Please apply today by emailing board@solanopride.org! | | |
LOUNGE LIBRARY RESOURCES:
We have the power to read books! We don’t need any expensive gadgets to read a book. We don’t need any cables, monitors or electricity for that matter. What we do need is the want to read. We might even have to change some gears so that we can get in the habit of reading. Now in the New Release section!
| | Events from our Partners! | | Vallejo Gay Network Events! | | |
Upcoming events!
Welcome to May! 🌸
As spring settles in and the days grow brighter, May invites us to pause, reconnect, and celebrate the many ways care, creativity, and community show up in our lives. This month offers space for both reflection and joy—from honoring Mother’s Day in all its beautifully diverse forms, to cultivating inspiration and togetherness right here at home.
Mother’s Day reminds us that “mothering” isn’t one‑size‑fits‑all. Within our LGBTQ+ community, it can mean chosen family, nurturing mentors, caregivers, elders, and anyone who leads with love and compassion. We celebrate all who show up with strength, tenderness, and pride—each and every day.
May also brings us outdoors, and we’re thrilled to highlight the Vallejo Garden Tour, a wonderful opportunity to experience creativity in full bloom. Gardens have long been places of resilience, expression, and growth—values that resonate deeply with our community. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or simply enjoy soaking up beauty and fresh air, this event is a lovely way to connect with neighbors and support local spaces that make Vallejo shine.
Thank you for being part of our community. As you read on, we hope this leaves you feeling seen, inspired, and rooted in the knowledge that you belong.
This month’s events include:
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VGN Community Potluck — May 9th Bring a dish, bring a friend, and bring your appetite! Our potluck is all about sharing food, culture, and conversation. See below for details.
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LGBTQ Book Club — May 13: Butter Honey Pig Bread. Join The Alibi Bookshop LGBTQ Book Club on Wednesday, May 13th at 5:30 pm for the discussion of “Butter Honey Pig Bread”" by Francesca Ekwuyasi. See below for more details.
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Vallejo City USD Pride Proclamation — May 13 @ 6 pm. Join your community and for the Board of Trustees and Staff as they proclaim June LGTBQ month for the VallejoSchool System. This will be at 665 Walnut Avenue, Vallejo/Mare Island
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Vallejo Garden Tour - May 17th. The Vallejo Museum is hosting the 2026 Vallejo Garden tour May 17th. You can get tickets to support the Museum's important work here: Vallejo Garden Tour Tickets
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City of Vallejo Pride Proclamation - May 26th @ 7 pm. Join your community as our City Proclaims June as LGBTQ Pride Month.
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VGN Pride Pizza Nights — May 27th. A relaxed evening of pizza, laughter, and community pride. Come as you are and enjoy a slice with us. See belo for details. See below for details.
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VGN Game Afternoon Party - May 31st. Come out and let's play games! Eric is hosting a gaming afternoon for the Vallejo Gay Network. There will be three (or more) gaming areas with card games, board games, video games, and more for you to enjoy. Please feel free to bring your own games too.See below for more details.
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City of Vallejo Pride Flag Raising - June 1st @ 10 am. Join your community as the City of Vallejo celebrates Pride Month by raising the Pride Flag.
We’re grateful for every person who makes this community vibrant. Here’s to a month filled with connection, celebration, and pride!
Let's build a great community!
Thomas Bilbo
Save the Dates: If you want to host, please email tom@vallejogaynetwork.com.
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VGN Community Pride Pizza Nights
Join your community for a new monthly event and support a diverse business in the process. Anna Bergman and Judith Learner are organizing a BOYP (buy your own pizza) meetup at the Fusion Pizza on Georgia Street on the last Wednesday of the month April 29th at 5:30 pm. Let us know you're coming at our event page: VGN Community Pride Pizza Night
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Recurring Events in the Community
GVRD Host Mothly Senior Social Event for People Ages 55+. From the organizers: Join us for a fun and relaxed morning of socializing, coffee, and light activities! Our Senior Social takes place once a month on the second Wednesday, from 8:30 to 10:30 AM. Enjoy a warm cup of coffee, delicious pastries, and a variety of puzzles and games while meeting new friends. It's a wonderful way to start your day and make new connections in a welcoming environment. Best of all, it’s completely free! We hope to see you there! Coffee is sponsored by a local Starbucks, pastries from local businesses, and games and puzzles are provided by GVRD.
Every 2nd Wednesday of the Month - Next gathering Wed, May 13th from 8:30am-10:30am, Vallejo Community Center, 225 Amador St
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May LGBTQ Book Club Meetup - May 13th
Please join the Alibi Bookshop LGBTQ Book Club on Wednesday, May 13th at 5:30 pm for the discussion of “Butter Honey Pig Bread” by Francesca Ekwuyasi, hosted by Richard May. You can purchase the book at Alibi Bookshop - let's support our local businesses. More on the Community events page...
Facebook Event Details: Alibi Bookshop LGBTQ Book Club
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Two Aunties Chicken Ranch Hosts a VGN Potluck
For details about all upcoming events, please see our Facebook Events Page.
We are delighted to invite you to our A fabulous May potluck hosted by Julie and Trundy at their Two Auntie's Chicken Ranch. This is a great opportunity to continue to celebrate the arrival of Spring, mingle with old and new friends, and enjoy some delicious food and drinks.
The potluck will take place on Saturday, May 9th, from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm, at 1107 2nd Street, in Fairfield. You're encouraged to bring something that reflects your cultural or personal background, or something that you love to make and eat.
We look forward to seeing you at the potluck and having a wonderful time together.
Please feel free to invite your partners, friends, or allies who are interested in joining the Vallejo Gay Network. We are a welcoming and inclusive community, and we always love to meet new people. It's about building community! VGN Spring Party Potluck
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VGN Game Afternoon Party
Come out and let's play games! Eric is hosting a gaming afternoon for the Vallejo Gay Network. There will be three (or more) gaming areas with card games, board games, video games, and more for you to enjoy. Please feel free to bring your own games too.
Bring some game snacks. Cocktails will be served so please be over 21. Link
| | Benicia LGBTQ+ Network Events! | | |
The Benicia LGBTQIA Network is on Facebook!
Please watch the Benicia LGBTQ Network group.
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The Benicia Public Library invites the community to a special Pride Month screening of The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert on Tuesday, June 30.
This iconic, high-energy film follows two drag performers and a transgender woman as they journey across the Australian outback in a lavender bus, celebrating friendship, identity, and self-expression along the way. Known for its unforgettable costumes, humor, and heart, the film has become a beloved classic and a meaningful part of LGBTQ+ cultural history. The screening is rated R, and attendees under 17 must be accompanied by an adult.
In the spirit of the film, costumes are highly encouraged, and prizes will be awarded for the best looks of the evening. Guests are invited to come dressed to impress and celebrate Pride in style. Attendees are also encouraged to bring a favorite LGBTQ+ book title to swap, creating an opportunity to share stories and discover new reads within the community.
Free popcorn and Dirty Soda will be provided! This program is free and open to the public. For more information, please visit the Benicia Public Library or contact library staff. In the Doña Benicia Room. Link!
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Want to join the new "Vacaville LGBTQ+ Network" on Facebook? Go to this link on facebook, and ask to join! https://www.facebook.com/groups/652492897897233/. Check it out!
Thanks to all who came out and had a good time! Thanks to Sharon for hosting! We may do a post Pride in the Park Social after Vacaville's Pride in the Park on Saturday, June 13th from noon to 4 pm. Let me know if you'd like to host something at your place, or have an idea of a local place we can go to keep the Pride going! Perhaps this autumn we can do a Pizza Party at a local place together. Where do you suggest is the most accepting Pizza place in Vacaville? Let will@solanopride.org know if you want to help plan future east county events quarterly!
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Black Embrace: A Podcast Supporting Black Families Navigating LGBTQIA+ Challenges
By Charlotte Richardson, DSW-C, LCSW and SPC Board Member
This podcast is dedicated to discussing the hard issues at the intersection of Black Family and LGBTQIA+ Youth. Historically the Black Community and LGBTQIA+ issues have been a point of disagreement and Black Family relationship breakdown. This podcast seeks to heal the wounds of family breakdown, create positive communication within Black Families with LGBTQIA+ Youth, and overall improve relationships and connection with Black Families and Community.
Our Clinical Director, Colin Amato, was one of Charlotte's first interviews! Hear it here! Will McGarvey's interview is here!
https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/charlotte-richardson4
| | What's going on at the Townhouse Cocktail Lounge? | | |
Vallejo's Drag Brunch at Bambino's! Now twice a month on the 1st and 3rd Sundays with competitions like RuPaul's Drag Race!
• Sunday, May 17th · 10am - 1pm PDT. Doors at 9:30am. Tickets Link.
• Sunday, June 7th · 10am - 1pm PDT. Doors at 9:30am.
(You can search for Free Music Collective on Eventbrite to follow them for updates each month.)
Bambino's Vallejo - Pizza, Pasta + Full Bar
301 Georgia Street #suite 122 Vallejo, CA 94590
Are you ready for February DRAG hosted by no other than Sadie C. Sparkles and MissCherrylane. It’s a chance to embrace the vibrant spirit of the LGBTQ+ community and enjoy a brunch experience like no other. Come on down and be part of this exciting new event that brings drag and queer culture to our community!
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Next Hidden Fantasea Event will be Friday, June 12th at 6:00 pm at the Redwood Empire Whiskey Bar (1195 Nimitz Ave, Vallejo's Mare Island) so don’t miss it! Check this space in future eblasts.
Vallejo! Can’t wait to meet you at Hidden Fantasea: Earth Day Style Drag Show hosted by the dazzling @thearielfantasea and featuring Mercury Rising, Cyah Envy, Cayenne Pepper Cult, Mikki Vuitton, and Unieke Moore! Don’t miss out on Solano County’s latest Drag Show in the fabulous tasting room at Redwood Empire usually on the first Fridays of the month!! See more info on a Pride Party on June 13th there.
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The Compton’s Cafeteria Riot
Compton's Cafeteria Drag Brunch with Mary Vice & Coco Buttah
It’s better with a group!
Planning a night out with friends, colleagues, or your chosen family? Groups of 10 or more receive special discounted rates, making Compton’s an unforgettable shared experience. Contact us to reserve seats together and let us help you plan a powerful night at the theater.
Actors Jaylyn Abergas and Mary Vice sat down with KRON 4’s Live in the Bay host Jessica Wills to share how The Compton’s Cafeteria Riot places audiences inside the first recorded act of militant queer resistance, and what it’s like to bring this powerful piece of San Francisco history to life on stage. Link
GET TICKETS
Regular Friday and Saturday shows resume on January 16, 2026. PURCHASE TICKETS.
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Vacaville Pride in the Park Returns: A Celebration of Love, Identity, and Community
Get ready to celebrate love, inclusivity, and vibrant self-expression! Vacaville Pride in the Park is back and bigger than ever, inviting the community to gather for a day filled with joy, unity, and celebration of LGBTQIA+ pride. SPC is a sponsor, and will be there with our information and support!
Date: Saturday, June 13, 2026
Time: 12-4PM
Location: Andrews Park, 614 E. Monte Vista Avenue, Vacaville!
2026 details to be posted soon! Link.
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Save the Date for Davis Pride Comedy Night on June 26th at 5:30 pm!
As a reminder – this is a FUNDRAISER for the Davis Phoenix Coalition. A portion of the proceeds raised will benefit the life changing working of DPC.
No later than May 8th via the Davis Pride social media pages, we are going to announce the 2026 comedy line up. We promise you are not going to want to miss this line up. The team is working on amazing talent from all over the west coast. — Each year the LOL takes talent to the next level.
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Sacramento FrontRunners Pride 5K returns for 2026! Registration is open now!
Saturday, June 13, 2026
Old Sacramento, 111 I St,
Sacramento, CA 95814
After an incredible first year, we can’t wait to gather again for a bright, joy-filled morning of running, walking, and soaking up the Pride energy in Sacramento. Whether you joined us last year or were on our waitlist, we’d love for you to be part of this year’s celebration. This event is for runners and walkers of all paces, LGBTQ+ community members, allies, friends, and chosen family — everyone is invited to show up as they are. Shine bright!
Early Bird Pricing is available now! Register before entry prices go up April 1. Expect good vibes, big smiles, and a whole lot of fun! With Pride, Sacramento FrontRunners & FrontWalkers. Link.
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The wait is over!!
Registration is officially open for the 40th annual AIDS Walk San Francisco!
For four decades, our community has come together to walk in solidarity, remembrance, and hope. Since our very first steps in 1987, AIDS Walk San Francisco has raised critical funds for HIV prevention, care, and support services across the Bay Area. Generations of walkers, team captains, volunteers, and advocates have built this movement. We have only been able to achieve all of our successes, including raising over $100 million throughout the years, because of participants like you.
Now, in our 40th year, we are preparing to honor that legacy and want you to join us along the way.
We remember the early years, when fear and stigma were everywhere but our community showed up anyway. We celebrate the progress made through activism, research, and compassion. And we recommit ourselves to the work ahead because, as we know, the fight to end HIV is not over.
Join us as we return to Golden Gate Park to mark this powerful milestone together. Whether you walked in the early days, joined us somewhere along the way, or are returning after time away, this anniversary belongs to all of us.
Register today to celebrate 40 years of impact and activism, honor the lives lost and uplift those living with HIV/AIDS, reconnect with a community built on resilience, and help us launch the next chapter of progress.
Register today, start your team, and let’s make the 40th Annual AIDS Walk San Francisco one for the history books!
We can't wait to see you in Golden Gate Park on Sunday, July 19!
Register today, start your team, and let’s make the 40th Annual AIDS Walk San Francisco one for the history books!
Register here!
We can't wait to see you in Golden Gate Park on Sunday, July 19!
| Save the Date! Solano Pride Center will be cosponsoring and helping with some workshops! | | Ever wondered if the Center is open, or how to contact the staff member you need? | |
Other local and regional gatherings:
Wednesdays from 3:15 to 4:15 pm in front of the Vallejo Ferry building.
Thursdays at 5 pm in Benicia, Vallejo-Benicia Indivisible hosts flag waving by the Gazebo in City Park (Military & First Street, Benicia). https://www.facebook.com/events/1077820594478484/1077820677811809/?active_tab=about
Stand Up for Democracy Vallejo: Saturdays from 11 AM - NOON "Stand up for Democracy" sign waving and protest music on the sidewalk in front of Home Depot on Admiral Callaghan Lane and Plaza Drive in Vallejo. This a local Indivisible event! Stand Up For Democracy.....continue the momentum !! Benicia-Vallejo Indivisible will continue their weekly Saturday protest. Bring a friend, a sign, and your voices! Saturdays at 11 am at Vallejo Plaza, Admiral Callaghan Lane & Plaza Drive, Vallejo. Link to sign up.
Sundays at noon in Benicia, Vallejo-Benicia Indivisible hosts flag waving by the Gazebo in City Park (Military & First Street, Benicia).
https://www.facebook.com/events/1077820594478484/1077820677811809/?active_tab=about
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Tomorrow night we celebrate the 2026 San Francisco Equality Awards, and in just over two weeks we’ll host the 2026 San Diego Equality Awards! Meanwhile, the first Pride celebration of the season kicks off next weekend in Long Beach — scroll to see how you can volunteer with us. To view previous news items from the Equality Brief, visit our website.
2026 CALIFORNIA PRIMARY ELECTION: VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
It’s hard to believe, but the 2026 California Primary is less than 30 days out, and ballots have begun to drop in mailboxes. Want to help get out the vote for some of our priority candidates? Join us virtually for a series of phonebanks this month to help elect out LGBTQ+ candidates to office at the federal and state level!
Call on behalf of Juan Camacho for Senate District 26 on Monday, May 18, 2026 or Wednesday, May 27, 2026 from 4:00-6:00 PM. RSVP Here!
Call on behalf of Marni von Wilpert for Congressional District 48 on Wednesday, May 13, 2026 or Thursday, May 21, 2026 from 4:00-6:00 PM. RSVP Here!
Week of May 3-May 9, 2026:
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Equality California, Program Director Profiled Ahead of Pride Season: Equality California Program Director Erin Arendse spoke to California Black Media’s Joe Kocurek about the organization’s ongoing work at the federal and state level. Highlighted particularly are EQCA’s efforts in collaboration with CA vs. Hate, a statewide, non-emergency hate crime and incident reporting hotline and online portal created to help counter a more than 50% increase in reported hate crimes in California between 2020 and 2024.
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Bonta Leads Amicus Brief Supporting Continued Access to Mifepristone: In an amicus brief filed with the Supreme Court, California Attorney General Rob Bonta and a coalition of 22 AGs along with the Governor of Pennsylvania argued that the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit’s May 1, 2026 ruling, which would restrict access to the abortion drug mifepristone, is not supported by science, would create regulatory and administrative chaos nationwide, and would interfere with states’ ability to protect access to reproductive health care within their borders. Shortly after the coalition filed the amicus brief, Justice Samuel Alito granted an administrative stay, temporarily pausing the Fifth Circuit’s ruling until Monday, May 11, 2026, while the Court considers applications for a full stay.
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DOJ Sues Texas Hospital to Obtain Medical Records; Hospital Subsequently Countersues: The Department of Justice sued Rhode Island Hospital in Texas to enforce a subpoena seeking invasive, individualized information about transgender minor patients receiving gender-affirming medical care, which was granted in a matter of hours by Judge Reed O’Connor, who has a history of issuing anti-LGBTQ+ decisions. Rhode Island’s Child Advocate sued in federal court in Rhode Island on Monday to quash the subpoena. U.S. District Judge Mary McElroy has ordered the DOJ respond to this suit by May 12.
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DOJ “Task Force” Issues Anti-LGBTQ+ Report Disguised as Evidence of Anti-Christian Bias: This week a Department of Justice “task force” issued a 200-page report on “Eradicating Anti-Christian Bias within the Federal Government,” which contains over 400 mentions of gender identity, sexual orientation, and other words and phrases commonly associated with LGBTQ+ civil rights. The report objects at length to Biden-era decisions on everything from the Bostock Supreme Court case to the Equality Act, Pride flags, Transgender Day of Visibility, and more. Additionally, it also rails against reproductive healthcare and vaccines; a further report containing policy recommendations is expected in 2027.
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Trevor Project Releases Latest LGBTQ+ Youth Mental Health Report: The Trevor Project has released its 2025 U.S. National Survey on the Mental Health of LGBTQ+ Young People, which surveyed 16,000 LGBTQ+ youth ages 13-24 across the U.S. The findings show that rates of suicidality and risks of self-harming behavior have increased over the past year in large part due to growing anti-LGBTQ+ sentiment, particularly from the federal government. Among the key findings, 36% of LGBTQ+ youth say they seriously considered attempting suicide in the past year.
If you or someone you know is an LGBTQ+ young person in need of support, text ‘START’ to 678-678 to be connected to a trained counselor from The Trevor Project for 100% confidential, 100% free help.
STATE LEGISLATIVE UPDATE 🏛️
All our 2026 priority sponsored legislation has successfully passed initial committee hearings. The bills — along with hundreds of others — currently sit in the legislature’s ‘suspense file’ pending a hearing of the Assembly and Senate Appropriations Committees on May 14.
To view our entire 2026 state legislative package, visit eqca.org/legislation
UPCOMING EVENTS
LAST CHANCE: The 2026 San Francisco Equality Awards are tomorrow night! Join us on Saturday, May 9 from 6:00 PM-10:00 PM as we return to the beautiful Conservatory at One Sansome. We’re honoring San Francisco Board of Supervisors President Rafael Mandelman with the Vanguard Leadership Award and the 🏀 Golden State Valkyries 🏀 with the Community Leadership Award. Get your tickets today!
The 2026 San Diego Equality Awards are happening on Thursday, May 28 from 6:00 PM-10:00 PM. We’ll be back at the spectacular Loews Coronado Bay Resort. Be there as we celebrate San Diego City Councilmember Jennifer Campbell with the Vanguard Leadership Award. Our event will be hosted by SoCal drag icon Paris Qijon. Get your tickets (or become an event sponsor) today!
‘RISE UP’ FOR PRIDE 2026!
Equality California will be traveling throughout the state this summer (and fall for Palm Springs folks) as we celebrate Pride Month 2026. We need volunteers to help us run tables at festivals and march with us in a handful of Pride Parades! Check out the full list of volunteer and marching opportunities at our 2026 Pride homepage!
Our Pride Parties return this summer as we gather in community and celebrate Pride 2026! Rise Up and join us at an event near you! Tickets are on sale now!
- Los Angeles: Wednesday, June 10 @ Hi Tops Los Feliz
- San Francisco: Tuesday, June 23 @ El Rio
- San Diego: Tuesday, July 14 @ InsideOUT
Our hub also provides guidance and resources from our national and state partners, our official statements, and opportunities to take action and fight back. Learn more on our website.
Thank you,
— Lauren
Lauren Cazares
Associate Director of Political Affairs
Pronouns: she/her/hers
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Studies
7 new studies can be found at:
https://www.solanopride.org/studies/
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Good afternoon Solano Pride Center team,
My name is Emerson Shiang and I am the research coordinator at UCSF’s Division of Prevention Science (Department of Medicine) for an older gay men’s study called Openly Gray, and an older trans women’s study called Matriarch. Earlier this year our study was cancelled by the federal government, and while our study has been reinstated, we are still at risk for being terming due to our population. Therefore, we are in a great rush to gather as many participants as we can and have expanded our reach from outside the 9 counties of the Bay Area to Santa Cruz, Fresno, and Sacramento.
Matriarch 8.5 x 14Download
A quick blurb about the studies:
Openly Gray is a NIH funded study that explores what contributes to health and wellbeing of aging gay men. Participants will go through an interview that includes a blood collection via finger prick, an online questionnaire, and a chance to refer friends to the study. They will receive a stipend of $100 for their participation and then for each friend they refer to the study they will receive an additional $25. We are looking to recruit gay, cis-men, ages 50 and over who live in the San Francisco Bay Area, Santa Cruz, Fresno, and Sacramento, and identify as Black/African American, Latino, or Asian & Pacific Islander. We have already reached our goal for White participants; so currently, we are not accepting White participants and are looking for individuals that identify as Black/African American, Asian/Pacific Islander, and Latino/Hispanic. The study can be done remotely over Zoom or in person at UCSF Mission Bay. Participation can be English or Spanish.
Matriarch is a supplemental grant we received off Openly Gray that will be looking at the same things but for older trans women. Participants will go through the same interview process that includes a blood collection via finger prick, an online questionnaire, and a chance to refer friends to the study. They will receive a stipend of $100 for their participation and then for each friend they refer to the study they will receive an additional $25. We are looking to recruit trans women, ages 50 and over who live in the San Francisco Bay Area, Santa Cruz, Fresno, and Sacramento, and identify as White, Black/African American, Latina/Hispanic, or Asian & Pacific Islander. The study can be done remotely over Zoom or in person at UCSF Mission Bay. Participation can be English or Spanish.
I will attach our flyers and palm cards to this email. People who are interested should just text or call the phone number, and leave their name, best phone number to contact, and say they learned about the study from Solano Pride Center. If you would like us to drop off hard copies of the materials, let us know and we would be happy to come by. Additionally, should you want a more in-depth presentation about the studies, we would be happy to do that as well.
Please reach out if you have any questions.
Best,
Emerson
Emerson Shiang, MPH (pronouns: he/they)
Project Coordinator
Division of Prevention Science | University of California, San Francisco
• OG_Flyer_8x14_EnglishDownload
• OG_Flyer_8x14_EnglishDownload
• OG_Palm card_EnglishDownload
• OG_Palm card_SpanishDownload
Added April 24/26
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April Health & Wellness Observances
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First Sunday In May: International Family Equality Day (IFED) is celebrated annually on the first Sunday of May to honor the diversity of LGBTQ+ families worldwide, promote equal rights, and combat discrimination. Launched in 2012, this day serves as a global call for legal recognition and visibility for "rainbow families," bringing together families, allies, and organizations for community events.
Key details regarding International Family Equality Day:
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Purpose: To honor, celebrate, and protect LGBTQ+ families, highlighting the need for legal recognition, equality, and safety, according to about IFED.
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Significance: It serves to combat homophobia and transphobia while promoting a, according to about IFED.
- Global Reach: Celebrated worldwide on the first Sunday of May with various events and social media campaigns.
- Targeted Themes: The celebration promotes inclusivity and aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals, including gender equality and reducing inequalities.
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International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia (May 17th): (IDAHO or IDAHOT) are widely recognized as an essential feature in the international LGBT rights calendar. In the 9th edition, in 2013, commemorations took place in almost 120 countries, in all world regions. The day aims to coordinate international events that raise awareness of LGBT rights violations and stimulate interest in LGBT rights work worldwide. IDAHO’s date was chosen to commemorate the decision to remove homosexuality from the International Classification of Diseases of the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1990. The original founders of the International Day Against Homophobia (or “IDAHO”), established the IDAHO Committee to co-ordinate grass-roots actions in different countries, to promote the day and to lobby for official recognition of May 17.
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May 19: National Asian & Pacific Islander HIV/AIDS Awareness Day: Observed annually on May 19, National Asian & Pacific Islander HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NAPIHAAD) highlights the impact of HIV on Asian, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities, focusing on reducing stigma, promoting testing, and providing culturally responsive care. Founded in 2005, it falls during Asian Pacific American Heritage Month.
Key details:
- Significance: The day focuses on breaking the silence surrounding HIV/AIDS, encouraging testing, and addressing stigma in API communities.
- Impact: While HIV prevalence in these communities is often lower than the U.S. average, stigma, language barriers, and limited access to care contribute to underdiagnosis.
- Data Trends: In 2021, while HIV diagnoses in the Asian community decreased by (19%), they increased by (65 %) among Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander communities.
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Action: Resources are available to support this day, such as the AIDSVu 2024 Toolkit and information from the UNC School of Medicine.
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Harvey Milk Day (May 22nd): Harvey Milk Day is organized by the Harvey Milk Foundation and celebrated each year held on May 22 in memory of Harvey Milk, a gay rights activist assassinated in 1978.
Observed annually on May 22nd (his birthday), Harvey Milk Day honors the legacy of the first openly gay person elected to public office in California. Established in 2009 by, it is a day of special significance in California schools and for LGBTQ+ advocacy, celebrating his work for civil rights, anti-discrimination laws, and community empowerment.
Key Facts & Significance
- Significance: Celebrates the life and achievements of Harvey Milk (1930–1978), a trailblazing LGBTQ+ rights activist.
- The Date: May 22nd is chosen because it is the birthdate of Harvey Milk.
- Background: Milk was elected to the San Francisco Board of Supervisors in 1977 and was assassinated in 1978.
- Official Designation: Created by the California legislature in 2009, with proclamations often made by the governor.
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May 24: Pansexual and Panromantic Awareness and Visibility Day: May 24th is the annual Pansexual and Panromantic Awareness and Visibility Day, dedicated to celebrating individuals attracted to people regardless of gender and educating on these distinct identities. It highlights those who experience sexual (pansexual) or romantic (panromantic) attraction based on personality rather than gender identity.
Key Aspects of the Day:
- Purpose: To raise awareness, challenge stereotypes, and increase visibility for pansexual and panromantic individuals within and outside the LGBTQ+ community.
- Definition: Pansexuals are attracted to people of any or all genders, sometimes referred to as being "gender-blind" in their attraction.
- Panromantic: Refers to romantic attraction without sexual attraction to people of any gender.
- Significance: It serves to combat the erasure of pan identities, as they are often misunderstood or wrongly considered the same as bisexuality.
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Celebration: Events, educational posts, and social media campaigns are used to educate on the topic and the Pansexual Pride flag.
According to the Heckin' Unicorn blog, this day is distinct from the Pansexual and Panromantic Pride day held on December 8th. As noted by the Workplace Pride, the day focuses on acknowledging that pan individuals are attracted to the person, not the gender.
| | Food and Other Resources Available in the Community! Giving opportunities to meet neighbors needs. | | If you are hungry, please drop by our lobby and take what you need. Or, if you have something to donate, you can drop by bags of unperishable food for others. You can also bring something for the Interfaith corner of the lobby, leaving a decoration on the tree, or a Chanukkah decoration or gift for those in need. More resources below.... | | |
The County Food Bank has a Food Finder.
Link is here:
Input your zip code and fine the closest Food Closets.
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Food is Free Bay Area distribution
1 in 4 Solano residents will not receive SNAP benefits as of November 1, 2025. Our neighbors need help NOW!
Information from Food is Free Bay Area:
- We distribute food every week at several locations.
Tuesday and Thursday from 3 to 6 p.m. inside McCormack Hall at the Solano County Fairgrounds in Vallejo.
- Tuesdays from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at Heritage Presbyterian Church in Benicia.
- Every Second and Fourth Saturday at mobile sites in Vacaville.
- Every Third Saturday at the Benicia Library from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Senior Food Box Program
We are proud to offer the Community Senior Food Box Program for Solano County Seniors aged 55 and older. Please come to our distributions to sign up for this program. Program proudly funded by Napa Solano Area Agency on Aging.
Ways to Help
There are many ways to get involved and support our cause. You can make a donation, become a volunteer, or even organize a fundraising event in your community. Whatever you choose, know that your contribution will make a difference in the lives of those in need.
TO DONATE, VOLUNTEER AND FIND OUT WHERE TO GET FREE FOOD, GO TO: https://fifbayarea.org/
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