A Message from the Executive Director
We know many of you are saddened that, for the second year in a row, SF Pride won’t have a Parade down Market Street or a Celebration in Civic Center. We know this because we’ve heard from so many of you — and believe me, we miss you, too. It was wonderful to see thousands of smiling faces — LGBTQ+ and allies alike — at Pride Movie Night at Oracle Park earlier this month, and we’re excited for when we can once again gather in visibility and strength.
Pride, as we all can agree, is more than a single weekend in June. Of course we all gather to commemorate the 1969 Stonewall uprising, reflect on our movement, and honor the trans women of color at the center of its origins. But the spirit of Pride runs all year long, particularly here in San Francisco. This is why we’ve emerged from the pandemic with all-new programming. We are working to expand the ways we elevate the voices of our communities, like never before. For instance, our “SF Pride 365” initiative of video interviews and podcasts is highlighting some of the best, most creative minds in our LGBTQ communities, please check it out today!
We are also working on a brand-new outdoor event around Coming Out Day this October. We hope you can join us in the streets then, and we’re excited to have more details to share with you in the weeks to come!
In the meantime, we encourage everyone to patronize LGBTQ-owned businesses in the Castro, in other neighborhoods, and online. It has been a very long 16 months, and the entrepreneurs whose hard work makes up the backbone our of communities now need our support more than ever.
Your support matters to us as well. We know how much SF Pride plays an important part in our communities’ wellbeing. Consider becoming a member, making a donation, or simply sharing our events with your networks. We’ve been a part of LGBTQ+ culture in San Francisco for 51 years, and we hope to remain a part of your lives well into the future. We thank you for any support you can give.
So have fun and be safe this weekend. In all that you do, please act with compassion and kindness. Some of us are ready for hugs and crowds and dancefloors, while others may be feeling more introverted or anxious while still yearning for companionship. We need to celebrate ourselves and each other in whatever ways make us feel comfortable. That’s how we are — and always will be — All in This Together.
In solidarity and with Pride,
Fred Lopez
Executive Director
