Late February Update, New Pride Website, Emergency Preparedness trainings, Drag Events, Support your Local LGBTQIA2S+ Center... | | |
Dear Friends,
There are a few stories out this week that are emblematic of the distress Trump and his ilk are directing our direction these days. Here's a round up of the good and bad for your Queer News roundup this week:
Tennessee bill lets businesses and people refuse to recognize same-sex marriages.
Gay man says ICE is keeping his husband jailed even though they’ve agreed to leave the U.S.
Oakland Pride 2026 will occur in new month, run by community center, after old board dissolves
LGBTQ Agenda: LGBTQ-friendly, right-wing religious groups at odds over anti-gay marriage campaign, Trump commission
Fact Check: Jesse Singal Lies About Trans Care At The New York Times
U.S. Gay Bars Are Closing Their Doors at a Heartbreaking Pace
Colorado’s Jared Polis embraces Trump’s national governors’ White House dinner snub: a ‘badge of honor’
Do not go gentle into that good night
by Dylan Thomas, 1914 – 1953
Do not go gentle into that good night,
Old age should burn and rave at close of day;
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.
Though wise men (sic) at their end know dark is right,
Because their words had forked no lightning they
Do not go gentle into that good night.
Good men (sic), the last wave by, crying how bright
Their frail deeds might have danced in a green bay,
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.
Wild men (sic) who caught and sang the sun in flight,
And learn, too late, they grieved it on its way,
Do not go gentle into that good night.
Grave men (sic), near death, who see with blinding sight
Blind eyes could blaze like meteors and be gay,
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.
And you, my father, there on the sad height,
Curse, bless, me now with your fierce tears, I pray.
Do not go gentle into that good night.
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.
(From The Poems of Dylan Thomas, published by New Directions. Copyright © 1952, 1953 Dylan Thomas. Copyright © 1937, 1945, 1955, 1962, 1966, 1967 the Trustees for the Copyrights of Dylan Thomas. Copyright © 1938, 1939, 1943, 1946, 1971 New Directions Publishing Corp. Used with permission.)
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Film Festival in the East Bay! Saturday, February 28: Day-Long Festival at AMC Bay Street 16 in Emeryville ~ 12:00pm – 10:00pm
Formerly named Drag Me to the Cinema, we return to Bay Street Emeryville for our annual Festival, while we share queer art and stories that celebrate our LGBTQ+ community. Red Carpet Entryway, with step/repeat backdrop, included!
Our festival* is divided into individual, themed 2-hour film blocks from 12:00pm to 10:00pm. Check out our programs in our drop-down menu and select the block(s) right for you. Outside the theater, we will have community engagement for guests to mingle with our participating filmmakers & artists, sponsors, and non-profit partners. Think PRIDE meets FILM FESTIVAL.
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Shaping Solano's Future Town Hall Forum
For More Information, please contact:
Wanda Williams Supervisor, Solano County District 3
675 Texas Street, Suite 6500, Fairfield, CA 94533-6342
www.SolanoCounty.com
Latressa Wilson Alford, JD
District Representative
llwilsonalford@solanocounty.com
Kathy Lawton-Ceasar, District Representative
kmlawtonceasar@solanocounty.com
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Queer Joy arrives Sunday, March 1st at BackRoad Vines, with one seatings starting at 6:30 pm!
Ticket sales are over for Sunday night's dinner, now at one sitting at 6:30 pm. Come as early as 6 pm for the no host bar.
• Trans comedian “Natasha Muse” sharing their comedy and emceeing the evening! She’s a San Francisco-based comedian who regularly headlines at Cobb’s Comedy Club and the San Francisco Punchline, and she’s also a Sketchfest winner.
• Drag performances from Dreamy Dee & Magnifique!
• You can’t beat the great food, wine, and views at Backroad Vines-one of our most faithful supporters! (Dinner includes appetizers, a welcome drink, menu with vegetarian option, and dessert! And there will be gluten-free, sugar-free, and dairy-free options.) No host bar.
Questions can be sent to me at will@solanopride.org. If you haven't yet told us if you need a vegetarian, gluten free, dairy free or sugar free options, please email me your requirements today!
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Vacaville LGBTQ+ Network is hosting a St. Paddie's Day Potluck!
We've expanded the time for the St. Paddie's Potluck! Stop by for a while, or join us for trivia, share a bite, and sharing our love for the day, remembering Donna Harris, and more!
Email your rsvp to spc@solanopride.org to get the address of Sharon's house, who hosted the Holiday Potluck. Bring a side dish, drinks or dessert to share!
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Registration for our LGBTQ+ Advocacy Day 2026 is now live!
Last year, nearly 300 people converged on the Capitol building in Sacramento to meet with their lawmakers about legislation that would improve the lives of all LGBTQ+ Californians — our biggest event ever!
With anti-LGBTQ+ attacks on the rise, we know people are fired up, and that means space is going to fill up fast. If you want to be part of LGBTQ+ Advocacy Day on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, reserve your spot today. Register, and then email will@solanopride.org to see if there's room in our carpools to get to Sacramento together that day.
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This year we've updated our website to include www.suisunpride.com for our May 31st Pride Festival!
There will even be a new mascot for Suisun Pride, 2026! Start signing up to be Sponsors, have a booth, food booth, or performers of every kind at these links!
More updates on the way, including links for becoming a Sponsors, Food Vendors, Booths registration, and even Performers! Save the night of Saturday, May 30th for our Pre-Pride Drag & Comedy Show in Suisun City!
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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 cat food for anyone who needs food for their pet.
| Drag 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
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Stephan's Corner
Hello Solano Pride Community!
A lot circling the social mediasphere this week. Ramping up to the State of the Union with all of the actions against ICE, especially in Minneapolis, it feels almost like we’ve had 2/3’s of 2025 already in quarter one 2026.
Remember to take good care of YOU. This can be incredibly difficult when we are responsible for little ones, older ones, or just anyone we care for or about, especially when things playing out in the media directly affect us or them. Not to mention that leaving the house is way more expensive this year than it was last.
And yet, I will implore you to try. Drink a little more water than you did yesterday. Turn off that phone for 5 whole minutes and sit outside, stare at our rare fully green hills or the gentle drops of rain. These moments of mindful presence and reflection, breaks up the constant buzz of the media and everyone’s opinion about said media.
I really hope to see as many of you as possible at the March 1st, first annual Spring into Pride event. This is how and when we are trying out new ways to fund all that we do, in order to keep therapy and groups and events free the rest of the year. It looks like one helluva night!
Saint Patrick’s Day is just around the bend, with another fun event, and if advocacy is more your jam, let Will@solanopride.org know you would like to learn about lobby days with Equality California, coming up at the end of March.
Also No Kings returns on March 28th, get ya water, signs and marching shoes ready.
We are here, we are queer, we ain’t going anywhere and Kings are only welcome for stage performances!
Thanks for being here,
Stephan@solanopride.org
Ya Prez
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Special SPC Poetry & Writing Anthology Benefit Project Announced! Call for submissions extended to March 15th, 2026.
It was a dark and stormy night
When at my desk I began to write
Of things poetic and such
And things that might impress me much. (apologies to Shania Twain)
Of talents wasted or quite unknown
Of slighted authors we bemoan
Yet, what light thru yonder window gleams?
Groupings of stories, prose, and poems, it seems.
Solano Pride doth beg your submission
With cheery smile and signed permission
To share your works for published glory
Be they sweet or silly or even gory
Make haste to share your treasured text
With brains afire and muscles flexed
They be due by end of next January
So send them to us and do not tarry!
M. West
If you’d like to submit an original poem, short story, haiku or other artistic representation by March 15th, 2026. If we have enough to create an anthology of all of our writing as a fundraiser for the Solano Pride Center. Email submissions to spc@solanopride.org with a short written certification that the item is of your own creation, and that you give permission for it to be included in a fundraising anthology on behalf of the Center. We got two recent submissions in the last week! Make sure your piece get's included!
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A Statement on Renee Nicole Good from the Board of Solano Pride Center
On January 7th, 2026, a 37-year-old woman, Renee Nicole Good, was murdered by an ICE agent in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The videos, from all angles, show an illegal shooting by the ICE agent.... Link to the whole statement.
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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 will be 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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Our next Volunteer Training will be scheduled for Thursday, February 26th 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/
| | Updated Youth Programming | | Next Up for Youth & Young Adults around the county! | | |
Upcoming Youth Programs
across the County! Look for the updated fall locations!
| | Don't miss the Prism Group Friday, Feb. 27th from 4-6 pm as Erik Thurman joins Trystan to share a playful Drama Therapy group for young people that afternoon at the Center! | | |
SAVE THE DATE! 1st Solano Pride Center Youth Lock-in.
Saturday, May 1st, 2026 from 10:00 pm - Sunday, May 2nd at 6:00 am. We are still looking for sponsors for the event, but we need 3-5 teens to be on the planning team for the day! Let Trystan@solanopride.org know if you are interested in helping in that way.
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For the month of March, we have several exuberant events taking place at the Dixon Libary.
On the first Wednesdays of each month from March 4th to December 2nd we will be having a Teen Financial Literacy with Patelco Credit Union event from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm.
On Friday, March 13th we will be having an Audiobook Walking Day event from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm.
On Tuesday, March 17th we will be having a Teen St. Patrick's Day Cookie Decorating event from 3:30 pm to 4:30 pm.
On Wednesday, March 25th we will be having a Teen Meet & Greet with Dixon Unified School District Superintendent Brett Barley event from 3:30 pm to 4:30 pm.
Attached are the flyers for each event in both Spanish & English. Take care & have a whimsical Wednesday!
Sincerely,
Ricky Gjertsen (He/Him)
Library Associate - Teen Services
Dixon Library
230 N 1st Street
Dixon, CA 95620-3028
Direct: 707-784-1836
Email: rdgjertsen@solanocounty.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 | |
Pan-Pagan/Magickal Support Group will next meet in person at 7:00 pm Tonight on Wednesday, March 25th for a social night at the Center's Lobby, please knock on the the south doors.
This group is for those with any form of neo-pagan, polytheistic, or non-abrahamic practice, to explore the intersections of queerness and pagan spirituality. Led by members of SPC Staff. Bring a meditation from one of your traditions to share. Bring something from your altar to share about. Email will@solanopride.org for more info.
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Starting at a new time continuing Thursday, February 26th, 2025 from 1 to 2:30 pm in the Conference Room! 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 through Dec. 18th.
How can I get more information?
Please reach out to Erik at erik@solanopride.org
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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, March 1st 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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LGBTQ2S+ Men's Support Group (3rd Wednesdays – New time! March 18th from 6:00 to 7:30 pm – we will meet at Phone Vallejo Noodle House 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 – March 19th – 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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The Gender Expansive Circle will meet again on Friday, March 6th at 5:30 pm at our GEC Game Night!
The Gender Expansive Circle will meet again on Fridays, March 6th at 5:30 pm at the Center for Movie Night and an introduction to 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 starting for Gender Non-Conforming People to do Drama Therapy/Play together.
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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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, Feb. 27th from 10 - 11:30 am on zoom. The next gathering would be March 13th, 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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New Group for Women!
Come to the next meeting of Pride Women: the Center's women's support group for all who identify as women or have lived experience as a woman. Saturday, March 28th from 2-3:30 pm in the Conference Room (knock on the front door).
Contact Trystan@solanopride.org for more information.
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New Dungeons & Dragons Group will continue online.
Hey Dungeons and Dragons Adventurers! 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 and or reservist waiting list if our group gets too large!
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Movie Night March 5th, when we will be watching the first of the Twilight movies in the Center Lobby!!!!
Knock on the south door to be let in!
Our next gathering will be Arts & Crafts Night on Thursday, April 2nd at 7:00 pm!
Our next gathering will be Gayme Night on Thursday, May 7th at 7:00 pm!
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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.
SOLANO PRIDE CENTER
1234 EMPIRE ST,
CONFERENCE ROOM
FAIRFIELD, CA.
THE DRIVE BEGINS AT 10AM AND ENDS AT 3PM.
You can choose times like:
10am
10:15am
10:30am
10:45am. and so on untill 3pm.
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!
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To Survive on This Shore: Photographs and Interviews with Transgender and Gender Nonconforming Older Adults
by Jess. T. Dugan, Vanessa Dabbre, Karen Irvine Interviewer
Representations of older transgender people are nearly absent from our culture and those that do exist are often one-dimensional. For over five years, photographer Jess T. Dugan and social worker Vanessa Fabbre traveled throughout the United States creating To Survive on this Shore: Photographs and Interviews with Transgender and Gender Non-Conforming Older Adults. Seeking subjects whose lived experiences exist within the complex intersections of gender identity, age, race, ethnicity, sexuality, socioeconomic class, and geographic location, they traveled from coast to coast, to big cities and small towns, documenting the life stories of this important but largely underrepresented group of older adults. The featured individuals have a wide variety of life narratives spanning the last ninety years, offering an important historical record of transgender experience and activism in the United States.
The resulting monograph provides a nuanced view into the struggles and joys of growing older as a transgender person and offers a poignant reflection on what it means to live authentically despite seemingly insurmountable odds. Link. We will keep this in the Center's Lobby for folx to peruse for the next month. Please don't check the book out, so others may view it as well.
| | Events from our Partners! | | Vallejo Gay Network Events! | | |
Upcoming events!
Pizza Night!
Anna Bergman and Judith Learner are wanting to have a BOYP (buy your own pizza) meetup at the Fusion Pizza on Georgia street Wednesday Night, February 25th, at 5:30 pm. The address is 414 Georgia Street, Vallejo, CA.
2026 March Potluck, Hosted by Joseph and Shea
March 22nd at 12-6 pm
700 Wellfleet Drive
Vallejo, CA 94581
Join your community as Joeseph and Shea host us for a Spring Fling in thir reconstructed home. As usual, bring a favorite dish to share, a drink to wash it down with and a friend or three. We're all about growing our LGBTQ+ community in Vallejo, Solano County and beyond.
As this will be both an outdoor and an indoor event, we are asking that you please be vaccinated and boosted or wear a mask.
Save the Dates: If you want to host, please email tom@vallejogaynetwork.com.
- April 18th - Maus Von Trappe
For details about all upcoming events, please see our Facebook Events Page.
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March Book Club Meetup
Please join the Alibi Bookshop LGBTQ Book Club on Wednesday, March 11th at 5:30 pm for the discussion of “Last Night at The Telegraph Club “ by Malinda Lo, hosted by Richard May.
About the book: From acclaimed author Malinda Lo comes a gripping, tender coming-of-age novel exploring identity, queerness, and historical upheaval set in San Francisco’s Chinatown during the 1950s. Facebook Event Details: Alibi Bookshop LGBTQ Book Club
Next month’s Book: GIRL, WOMAN, OTHER by Bernardine Evarist available at Alibi Books.
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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, March 11th from 8:30am-10:30am, Vallejo Community Center, 225 Amador St
| | Benicia LGBTQ+ Network Events! | | |
The Benicia LGBTQIA Network is on Facebook and can be found here
https://www.facebook.com/groups/3251983318281379/?checkpoint_src=any
"You may have noticed that we did not have an event for January. This month, I have travel, the CA democratic convention and our wedding anniversary, so I've decided to skip planning February events as well....
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Coming March 14th – An early spring Backyard Movie Night! From the organizers (Christina): We will be showing a movie in our backyard with popcorn, cocktails and US. It may be chilly, but it’ll be fun. I’ll remind you to bring a blankie!
Anyone have movie suggestions!? More to come on this. Please watch the Benicia LGBTQ Network group.
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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!
The next social we will have is a St. Paddie's Day Potluck dinner at a local home in Vacaville on Tuesday, March 17th! Now from 5-8:30 pm. Corned beef will be provided, so bring side dishes, appetizers, desserts or drinks to share!
Let will@solanopride.org know if you want to help plan the night!
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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
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The recording of Will's presentation on the "Weaponization of Christianity" against our community can be found here: https://youtu.be/pVImrR6eFIc?si=vvMb8hX1I-9cdYdq
His Pride sermon at Community Congregational Church of Benicia UCC on Sunday, June 29th entitled "Expecting Diversity" can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QYuvuRyUvhM&t=2s
His Christmastide sermon at Community Congregational Church of Benicia UCC on Sunday, December 28th entitle "Who is Fleeing" where he discusses the plight of the Trans community and others can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XecIJ8tjIlo
We have a recording with Janna Barkin!
If you missed this conversation on stories and understanding for Grandparents of Trans folx, here's the recording with Janna Barkin, author of 'He's Always Been My Son' and 'A Grand Love: Stories for Grandparents of Transgender Grandchildren.'
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9dcXTw3rzSs
We had a great conversation with our Trans Panel “Meet the Folx” at Community Congregational Church UCC in Benicia. It was another time to be reminded how diverse the Trans – or any community – can be. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=COmNVmm4sqA).
| | 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, March 1st · 10am - 1pm PDT. Doors at 9:30am. Tickets Link.
• Sunday, March 15th · 10am - 1pm PDT. Doors at 9:30am. Tickets Link. (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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The Hidden Fantasea: Drag Show starts at 5:30 pm on March 6th at the Redwood Empire Whiskey Bar (1195 Nimitz Ave, Vallejo's Mare Island) so don’t miss it!
Vallejo! Can’t wait to meet you at Hidden Fantasea: Holislay Drag Show hosted by the dazzling @thearielfantasea and featuring Pressure K, Pony Bambino, Abe From an, Billy Freak, Clark Kunt & Duke L'Amour. Don’t miss out on Solano County’s latest Drag Show in the fabulous tasting room at Redwood Empire!
Get your tickets here:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/hidden-fantasea-tickets-1981973292471
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Benicia's next drag brunch right in the heart of downtown at Rellik Tavern.
Sunday, March 8th at noon at Rellik Tavern.
Get your tickets now for only $15 below
https://www.eventbrite.com/.../rellik-drag-delish-lunch...
hosted by Charity Kase & Jacob Solbux
with special guests, Vicodonia Knightingale & Ellenore Gunt
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The Vanity series at Cedar's Corner (801 Texas Street, Fairfield) is now meeting for Late Sunday Brunch at 1 pm on Sunday, March 22nd!
This month the event is Sunday, March 22nd! $10 tickets at the door. Seating at noon, show begins at 1 pm. Come check out their great menu, and grab a bite along with some amazing Drag by the Crew! Don't miss this month's lineup!
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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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Solano College Theatre Upcoming Plays
4000 Suisun Valley Road, Fairfield. https://app.arts-people.com/index.php?ticketing=sct01
42nd Street - April 10-26 Special Dates: April 10: Opening Night Gala! Formal/cocktail attire optional but greatly encouraged; sparkling apple cider, and hors d'oeuvres available for purchase (free for Season Subscribers!). April 23: Pay-what-you-can nightApril 24: ASL Interpreting Provided (Please select seats in rows G, H, J, seats 201-210 for best view of interpreters)Come along and listen to the lullaby of Broadway! 42nd Street celebrates Broadway, Times Square and the magic of show biz with wit, humor and pizzazz. At the height of the Great Depression, aspiring chorus girl Peggy Sawyer comes to the big city from Allentown PA, and soon lands her first big job in the ensemble of a glitzy new Broadway show. But just before opening night, the leading lady breaks her ankle. Will Peggy be able to step in and become a star? The score is chock-full of Broadway standards, including "You're Getting To Be A Habit With Me," "Dames," "We're In the Money," "Lullaby of Broadway," "Shuffle Off to Buffalo" and "Forty-Second Street."Content Advisory:Suitable for all ages. While there is no official rating system for live theatre, we encourage you to use your judgment based on age, maturity level, and subject matter. This show contains mild sexual content, violence, and cigarette/alcohol use, but these make up a small portion of the script. If you have further questions, please reach out to us by emailing SCT@solano.edu.
Rabbit Hole by David Lindsay-Abaire Directed by Jae Tolbert
Rabbit Hole - April 29-May 3. Special Dates: April 29: Opening Night Gala! Formal/cocktail attire optional but greatly encouraged; sparkling apple cider and hors d'oeuvres available for purchase (free for Season Subscribers!).May 1: ASL Interpreting Provided Becca and Howie Corbett have everything a family could want, until a life-shattering accident turns their world upside down. and leaves the couple drifting perilously apart. RABBIT HOLE charts their bittersweet search for comfort in the darkest of places and for a path that will lead them back into the light of day.Winner of the 2007 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. Content Advisory:Suitable for ages 13+. While there is no official rating system for live theatre, we encourage you to use your judgment based on age, maturity level, and subject matter. This show contains themes of grief and mortality, adult language, and scenes of intensity. If you have further questions, please reach out to us by emailing SCT@solano.edu. https://www.solanocollegetheatre.org
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Listos - 5 Steps Emergency Preparedness Training starting on Friday, March 20th from 12:00 (noon) – 1:00 pm.
All registered attendees will receive a Go Bag, a $40 value! Registration is limited to only 290 people, so register now!
The class will start promptly at 12:00 noon. During this training, we’ll cover 5 steps to preparedness: Developing a Plan, Go bags, Stay bags, Alerts and Helping others. Please bring whatever you need to take notes: pen, pencil, crayon and paper or laptop computer.
Friday, March 20
• Listos - 5 Steps to Preparedness Training (from 12:00 Noon to 1:00 PM). See the attached flyer for registration link and other information. You are welcome to share the flyer and this email with your contacts.
Registration is required:
https://forms.gle/mys8WZcDrmaqFXen8
The Training is located at:
Salvation Army – Kroc Community Center, Chapel Hall
568 East Wigeon Way, Suisun City, CA 94585
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The Solano Healthcare Coalition (HCC) is hosting an Emergency Preparedness Workshop March 24, 2026, from 9am to 4pm.
The focus is on extreme heat and wildfire risk. See the attached flyer for registration information. Register here: This is blatant abuse of the voting system. They are run by the states because they never trusted the Feds not to interfere.
https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=rCB_XvHlg0-MO85EuEhkIeq_7bj3GzROoK4xsxgRp2ZUMDRJODdVQjhXT1VVT1hHQjFSTFRIVkE3RC4u&origin=QRCode&route=shorturl
Respectfully,
Robyn Rains, Emergency Services Manager
Solano County Sheriff’s Office / Office of Emergency Services
530 Clay Street, Fairfield, CA 94533
(707) 784-1600 Office / (707) 372-8076 Cell
RLRains@SolanoCounty.gov
solanocounty.gov/government/office-emergency-services
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Save the Date for Davis Pride Comedy Night in June!
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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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!
| | 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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No Kings 3 Protests: Save the date, Saturday, March 28th.
see more at https://www.solanopride.org/protests-advocacy/
From Indivisible: "On March 28 we'll take to the streets, ready to bring millions of new allies along with us to declare, in one voice: NO thugs terrorizing our neighborhoods. NO troop deployments in our streets. NO imperial wars of conquest. NO KINGS."
Here are 3 things you can do between now and March 28:
1. SIGN UP NOW to get an alert when the No Kings map is live, so you can find a rally near you: https://www.nokings.org/
2. JOIN AN "EYES ON ICE" TRAINING: Learn how to exercise your rights, document and record ICE and other federal agents when they terrorize our communities and use excessive force: https://www.mobilize.us/indivisible/event/892452/
3. DONATE if you can. Organizing No Kings is a major undertaking, with millions of participants and thousands of local events that require lot of grassroots support. If you're in a position to contribute to the effort, chip in now: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/nokings-2026
Trump wants to rule like a king. But we the people refuse to cower in the face of his cruelty. This country doesn't bow down to tyrants. We sure as hell won't bow down to the wretched ghouls who kidnap children, teargas schools, and murder our neighbors then slander them as domestic terrorists. No thugs. No thrones. No crowns. NO KINGS!
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This week was busy, busy, busy — candidate endorsements continued, our staff gathered in Los Angeles to build out and solidify our 2026 plans, we launched a campaign to stabilize healthcare for TGI Californians (read more on that below), and we'll have a presence at this weekend's CADEM convention in San Francisco. But even with all that, we're still delivering you the most important news of the week! To view previous news items from the Equality Brief, visit our website.
THANK YOU FOR TAKING ACTION
We put out the call...and wow, did you answer.
The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has proposed rules that would bar federal Medicaid funding for transition-related care for transgender youth and prohibit hospitals that provide this care from participating in Medicare or Medicaid altogether.
Over 30 days, more than 900 of you spoke out — patients, providers, families — and included stories and impassioned pleas to protect the trans community. In fact, the comments submitted through our portal accounted for 1 in 7 of the total submissions regarding the proposals.
We are overwhelmed by your response, and are proud to stand with you as we continue to fight for a world that is healthy, just, and fully equal for all LGBTQ+ people. Until the work is done.
📩 TAKE ACTION: Tell Superintendents to Complete Our Safe and Supportive Schools Survey!
In October, we sent out the fourth iteration of our Safe and Supportive Schools Survey to California's 345 public school districts. To date, we've only received 95 completions. The data gathered through this survey provides a snapshot of the lives of LGBTQ+ students, and how districts are either succeeding or falling short in supporting them. We're asking for your help to reach our goal of 150 completed surveys — visit our easy-to-use Mobilize page, select an action, fill in your information, and hit the 'Send Email' button. It takes less than 20 seconds, and you'll be helping us better support LGBTQ+ youth throughout the state. Thanks!
Week of Feb. 15-Feb. 21, 2026:
Justice Department Issues New Anti-Trans Federal Prison Policy — While Being Challenged in Court:
On Thursday, the Department of Justice unveiled a new policy for transgender inmates that would bar needed surgeries for trans people in federal prisons, require “tapering plans” for those receiving hormone therapy, and end social accommodations like offering gender-appropriate clothing. A previous anti-trans directive regarding federal prisons, issued in January 2025, is currently blocked from implementation by U.S. District Judge Royce Lamberth via preliminary injunction pending further litigation.Tomorrow is Valentine's Day — and for more than 25 years, we've been fighting for the right of all people to love who they love. We were in the trenches for marriage equality from the start, and even as recently as 2024 — during the successful Yes on 3 ballot initiative which updated our state constitution to protect the freedom to marry — we've been winning. And hey, even if you're single this February 14th, just remember: chocolate goes on sale starting Sunday.
Coalition Urges Governor, Legislature to Protect Access to TGI Healthcare with $26M One-Time Investment:
A coalition of LGBTQ+, healthcare, and civil rights groups announced on Thursday that they are urging Governor Newsom and the legislature to approve a one-time General Fund investment of $26 million to protect access to medically necessary health care for transgender, gender-expansive, and intersex (TGI) Californians. California is home to the largest transgender population in the nation, including an estimated 263,700 transgender adults and 84,600 transgender youth. Despite clear legal protections under state law, escalating federal attacks are destabilizing access to transgender health care, putting transgender youth at particular risk. This $26 million request is a modest, strategic investment relative to the scale of California’s budget and consistent with prior actions the Governor and Legislature have taken to stabilize critical services during periods of federal uncertainty.
Parents, Advocates Arrested For Protesting Proposed Trans Healthcare Ban:
Parents of transgender youth and advocates were arrested after blockading the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services headquarters to protest proposed federal rules that could significantly restrict access to medically necessary care for transgender youth nationwide. The rules would cut off federal Medicaid funding for transgender healthcare and threaten hospitals with the loss of Medicare and Medicaid funding if they continue providing this care, prompting more than 40 hospitals across the country to halt or limit services.
California Attorney General Continues Opposition to Trump Administration With Comment Letters, Amicus Brief:
California Attorney General Rob Bonta's ongoing opposition to the discriminatory efforts of the Trump administration continued this week. First, the AG joined a coalition of 21 fellow attorneys general to oppose proposed federal rules that would strip funding from healthcare providers offering transgender healthcare. The coalition argues that the rules violate states’ rights to regulate medicine, and that the Trump administration has exceeded its legal authority in attempting to condition participation in federal programs on halting specific medical services. Additionally, Bonta joined a second coalition of 16 attorneys general in filing an amicus brief challenging the U.S. Department of Education’s decision to cut grant funding to New York City Public Schools over its transgender-inclusive policies. In the brief, the coalition argues that transgender-inclusive policies are not only permitted under Title IX, but also protect transgender youth from serious harms and foster a safe and more supportive school environment for all students.
Judge Blocks Trump Department of Education From Withholding $4.9 Billion From California Schools:
A federal judge issued a temporary restraining order blocking the Trump administration from withholding $4.9 billion in federal education funding from California over the state’s transgender-inclusive school policies. The administration had threatened to cut funding unless schools allowed policies requiring staff to notify parents when a student identifies as transgender. California Attorney General Rob Bonta filed suit, arguing the federal government’s demands misinterpret federal privacy law and threaten critical funding that supports low-income students, students with disabilities, and other vulnerable populations. The court’s ruling preserves funding for California schools while the legal challenge moves forward.
Federal Judge Negates Trump Education Department's Anti-DEI Directives:
A U.S. District Court judge in New Hampshire issued a final ruling on Wednesday negating the Department of Education's 2025 directive that sought to prevent federally funded schools and universities from practicing diversity, equity and inclusion. "This ruling affirms what educators and communities have long known: celebrating the full existence of every person and sharing the truth about our history is essential," said Sharif El-Mekki, CEO at The Center for Black Educator Development, one of the organizations that originally filed suit to block the DOE's guidance.
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Are you a student who is a certified policy wonk? Do you want to be part of the day-to-day happenings in state government? Ever seen an episode of The West Wing and thought, "I'd like to do one of those walk-and-talks?"
Well, I’ve got great news — applications for the 2026 Comcast Legislative Fellowship are now open!
Through a generous grant from the Comcast Foundation and in partnership with the California Legislative LGBTQ Caucus, Equality California Institute sponsors a five-week intensive in-person fellowship program each year for six (6) students who have completed at least one year of undergraduate studies at college or university.
Want to spend part of your summer in Sacramento learning the inner workings of the legislature (or know someone this would be a perfect opportunity for)? Apply today!
If chosen, you’ll serve as a fellow in the office of a state legislator and receive hands-on experience in policymaking and issues-based organizing, with access to mentors to support your work.
The fellowship runs from June 8 to July 10, 2026 in Sacramento. Fellows will receive housing and a $5,000 stipend. Please note this is an intensive five-week program with a tightly scheduled calendar.
Applications are open until March 18 — submit your materials ASAP!
Thank you,
— Joel
Joel Gemino
Associate Program Director
Pronouns: he/him/his
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Studies
6 new studies can be found at:
https://www.solanopride.org/studies/
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My name is Bobby Younce, and I am a Social Work PhD student at the University of Utah. I am currently conducting research for my dissertation regarding how LGBTQ+ individuals experience intimate partner violence.
Given the limited research in this area, I need your help getting the word out!
How can you help?
Please share the attached flyer (or this survey link) with any relevant listservs and encourage anyone you think could benefit from this study to participate. This study has been approved by the University of Utah's ethics board and should take about 15 minutes to complete.
What is this study about?
The purpose of this research is to gain a better understanding of how sexual and gender minority populations (i.e., lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, etc.) experience intimate partner violence. I am particularly interested in understanding the unique needs and experiences of survivors who identify as sexual and gender minorities.
I’m happy to answer any questions you might have, and please feel free to forward this email: Every voice matters!
-Bobby Younce
Bobby Younce, MSW, LCSW
Pronouns: he/him/his (What is this?)
PhD Candidate
The University of Utah, College of Social Work
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February Health & Wellness Observances
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National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (February 7th): National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NBHAAD) is observed annually on February 7th to highlight the disproportionate impact of HIV on Black Americans, who represent 12% of the U.S. population but nearly 40% of new diagnoses. The day promotes education, testing, and treatment, emphasizing the reduction of stigma and increased access to care.
Key Facts & Objectives:
- Disproportionate Impact: In 2023, Black people accounted for 38% of new HIV diagnoses and 39% of people living with HIV.
- Target Populations: Young Black gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM) are most affected, with 47% of diagnoses in this group occurring among those aged 13–34.
- The South: The impact is highest in the South, where Black Americans accounted for 51% of new diagnoses in 2022.
- Prevention & Care: The 2026 observance emphasizes the need for increased uptake of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), as Black people have the lowest PrEP-to-Need Ratio (PnR).
- Goal: To raise awareness, decrease stigma, and encourage testing, treatment, and community engagement to end HIV/AIDS within Black communities.
How to Participate:
- Get Tested: Find free or low-cost testing locations using online resources.
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Educate: Utilize toolkits from AIDSVu and the CDC to share information.
- Use Hashtags: Engage on social media with #NBHAAD, #StopHIVTogether, and #PACT4HIV.
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Support: Engage with organizations like the Black AIDS Institute.
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Week after Valentine’s Day: Aromantic Spectrum Awareness Week: Aromantic Spectrum Awareness Week
(ASAW) is an annual event held during the first full week following Valentine’s Day (starting on Sunday) to foster acceptance and raise awareness for people who experience little to no romantic attraction. It highlights aromantic, demiromantic, and grey-romantic identities, challenging the assumption that romantic love is necessary for a fulfilling life, especially immediately after the heavily romanticized Feb. 14th.
Key Aspects of Aromantic Spectrum Awareness Week:
- Purpose: To spread awareness, increase acceptance, and combat the isolation felt by those on the aromantic spectrum.
- Timing: Always held the first full week after Valentine’s Day.
- Focus: Represents individuals who may not experience romantic attraction, or experience it differently (e.g., demiromantic, grey-romantic), while acknowledging that aromantics can still have rich, meaningful, and committed non-romantic relationships (platonic/queerplatonic).
- History: Originally launched in November 2014 as "Aromantic Awareness Week" and moved to its current, more inclusive, post-Valentine's spot in 2015.
- Symbolism: The week is often associated with the aromantic pride flag, which features dark green (representing the aromantic spectrum), light green (the arospec spectrum), white (platonic/aesthetic attraction), grey, and black (representing the sexuality spectrum).
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HIV Is Not A Crime Awareness Day (HINAC), observed annually on February 28, highlights the urgent need to repeal laws that criminalize people living with HIV based on their status rather than intent or transmission. Founded in 2022 by the Sero Project and The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation, it aims to end stigma, misinformation, and legal penalties for HIV-positive individuals.
Key Aspects of the Day:
- Combating Criminalization: Over 30 U.S. states have laws that criminalize failure to disclose HIV status, or for behaviors with little to no transmission risk, which can lead to incarceration and sex offender registration.
- Scientific Advancement (U=U): Modern, effective treatment means people with suppressed viral loads cannot transmit the virus, rendering these laws outdated and unscientific.
- Targeted Demographics: The date specifically addresses the disproportionate impact of both the epidemic and criminalization on Black communities and women.
- Actionable Advocacy: The day focuses on advocating for legislative reform to align laws with current public health evidence, promoting dignity, and reducing stigma.
| | 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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