Actor and advocate Danny Pintauro is not one to shy away from a difficult conversation and with his latest project, he’s diving right into one.

Starring in the benefit reading of Right Before I Go for Mental Health Action Day, Pintauro isn’t just lending his voice to a powerful script — he’s putting his own lived experience on the front lines of a conversation that, quite honestly, needs to happen. With a cast full of talent, a story grounded in authenticity and truth, and a discussion that promises real dialogue, this is not just a night at the theater but a call to action.

We were fortunate to have the opportunity to connect with Pintauro and talk about what drew him to this project, how his own journey informs his advocacy, and why we all need to ‘kiki less, talk more.”

Spoiler alert: things get honest, unfiltered, and refreshingly hopeful.

You’re starring in the benefit reading of Right Before I Go  for Mental Health Action Day. What drew you to this particular project? 

Stan Zimmerman, the creator of this piece, sent the script to me quite a while ago and I was intrigued after reading. So we’ve been waiting for an opportunity to work on this together. The timing is perfect with May 15 being Mental Health Action Day. The Curtis Theater in Brea is also very hands on with this piece and is providing a mental health professional for the talk back after the show. To work with Mindy Sterling, Juliana Joel, Philip Smithey and Kalinda Gray — is a dream.

The play is built around the true story of Stan processing the loss of his friend Kevin from suicide and how that journey of understanding led him to read numerous notes that various people, both famous and not, have left behind. While telling his story, the other four actors, including myself, read the various letters that impacted Stan the most.  This play is an opportunity to get people thinking about suicide and mental health, and any opportunity to affect even a small group of people in this way is important. Safe spaces are important and we’re going to provide one on May 18. 

As someone who’s been open about your own health journey, how does this play resonate with your personal experiences? 

Look, we’ve all had a moment in our lives where things were so bad,  ending your life seemed like the only way forward. If someone tells you they have never had that moment they’re lying. That moment when you are convinced the only solution in front of you that makes sense is to not be alive anymore. I have had multiple instances in my life where it was right there, right on the tip of my tongue. Whether it be in my early 20s when I was outed by the Enquirer, my late 20s when I found out I was HIV positive, or my early 30s when I filed for bankruptcy and felt completely lost. 

We’ve all been there, we just — we have to start talking about being there, share the journey with others- that’s the fastest way for us to make change. 

According to the CDC, nearly 49,000 people died by suicide in 2023 — that’s one every 11 minutes in the U.S., with the numbers being disproportionately higher for minority groups. The Trevor Project reports that 18% of LGBTQ youth attempted suicide that year, with trans individuals being 72% more likely to do so.

What if removing stigma created safe spaces — starting with ourselves — that allowed people to talk before it’s too late? Just opening up in our friend groups could make a world of difference, especially for young LGBTQ people who might feel seen and supported for the first time.

Depression is a major driver of suicide, but anxiety plays a huge role too. Think about it —suicide can feel like a form of relief when fear and panic become unbearable. My husband, for example, has severe anxiety and claustrophobia on airplanes. When stuck on a tarmac too long, his panic gets so intense that his brain starts convincing him the only escape is to end his life. He’s logical, emotionally stable, and still this happens. That’s how powerful anxiety can be—and why we have to talk about it more. Kiki less, talk more.

In the past, you have always been open and honest about the challenges of living with HIV and overcoming addiction. How have these experiences impacted your approach to mental health advocacy?

As I mentioned, finding out I was HIV positive in 2003 was rough. At the time, we barely understood what the future looked like for people on medication and the drugs themselves were still harsh on the body. There weren’t many examples of people living full, happy lives with HIV — it felt like a death sentence. On top of that, I also contracted Hep C, which can accelerate HIV progression. I truly believed my time was limited. Thankfully, my Hep C resolved itself, but that initial realization — that I’d need to take a pill every day or die — sent me into a tailspin that brought me inches from suicide.

Addiction and mental health[care] are just as tightly connected. One rarely exists without the other and both carry heavy stigma. Talking about either can change how people see you, which is why it’s critical we create a culture of understanding and compassion. We’ve come a long way, but in 2025, it’s still shocking how much judgment exists around suicide, addiction and even depression.

We have to do better.

Right Before I Go  digs deep into heavy themes of suicide and mental health. What message do you hope audiences take away from this performance? 

You’ll find the keyword of this interview will be action and how we must all take action when it comes to mental health. For our own sakes and for those around us. We must all reach a place where speaking openly and honestly about our personal struggles is easy and we feel heard. That requires education, for both the person suffering and those around them.

So, this play will hopefully give people who are struggling, a safe space to speak about it [during the talkback portion after the play]. [This part] will also get the audience members thinking about who in their lives might be struggling and maybe help them understand why they are struggling in the first place, or even help them understands what the signs are. So few people talk openly about suicide, we are left to read the signs. 

Lastly, yes, the play is specifically about suicide, but suicide is a byproduct of mental health and we need to remember that mental health is intrinsically tied to overall health. Everyone can agree that poor mental health leads to poor physical health, both in the short term and long term. I experience this on a daily basis — my anxiety can get so severe that my doctors are worried I will develop ulcers. And if you believe in energy, having your body flooded with the negative energy your mind is creating throughout the day is sure to affect your health.  So we all need to take action to make sure our brains are cooperating as fully as possible. What does ‘action’ look like for you? Therapy? Medication? Both?

You’ve been a vocal advocate for de-stigmatizing HIV. How do you see the parallels between the stigma surrounding HIV and that of mental health issues? 

They used to be inseparable. Thankfully we have come so far with HIV treatments that we can finally separate the two – through research and through meeting others living happily with HIV you can reach a place where any misgivings, worries or fears can be put away in a box and burned. Every time I encounter someone on my live streams or in my messages who is in a dire state about their HIV diagnosis, it becomes clear right away that they haven’t done their research and are simply living in the stigma.

To be clear, I’m not judging them for not having done their research. I’m simply acknowledging that the act of finding out your positive is so overwhelming and intrinsically tied to shame and fear, you don’t know what to do. Ten years ago, I was always hopeful and positive when responding to people who had just found out. Now I can tell someone with confidence that they can and will live a happy healthy life, even with HIV. The fear dissipates quickly once they realize that taking their medication, as prescribed, will allow them to live long lives — I mean, I’m 20 years positive and in the best health of my life. Learning that (U=U) is real and viable and that taking PrEP can prevent transmission and can remove the shame surrounding being sexually active again. Meeting others who are living full lives should clear any remaining stigma. 

That’s when you ‘pop out and into’ your new world with a new passion for life. That’s my personal mantra for a lot of things, when I find myself worrying about my acting career for instance — I try to ‘pop out’ of the negative mindset and ‘pop into’ my manifestations or the very least, ‘pop into the present moment.’

What role do you believe the entertainment industry plays in shaping public perceptions of mental health? 

As I’ve always believed, the entertainment business creates opportunities to change public perception every day. I said 100 times already that one of the ways to end stigma and bring mental health issues more to the forefront is through education. But not everyone is going to pick up a pamphlet and decide to become more educated about suicide or depression — at least not until they’re faced with it personally.

But those same people are watching more and more film, TV and social media and if we present them with honest, real and relatable examples of people with suicidal tendencies, depression, mental health issues, etc… while also presenting them with examples of how to help those people — bam, they’ve become educated.

I’ve been saying this since 1997 about the LGBTQ community — one of my jobs in coming out was [and] is to be an honest, real and relatable example of someone who is gay. The more examples, the more acceptance, education and understanding. 

Right now, one of the things we are not seeing much of at all in film and TV are people living happily with HIV and having sex. We need to start seeing more examples of this [because] it will help everyone understand and learn. It will make it easier for people just finding out to move through the stigma, it will show how far we’ve come and it will educate people.

I constantly have people ask me how I’m ‘doing.’ And it’s always clear they actually mean, ‘I know you’re dying from HIV, how long do you have?’ If we can start showing people that we are doctors, nurses, teachers, politicians, parents and friends, we can get them to believe we’re not all dying. The only difference between you and me is that I have to take a pill every day, hell, some people get a shot every three months now, that is truly the only difference in our daily lives. 

Given your diverse career, from acting to animal rescue, how do you balance your personal passions with your advocacy work? 

You know, I wish I could say I was more of an advocate. I wish I was more like Alyssa Milano or Wilson Cruz, just every day taking on the challenges of being vocal about multiple causes. Compared to them, it really feels like I’m not doing anything, It’s also hard to be as prevalent as they are when your daily life is filled with so much uncertainty.

Since coming back to the entertainment business in 2022, I have had minimal success due to everything that’s affected the business since then. I know success is just around the corner for me. I can feel it — but right now we worry about paying our bills, not so much about being an advocate. I think just existing in this world as an example of a healthy, happy HIV [positive] gay man with addiction issues, is going to have to be enough for now. 

For people struggling with mental health challenges, what advice would you offer based on your own journey? 

My journey is unique, and while I’m not a mental health professional, I always encourage anyone struggling to seek real help because it’s easier than ever to find. What I can share is what’s worked for me.

I talk about this a lot during my TikTok lives: you’ve got to live in the present. That’s one of the main reasons I’ve survived everything I’ve been through. I’m great at letting go of the past, but my anxiety keeps me living too far in the future. Staying grounded in the moment takes work — deep breaths, mindfulness, and yes, therapy.

When I feel myself spiraling, I remind myself: in five years, I don’t want to look back and regret wasting time stuck in a mental health hole. While it’s not always easy to spot when you’re slipping, the key is awareness — what I call my mantra: ‘pop out and pop into.‘ Be conscious enough to pop out of destructive thoughts and pop into the present. Grieve, process, heal — but then live.

Because you’re the only one you truly need to live for.

If you’re stuck in the past or paralyzed by the future, find a therapist. If your mental health isn’t where you want it to be, talk to a doctor about medication. And yes — that stigma still exists. Why is it so taboo to say [to yourself], ‘my brain needs help and I’m choosing medication so I can fully live?’

Our brains aren’t perfect — some need support. That’s not weakness, it’s wisdom.

To my trans brothers and sisters: I see you. I hear you.

According to The Trevor Project, suicide attempts among trans and nonbinary youth rose by 72% in the wake of anti-trans legislation. I know what it’s like to not feel safe — I came out at a time when being openly gay was a radical act. We’ve made huge strides, but our trans friends don’t always have the same safety. We must protect them.

We lost a trans friend in Austin this year. It hurts and I can’t help but think — if the political climate were different, maybe they’d still be here. But we will get through this. When I came out, we barely had two gay characters on TV. Now queer people are everywhere on screen — and that visibility saves lives. So stay visible. Stay here. It does get better.

 Looking ahead, how do you envision continuing to contribute to mental health awareness and support? 

Hopefully by continuing to read this play in other places around the country. But it will not be hard for me to always be vocal about mental health considering I suffer from it. That’s really the key, people need to talk more openly and freely about their mental health issues — to breakdown stereotypes, to help others see they are not alone, to learn more about yourself — all of it. 

What do you hope people remember about your involvement in Right Before I Go  and your advocacy efforts? 

I hope that people remember the collective moment we get to have after the show in our talk back – that’s where the real work begins!

Right Before I Go: Curtis Theatre, Sun, May 18th, 2025 at 5:00 pm: Tickets Here

The LGBTQ Comic Con event returned for its fourth iteration last weekend at WeHo’s Plummer Park, with Prism Comics — a nonprofit that spotlights LGBTQ artists — once again hosting Southern California’s newest Queer comic convention. This free, day-long event has become a mainstay for local communities; each year brings together countless comic book creators, visual artists, industry professionals, and more in celebration of LGBTQ fandom today. 

From insightful panels to dozens of distinctly talented vendors, interested guests could spend hours roaming the aisles learning how each creator spotlights their community through art. 

“I loved being surrounded by other Queer artists and being able to share my work with so many people,” said Deja Prieto, an LA-based illustrator who spent Q Con selling paintings that explore the complexities of female expression through sapphic relationships. “Representation for queer and BIPOC folks in comics is something that the world needs more of, and being able to support creators directly is what makes Q Con truly special.” 

Prieto wasn’t the only person proud to share their art with the convention. There were Drag Queens decked out in Deadpool costumes, cosplayers dazzling with their intricate creations, and many fans thrilled to show off their passions to the equally excited attendees around them.

Yet, underlying all of this visual exhilaration was the message that Q Con is based on: comics and fandom have always been essential to the LGBTQ+ rights movement. 

This shone through most in the day’s many panels. Whether it be deep-dives into how the X-Men represent modern-day discrimination or conversations about how cosplay helps people find their authentic selves, these hour-long discussions were as enlightening as they were intriguing. One of the true stand-outs was Queer Comics and Resistance, a panel that saw comic legends like LA’s very own Sina Grace discuss how the medium has been utilized to fight back against discrimination. 

They spoke about things like the historic use of zines in advocacy, portraying transgender characters when no other medium would, and the countless ways comic creators have worked to grant LGBTQ communities the respectful portrayals they deserve. It was an illuminating conversation for all, and it provided an in-depth understanding that made the entire day feel so much more significant.  

Above all else, Q Con was a fun time for all. The crowd’s excitement was tangible, with people you would usually see dancing the night away at Revolver, giddily decked out in dazzling costumes and posing with kids whose parents saw Q Con as the fun event it has proven itself to be.

Combine this with the many LGBTQ vendors in attendance and the day was not only a joyful way to support Queer art, but a reminder of the many people fighting for this community in uniquely powerful ways today. It was a cavalcade of Queerness that reminds everyone about how valuable “nerdy” spaces like these are to the LGBTQ rights movement.

With the assurances from its hosts that this is only setting up an even bigger convention in 2026, West Hollywood locals can be glad that they have a new, annual fixture to look forward to each year.

Long Beach Pride 2025 will take place on May 17 and 18 at Marina Green Park, emphasizing focus on grassroots organizations and local community performers. 

“Long Beach Pride has always been more than just a festival—it’s a movement,” said Elsa Martinez, interim president of LB Pride. “This year, more than ever, we’re celebrating the strength, creativity, and unity of our local community.” 

Martinez also notes that all the ticket sales directly go toward funding on-the-ground resources. 

“As a nonprofit organization, every aspect of the Pride Festival—from ticket sales to vendor partnerships—directly funds our work in the community,” noted Martinez. “This is a festival with purpose.”

As LB Pride amps up for its 42nd annual celebration, the organization has stated that this year marks the return to the roots of Pride. LB Pride stated that they are committed to emphasizing what makes the local community so special and spotlighting local performers, musicians and entertainers. 

The organization has also stated that they are committed to ‘justice, inclusion, and the celebration of queer joy.’ 

“Our strength has always been our solidarity,” said Martinez. “This year’s festival is a reminder of what we can achieve when we lift each other up.”

This year, the main stage will feature a lineup of pop, Hip-hop and Latin talent. 

Performers include HYM the Rapper, George Michael Reborn Tribute, Tori Kay, Jewels Drag Show Extravaganza, Secret Service, Tiancho and music mixes by DJ BSelecta, DJ Icy Ice and DJ 360. 

For updates, tickets, and volunteer opportunities, please visit https://longbeachpride.com and follow @LongBeachPride on social media.

Queer poetry is well and alive in Los Angeles as OUTSpoken Verse, an evening of poetry, music, open mic and more, comes to The Wild in West Hollywood.

Taking place on Wednesday, April 30, the evening will begin with a writing workshop from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m., with an open mic session for the remainder of the evening. There will also be a special book reading and signing by author Manuel Betancourt.

The Wild, the little club that could, continues to make a name for itself and despite its compact size, hosts a variety of dynamic events that represent many under-sung facets of the queer community. Tod Hallman and Joseph Soto — the masterminds behind many of these events — are on a mission to fill the venue by expanding on the view of who a typical WeHo club go-er is.

OUTSpoken is hosted by Brian Sonia-Wallace, who served as the City of West Hollywood’s 4^th Poet Laureate — will highlight the thriving, queer spoken, word L.A. community.

Tongue Tied, the last event hosted by Sonia-Wallace, featured some of the top queer poets and authors from around the nation. The evening was hosted at Precinct DTLA to a standing room only crowd. One of the only positives from the nation’s social and political climate towards queer folk is the fire that it has ignited as art and literature continue to be the community’s most powerful weapons.

We talked to promoters Hallman and Soto about OUTSpoken and how The Wild continues to represent the diversity of queer Los Angeles.

How did you get into the nightlife scene?

Hallman: My background is rooted in fashion and fashion event production—curating experiences where creativity, style, and storytelling intersect. (Soto) I come from a background of creating brands and shaping how people experience them. As a creative, I specialize in branding, marketing, and experiential activations, with a focus on building authentic connections between people, ideas, and culture. (Tod/Joseph) Believe it or not, we’re neighbors, and through casual conversations while walking our dogs, we realized we shared a passion for building community. That’s how Viberocity was born: out of a desire to create intentional, welcoming spaces where art, fashion, culture, and self-expression collide, and where everyone feels part of something meaningful.

What do you love most about queer nightlife in Los Angeles?

Hallman: Los Angeles is a city defined by its diversity, and that’s especially true within its queer community. The beauty of queer nightlife here is that it holds space for so many different stories, identities, and creative expressions. Every night offers an opportunity to celebrate that diversity.

What sets The Wild apart from other venues in West Hollywood?

Hallman: As event producers, Joseph and I recognize that what truly sets The Wild apart is the communication and support we receive from its owner, Bryan Patrick Franklin. Bryan understands the importance of offering diverse, inclusive events to the community. Some of the experiences we bring to the space include Laugh Out Proud, Purely Wild, The Last Disco, and OUTSpoken Verse. That level of collaboration and support is rare, and it’s why The Wild feels like home for so many of these events. 

What is most important to The Wild in putting on an evening?

Hallman: The Wild truly understands that in today’s world, it’s not enough to simply host an event… you have to create an experience that resonates emotionally with people. Every Viberocity event we produce here is built around that idea: that when you bring together intention, creativity, and community, something meaningful happens. Events like Purely Wild grew directly from listening to what the community was asking for: a vibrant, safe space where people could enjoy crafted mocktails and connect without the expectation of alcohol. The Wild helped us bring that vision to life.

What are the biggest challenges in promoting nightlife in WeHo? How have you overcome those challenges?

Hallman: When I first moved to West Hollywood in the mid-80s, the Rainbow District had about six bars. 

Soto: Now, with more than 17 bars and countless event options, plus the rise of social media, people have limitless choices every night. As event producers, it challenges us to go deeper. When you create something with real heart, the right audience finds you, and they come back. 

You’re bringing poetry to WeHo with OUTSpoken Verse. What can attendees expect from the evening?

Soto: OUTSpoken Verse is truly one-of-a-kind because no two events are ever the same. Every night, there’s an electric unpredictability that makes the experience so special. Our core group of OG poets anchors the evening, but it’s the new voices, the open mic participants, who bring a freshness and vitality to the space. It’s a celebration of raw expression, courage, and artistry. Attendees can expect to leave feeling inspired, moved, and connected to something greater. 

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What do you love most about open mic nights?

Hallman: Coming from a background in acting and dance, I find it thrilling to see artists step into the spotlight, many for the very first time. Providing a space for them to express themselves creatively is deeply rewarding. [Joseph] I love the spontaneity of it. Every artist brings their own style and energy to the mic, making each OUTSpoken night a completely unique experience. 

Why are poetry and music in queer culture so important right now?

Hallman: With everything happening in the world—and within the LGBTQ+ community in particular—spaces for expression, solidarity, and support are more important than ever. Poetry and music allow us to share our stories, our emotions, and our resilience in powerful ways.

Manuel Betancourt is stopping by OUTSpoken Verse. What do you love most about his work?

Soto: We rely on the expertise of our OUTSpoken host, Brian Sonia-Wallace, to bring us artists who are a great fit for the evening. When Brian introduced us to Manuel Betancourt’s work, we were excited. His voice and storytelling are a perfect addition to the energy of the night, and we’re thrilled attendees will have the opportunity to hear him read and purchase copies of his book, Hello Stranger. 

What else can we expect from your events at The Wild in the future?

Soto: While we can’t reveal too much just yet, we’re working on a large-scale activation that will bring a wide range of experiences together to celebrate culture and community in a new way. 

What is your message to the WeHo nightlife community?

Hallman & Soto: Our message is simple: we see you, we celebrate you and we’re here to create spaces where you can truly belong. In a city with endless options, it means something special when people choose to come together to share music, creativity and connection at one of our events. 

OUTSpoken Verse is produced by Viberocity partners, Tod Hallman and Joseph Soto.

Get your tickets for OUTSpoken

Jessica Wagstaff is the founder of Homology L.A. and most recently partnered up with The Queer 26, a nonprofit platform for QTBIPOC creatives, to produce Lez Brunch. The brunch will be hosted on May 17, from noon to 4p.m., at Sorry Not Sorry. The 4,000 sq-ft event space is a well-respected wine-forward, cocktail bar in Los Angeles that also hosts lots of other LGBTQ events, drag shows and more, throughout the year. 

Wagstaff believes it is important to not only host this event, but also to make it as safe and inclusive as possible. They have also incorporated a community outreach aspect to this event by giving back to their community by donating proceeds to non-profit and mutual aid organizations.

Everything down to the ticketing site, is queer and inclusive. 

“The ticketing website allows attendees to enter in their name which may differ from their legal name, which I think is a really important aspect right off the top of the bat, they know we care about who they are right at the start of their experience with us,” said Wagstaff. “In fact the ticketing website is the only platform that is queer owned and operated in the world, it’s called Sickening Events. So we know that it’s also benefiting our community.”

The performers are also part of the LGBTQ+ community and Wagstaff believes that by having a line-up of performers and entertainers who mirror and represent the community, it allows people to feel safe, heard and seen. 

“I’ve always been very passionate about having a lineup that directly mirrors our community from BIPOC, trans, queer, non-binary, etc,” said Wagstaff. 

Wagstaff is also a licensed security guard who says safety and security is on the top of their priorities when it comes to hosting these events. 

“I will have a code of conduct signage and training at the front door which will be promoted by wait staff, restaurant management, plus all Lez Brunch talent and staff,” said Wagstaff. 

The event will be hosted by Ruthie Alcaide who is a TV personality who has been a contestant on The Real World: Hawaii, a finalist on Battle of the Sexes and All Stars 1, and she also competed on Battle of the Sexes 2, The Gauntlet 2, and The Duel II.

Wagstaff is also working in collaboration with Camille Ora-Nicole, founder of The Queer 26 and multi-hyphenated creative. 

Ora-Nicole has been hosting events and collaborating with queer and trans BIPOC creatives across Los Angeles to bring more visibility to those marginalized communities. Her and Wagstaff agree that queer joy is the biggest form of resistance and that hosting these events during this politically polarizing time is much needed for survival and for the people in these communities to have the space to heal, gather, celebrate and network. 

To learn more about The Queer 26, visit their website.

The Los Angeles Blade kicked off its “Free Community Series” in partnership with Roar
Resistance, for a rousing discussion panel titled “Time To Get Informed, Time To
Resist” at The Abbey in West Hollywood last Saturday.

The event featured a panel of notable figures in the city’s government and queer
activism circles who spoke about how to organize and protect queer rights in the current
political climate.

The panel was moderated by Roar Resistance’s Michael Ferrera, and included West
Hollywood Mayor Chelsea Byers, former WeHo Mayor and queer activist Abbe Land,
Equality California Communications Director Jorge Reyes Salinas, Political Vice
President of the Stonewall Democratic Club, Nico Brancolini and NAACP LGBTQ
Committee Chair Chris Baldwin.

The discussion kicked off with a call by Abbe Land for participants to stay focused on
the issues that matter, despite the flood of new developments constantly coming from
the White House.

“I do think it was designed that way to keep us crazed, to keep us unfocused, to keep us
in a state of panic and fear,” said Land. “We have to look at what is happening and
where is our lane and where are we going to focus our energies and have trust that
there are other people that are focusing in other areas that need focus.”

Each of the panelists then described how the first few months of the current
administration has impacted the work they’re doing in the community and the dangers
they see on the horizon.

“I have been deeply disturbed by the elite capitulation that occurred this time around,”
Brancolini said, noting the big law firms and media corporations that have acceded to
“unconstitutional orders” and rushed to make settlements with Trump and his family.

“Frankly, I’ve been disappointed by a lot of the national Democratic leadership. I think
they treated a 1.5% plurality victory on Trump’s behalf as if it was a huge blowout, and I
think that’s a big mistake,” said Land.

Reyes Salinas pointed out that a one of the most vulnerable communities right now is
trans youth.

“The target is on their backs and the backs of their families and providers,” he said.
“Here in California, we have laws that protect them and we keep improving those, but
there’s still so much fear, and it’s important for everyone to be able understand that
these are children’s lives at stake here.”

But while there was agreement that there is much at risk at the current moment, Chris
Baldwin said this was a time to build stronger coalitions.

“I don’t live my life in fear. I am a Black woman born in the 60s, at a time when my father
when we traveled to Alabama had to step across the street to let a white man pass,”
she said. “We will get through this. Black people have lived through much worse.
Welcome to the civil rights movement. We are going to experience setbacks but we will
keep pushing forward.”

Later, Baldwin invited attendees to join the NAACP, noting that it is an interracial
organization whose membership is open to all. Chelsea Byers echoed that sentiment, noting that this moment presents an opportunity for a new generation of leaders to imagine new ways to solve society’s big problems.

“We know that people are under-resourced. We need to make education accessible to
people bring them on board, help them understand these processes and meet them
where they’re at,” she said. “We need to bring people on board. We can’t go back to
what was, because it wasn’t working. We need to activate our political imaginations in
the biggest way possible.”

When the discussion turned to what people can do to protect our rights, the panelists
focused on practical things anyone can do to help build a successful coalition for
change.

“Every day, do something. It doesn’t have to be a big thing. It might be just calling
someone to check in on them, it might be writing a letter, or calling your congressman. It
might be a passive thing,” said Land. “That moment when you think, ‘Oh my god, I can’t believe this,’ that’s when you do something, anything and it’ll propel you for the next
day.”

The panel also addressed concerns from the audience that we have to ensure that our
activism is inclusive and intersectional.

“Feminism without intersectionality is just white supremacy,” Baldwin said. “Going
forward with your coalitions, I encourage you to be intentional with your intersectionality,
not just tokenism.”

“There are some common needs that we all care about and it doesn’t matter who you
are, and that’s where we have to be. But when we’re fighting for those things, we have
to recognize there are some people who have different ideas of what that looks like, and
we have to be open to that,” said Land. Reyes Salinas added that it’s an important priority for Equality California to use its platform to lift the voices of diverse parts of the community.

“We can elevate your coalitions, your storytelling, whatever’s happening, my team can
make sure that that’s elevated to ensure that other people see you as a trusted source,”
he said.

Reyes Salinas added that Equality California offers leadership training programs for
people who want to get experience in politics and running for office.

The Los Angeles Blade is planning more community forums to discuss hot-button
issues as they arise.

Lesbian Visibility Week, which is running now to April 27, is a nationally recognized celebration created by The Curve Foundation to honor lesbians and sapphics and their accomplishments. 

The events this week will be hosted by Cinnamon Rivera, a well-known and active voice in the queer, Latinx,community, and Alex Banx, a well-known community voice in the queer, Black community. 

“I’m personally excited about our BIPOC Lesbian Speed Mingling event happening on Lesbian Visibility Week Friday,” said Banx. “The event sold out with more than a week to go, [so] the need was clearly there. A lot of people can be socially timid, so this is why we wanted to make it easy — take the pressure out. This isn’t just about dating, this is about creating sustainable, long-lasting connections; whether they be friends, lovers, business partners, or whatever else happens.” 

On Thursday, LVW will celebrate with a Drag King takeover at Micky’s in West Hollywood. The event will be a collaboration between The Curve Foundation and Them Fatale, a drag king collective that is inclusive of performers who do not identify as cis men outside of drag. 

The event will feature drag by Manny Oakley, Malcolm Xtasy, Jack Doff, Precious Julz, Anna Shevitz and will be hosted by Provvidenza. 

On Friday, Lesbian Visibility Week will make its way through Long Beach. Adelita’s Revenge, a Latinx, queer-owned business, inside Viento y Agua, a Latinx and queer-owned coffee shop. They will be hosting the Lynx for Lez Speed Mingle night. 

On Saturday, LVW will host two events across L.A. and Long Beach. 

One will happen at KISO, DTLA’s newest queer bar. The event hosted by Cinnamon Rivera will feature a line-up of poets, DJ’s, vendors and art on display. 

The event, which will happen from 4p.m. to 9p.m., will also feature live performances by Irene Díaz, a Chicana singer-songwriter from East Los Angeles who gained popularity for her timeless love songs. Nico Turner, a multi-instrumentalist and musician from Los Angeles, who’s known for hosting the infamous Gay Asstrology parties.

The exciting line-up of poets will feature Karla Lamb who’s known as VinylOwl on Instagram, host Cinnamon Rivera and Verónica Reyes, who’s known as EastLosAngelesPoet on IG. 

That same day, LVW will also host the Queer Women in Sports Day panel at Watch Me Sports Bar at 3p.m. 

The event is set to feature an exciting line-up of panelists such as Rachel Pearson, lead video editor and ESPN EQUAL Advisor for ESPN; Carmen Bona, president of business operations at Angel City Football Club; Evan Unrau, director of social and community impact at LA84; Julie Shaw, Ph.D., leadership and DEI consultant; and Jax D., owner of Watch Me! Sports Bar.

To learn more about this week’s events and find local, as well as national events, visit the website.

Q Con, SoCal’s only LGBTQ+ comic convention, is set to return Saturday, May 3, bringing in dozens of LGBTQ+ speakers, vendors, artists and community voices to their lineup. 

“LGBTQIA+ people of all ages and backgrounds need to see themselves and their stories represented in the arts – to know they are okay, they are accepted and they are powerful. Q Con gives us the opportunity to do this – to raise queer voices in comic books and graphic novels, bring the community together and have a lot of fun at the same time,” said Ted Abenheim, president of Prism Comics.

Mark your calendars and start scheming up your queer cosplay outfits for a costume contest that celebrates the LGBTQ+ representation and visibility in one of the most queer-coded industries in media ahead of Pride month. 

Prism Comics, the nonprofit organization championing LGBTQ+ representation and diversity in comic books, graphic novels and pop media, announced their 4th annual Q Con, happening in West Hollywood’s Plummer Park. The convention will take place in West Hollywood from 11AM to 6PM at Fiesta Hall. 

The nonprofit established in 2003, is deemed the “LGBTQ+ Comics Central,” at San Diego Comic Con, WonderCon Anaheim, Los Angeles Comic Con and other conventions. Prism prides itself on providing a safe space for the LGBTQ+ community to unite over mutual passion, interest and love for comics, novels and more. This is the space where comic creators, readers, librarians, educators and families can come together and celebrate, discuss and enjoy the representation the community needs and deserves. 
Find free tickets and more information regarding guest speakers, panels and vendors here.

Q Con is also currently seeking LGBTQ+ comic creators and businesses who are interested in setting up a table at the event. If interested in tabling or volunteering, email Ted Abenheim, President of Prism Comics at  [email protected].

The City of West Hollywood and its LGBTQ+ Commission will host the annual Rainbow Key Awards to recognize nominees who have made outstanding contributions to the LGBTQ+ community. 

This year’s Rainbow Key Awards Ceremony will be free and held in-person on Sunday, April 6, at 6PM at the city’s Council Chambers and Public Meeting Room, located at 625 N. San Vicente Boulevard.

This year’s awards will honor the awardees who were selected by the LGBTQ+ Commission listed below.

• Dapper Dyke Vivian Escalante is a leader in lesbian activism who established Dykes on Bikes in West Hollywood and Long Beach. In a time of limited representation, her work toward the visibility and empowerment of the lesbian community stood out above others.
• Rebecca Gitlin Ph.D served as the first LGBTQ+ Services Specialist at the LA County Department of Mental Health’s Anti-Racism, Inclusion, Solidarity and Empowerment Division. She now serves as a clinical supervisor at the LACDMH Hollywood Mental Health Cooperative. Gitlin has been instrumental in ensuring that both identity and gender-affirming are included in all of the services provided by LACDMH.
• LZ Love is a legendary African American transfeminine singer who has entertained for decades with her blues, gospel, and dance music. She started her career at age 16 and served as a background vocalist for the great disco diva Sylvester. She has performed at Pride events across the nation and has performed at the City of West Hollywood’s annual Transgender Day of Remembrance.
• Brian Sonia-Wallace founded Pride Poets, the band of LGBTQ+ typewriter poets who have collectively written thousands of free custom poems at West Hollywood Pride events and beyond since 2019, giving the community a chance to have their stories of love, loss, and celebration honored through poetry. He served as West Hollywood’s 4th Poet Laureate from 2020-2023, creating space for hundreds of LGBTQ+ writers to express themselves and build community through the APLA Writers’ Workshop, The Mic @ Micky’s, and the West Hollywood Slam Team.
• Jackie Beat is a drag superstar who has been entertaining audiences across the U.S. and Europe for over three decades. Beat is known for her razor-sharp comedy and hysterical song parodies. Apart from her live tours, Beat has also worked in the film and television industry and has often used her talents to raise money for HIV and AIDS charities and other organizations supporting the LGBTQ+ community.The awards ceremony will be immediately followed by a reception and afterparty on the Respite Deck at the West Hollywood Park Aquatic and Recreation Center, adjacent to West Hollywood Library.

Additional information for this free event, including registration details, is available at the city’s website or by RSVP at Eventbrite. For those unable to attend, the event will also be live-streamed and recorded on the city’s WeHoTV channel on YouTube.

Mama Ru is coming to Los Angeles on March 18th, 2025 to the The Ricardo Montalban Theatre on his House of Hidden Meanings Book Tour, and we have the ticket hookup for you!

Head to our Instagram @LosAngelesBlade and send us a one minute or less video telling us why you just HAVE to see RuPaul for this evening of spilling the tea and spiritual wisdom.

Global drag sensation RuPaul Charles personally invites you to a one-of-a-kind night filled with spiritual wisdom! As always, it’ll be fabulous, but this time it’s raw and vulnerable. Celebrating his highly-anticipated memoir and guide to life, The House of Hidden Meanings, this is an intimate and unscripted exploration of the mind, body and soul, telling RuPaul’s extraordinary story that goes far beyond glamour and fame.

You’ve heard the phrase We’re all born naked, and the rest is drag,’ but this is RuPaul stripped bare. RuPaul offers more than just a memoir; it’s a manual for living, a personal philosophy waiting to be shared that explores chosen family, celebrating your individuality, and the fearless power of self-discovery.

The pop culture icon shares life lessons that will uplift your spirits and foster a sense of belonging – because if you don’t love yourself, how in the hell you gonna love somebody else?

Get tickets here!