When Carlos Sosa first became involved in youth services and programming in the early 2000s, he was a young adult himself. And as he worked his way through the landscape of this world, of figuring out how to support disadvantaged young people, he noticed a glaring gap. “Trans youth weren’t being serviced,” Sosa told the Blade. “Lesbian youth weren’t being serviced.” Several LGBTQ+ adolescents were being left out of important pathways to resources, education, opportunities, and events that centered their joy.

In 2005, Sosa founded Community Intervention Through Youth (C.I.T.Y.) x1 Youth Group to make sure that queer youth were not only recognized but also prioritized when it came to their safety, rights, and futures. The nonprofit began with a simple ethos: “youth programming by the youth,” according to Sosa. For two decades, C.I.T.Y. has partnered with fellow organizations to support unhoused and at-risk queer youth, connecting them to services like transitional living programs and substance abuse treatment.

This Sunday, one of their regular holiday social events returns. The Tamale Wars, an annual free holiday dinner party, will bring food, music, dance, and actors from the charity Star Wars costuming organization 501st Legion to queer young Angelinos. Co-sponsored by the City of West Hollywood, Tamale Wars takes place on Dec. 7th from 6 to 9 p.m. at Plummer Park and is open to all queer youth ages 14 to 24, as well as allies and family members.

Sosa wants youth of all backgrounds to feel welcomed and embraced in this environment, especially those who have long been neglected in wider programming. Trans, unhoused, immigrant, and queer young folks will have access to a safe space where their whole selves are held and uplifted. 

When the event first began, it was called the “Eggnog Youth Social.” But as time went on, the C.I.T.Y. team noticed waves of excitement that would follow revitalizations of the Star Wars franchise — how it delighted audiences, new and old. It was both nostalgic and forward-moving, and had the power to bring generations of families together. Their holiday social was then rebranded to “The Tamale Wars,” and has since taken on a life of its own, said Sosa.

These colorful, vibrant holiday dinners emphasize joy, but are also a way into other important resources. “As much as I’m talking about fun and Star Wars, there is an educational component at the end of the day for all of this,” said Sosa. “Once they’re in the door, we have tabling organizations that offer emergency housing, cash vouchers for the unhoused, GED training, and HIV testing.” 

Facilitating queer youth’s access to essential services is the fundamental core of C.I.T.Y., especially as the state of youth programming comes under threat, both federally and locally. The administration’s 2026 budget consolidates several youth-focused initiatives, and opportunities like South Central L.A.’s workforce development program YouthBuild are at risk of significant cuts.

“The more things change, the more they stay the same — in that youth still need a voice in programming,” said Sosa. “Whenever there are budget cuts at the corporate level [and in] organizations, the youth programs tend to be the first that get cut. That was happening 20 years ago, and that’s still happening today.”

C.I.T.Y. is trying its best to adapt to these cycles in order to sustain its mission of helping queer youth thrive. The organization is ramping up outreach efforts, continuing to host events like the Tamale Wars, and continuing to deliver meals, hygiene kits, and other resources to encampments where queer immigrant youth are living. “We can’t swim against a wave because we will cease to exist,” said Sosa, who emphasizes the importance of community sustainment in keeping their mission alive. 

Sunday’s Tamale Wars is free to attend for queer youth ages 14 to 24, as well as allies and family members. RSVP is encouraged but not required. More information can be found here. C.I.T.Y. x1 Youth Group is also asking for donations to help fund the holiday dinner as well as their meal drop off services and other initiatives. 

Kristie Song is a California Local News Fellow placed with the Los Angeles Blade. The California Local News Fellowship is a state-funded initiative to support and strengthen local news reporting. Learn more about it at fellowships.journalism.berkeley.edu/cafellows.

15 years ago, Spencer Collins organized trips for young students to attend various theater productions. As a former actor, he understood the power of the stage to channel complex truth into heartfelt entertainment. After one of these visits, a student approached him and asked why he, as a queer Black person, couldn’t see himself reflected in these shows. “You haven’t written them yet,” replied Collins.

This became the impetus for B.L.A.C.Mail Productions, a nonprofit that Collins founded in 2010 to uplift Black, LGBTQ+ voices. An acronym for “Black Leaders in Art and Cinema,” the organization supports the work of storytellers who are often sidelined. “It’s really become a movement,” Collins told the Blade. “And the movement is to make sure that we give voice to those who aren’t heard, [including] those who are in the LGBTQ community — who don’t have an opportunity to go and tell their stories.” 

This Saturday, B.L.A.C.Mail Productions will host its 15th World AIDS Day Event, themed “Still Standing.” It features an energetic lineup of performances that includes singer Berkley the Artist and queer rollerskater LARONBEST, and will honor local advocates for their work in championing Black and queer stories and visibility. The event will also include free HIV rapid testing and other health resources for community members to engage with. “You’re going to come and laugh…party. But you’re going to be educated,” said Collins. “You’re going to get tested. You’re going to be tapped into resources. You’re going to rub shoulders with people who identify with you. You’re going to be in a safe space.” 

Aside from providing concrete support to marginalized creatives, Collins knew early on that he wanted B.L.A.C.Mail Productions to platform the behind-the-scenes work being done to uplift conversations around HIV and AIDS. He had various guiding lights, including friends and mentors like Dontá Morrison, Greg Wilson, and Phil Wilson, Black community leaders and educators who were outspoken about HIV and AIDS activism. There was also actress Sheryl Lee Ralph’s DIVA Foundation, as well as the Black AIDS Institute, charitable organizations focused on HIV and AIDS policy, awareness, prevention, and treatment resources — especially when it comes to the lives of Black community members.

Black communities in the U.S. are disproportionately vulnerable to HIV infection, and were diagnosed with the virus at more than two times the rate of other populations in 2023, according to the Office of Minority Health. Collins was baffled that there was not more awareness and conversation around HIV and AIDS in his community, and became determined to champion Black and queer voices in broader conversations and awareness events around HIV and AIDS.

Collins emphasizes that Saturday’s event is focused on accessibility and that no one will be denied entry based on funds. After working in the nonprofit sector for decades, he has witnessed how large-scale events cultivate environments that encourage peers to be with one another, but exclude those with less means. Deciding who can be in attendance based on financial or social status defeats the purpose of awareness events to begin with, Collins explained. “That’s not fair,” he said. “You need to include them in the conversion so they can tell you what help they need…People need more resources, more testing [and] places they can go and feel comfortable to [talk about HIV and AIDS].” 

Fighting for this kind of equitable access is difficult, Collins revealed to the Blade. Aside from stigma, perpetuated both federally and locally, Collins has faced difficulties in financially sustaining his organization. He self-funds a majority of his events and initiatives, and notes that a lack of funding for diverse organizations like his own creates a personal strain on him with each passing year. Five years ago, he was ready to end B.L.A.C.Mail’s annual World AIDS Day event. He felt at a standstill, having hit a wall that was built, brick by brick, through exhaustion. “My body is tired,” Collins said. “I’m physically and emotionally drained.”

Still, he is motivated by his mission to educate and empower his community. As he looks forward to Saturday’s event, the impending celebration of togetherness, education, and resource-sharing is a moment for resistance and resilience. Like the event’s theme, he is “still standing” — as strong as he can, to illustrate the power of Black and queer stories to express the depth of their histories and illuminate paths forward when larger forces fail to. 

Ticket information for the 15th Annual World AIDS Day Event can be found here. B.L.A.C.Mail Productions is also raising funds to support Saturday’s celebrations; details can be found here.

Kristie Song is a California Local News Fellow placed with the Los Angeles Blade. The California Local News Fellowship is a state-funded initiative to support and strengthen local news reporting. Learn more about it at fellowships.journalism.berkeley.edu/cafellows.

It’s undeniable how much fashion has been involved in the fight for Queer liberation. Whether it be glamorous gowns or sharp suits, one’s ability to dress as their most authentic self has always been integral to the push for LGBTQ+ rights in this country. Los Angeles is lucky to have multiple venues that encourage folks to come as their truest selves — among the best nights of self-expression is the beautifully ingenious TransLatin@ Coalition’s GARRAS fashion show. 

This showcase of Los Angeles’ best designers has become an annual celebration of this city’s trans community. Featuring glamorous decorations, a bustling crowd, and a runway filled with gender-expansive models decked out in truly jaw-dropping fashion, it stands as one of the most exciting evenings LA has ever seen. And while GARRAS (which stands for Groundbreaking Activism Redirecting & Reforming All Systems) has always fought against transphobia, 2025’s iteration promised to be bigger and better than ever in response to the rising discrimination we’ve seen in recent months. 

“It’s beautiful to create this space where we can come together, celebrate joy, celebrate the diversity, the beauty, the uniqueness of the trans community! And what better way to do it than with fashion — we are one of the most fashionable communities!“ Said Maria Roman-Taylorson, TransLatin@ Coalition’s Vice-President & COO. “We’re just excited to give a platform for folks to have a good time too, in such a horrible political landscape.“ It’s a sentiment that the organization has held tightly to in recent months; while transphobia has always existed in this country, the current presidential administration is intent on villainizing this community and stripping away their hard-earned rights. Yet despite this year being filled with constant attacks, the TransLatin@ Coalition has not slowed down. Whether it be through GARRAS or the organization’s countless other services and programs, they’re ready to show that the trans community is bigger and more beautiful than it’s ever been before.  

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While GARRAS was a night of advocacy, that doesn’t mean the evening skimped on glitz and glamour. From the decorations to the music, it embraced a beautifully bombastic style, one that was reflected in the guest list; the venue was packed with stars at every turn. And not only were they in attendance, but some, like the legendary model and drag queen, Gia Gunn, were being honored. 

“Considering I didn’t win RuPaul’s Drag Race, it feels really great to win something in my life!“ Joked Gia, recipient of the night’s ‘Trans Spirit of Resilience’ Award. “I’m continuously reminded that my power as a trans woman is the only thing that I have left to get through these next couple of years, and I want everybody here to also feel empowered to show up. Regardless of whether someone’s giving you an award or not, we always have to remember to reward ourselves for the good things that we do; that’s beautiful.“

Her words hit the true heart of GARRAS: a reminder of the power that the trans community holds. This entire evening, along with a celebration of queer fashion, served as a thank you to this group that is responsible for paving the way for the LGBTQ+ rights movement, in the past and today. It’s an ongoing mission that everyone shared this evening simply by being in attendance, and in many ways, it wouldn’t be possible with the President and CEO of TransLatin@ Coalition herself, Bamby Salcedo.

“We have to understand that…through organizing and mobilizing and making sure that we do what we’re supposed to for us to assert ourselves in our society, we’re going to continue doing whatever we can to ensure that we exist as who we are,” said Bamby, decked out in a luxurious emerald gown and preparing for her performance on the GARRAS stage. Any LGBTQ+ Angelino should know the impact she’s had on this city; for decades, Bamby’s brazen activism and refusal to stay quiet in the face of hatred have led to so many of the trans services LA has today. And as one of the initial engineers of GARRAS, she understands more than anyone else how essential nights like this are for the community. 

Because, yes, it is essential that LGBTQ+ folks — and especially trans people — have access to vital daily resources and the power to advocate for themselves. But in that ongoing activism, we can’t forget joy. We can’t forget an appreciation of the people now and before who made it possible for so many queer folks to live as their utterly authentic selves. Through the bright joy of everyone in attendance and the raucous applause at each designer and model, GARRAS served as a moment dedicated to reminding everyone that there is no movement without love and appreciation of one another. 

This appreciation wouldn’t be possible without Bamby. And, ending her interview to go prepare for her performance at the end of the night, this trailblazing activist assured everyone: TransLatin@ Coalition is not going anywhere. 

“Despite everything that is happening, we’re still going to bring hope to all of our people,” raved Salcedo. “We have so many things in store! One of the things that I want to let people know that we’re doing is that we’re building a center, a three-story center…we’re going to continue to support our community with services and organizing, making sure that we do what we need to in order for us to continue to exist and assert ourselves in our society.”

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It’s an awe-inspiring mission that has always been at the heart of this organization’s work. And, with evenings like GARRAS revitalizing our community and giving us the pure queer joy we need to power through, it’s one she welcomes everyone to join in making a reality.

For more info, head to GARRAS.org

Even as the current political environment is trying to suffocate the queer community’s sexual expression, we are not staying quiet.

Dandyland.art, is a nationwide leader in celebrating erotic art and rallying against artistic and bodily censorship. This Saturday, November 15^th, Dandyland makes a return to Los Angeles at Precinct, from 2 to 8 pm, featuring local artist vendors offering erotic art, prints, clothing, books, jewelry, gifts, and more. The event, titled “Pajama Party,” will kick off Dandyland’s holiday tour with pop-ups in Chicago and New York City. Attendees are encouraged to dress up in their comfiest – or sexiest – sleepwear.

Our very own journalist, Rob Salerno, will be on hand to showcase his art, specifically his erotic Christmas cards. As an artist, he has experienced first-hand the stigma surrounding celebrating erotic male art.

“I love the Dandyland Art fair. It’s always such a great opportunity to meet other local queer artists and show off our work! I’ve personally bought a bunch of pieces from other artists at Dandyland that are all over my apartment.

As an artist, it’s also such a great way to get my art to queer shoppers. I love meeting fans of my art! It’s becoming increasingly hard to sell queer art online, as platforms like Instagram and Etsy crack down on queer themed erotic art. I just had my Etsy store shut down because they said my gay Christmas cards broke their rules, and I’m currently on my fourth Instagram account after all my previous accounts got shut down. That’s why my Instagram name is @instahatesgayart. I’m on Bluesky and Twitter as @gaydudesketches, but those platforms are less ideal for showing off art.”

The Blade also had the opportunity to chat with Patrick McNaughton, the mastermind behind Dandyland, about the organization’s mission, purpose, and power.

What was your first memorable exposure to art that got you involved in the erotic art world?

When I was young and still exploring my sexuality, the art section at the bookstore was one of the only places I found where the nude male form was shamelessly on display. The self-discoveries I made sneaking back to that section were pivotal to everything that I am as an artist and as a person. Though some content is certainly not appropriate for children, erotic art can be a beautiful mechanism for anyone—of any age—to grow more in touch with themselves.

What was the inspiration for creating Dandyland?

I was beginning to hear too many queers saying “who I am shouldn’t be about my sexuality,”—which, to me, is an obvious result of conditioning toward puritanical heteronormative standards. Our society marginalizes queers for the sex we enjoy, then rewards acceptance to those of us who degrade it. We start to believe, as a community, that something so biologically inherent as enjoying sexual pleasure should have no bearing on our understanding of our own identities. It’s bananas.

Additionally, erotic art has always occupied a bizarre “alternative” space in art culture—often perceived as declassé, tasteless, or trashy. Art is about expression—a connection between artist and experiencer that invokes an idea or a feeling. Lust, sensuality, raw carnal desire, horniness—all just as valid to me as love, tragedy, serenity, chaos, and all the other genres the “high art” scene elevates.

Dandyland.art champions the proliferation of sexuality in queer artistic expression. We promote the admiration of human bodies in all forms, the open exploration of sex and sexuality, and the celebration of erotic pleasure—especially in the interest of developing connection and community. We proudly stand against artistic and bodily censorship, we consistently challenge heteronormative standards, and we try to create a fun and approachable environment where the celebration of sexuality and sexual pleasure in all forms is highly encouraged. 

Why are Dandyland events so important, especially right now?

Clearly, there’s been a major pendulum swing in power, toward conservative views of gender, sex, and sexuality. That strikes a lot of fear in those of us that shift threatens, which is pretty much the point. Our events are safe spaces to demonstrate that sexual freedom and celebration are not as endangered as many might have us believe. We need to demonstrate that we aren’t afraid to show up for and support each other—especially those creating art that challenges oppressive power. 

Why is it so important to embrace and promote the sex part of our sexual identity?

First, I want to make clear that we are foremost promoting the open discussion of sex, and encouraging those who enjoy it to participate in whatever way they feel comfortable. But if you like sex, it’s an outstanding way to connect with others—and yourself—through pleasure. 

How can we, as a community, resist a government that wants to oppress and control our art?

1) Create more art. 

2) Support existing artists. Yes, promote their work with likes and comments online, but if you can afford it at all, subscribe to their Patreon, buy a piece of work, do what you can to help them keep the lights on while they create more art.

3) Engage with platforms that do not oppress and control our art. Spend more time scrolling Bluesky than Instagram. Do a little work to make yourself aware of where censorship is happening, and proceed thoughtfully.

4) Stand together. Literally. Get out and go where the other queer people are standing, gathering, organizing, and communing. Maybe even Dandyland!

What can we expect from this weekend’s event?

I think when people hear so much talk about sex, an event like this might sound intimidating, but it’s just a bunch of friendly people having a fun time trying to make queer erotic art more accessible and approachable. There will be over twenty artists selling originals, prints, clothing, books, jewelry, gifts, and more, with most content skewing toward the masculine. There will be an hourly art raffle, and it’s all hosted by me—so say hi! Plus, it’s a queer event, so of course there’s a theme: Pajama Party. Dress to it as comfortable or sexy as you like—or don’t, if themes aren’t your thing. There will be a clothes check available if you want to bring something to change into.

It’s super important that we all show support for local queer artists right now, so hopefully, we can also expect you!

What is your message to the queer community? 

We only stand to lose if we make our decisions out of fear and shame. Or, on a lighter note—Buy some art. Suck some dick. And have a dandy Dandyland.

dandyland: Pajama Party
Erotic Art & Gift Fair
Saturday, November 15th, 2025
2-8 PM
Precinct DTLA
357 S Broadway
Los Angeles

Affordable Art & Gifts
Hourly Art Raffles
Loose Morals

Dress to Theme Encouraged (Pajamas/Underwear/Lingerie)
Clothes Check Available
Free Admission (21+ Only)

On Friday night, rainbow-dyed cloth, butterflies, balloons, and flowers surrounded drag queen Lushious Massacr as she fluttered across a stage, her bedazzled, princess-like dress cascading behind her in hot-pink waves. The crowd stood enchanted as she lip-synched along to her baile de sorpresa: a surprise dance performed by a young girl for loved ones attending her 15th birthday celebration.

It is Lushious’s birthday — but she is turning 37. Nearly two decades later, she is celebrating the quinceañera she never got to have. “When I was a little boy, I never could have imagined a world where I would be allowed to celebrate my quinceañera. The majority of people were still very allergic to queerness,” Lushious told the crowd. “Tonight, we will celebrate the little girl inside of us. She wasn’t allowed, and she wasn’t given permission. The little girl will be given permission tonight.” 

This reclamation and queering of tradition was a recurring theme at the Los Angeles LGBT Center’s annual Queerceañera, also known as Queerce. The event provides a space for queer Latine community members to dance, be connected to resources and support, and embrace themselves in the company of loved ones, chosen family, friends, and fellow queer strangers alike. This year’s Queerce, themed “Mariposas Sin Fronteras,” or Butterflies without Borders, forged a cocoon that allowed guests to steep in the comfort of acceptance and liberation. This respite, though lasting only a few hours, is for many queer people a necessary safe haven in an increasingly tumultuous political and social landscape.

“This year has been so heavily marked by attacks on immigrant communities, attacks on the Latine community, specifically in Los Angeles,” Los Angeles LGBT Center Chief Equity Officer Giovanna Fischer told the Blade. “Our work’s directly impacted by that, because we serve a lot of the Latine community in Los Angeles…We’re seeing an uptick in people accessing our immigration and legal services. So, how do we take this event that is celebratory and will remain celebratory in nature, to still be responsive to what our community is going through?”

Resource tables dotted the courtyard at the center’s plaza, where Queerce took place, and offered various bilingual pamphlets on sexual health, legal advocacy, Know Your Rights resources, as well as connections to Mi Centro: a Boyle Heights community center formed in collaboration with the Latino Equality Alliance that provides HIV testing, a food pantry, outreach events, mental health support, legal services and other programs.

Fischer also discussed that the Center’s staff members have been trained on how to respond to United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers as raids and operations continue to take place across Los Angeles. This training is part of organizational efforts to increase community safety as spaces — especially LGBTQ+ Latine ones — come under close political scrutiny and threat. 

One of Queerce’s honorees, Oliver Alpuche, stressed the importance of preserving these spaces. A decade ago, he founded the non-profit DTLA Proud to organize festivals, block parties, and marketplaces that uplift queer identity and celebration. In a tearful speech, Alpuche stated that queer spaces are in “trouble.” They are places “where we gather, we plan, we protest, [and] we celebrate,” Alpuche said on Friday night. “We need to keep them alive. And my commitment going forward is to create a Rainbow District in Downtown where we are all accepted, where our culture could meet our queerness and thrive in a space where representation matters.”

Queer Latine representation shone brightly at the event, with electric reggaeton remixes spun by DJ Bella Spreads and a tender art show by multimedia installation artist Yulissa Mendoza. The show was comprised of two works: “¿Eres de la ciudad o del rancho?” and “Siéntate, Mi Amor,” the latter of which was displayed at the Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Arts and Culture in 2024. A tangible, interactive piece, “Siéntate, Mi Amor,” features a table modeled after the one at Mendoza’s grandmother’s home. Covered with a delicate crochet tablecloth, it was adorned with keepsakes, like a lightly crumpled sleeve of Marie biscuits, a note with a gas bill neatly scribed on it, and another that said: “Love you.”

“It’s almost a universal table of sorts,” Mendoza said, recounting to the Blade about how, as a child, sitting at a communal table felt endless and boring. It wasn’t until they had developed close queer friendships and a deeper understanding of their own identity in adulthood — much of which happened around a table — that they began to rethink what this early experience meant to them. “I think it was really my chosen family that allowed me to see the spaces that I grew up in as formative and important…My art now is me honing in on those cultural traditions and practices, [and to] showcase them in a way that is not only archiving them, but making them something of my own.”

Their work speaks to the practice of art as transformation — how historical and familial ties can be strengthened through a different kind of perspective: one that holds a deep kind of self-knowledge. Here, art is time travel. Art allowed Mendoza to form new branches from early, misunderstood roots. Deeply informed by their relationships to their queerness and their Latine heritage, Mendoza has created a new kind of space that is both familiar and totally new. They are creating a different pathway and gathering ground illuminated by queer imagination, and the melding of both past and future.

As community members gathered for Queerce, a question lingered in the air: what does an expansive and safe future look like? While there may not be a clear, definitive answer, events like these highlight the efforts, resilience and solidarity that power marginalized, queer communities. “You think butterflies listen to anyone who tries to tell them when they can or cannot fly? Butterflies are free. Humans deserve to be free too!” Lushious Massacr said. “In a world that demands that queer people hide, we refuse. In a country that demands that immigrants run and hide in fear, we refuse. We will not be afraid, and we will not ask for permission to live our lives.” 

This year, Asian Americans Advancing Justice Southern California (AJSOCAL), a leading legal and civil rights organization that fights for policies defending Asian American and Pacific Islander community members, is hosting its annual gala at the Westin Bonaventure Hotel on Thursday, October 16th. The Los Angeles Blade serves as the organization’s 2025 Gala Media Partner, spotlighting feature issues on two LGBTQ+ policy advocates who have spearheaded the organization’s AAPI Queer Joy coalition as well as one of the event’s honorees, first-time Los Angeles City councilmember Ysabel Jurado.

A special edition run of these features, as well as other Los Angeles Blade stories, will be available at the gala. Other honorees and special guests at this year’s event include Bird Marella’s managing partner, Paul Chan, Pasadena Fire Department fire engineer Chien Yu, former Biden cabinet secretary Julie Su, and others. The gala will be hosted by anchor and broadcast journalist David Ono and will feature a performance by local band Kokoro.

L.A. City Councilmember Ysabel Jurado will be presented with the 2025 Trailblazer in Justice Award, celebrating those who break barriers, open doors, and pave new paths, by the Los Angeles Blade and AJSOCAL.

More information can be found here.

WHERE: The Westin Bonaventure Hotel – Downtown LA

404 S Figueroa Street
Los Angeles, CA 90071

WHEN: Thursday, October 16
4:30 pm Media Check-in
5:15 pm Red Carpet Opens
6:30 pm Event Begins
6:45-9:00 pm Program and Dancing

Asian Americans Advancing Justice Southern California (AJSOCAL) is the nation’s largest legal and civil rights organization for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs). Founded in 1983, AJSOCAL supports over 15,000 individuals and organizations annually. By offering free legal help, engaging in impact litigation, conducting crucial research, and advocating for policy change, AJSOCAL prioritizes the most vulnerable members of AAPI communities while fostering a robust advocacy for civil rights and social justice. Offices are in downtown Los Angeles and Orange County, with satellite offices in Sacramento, ensuring accessibility for
all.

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On Saturday evening, nearly 700 people packed the lower-level ballroom of the lavish Fairmont Century Plaza hotel for LGBTQ+ civil rights organization Equality California’s annual awards ceremony. Throughout the night, several speakers took passionate stands on the urgent and unequivocal need, now more than ever, to support queer communities and the organizations working to protect their rights and liberties. Senator Lena Gonzalez and Assemblymember Mark Gonzalez, two of the event’s co-chairs, encouraged attendees to create a direct impact by making donations. The goal for the evening was $125,000. 

As soft pink light and the clinking of cutlery at dinnertime enveloped the room, host Bob the Drag Queen wove lightness and humor in between speeches with his signature biting humor and commanding stage presence. “I do a lot of galas, so sometimes they kind of bleed together,” he told the Blade. “But it’s never lost to me: the work that is being done at these things and the people whose lives are being helped. Sometimes it’s easy to get lost in the rigmarole of, ‘Oh, another gala. More rich people giving money.’ But then that money does end up going somewhere and doing something really substantial.”

Around half an hour into the program, Equality California’s executive director, Tony Hoang, delivered, without hesitation, a promise that the organization is dedicated to resisting and unraveling the harm of the administration’s threats to policies and programs that support queer and trans youth, immigrants, and other community members. “The courts will not save us. Congress will not save us. What will save us is sustained organizing, day in and day out,” Hoang said. “While they’re trying to silence us, this is the moment to double down, to share your story, to invest your time, to invest your resources.”

Comedian and radio host Jesse Thorn also took the stage to speak candidly about raising trans kids and how exhausting this last year has been. When his first child came out as trans almost ten years ago, he feared for her safety, but was introduced to various resources, support groups, and care options that gave him hope as a parent. “It felt like we were on a steady path to safety,” he said. “I only wish that I still had that safe, optimistic feeling. Right now, I just feel sick to my stomach.” 

Thorn recounted trying to shield one of his children from a transphobic commercial that came on during a 49ers game he’d been watching, and how, more recently, he was told that the clinic that provided gender-affirming care to his children was shuttering. “Do we fight? Do we run away and hide? Are we traumatizing our kids if they know the stakes?” he said. “If we reply to someone’s post on Facebook with the name of our new doctor, will someone turn them into the feds?”

While it feels like he and his wife have had to make a new call every day to recalculate next steps for their family, he finds comfort in thinking about queer and trans family members, friends, and elders who resisted systemic violence and fought for their right to stability, equality, and happiness. “[I] think of all these people that gave so much of themselves to live a joyful life,” Thorn told the Blade. “It’s the readiness, the lack of hesitance that I have felt from not just the queer community more broadly, but particularly those earlier generations. They see the analogy is direct, and they’re fighting.” 

Other notable speeches of the night included one of the evening’s two honorees: actress, former SAG-AFTRA union president, and 90’s sitcom icon Fran Drescher. As she shimmied onto the stage with a wide smile to accept the National Labor Leader Award, she cracked jokes before honing in on the importance of defending the lives of marginalized people. She spoke about the successful strikes she led at SAG-AFTRA, which led to historic negotiation deals in favor of the union’s workers, as well as her own battles with misogyny as she took on leadership roles later in her career. “I can lead with intellect and empathy and wisdom — and I can still rock a red lip!” she declared. 

“As members of a labor union or citizens of a nation, it behooves us all to resist these manipulations, to make kindness and compassion our compass, to remain stalwart in our unity above all else,” Drescher concluded. “I’ll just close by saying this: love is love. Thank you.” 

The other honoree of the evening was the Coalition of Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA), an organization that has been paving the way in developing programs, initiatives, and rallies to advance civil rights for immigrant communities. CHIRLA’s executive director, Angelica Salas, who has led the group for over 20 years, accepted the ceremony’s Community Leadership Award and addressed the crowd with empowering remarks. 

Off the heels of a march protesting the administration’s executive orders, which have authorized unjust arrests and detainments of immigrants, Salas was clear in her criticisms and calls to action. “We want ICE out of our schools. [We want] ICE out of our clinics and hospitals,” Salas said. “Like it or not, our LGBTQ+ Americans and immigrants make this country more beautiful, more powerful, and more united…We are rainbows, we are color, we are glimmers of hope…Equality California, we got your back, and I know you got our back. So, let’s fight together.”

As the night wound to an end, several items were fought over during an energetic live auction, including vacation getaways to Paris and Puerto Vallarta, a Sabrina Carpenter concert experience, and memorabilia associated with late activist Marsha P. Johnson. By 9:30 p.m., the $125,000 donation goal was achieved and even surpassed by over $5,000.

Within Riverside County, in the San Jacinto Mountains, lies the charming community of Idyllwild, known for its beautiful scenery, artistic vibe, and recreational activities. Located just an hour from Palm Springs, it also boasts a growing LGBTQ contingency.

Idyllwild captured the hearts of couple Jeremy Taylor and Niels Kosman, the owners of PS Homeboys, one of Palm Springs’ top interior design and art boutiques. Frequent visitors to Idyllwild, Taylor and Kosman began to wonder why the town never held its own Pride. Taking matters into their own hands and partnering with business owners in the city, Pride Under the Pines debuted on October 23rd, 2021, with over 800 attendees.

Not only was the event a success in terms of LGBTQ representation for the community, but local businesses reported a boom in sales and customers. Pride Under the Pines has since become one of the most anticipated Idyllwild events of the year.

This year, the event celebrates its 5^th year with a bang, turning up the glam. The day’s festivities will feature headliners Janice Robinson (“Dreamer”, “There Must Be Love”) and West Hollywood’s Prince Joshua, go-go studs, DJ Galaxy (courtesy of KGay), Congressman Candidate Brandon Riker, and community health partners, with a drag line-up that includes Mayhem Miller, Violeta, and Abigail Beverly Hillz. Los Angeles Blade publisher Alexander Rodriguez will serve as the day’s emcee.

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This year continues ahead, full force, despite social media backlash for the event’s signage, hanging smack dab in the center of town. Pride Under the Pines founders Taylor and Kosman are unwavering in their mission to bring queer representation to “The Hill.” They chatted with us as they put the final touches on next week’s programming.

What was the inspiration behind creating Pride Under the Pines?

We wanted to create something truly grassroots and community-driven—a Pride that felt intimate, authentic, and rooted in love. Idyllwild is a magical mountain town that has always embraced diversity, and we thought it was the perfect setting to bring people together in celebration of LGBTQ+ pride, visibility, and joy. We were the first Pride Festival since the pandemic, and it all started when we used Idyllwild as our lockdown escape. We fell in love with the town and its community. Through conversations, we learned there is a large LGBTQ community that also feels the need to be heard and seen. This Pride was started to shine a bright light on the local queer community and to bring awareness to everyone else.

What makes Pride Under the Pines different than other Prides?

Unlike many large-scale city Prides, this event has an intimate, small-town charm. You’re surrounded by nature, pine trees, and a community that genuinely rallies together. It’s not about corporate floats—it’s about neighbors, friends, and allies lifting each other up. That balance of heart, inclusivity, and stunning mountain setting makes it truly one-of-a-kind.

What is your mission in producing Pride Under the Pines?

Our mission is to create a safe, joyful, and visible space where the LGBTQ+ community and our allies can come together. We want to celebrate diversity, promote equality, and strengthen connections in a way that uplifts both the queer community and the town of Idyllwild.

What have been some of your biggest challenges in establishing this event over the years?

Permitting, logistics, and funding have always been challenges for grassroots organizers like us. Each year, we navigate county regulations, rising costs, and unexpected hurdles. And of course, building something from scratch in a small town takes time and persistence. But the love we receive from attendees makes every obstacle worth it.

What have you loved most about working on this project?

The connections. Seeing people who’ve never been to Idyllwild fall in love with the town. Watching LGBTQ+ youth feel seen. Hearing allies say this is their favorite event of the year. And, most of all, the joy of building something meaningful together as a couple, a team, and a community.

What can we expect from this year?

Our 5th anniversary is the biggest yet! A brand-new location at the Idyllwild Town Hall, incredible headliners like Janice Robinson, fabulous drag performances, DJs, live music, a beer garden, delicious food, and a VIP experience with open bar and meet-and-greets. It’s going to feel like a full festival while still keeping that warm community spirit.

Your sign is in the middle of town. Why is it so important to grow visibility in today’s climate?

Visibility saves lives. At a time when LGBTQ+ rights are under attack nationwide, putting a Pride banner in the center of town says: We are here, we are proud, and we are part of this community. It’s a statement of resilience and hope—for queer people in Idyllwild, for visitors, and for anyone driving by who needs to feel seen.

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You have received hateful social media comments. How does that make you feel? What is your first reaction?

Of course, it stings—but more than anything, it strengthens our resolve. Hate is loud, but love is louder. Our first reaction is to lean on our allies, our friends, and the outpouring of positivity that always follows.

Did you ever consider cancelling Pride because of hateful comments? What makes you continue to put it on?

Never. If anything, the hate shows exactly why this Pride is needed. We continue because the LGBTQ+ community deserves visibility, joy, and safety in every town—not just the big cities. We continue because love is stronger than hate.

What do you want to say to those who want you to shut down Pride Under the Pines?

We’d say this: Pride isn’t about you. It’s about love, equality, and visibility for people who have historically been silenced. No amount of hate will stop us from celebrating who we are.

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On a fun note, how did you two meet, and how long have you been together?

We met years ago in Palm Springs—two creatives who bonded over design, humor, and a shared love for community. We’ve been together for over a decade, and every year just gets better.

You also own and run your business together. How do you maintain a healthy relationship while working so hard together and putting on events?

We laugh. A lot. We balance each other’s strengths and give each other space when needed. We’ve learned how to divide and conquer, but also when to come together. At the end of the day, we love what we do and we love each other—that makes even the hard days easier. We say if you can run a business together and produce a Gay Pride for 5 consecutive years, we must be doing something right.

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What do you love most about the queer community in the Coachella Valley?

The diversity and resilience. Our community here is vibrant, creative, and unapologetically itself. Whether in Palm Springs, Idyllwild, or beyond, there’s a sense of family that’s deeply inspiring. We all support each other, whether we patronize each other’s business or we lift each other up through conversation and showing up. It is truly an amazing feeling, that sometimes we feel people forget to remember.

What is your message to the community?

Stand proud, stand visible, and stand together. We need each other more than ever. Come to the mountains, celebrate with us, and remember that Pride isn’t just a party—it’s a powerful act of love, resilience, and community.

The event will be held at Idyllwild Townhall / 25925 Cedar St, Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA 92549

Tickets available here

Dinah Shore founder Mariah Hanson is ending her run with the most iconic queer women’s festival with a star-studded lineup that is pulling out all the stops. Past guests, rising stars, queer icons, and aspiring queer talent will take the stage for a once-in-a-generation celebration of queer culture, music, and legacy. Dinah Shore takes place from September 24th to the 28th at the Riviera Resort & Spa in Palm Springs, CA.

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Leading the charge are L Word icons Kate Moennig and Leisha Hailey, gender-nonconforming queer NY Rapper Princess Nokia, dance music icon Crystal Waters, fast-rising, compelling voice in alternative pop SkyDxddy, boundary-pushing artist Only1 Theory, and returning fan favorites Xana and Mariah Counts— all prepared to set the stage ablaze in this historic closing act.

Returning as the longtime host of The Dinah pool parties is Rose Garcia, joined this year by Kaycee Clark, star of CBS’s Big Brother and MTV’s The Challenge. Some of the hottest DJs in the queer scene — DJ P. Nasty, DJ Les Ortiz, DJ Lotus Banks, DJ KG Fresh, DJ Tatiana, and DJ Alex D. — will be behind the decks, delivering pulse-pounding sets that will keep the crowd dancing, connecting, and living for every moment.

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The Dinah 2025 is an invitation to join Mariah in a powerful tribute to the legacy she created and to experience the unparalleled magic that only The Dinah can deliver. This year’s Dinah isn’t just Hanson’s last—it’s her most meaningful. With the Dinah, Hanson didn’t just
build a festival, she built a family.

Tickets and full event details are available now at www.thedinah.com

Members of the journalism industry gathered together this last weekend to celebrate the nominees and winners for three inaugural journalism awards for Southern California journalists and newsrooms who championed LGBTQ+ stories in 2024. The Los Angeles Chapter of NLGJA: The Association of LGBTQ+ Journalists presented this Press Pride Prom inaugural event.

Over 200 attendees gathered in Glendale at the historic Grand Central Air Terminal to celebrate. The evening was presented by ABC7 and hosted by award-winning journalist Tracy Gilchrist. The ceremony also included a moving performance by the Trans Chorus of Los Angeles and a hilarious appearance by drag king Charles Galin King.

The Los Angeles Blade took home the first award of the evening, the Excellence in LGBTQ+ Reporting Newsroom Award. The award recognizes a news outlet whose coverage of the queer and trans community is well-informed, complex, varied, and intersectional, with a track record of promoting The Association of LGBTQ+ Journalists’ mission to advance fair and accurate coverage of LGBTQ+ communities and issues. The other nominees were LAist and Variety. Team members of the Blade took to the stage, including publisher Alexander Rodriguez, writers Rose Montoya, Rob Salerno, and Joel Medina, and former editor Gisselle Palomera to accept the award.

The evening also included the presentation of the Queer Beat Award for Excellence in LGBTQ+ Reporting, honoring a single story or series that demonstrates care, skill, and a commitment to fair and accurate reporting of LGBTQ+ themes, issues, and people. This year’s winner was “She Was Supposed to Be at Pulse Nightclub — And Club Q. Now She’s Fighting To Keep LGBTQ+ People Safe” by Lil Kalish for HuffPost.

Another special moment for the Blade took place in the presentation of The Troy Masters Legacy Award for Visionaries in Media, presented in collaboration with the Blade and LA NLGJA, honoring a journalist or news media professional whose work reflects a dedication to the craft of journalism and a commitment to setting the stage for the next generation of LGBTQ+ industry leaders. The award is named in honor of Troy Masters, veteran queer journalist and former publisher of the Los Angeles Blade, who passed away last year.
This year’s winner was John Griffiths, founder of GALECA: The Society of LGBTQ
Entertainment Critics and Dorian Awards.

The final presentation was presented by the office of State Assemblymember Rick Chavez Zbur, for District 51. Joshua Marin-Mora gave a moving speech and delivered proclamations to each of the winners.

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We are honored by our win and extend our congratulations to the LA NLGJA for a successful and important evening. A big thank you to our readers, who continue to support our efforts.