It’s been over two years since we’ve had a chance to celebrate and offer our support to the National Center for Lesbian Rights. This is an organization I believe in fiercely. I don’t know about you, but I’ve really missed the in-person events! Their motto “Feminist Founded, Advocates for All” rings true and is a testimony to the diversity and inclusive vibe at last weekend’s Pride in the Park event, held on a beautiful sunny day in San Francisco at the AIDS Memorial Grove in Golden Gate Park.
The Pride Kick-Off event was complete with art, music, great food, cocktails and mocktails, inspiration, and community. I loved seeing old friends and watching families and kids running around playing and having fun. They had great hands-on art projects and lawn games for kids and adults alike. Four food trucks provided yummy food for the hungry crowd. There was endless entertainment, including drumming, live music, spoken word, drag performers, and a Juneteenth commemoration. They even had oysters and champagne! I especially enjoyed hearing from former NCLR powerhouse Helen Carroll who spoke eloquently about NCLR’s impact on implementing Title IX, a subject near and dear to my heart. Can you believe it’s been 50 years since Title IX became law? I sure do because I was that little girl who was denied playing on my neighborhood Little League in 1970.
Even better than catching up with old friends (face to face!), was getting to know the new Executive Director Imani Rupert Gordon and her lovely wife Derah. Imani has some big shoes to fill —yes, of course we all loved Kate—but Imani is stepping up with enthusiasm. Her charisma and dedication to LGBTQ+ rights is contagious! I’m excited to see how she will lead NCLR into the future.
…And now…Drumroll please! The NCLR GALA is back this fall with THE CHAMPIONS FOR JUSTICE DINNER and PARTY!!!
Mark your calendars for November 11 at the Marriott Marquis Hotel and Metreon in San Francisco. Grab your checkbook and your dancing shoes, and get ready to party!
Details here: https://www.nclrights.org/event/champions-for-justice-dinner-party/
NCLR is a national legal organization committed to advancing the civil and human rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people and their families through litigation, legislation, policy, and public education. Learn more at https://www.nclrights.org/