STONEWALL

Black and Brown Transgender women during Transgender Day of Remembrance” before and during the pandemic. She said she wanted to make sure that the lives lost – due to tragic anti-transgender violence across the nation – were remembered as whole persons, by “saying their individual names and mentioning their contributions to society.” theater efforts, Deaton uses the power of song to amplify unheard voices. on Wednesday, July 12, at 7 pm. For more details on this much anticipated event, visit sdpride. org/lightup

A Trans femme and native San Diegan, Deaton said her lack of representation growing up hindered her ability to be her authentic self, especially with disapproval from her own closest relatives.

She said she is excited how her now 92-year-old father, who was unaware of her identity in her youth, will be accompanying her to ride in the 2023 Pride Parade, and the impact of this personal evolution.

Deaton said she was “stunned and humbled” after learning of her Larry T. Baza award. She reflected on how important Larry T. Baza was to the Art community, and how humbling it was to be included alongside the mention of his legacy. She said she gets excited about working LGBTQ youth, with her words audibly emitting a sense of joy as she described how open and comfortable the youth are now with their own identities.

Stonewall Philanthropy: Blenders Eyewear

Putting their resources where their stance lies, Blenders Eyewear takes the unique stance to donate 100 percent of their profits from their Pride Eyewear to Pride organizations. A stark reminder to prism-chasing businesses, that the community can see through visual support without invested advocacy.

She then underscored why the actions of this year’s honorees are so important, especially in San Diego, and claimed the fear that still exists is actually a “character assassination against Transgender social justice groups and individuals here in the United States and Mexico,” and an unfortunate common practice.

Velazco said she acknowledges the current barriers and translates them into an inclusive plan of empowerment, sharing that the “community’s future is that we can find a better way to take care of our elders and community pillars.”

A resident of South County, she said she wants to continue bringing light to the efforts of reaching across the border, to embrace immigrant siblings who need to be protected and assisted, and of course to celebrate art. She proudly proclaimed, “We are here, we are queer, we are not going anywhere!”

Light of Pride: Temple Emanu-El

In a time when religion has been pitted against identity, Temple Emanu-El has chosen love to grow its congregation. A synagogue that embraces identity and inclusion, and stands united with the LGBTQ community in efforts to combat hate. Note: Temple Emanu-El will receive their award at the annual Light Up The Cathedral event at St. Paul’s Cathedral, located at 2728 Sixth Ave., in Bankers Hill,

Stonewall Service: Trans Family Support Services (TFSS)

An organization built on the strength of a mother’s love, TFSS has grown to a movement of protection and education for Transgender people across San Diego and the nation. Its compass logo is a beam of hope, guiding people to a multitude of resources rooted in health advocacy, gender-affirming information, and familial support. Trans Family Support Services, with Kathy Moehlig, the mother of a transgender son, at the helm, leads a multi-state effort to empower Trans families in times when they need it the most.

Community Grand Marshall: The Drag Community San Diego Pride honors Drag existence by placing them at the front of the parade this year, taking a clear stance on unity among the LGBTQ community. Drag Queens will lead the parade this year, just as they have led the movement for queer liberation, starting with the first brick.

Come see these amazing honorees receive their awards and speak their truths at The Spirit of Stonewall Rally, Friday, July 14, from 6-7 pm, at the Hillcrest Pride Flag, located at 1500 University Ave. (at Normal Street) in Hillcrest.

For more information, visit sdpride.org/rally ▼

Friend of Pride: Judith Vaughs

Judith Vaughs serves as the current Public Affairs Manager at Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest, an organization familiar with the attacks generated from the current political climate. Though LGBTQ San Diego County News could not make contact with Ms. Vaughs, Lopez spoke of how well Vaughs recognized the intersectionality of women’s rights and LGBTQ rights. Seeking partnerships with multiple organizations like the Human Rights Campaign and Equality California reflect Vaughs willingness to stand up for all.

Larry T. Baza Arts and Culture: Lindsey Deaton

Lindsey Deaton’s resume reflects years of work in the Art community. From founding the San Diego Youth Queer Chorus, sitting on the board of Diversionary Theatre, to participating in multiple transformative