Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (LGBTQ) Pride Month is celebrated each year in the month of June to honor LGBTQ+ identity, community and the progress made in the fight for equality and acceptance, while also acknowledging the ongoing challenges and discrimination that still exist.
Pacific Clinics employees celebrated this important observance by representing the agency at community events across the state.
The Foster Care and Adoption Services (FCAS), Flexible Integrated Treatment (FIT) program and LGBTQ+ Education Advancement and Development of Services (LEADS) Network hosted a booth at the two-day Sacramento Pride Festival. Attendees learned about becoming a resource parent, grabbed resource guides to take home, and spun the prize wheel where they could win branded backpacks, snack bags and more.
The event, which welcomes more than 20,000 people annually, had nonstop entertainment, including a performance by the Sacramento Gay Men’s Chorus, a drag showcase, a fashion show, over 200 booth exhibitors (including Pacific Clinics) and a parade.
In Yucca Valley, program staff organized a Pride and Pins event, bringing together clients and their families for an afternoon of bowling, food, and celebration.
In San Bernardino, families attended a family fun day at a minor league baseball game between the Visalia Rawhide and Inland Empire 66ers. Attendees enjoyed classic ballpark treats like popcorn and hot dogs while cheering on their teams during a close game.
In Pasadena, Pacific Clinics joined the city’s annual “Love, Loud, and Proud” celebration at Pasadena City Hall. Hundreds of community members enjoyed art-making activities, music by DJ Keelez, food trucks, and informational booths hosted by local LGBTQIA+ organizations and service providers.
“We’re proud to be part of these vibrant community celebrations and to stand in solidarity with LGBTQ+ individuals and families across the state,” says Joana Garcia, senior clinical director. “These events are not only joyful, but they’re also a vital opportunity to foster connection, visibility and inclusion.”
