"'If others can exist, so can you': Finding trans community around the Monterey Bay" - KAZU On the eve of the 15th annual Trans Day of Visibility, Ruiz said he thinks visibility means “getting everyone to know that there's people that you might not think are trans … that they exist, showing that they’re here.” "Photo: Diversity Center celebrates Transgender Day of Visibility" - The Santa Cruz Sentinel The Diversity Center partnered with UCSC’s Lionel Cantú Queer Resource Center to provide welcoming space for all during the … [Read more...]

As the 27th Annual Queer Youth Leadership Awards approaches on May 11, 2024 we want to honor one of our previous nominees who has made a difference in the trans community locally. Alejandra Santiago has inspired transgender healthcare in Santa Cruz County,  served as 2019 grand marshal for Pajaro Valley Pride, and continues to be a strong ally to queer and trans youth. She was also featured in the documentary "Libertad" directed by Brenda Avila-Hanna, which was included in the Watsonville Film Festival. More information about Alejandra and … [Read more...]

CampOUT is FREE and open to LGBTQ+ youth and allies ages 14-18 who are looking for a safe, supportive, and seriously fun camping experience. We'll be pitching our tents and soaking up the beauty of nature at Mt. Madonna County Park in a private campsite. Get ready to relax, enjoy shared meals, share stores by the campfire, and maybe even spot a shooting star or two! When: Friday August 2 - Sunday August 4, 2024 Where: Mt. Madonna County Park Ages: 14 - 18 Cost: FREE CampOUT is FREE but Space is limited—reserve your spot today! … [Read more...]

Pajaro Valley Pride will award scholarships ranging from $500-$2000 (depending on availability) to students based on their academic successes as well as their involvement in social justice activism either on their school campus or in the community. Scholarships will be awarded regardless of citizenship. Application Due: Friday, May 31, 2024 Applications In Both English And Spanish Are Welcome. Las Solicitudes Tanto En Inglés Como En Español Son Bienvenidas.   To view the full application requirements and apply … [Read more...]

History of Day of (No) Silence: Started in the mid 90’s by two college students, Day of Silence has expanded to reach hundreds of thousands of students each year. Every April, students would go through the school day without speaking, ending the day with Breaking the Silence rallies to bring attention to ways their schools and communities can become more inclusive. 2024 Day of (No) Silence: With more than 800 anti-LGBTQ+ bills introduced last year, we must Rise Up and Take Action. GLSEN’s Day of NO Silence is a nationally-recognized … [Read more...]

Local Delta High School student Sion Erkiletian they/them shares their experience participating in National Day of Silence, the personal impact, and community impact this event has. "It is a day that reminds us of our shared humanity, our shared struggles, and our shared dreams of a world where love knows no bounds and silence is no longer necessary to be heard. The more people participate in this vow of silence, the stronger our community will become. The National Day of Silence has evolved from a distant concept to a deeply personal and … [Read more...]