"While doom and gloom may wake people up, joy keeps them in the fight, says drag queen and environmentalist Pattie Gonia. With humor, creativity and a dress made of thrifted shower curtains and upcycled pink flamingo pool floaties, Pattie shows why embracing fun might be the key to building a stronger, more inclusive climate movement. (Recorded at TED Countdown: Overcoming Dilemmas in the Green Transition on October 30, 2024)" https://youtu.be/Qvm9k5Wnafs?si=GzrB2wQYv4-NWOTO … [Read more...]

Note: This is a valuable resource that includes a majority of free opportunities. "We realize it can be hard to know how to help, so here are some concreate strategies to help get you started. We will be adding to this list, so please heck back for additional suggestions. We encourage you to leverage your privilege, do what is within your capacity, set reminders to ongoing action, and share this list with others. " Resource available here … [Read more...]

Pajaro Valley Pride was created by a group of Watsonville residents who serve the LGBTQIA+ community. We want our young leaders to thrive, and we want to support them by providing them with some of the resources needed to help them achieve their long-term goals. We build bridges with the general community in South Santa Cruz County through our annual Pride Event and by collaborating with local community organizations on events throughout the year. This year, Pajaro Valley Pride will award scholarships ranging from $500-$2000 (depending on … [Read more...]

Queer Prom Planning Committee, March 10 The Diversity Center is excited to begin planning for our annual Queer Prom, a magical evening celebrating LGBTQ+ joy and community. We’re inviting high school students to join the Queer Prom Planning Committee to help make this event unforgettable! When: Monday, March 10 @ 4:15 - 5 pm Where: Zoom Ages: LGBTQ+ and allies in High School in Santa Cruz and Monterey Counties Your ideas are valuable and we’d love for you to help shape this special event. No prior event planning experience is … [Read more...]

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Curated by Melissa West & Jorge Guillen a.k.a. Xinistra Gl’Amour Join us in celebrating the Central Coast’s LGBTQ+ community and its richness of expression. Calling all artists to submit work that touches on, expresses, celebrates, or documents the queer experience. We are looking for 2D, 3D, video, fashion, performance, spoken word – whatever your form of expression takes. Queer artists and creators are especially encouraged to submit, but we may accept work by allies who are committed to uplifting and honoring LGBTQ+ voices. The … [Read more...]

Through hands-on learning, behind the scenes experiences at local museum and gallery spaces, and mentorship from local arts professionals, this summer program introduces rising high school juniors and seniors to the diversity of possibilities within the art world. Transportation and lunch will be provided as well as a daily stipend. Apply Here! When: July 1 - July 31 (3 days/week: Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 10am-4pm) Where: The Institute of the Arts and Sciences, a new gallery space at UC Santa Cruz focused on contemporary art and … [Read more...]

"Since 1975, Santa Cruz Pride has convened an annual event, parade or festival that brings nearly 5000 people to downtown Santa Cruz. The 50th Anniversary of Santa Cruz Pride is a milestone in history for the visibility and celebration of a vibrant LGBTQ+ community unlike any across the country. It is a time to celebrate all people and allies across the county. " Learn more about the history of Santa Cruz Pride and keep tabs on upcoming events and activities at santacruzpride.org/50th-anniversary Santa Cruz County Queer History … [Read more...]

The Safe Schools Project of Santa Cruz County, a program of the Queer Youth Task Force, in collaboration with The Diversity Center, TransFamilies of Santa Cruz County, and the Santa Cruz County Office of Education (SCCOE), have created a resource to help keep our LGBTQ+ students, families, educators, and community members informed about their rights and how to access legal and support services when needed. Visit the site to learn more: safeschoolsproject.org/California-safe-schools Please share with your colleagues, family, and community. … [Read more...]