In 2013 we were approached by a group of women led by community organizer, Kelcie Kopf, that was interested in creating a trans-inclusive LGBTQ-women centered event in San Diego. Knowing full well at the time that LGBTQ women’s spaces were disappearing all over the country, we eagerly said “Yes,” and provided the infrastructure and resources needed to support the vision of these women. Several months later She Fest was born.
When San Diego’s Dyke March dissipated, San Diego Pride made a commitment to ensure that no less than 50% of our entertainers at the Festival would be female-identified and that we would have no less than one trans entertainer on every stage each day. While inclusive representation should be a minimum bar we should all set for ourselves, having intentional trans-inclusive LGBTQ-women centered spaces is still a social justice issue and must be supported.
It’s wonderful to see how this event has evolved into a powerfully meaningful year-round program for our LGBTQ women’s community. The all-volunteer committee is truly an exercise in leadership development and community building as all throughout the year they now plan fundraisers, educational events, participate in outreach and visibility events, support “get out the vote” efforts, and put on an amazing signature celebration by and for our LGBTQ women’s community.
In 2021, She Fest was one of only a handful of our events that was able to return to full scale. The event moved last year from North Park Community Park to the heart of Hillcrest, and we’re excited to announce that on July 9, 2022, She Fest will return to Hillcrest which has better access to public transportation and allows for She Fest attendee to better support our local Hillcrest LGBTQ-owned small businesses.
If you have never been to She Fest, I hope this is your year. Come and join us as we celebrate and support the talents and contributions of women while fostering meaningful connections within and between the LGBTQ and larger San Diego communities. All are welcome to take part in this space as we pursue Justice with Joy.
With Pride,
Fernando Zweifach López
Pronouns: They/Them/Theirs
Executive Director
San Diego Pride
Read full email here: https://mailchi.mp/sdpride/supportlgbtqwomen
Fernando Lopez was the Executive Director of San Diego Pride. Lopez’s years of LGBT advocacy, nonprofit management, public education, diversity consulting, media relations, guest lectures, and organizing have made them a consistent presence ensuring the struggles of the LGBT community are ever visible.
