2018 Bayard Rustin Civil Rights Honors
It is not our differences that divide us. It is our inability to recognize, accept, and celebrate those differences.” – Audre Lorde, lesbian, writer, feminist, womanist, librarian, and civil rights activist
As LGBTQ folks we know that representation matters. Think of the joy we feel when we see reflections of LGBTQ lives in the media and in movies. Beyond the silver screen, think of how we feel when we see LGBTQ representation in our business and community leaders, elected officials, and in our history books. It is vital that we all take time to honor the legacy of LGBTQ Black community members who have shattered glass ceilings and stood at the front lines. Let’s celebrate the lives and accomplishments of folks like Marsha P. Johnson, Miss Major Griffin-Gracy, Glenn Burke, Stormé DeLarverie, and Janet Mock whose brilliance and persistence has inspired generations of us. I hope you will join Pride, as the Imperial Court de San Diego hosts the Bayard Rustin Civil Rights Honors, and please take time to nominate those who inspire you for the upcoming Spirit of Stonewall Awards.
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.
