Vernita Gutierrez
Vernita is a long-time community activist with over 30 years of experience advocating for the advancement of reproductive freedom, LGBTQ+ equality, and many other social justice causes in San Diego, California. She currently directs strategy for Planned Parenthood of the Pacific Southwest’s public-facing work in the counties of Imperial, San Diego, and Riverside, including communications, supporter and community engagement, education, marketing, and public affairs, as well as partnerships along the U.S./Mexico border region in Imperial and San Diego counties. Vernita also oversees the Planned Parenthood Action Fund of the Pacific Southwest, a 501(c)(4) political organization. She serves on the San Diego LGBT Community Center Board of Directors, the Black Infant Health Program Advisory Board, the Perinatal Equity Initiative Community Advisory Board, and the San Diego County Commission on the Status of Women and Girls. Vernita is a past Fellow with the Center for American Progress’ Faith and Reproductive Justice Leadership Institute, and holds a Master’s Degree in Nonprofit Leadership and Management from the University of San Diego.
Vernita will be one of the featured speakers at the Spirit of Stonewall Rally on Friday, July 14, 2023. Learn more about the rally here.