Whittier's Out and Proud Fest returns
`A safe, inclusive and welcoming space for everyone' is promised
The second annual Out and Proud Fest hosted by Whittier Pride will take place this weekend with entertainment, food trucks, vendors and more.
Whittier Pride, a nonprofit organization, is committed to serving the greater Whittier area, including La Mirada, Santa Fe Springs, Pico Rivera and Montebello, among other southeast Los Angeles County cities.
The nonprofit also provides resources, such as referrals for mental health and physical health, assistance for at-risk LGBTQ+ youth, and spiritual and educational guidance to professionals. Its resource center is located at Midnight Books, 7201 Greenleaf Ave., in Whittier.
“Whittier Pride nonprofit is extremely excited to present to the greater LGBTQIA+ community our second annual festival at Whittier College,” said Lorenzo Gomez, vice president of the organization. “Whittier Pride nonprofit not only supports the LGBTQIA+ community but also supports and is a member of many civic organizations.”
The festival will begin today at Whittier College, 13406 E. Philadelphia St., from noon to 5 p.m. It is free for all to attend.
Attendees can look forward to a diverse lineup of events and activities, including live performances by LGBTQ+ artists, musicians, and performers; connecting with local LGBTQ+ organizations, support groups, and community resources; LGBTQ+ vendors and supportive businesses; food and drinks; health and wellness resources; and more.
“Out and Proud Fest is committed to providing a safe, inclusive and welcoming space for everyone. It's an opportunity to celebrate diversity, foster understanding and build connections within the LGBTQIA+ community and beyond,” said Gabriel Hall, director of outreach and communication.
Whittier Pride's presence is important, Gomez said, as the city of Whittier has had a reputation for upholding conservative values but at the same time is a home for many nonprofits that serve members of the community who have been marginalized and without a voice.
“Whittier is changing from within, and especially many new residents who have moved here,” Gomez added. “There is quite a diverse cross section (of people) that have recently moved here, that embrace Whittier Pride!”
Whittier Pride is an inclusive and vibrant celebration that aims to achieve several important goals in the community as well.
This includes promoting LGBTQ+ visibility, advocating for equality, fostering inclusivity, providing resources, celebrating love and acceptance, and promoting unity.
“Whittier Pride is not just an event; it's a movement dedicated to making a positive impact in our community,” Hill said. “Our mission encompasses advocacy, education, support, and above all, celebrating the richness of LGBTQIA+ lives.
“We look forward to another successful celebration and welcome everyone to join us in spreading love and acceptance.”
For more information and updates for the Out and Proud Fest, go to officialwhittierpride.org or follow Whittier Pride at @whittierprideofficial on social media.