FLYING THE FLAG FOR PRIDE IN VALLEJO
Annual picnic returns Sunday on Mare Island
For all the various Pride Month moments in the Bay Area, the head of the Solano Pride Center says there's nothing quite like the flag being raised in Vallejo.
“I think it's important to have opportunities for the community to come together and see that visibility, so that we have a resilient community, in Solano County and in Vallejo in particular,” said Jonathan Cook, looking forward to the 24th annual Solano Pride Picnic on Sunday afternoon at Mare Island's Alden Park. “It's always important for us to have these events. You know, Vallejo has raised the flag for many, many years now, and I believe they were the first city to do that when no other cities in Solano County would.”
The long-running tradition will be centered around a “bring your own picnic” style event this year, with entertainment slated to include a drag performance from Ling Ling, a “Festive Pride Hat” contest, a Cornhole tournament, arts and activities for kids, and more.
“Last year was the first time we brought this back since the pandemic, and we were able to space everyone out because it's a big park. And we're planning to do something similar this year,” said Cook.
In years past, the Pride flag was raised on the large maritime flagpole in the park. While that pole is being refurbished due to rust and old age, another one will hoist the flag at the entrance to the island, greeting visitors and participants.
“One of the things that we do every year, is to raise the flag so people know where it's at. But also just because you know, it's fun,” said Thomas Bilbo, chairman of Solano Pride Board of Directors.
With the last two years of COVID-related restrictions and health concerns, many people are looking forward to getting back together — cautiously and as safely as possible — and celebrating once again.
“There's been just a really vibrant community, in Vallejo, in particular, I think with our proximity to the rest of the Bay Area folks move into Vallejo, and have kind of an open mindset,” said Cook.
“So we're really appreciative of the community that we have there and looking forward to hosting the event.”