Sonoma Valley Pride event, June 1

The City of Sonoma  in partnership with Out in the Vineyard is pleased to announce its inaugural Sonoma Valley Pride event, an inclusive celebration in honor of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ) Pride month. This free event open to all community members, will take place on June 1, 2023, starting at 5:30 p.m. in front of Sonoma City Hall.

Sonoma Valley Pride will commence with a program featuring several speakers in front of the annual Pride flag display on Sonoma City Hall located at No. 1, The Plaza in Sonoma, followed by a Pride Walk around the historic Sonoma Plaza, and culminate with a City-sponsored reception at the Sunflower Caffé located at 421 First Street West on the Sonoma Plaza.

“I am honored and excited to bring this first-time event to reality. It is a moment for us to reaffirm our commitment to creating a safe and welcoming environment for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity,” says Sonoma Mayor Sandra Lowe. “Through this event, we aim to celebrate the rich contributions of the LGBTQ+ community. Join us as we raise the rainbow flag high and embark on a journey of unity, understanding, and acceptance.”

Speakers for the program include Gary Saperstein, owner of Out in the Vineyard, Sonoma Mayor Sandra Lowe, Chief Brandon Cutting of the Sonoma Police Department, and Rabbi Steve Finley from Congregation Shir Shalom with additional speakers to be announced. Following the program, participants will embark on a “Pride Walk” along the sidewalks surrounding the Sonoma Plaza. Upon completing the Pride Walk, all attendees are invited to continue the celebration at a reception at the Sunflower Caffé.

Gary Saperstein, owner of Out in the Vineyard and co-sponsor of Sonoma Valley Pride says, “I am proud to work with the Mayor and our City of Sonoma to recognize and celebrate Pride Month. While our community is facing many challenges in cities and towns across the country, we should all feel fortunate to be a part of a community that recognizes the importance of pride. For the past 8 years, the city has flown the pride flag and I am thrilled that they want to do more to honor our LGBTQ+ Community.”

Sonoma Valley Pride is a first-time, family-friendly, and free occasion, embracing individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and orientations. It serves as a testament to the City of Sonoma’s dedication to promoting inclusion, acceptance, and equality within our community. Event listing information can be found on the City’s website at www.sonomacity.org.