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Out in the Vineyard and City of Sonoma Announce Second Annual Sonoma Valley PRIDE Celebration (Press Release)

Posted on May 15, 2024


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May 15, 2024 – Sonoma, CA – The City of Sonoma proudly announces the return of Sonoma Valley PRIDE, the second annual celebration honoring Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ+) Pride Month. In collaboration with Out in the Vineyard, this inclusive event invites community members of all backgrounds to join in the festivities, fostering unity and celebration.

This year’s Pride Celebration will kick off on in the historic Sonoma Plaza on Thursday, May 30, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. in front of City Hall, featuring a diverse lineup of speakers including Mayor John Gurney, the Superintendent of Sonoma Valley Unified School District Dr. Jeanette Rodriguez-Chien, Sonoma Police Chief Brandon Cutting, Reverend Curran Reichert of the First Congregational Church of Sonoma, and Honey Mahogany, recently appointed as the Director of the San Francisco Office of Transgender Initiatives. Gary Saperstein, Owner of Out in the Vineyard, will also share remarks, embodying the spirit of solidarity and inclusion.

The festivities will commence with the raising of Pride flags over City Hall, symbolizing Sonoma’s commitment to diversity and equality. Attendees will then embark on a “Pride Walk” around the historic Sonoma Plaza, a testament to the community’s resilience and unity. The celebration will culminate with a reception at Sunflower Caffé, sponsored by Sparc, with Corner 103 and Passaggio Wines providing libations to further elevate the occasion.

“I am thrilled that our City of Sonoma continues to recognize our diverse community by hosting a Celebration of Pride Month,” says Gary Saperstein. “In these challenging times as our community is being attacked, having a pride celebration sends a powerful message of support, unity, and love for all members of our community. It celebrates and fosters inclusivity, diversity, and acceptance!”

Mayor John Gurney adds, “Sonoma Valley Pride is a testament to our City’s commitment to equality and acceptance. As we come together to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, we reaffirm our dedication to building a community where everyone is valued and respected for who they are.”

Sonoma Valley Pride stands as a testament to the City’s dedication to promoting inclusivity, acceptance, and equality. This family-friendly event welcomes individuals of all ages and backgrounds to join in the festivities, embracing the richness of diversity within the community.

A limited supply of “Sonoma Pride” stickers are available to the public courtesy of Council Member Sandra Lowe who had them designed and printed for the occasion. Pick one up at Sonoma City Hall during business hours, while supplies last.

Sonoma City Hall: No. 1 The Plaza, Sonoma CA 95476
City Hall Hours: Monday – Thursday, 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. & 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Open Fridays by Appointment
Contact: email cityhall@sonomacity.org or call (707) 938-3681

For more information and event updates, please visit the City’s website at www.sonomacity.org.

For more information about Out in the Vineyard, please visit www.outinthevineyard.com.

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MEDIA CONTACTS:                                               Sarah Tracy, PIO
Gary Saperstein, Owner                                      City of Sonoma
Out in the Vineyard                                                 stracy@sonomacity.org
gary@outinthevineyard.com                             707-933-2215

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