Scotty King, a Queero and Hero, is the LGBT+ Liaison at the Sebastopol Area Senior Center. His dedication to inclusivity has made a significant impact on the center’s support for the LGBTQ+ community. Over the past six years, Scotty has organized fun and educational events and provided valuable resources to those in need. His efforts have helped build a thriving LGBTQ+ community, including the establishment of the Senior Lesbians in Community (SLIC) group. Scotty’s achievements also extend beyond the center, as he leads a monthly Heart Circle, organizes panel discussions and trips, and participates in the Sonoma County Pride Parade. In his spare time, Scotty enjoys hiking, kayaking, camping, and creating horsehair pottery as a ceramic artist. He is also a dedicated advocate, educating about Narcan and its life-saving capabilities. Scotty truly embodies the spirit of a Queero and Hero in our community.

Jim Obergefell, a Hero in the LGBTQ+ community, is renowned for his role as the named plaintiff in the landmark marriage equality case, Obergefell v. Hodges. As a speaker represented by Keppler Speakers, Jim advocates for LGBTQ+ equality and civil rights. He co-founded Equality Vines, a cause-based wine label that supports equality organizations through premium wines. Jim’s contributions extend to the literary world as well, having co-authored the book “Love Wins” and written forewords, chapters, essays, and Op-Eds. With a strong commitment to LGBTQ+ rights, Jim serves on the boards of various organizations, including the Family Equality, GLBT Historical Society, and Mattachine Society of Washington, DC. His unwavering dedication to the cause has made him an inspirational figure and a true Hero.

Zoe Dunning, a Shero in our community, has been at the forefront of advocating for LGBTQ+ servicemembers’ rights in the U.S. military. As a retired Navy Commander, Zoe exhibited immense courage by coming out as a lesbian publicly in 1993, challenging the Pentagon’s ban on homosexuals. She successfully fought two military discharge boards, paving the way for LGBTQ+ individuals to serve openly. Zoe continued her activism as a Board Co-Chair for Servicemembers Legal Defense Network, which provided free legal services and ultimately helped overturn the Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell policy. Her leadership and dedication led her to stand alongside President Obama during the signing of the Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell Repeal Act. Zoe’s commitment to social justice and equity extends beyond the military, as she fights for LGBTQ+, women, and veterans’ rights. Currently serving on the boards of the National Center for Lesbian Rights and the U.S. Air Force Academy, Zoe remains a true Shero.

Sherri Hoeffling, an exceptional Shero, has been an integral part of the LGBTQ+ community in Sonoma County for decades. Sherri’s journey began when her VW bus broke down in Monte Rio, leading her to establish roots in the area. She quickly became involved in organizing women’s events and co-founded Delta Pi Productions, which produced diverse community events. Sherri’s passion for stage production and sound engineering has made a significant impact on events such as the Russian River Women’s Weekends and West Coast Women’s Festivals. As the founder of NITEOWL NEWS, she has consistently served as a lifeline to the women’s community in the Bay Area. Sherri’s commitment to fostering a sense of belonging is evident in her involvement with Oakmont Rainbow Women, which has seen remarkable growth. With more than 160 Rainbow Women, Sherri reminds us that LGBTQ+ individuals are everywhere.

Aria Lorena Bonifacio, a proud Queero, has shown remarkable resilience and commitment to the LGBTQIA2S+ community in Sonoma County. After facing religious struggles and family disagreements regarding their sexuality and relationships, Aria found solace and support at the Queer Resource Center (QRC). Participating in virtual “Queer Corner” meetings during the pandemic, Aria discovered a space where intergenerational LGBTQIA2S+ individuals could connect. Embarking on a journey of self-discovery, Aria embraced their gender-fluid identity as a proud queer person of color. Today, Aria serves as a queer student programmer at the QRC and a peer coach at the Santa Rosa Intercultural Center, ensuring that LGBTQIA2S+ students receive the support they need. Aria’s personal experiences have fueled their passion for creating an inclusive community.

Felix (Pati) Santiago Reyes, a Queero who proudly identifies as Queer-Nonbinary, has dedicated the last seven years to supporting LGBTQIA2S+ students at the SRJC Queer Resource Center. As a Queer Programmer, they provide essential resources, support, and create connections for LGBTQIA2S+ students, empowering them in their academic and personal journeys. Felix’s own struggle with gender identity during their first year of college led to a serendipitous encounter with their English Instructor, Roam Romagnoli, who became a crucial Queer Rolemodel. Thanks to the support and guidance received, Felix emerged as the Queer-Nonbinary individual they are today. Motivated by their own experiences, Felix hopes to continue guiding and supporting others in their own paths to self-realization and success.

Positive Images is a remarkable LGBTQIA+ Community Center that has been nurturing an inclusive and resilient queer and trans community in Sonoma County since 1990. With a strong commitment to supporting individuals at the margins of the LGBTQIA+ population, Positive Images provides essential services encompassing mental health support, advocacy, and education. This community center serves as a safe and welcoming space for thousands of individuals. Their dedication ensures that the LGBTQIA+ community of the North Bay has a place to exist and thrive, fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment. Supporting Positive Images means supporting the continued growth of a community that celebrates diversity. To learn more, follow their social media channels, join their community events, or visit their community center.

Cleve Jones, an esteemed Queero, has made immense contributions to the LGBTQ+ movement as an activist, author, and lecturer. With early involvement in the gay liberation movement in the 1970s and mentorship from the iconic Harvey Milk, Cleve played a pivotal role in advancing LGBTQ+ rights. Notably, he co-founded the San Francisco AIDS Foundation and created The NAMES Project AIDS Memorial Quilt, a monumental community arts project. Cleve has been recognized for his activism in various forms, including his memoir “When We Rise: My Life in the Movement” and the ABC TV mini-series inspired by his book. Today, Cleve resides in rural Northern California, reminding us that the fight for equality continues. He believes that by working together, we can build a better future for all.