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  • 2024 Sonoma County Pride Parade Information

Saturday, June 1, 11:00am – 12:00pm
Fourth Street & Mendocino Avenue, Santa Rosa

The 2024 Sonoma County Pride Parade, is brought to you by Keysight Technologies & YMCA of Sonoma County! Calling all LGBTQ+ community members, allies, and supporters! Get ready to celebrate Sonoma County Pride at our annual pride parade on Saturday, June 1. This year, our parade carries a special significance as we pay tribute to our local “Queeroes.” Join us as we honor the extraordinary contributions, resilience, and achievements of queer individuals within our community. The parade will kick off at 11am on 4th Street in the heart of downtown Santa Rosa. It’s a vibrant and joyous gathering that brings together people from all walks of life to celebrate love, unity, and equality. Don’t miss out on this exciting event that will empower, inspire, and uplift our LGBTQ+ community.

master of ceremonies

Debbie – Radio Broadcasting Veteran Debbie has devoted nearly three decades to a successful career in radio broadcasting, with experience spanning from Washington State to California, including notable positions in Read More
Debbie Abrams from KZST

Debbie – Radio Broadcasting Veteran

Debbie has devoted nearly three decades to a successful career in radio broadcasting, with experience spanning from Washington State to California, including notable positions in the Oroville and Chico markets. For over twenty years, she has been a prominent voice on the airwaves at KZST. Holding academic accolades in English from UCLA and Broadcast Journalism from Cal State Northridge, Debbie brings a unique blend of expertise and passion to her work.

“I love my job and I love radio… because I love to talk! I love to entertain and I love to inform people about what’s going on; and most importantly, I love to give my opinion (except not in the news)!” says Debbie, encapsulating her enthusiasm for her craft. She navigates a fine balance between the entertaining aspects of her role and the gravity of communicating vital information during emergency situations.

Debbie’s bold and opinionated persona sets her apart, earning her a distinct place in the hearts of her audience. Her willingness to push boundaries and her unapologetic nature have established her as an integral figure on the airwaves. Married to Britt Cooper, aka “Banker Boy,” and raising four children in Windsor, Debbie’s authenticity shines through in her on-air presence.

“I’m like a glass of wine: the more you listen to me, the more you say, ‘Hey… she really does make sense.’ And that just makes my day!”

Landon McPherson, aka ‘Man Landers’ is your source for untrustworthy and sketchy life advice on Wednesday mornings on KZST. “Landon says what some think and would dare to say”. A Sonoma County Read More
Landon McPherson, aka ‘Man Landers’

Landon McPherson, aka ‘Man Landers’ is your source for untrustworthy and sketchy life advice on Wednesday mornings on KZST. “Landon says what some think and would dare to say”. A Sonoma County native who has been an advocate for the county for many years, promoting tourism, luxury wine country experiences, having served on the Board of Directors of Senior Advocacy Services, (founding) Board Member of Sonoma Family Meal and even a recipient of the elusive ’Forty Under 40’ award; Landon can be seen and heard all over Sonoma County as he emcee’s numerous events each season. Landon thoroughly enjoys being the ‘David’ to Debbie’s ‘Alexis’ on Wednesday mornings on KZST, gardening, and being in bed by 10pm. When out and about, you’ll find him on a random patio (in the shade) with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc, brunching at Grossmans or THTR’s Drag Brunch. While Landon *mostly* play well with others, a word of caution: awkward interactions are where he thrives, so if the story is good enough, expect to become part of his next great story on The Debbie Abrams Morning show on KZST.

You may recognize Leslie’s voice from our 2023 Drag on Ice, The Luther Burbank Rose Parade, Santa Rosa’s Earth Day event, Peggy Sue’s Car Show, Live at Julliard Park Concert Read More
Leslie Graves – LGEmcee

You may recognize Leslie’s voice from our 2023 Drag on Ice, The Luther Burbank Rose Parade, Santa Rosa’s Earth Day event, Peggy Sue’s Car Show, Live at Julliard Park Concert Series, Santa Rosa’s Turkey Trot and many other running, cycling and multi-sport events throughout the Bay Area. Leslie is also well-known as the organizer of many community actions and events some of which include multiple years of Santa Rosa’s Women’s March, the 2020 Santa Rosa Rosie Rally, multiple Pro-Roe Rallies, and a PRIDE Solidarity March (June 2023) in response to local LGBTQIA+ businesses & organizations being targets of hate filled vandalism. For three years, she was the Market & Event Manager of the Wednesday Night Market including in 2017, when Sonoma County Pride brought our Parade & Festival back to downtown Santa Rosa. Leslie was quick to step up to assist with her knowledge of programming the newly reunified Courthouse Square. In 2019, Leslie served as a parade judge and had a proud mama moment when her daughter chose that Pride Parade to be her first to walk in.

 

“I love what Sonoma County Pride stands for, promoting equality for all, it is simple and essential. Being in support of family, friends, and everyone in the LGBTQIA+ community, as well as organizations that are doing the daily work of nurturing, educating, and celebrating is truly an honor.”

 

In addition to announcing, Leslie currently works as Marketing Coordinator at Sonoma County GO LOCAL and lives with her husband, Chris and their two dogs – Tozzi & Grady in Santa Rosa.

2024 Heroes, Sheroes & Queeroes

Scotty King – Queero/Hero
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 Read More
Scotty King – Queero/Hero

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 – Hero
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 Read More
Jim Obergefell – Hero

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 – Shero
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 Read More
Zoe Dunning – Shero

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 Hoefling – 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 Read More
Sherri Hoefling – 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 – Queero
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 Read More
Aria Lorena – Queero

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 – Queero
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 Read More
Felix (Pati) Santiago Reyes – Queero

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 – Queero
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 Read More
Positive Images – Queero

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 – Queero
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 Read More
Cleve Jones – Queero

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.

judges

Who is Donna Wells? Long time a community member, who loves to garden, camp, hike, travel cross country, downhill ski (NorthStar yeah), kayak, and then some. She adores her Maine Read More
Donna Wells

Who is Donna Wells? Long time a community member, who loves to garden, camp, hike, travel cross country, downhill ski (NorthStar yeah), kayak, and then some. She adores her Maine coon kitties and supports our local animal rescues.

Frida Whales is Sonoma County’s Drag Activist. She is known for volunteering her time to host fundraisers like Positive Images, Sonoma Immigrant Services, and more. Catch Frida in all the Read More
Frida Whales

Frida Whales is Sonoma County’s Drag Activist. She is known for volunteering her time to host fundraisers like Positive Images, Sonoma Immigrant Services, and more. Catch Frida in all the North Bay Cabaret Shows or the last Thursday of every month at Frida’s Fabulous FAQ’s, drag trivia for the pop culture obsessed at Griffo Distillery. Frida brings an academic perspective to the judges panel as she is a graduate of Mother University, earning a PHD in Slay-ology with an emphasis in Reading for Filth. She is honored to be here judging the parade.

“Meet Jennifer “Jenny” Rihl, a vibrant Sonoma County resident since 2011. At 43, she wears many hats – as a dedicated property manager at Pure Property Management and a burgeoning Read More
Jennifer “Jenny” Rihl

“Meet Jennifer “Jenny” Rihl, a vibrant Sonoma County resident since 2011. At 43, she wears many hats – as a dedicated property manager at Pure Property Management and a burgeoning content creator infusing humor to advocate for the trans community. Jenny embarked on her transition journey in 2016 and is a proud mom to her 9-year-old son. Previously, she served as a committee member for Translife Sonoma County, embodying her commitment to community and inclusivity.”

Judging Criteria and Awards

  • Judges will be selected from the community by the Parade committee.
  • Each unit will be judged on its overall presentation and the judges’ decision will be final.
  • Awards will be granted to three places in each judging category.
  • Performances in the parade are only allowed at the Judge’s stand (On Fourth Street at E Street) with a limit of one (1) minute. Stopping the parade to perform in other areas of the parade may result in being pulled from the parade lineup without a refund.
  • The awards will be presented on the Festival Stage at 2:00 pm, June 1, 2024. If the winner is not present the award will be held by the parade committee and the winner contacted to receive their award.

Judging Categories:

  1. Best Use of Pride Theme: QUEEREOS!
  2. Most Creative / Original Design
  3. Best Overall

parade route

parade contingents

as of May 23, 2024

Amor Para Todos APT
BMO
Becoming Independent
Boys & Girls Clubs of Sonoma-Marin
Buckelew Programs
Cheer San Francisco
Cheryl Anne Marie Kabanuck
Commission on the Status of Women
Common Ground Society
Community Market
Compassion Without Borders
Congregation Beth Ami
Congregation Shomrei Torah
Congressman Jared Huffman
Congressman Mike Thompson
Cotati Police Department
Ending HIV in Sonoma County
Episcopal Church of the Incarnation
Exchange Bank
Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa
First United Methodist Church of Santa Rosa
Food For Thought
Forgotten Felines of Sonoma County
Fountaingrove Lodge
Free Mom Hugs
Goblin Bros. Games and Gear
Gold Ridge Fire District
Graton Fire
Happy Middle Theater Company
Herbert Slater Middle School

Hogan Land Services
Kaiser Peremanente
Kathleen Matthies
Keysight Technologies
LGBTQ Connection
Medtronic
North Bay Derby
North Bay Organizing Project
Oakmont Rainbow Women
Petaluma PD
Petaluma Pride
Planned Parenthood Northern California
Positive Images
PrideOutlet – How are you going to should your pride?
Queer Electeds of Sonoma County and their Allies!
Raise A Child Inc.
RECAMFT
Redwood Forest Friends Meeting
Redwood Psychological Association
RPDPS
Russian River Pride
Russian River Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence
Santa Rosa Charter School for the Arts
Santa Rosa Community Health
Santa Rosa Junior College
Santa Rosa Metro Chamber
Santa Rosa Police Department
Sebastopol Area Senior Center
SoCo Lesbian Reunion
SoCo Romp Romp Sonoma County

Sonoma CAN
Sonoma Clean Power
Sonoma County Ag + Open Space
Sonoma County Commission on Human Rights
Sonoma County Democratic Party
Sonoma County Family YMCA
Sonoma County Library
Sonoma County Office of Education
Sonoma County Pride Bowling League
Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office
Sonoma Land Trust
Sonoma Life Support
Sonoma State University
Sotheby’s International Realty
Starbucks NorCal Pride Network
Summit State Bank
Sutter Health
The Living Room
The Phoenix Dancers
The Press Democrate.com
THTR Productions
TLC Child & Family Services
Traditional Medicinals
Unitarian Universalist Congregation Santa Rosa
United By Grace Community Church
Victoria Lynskey Orthodontics

travel information

We've tried to make planing your visit to Sonoma County Pride easy. Here is some local hotel, travel details you might find helpful.

Ground Transport

By Bus, By Smart Train or By Car

Accommodation

Where to stay is always important when planning a trip.

Cafe & Restaurant

As for any trip, you need to know where to eat!

FAQs

The Sonoma County Pride planning committee is working hard to finalize details for this year’s Pride events. Once we have finalized the details we will publish FAQs and answers in this location. Thank you for your patience.

What should I wear? – Be festive! Wear lots of color! Don’t be afraid to show your pride and wear rainbows and tons of color! Be sure to dress comfortable, and remember it could be warm so be sure to wear sunscreen!

Are Dogs Allowed? – dogs are allowed so long as they are on a leash and well behaved. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after them. Please take into consideration that we expect a very large crowd and there will be music and controlled chaos.. Some animals might be stressed.