From Zero to Pride: How a Small Town Flipped the Script on LGBTQ+ Visibility

Photo by Zoe Ansari on Unsplash
In the heart of South Santa Clara County, a grassroots revolution is brewing, and it’s painted in rainbow colors.
Gilroy, a conservative agricultural town traditionally known more for garlic than gay pride, is about to host its first-ever Pride celebration on August 2nd , and trust us, it’s been a journey of epic proportions.
Breaking Barriers, One Pride Flag at a Time
The story behind this groundbreaking event is as fierce as it is inspiring. A small but mighty collective called Pride Social South County has been quietly but powerfully challenging the status quo, creating safe spaces where LGBTQ+ residents can finally breathe, exist, and celebrate.
Community Over Controversy
Organizers like Terry Hernandez and Augustine Alvarez aren’t just planning an event; they’re reclaiming their community. From secret meetups behind local restaurants to navigating city council politics, they’ve transformed fear into fierce pride. Their celebration isn’t just a party , it’s a powerful statement of resilience.
More Than Just a Parade
This isn’t your typical Pride event. Expect a rich tapestry of Latinx culture with queer folklorico performances, local musicians, and critical resources like HIV testing and immigration legal aid. It’s a love letter to intersectionality, proving that identity isn’t monolithic but beautifully complex.
From noon to 4 p.m. at Gilroy Civic Center, followed by an adults-only after-party, this Pride isn’t just celebrating , it’s revolutionizing what community means.
AUTHOR: cgp
SOURCE: SFist