Building Connected Spaces For SD’s Black LGBTQ Community

Founded in 2015 as the San Diego Black LGBTQ Coalition, the volunteer-led nonprofit has long served as a vital resource and gathering point for Black LGBTQ+ San Diegans. In 2024, the organization officially rebranded as San Diego Black Pride. The name change was intended to reflect its evolution into a more visible and celebratory force.

Today, San Diego Black Pride continues to create affirming spaces through events like its annual Black LGBTQ+ Conference, resource fairs, mixers, and community outreach programs. Its programming connects people to mental health care, offers leadership opportunities, or simply creates room for joy. 

June 27, 2025

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Why did you start volunteering?

I volunteer because it’s imperative for me to support the communities I reflect—and for those communities to have someone who reflects them, too, in the work.

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Tell us about your work with San Diego Black Pride.

As president, I help lead the organization in creating safe and joyful spaces for Black LGBTQ+ people. That includes capacity-building, designing systems and processes, raising funds, and producing programs and events that help our community thrive.

What keeps you motivated?

Our community is underserved and underfunded, and I’m committed to doing whatever I can to get us beautifully resourced enough to really do incredible work. I know we deserve that.

What’s your advice for someone who wants to volunteer?

Do it because you believe in the work you’re supporting and want to be part of that community. Volunteering is fulfilling, but it can also be exhausting. Burnout is real. You have to be grounded in the mission.

How has volunteering shaped your perspective?

It’s one of the best ways to build relationships and connection. The impact is real—both for the people you serve and for yourself.