San Diego Gay and Lesbian News

Larry Baza, a beloved and longtime San Diego LGBTQ activist, died on Saturday due to complications from COVID-19. He was 76-years old. 

The San Diego Union-Tribune obituary is here.

A new director of the Office of Equity and Racial Justice has been named after a thorough national recruitment and selection process.

Andrew Strong will head the office and brings 15 years of experience in local government leadership and community engagement.

The City of San Diego Public Library has a full schedule of events this February to celebrate the rich and diverse history of Black Americans. The library’s Black History Month programming includes storytimes for children, book discussions, author talks and take-home craft kits. 

The Los Angeles LGBT Center’s Board of Directors announced Joe Hollendoner, CEO of San Francisco AIDS Foundation, will become the Center’s next leader. Hollendoner will assume the role of executive director on July 6 and work with Center CEO Lorri L. Jean prior to succeeding her as CEO upon Jean’s retirement in July 2022.

The recent passing of award winning journalist/writer Tom Blair is a great loss.

Tom's column in the San Diego Union-Tribune was the must read for every San Diegan who wanted to be in the know. He is also the former Editor of San Diego Magazine and a well known writer.

Brenda Watson, a well known trans and LGBTQ activist throughout the San Diego community, passed away earlier this week from complications due to COVID-19. The news of her passing was shared by the North County LGBTQ Resource Center who called Watson one of "North San Diego's historic LGBTQ volunteers & trans sisters. An icon."

The North County LGBTQ Resource Center will host their Annual Town Hall on Friday, Jan. 29 at 5:30 pm via live stream on Facebook.

Following the California Department of Public Health’s announcement lifting the regional stay-at-home order, the City of San Diego will reinstate enforcement of parking regulations effective tomorrow, Jan. 29, 2021. From Jan. 29 through Feb. 7, the City will issue warning notices. Starting Monday, Feb.

The County Board of Supervisors voted today to expand the emergency rental assistance program for San Diegans who have suffered economic hardships due to COVID-19.

The County’s program allows San Diegans who are facing eviction or are unable to pay their rent to apply for financial assistance. Funds can be used to cover rent, utilities and other household expenses.