Spirit of Stonewall Service Award Bears San Diego

Bears San Diego is a nonprofit social organization that has been a cornerstone of the San Diego LGBTQ+ communityfor over thirty years. Originally founded in 1994, the group started as a response to the lack of acceptance for individuals who didn’t fit traditional beauty or social norms. Today, with about 75 active members and thousands of followers onsocial media, Bears San Diego has evolved into a highly visible and active organization. The group, which celebrates Bear culture and promotes camaraderie, is a safe haven for people who identify as Bears or feel out of place in other community settings.

The organization’s annual BearQuake Weekend serves as their version of Bear Pride, where the title of Mr. Bear SanDiego is awarded. This event, along with the group’s broader activities, reflects the positive changes the community has seen over the past few decades. As president for eight years, Donnie Vella played a pivotal role in strengthening the organization’s presence and influence. His leadership included a landmark moment five years ago when the Bear Brotherhood Flag was flown for the first time at the Hillcrest flagpole, symbolizing the group’s visibility and inclusion within the larger LGBTQIA+ community.

When Bears San Diego was chosen as one of the recipients of the Spirit of Stonewall Service Award this year, Donnie expressed immense pride and excitement. This recognition is particularly meaningful because, despite the group’s longhistory, it had never before received such an honor. Donnie reflects on how the organization’s growth, especially in terms of community service, has been key in fostering more visibility.

A significant focus of Bears San Diego’s recent work has been raising awareness and support for the transgender community. The group’s two new titleholders, Mr. Bear San Diego Jimmy and the first-ever San Diego Leather Bear Gio have helped bring people together across the LGBTQ+ spectrum. Their work includes the popular “Leather Weather” social at AWOL, a monthly gathering aimed at inclusivity and connection.

Bears San Diego’s commitment to community-building and uplifting underrepresented groups has remained a cornerstone of their mission. Looking back, Donnie offers advice to younger LGBTQ+ generations: learn from thetrailblazers who fought for today’s freedoms and always stay true to your authentic self. He emphasizes the value of joining social organizations that foster belonging and inclusion.

Despite the progress, Donnie acknowledges the community still faces challenges, especially a lack of empathy and thetendency toward quick judgment within the community itself. He urges LGBTQ+ individuals to work together, particularlyas they face potentially difficult times ahead. The key, according to Donnie, is unity, mutual respect, and the collective fight for acceptance and freedom.

His message is clear: Pride means embracing who you are and accepting yourself with love and authenticity.