A Larger Latine Pride Returns to San Diego This Hispanic Heritage Month: To thrive in joy is to ‘Florecer’

By San Diego Pride Staff

The LGBTQ+ Latine Coalition, an integral program of San Diego Pride, proudly announces its third annual Latine Pride Celebration on Saturday, September 16, 2023, from 1:00 pm to 7:00 pm. This celebration aims to amplify the mission of the San Diego LGBTQ+ Latine Coalition, which revolves around fortifying the power of the LGBTQ Latine community in numerous domains, including family, culture, health, education, economic stability, and political standing. 

Taking place at Mujeres Brew House, 1983 Julian Ave, San Diego, CA 92113, this year’s Latine Pride promises to be larger than ever. With a central theme of “Florecer”, the event resonates with San Diego Pride’s annual theme, “Thrive”. The idea emphasizes the Latine community’s capacity to persevere and flourish. 

“To thrive in joy is to ‘Florecer’. This event is not just a celebration, but a testament to the resilience and vitality of the LGBTQ Latine community. Spaces like this, where we can be loved, safe, and seen as our one-hundred percent queer and one-hundred percent Latin selves are rare, and I’m so grateful and proud of this team for making this possible!” said Fernando Z. López, Executive Director of San Diego Pride.

“Kicking off Hispanic Heritage Month with Latine Pride not only highlights that LGBTQ+ Latines are at the forefront of crucial social movements, but gives us the space to celebrate the prosperity, power, and progress’ that Hispanic folks in the diaspora have been tirelessly fighting for,” said Cris Sotomayor, Programs Manager, San Diego Pride.

Attendees can look forward to:

• A grand gathering of 30 vendors, with an expected turnout of over 2,000 people.
• A dynamic day of music and live entertainment featuring Drag Queens, DJs, salsa & merengue dancers, and various live music acts.
• Mujeres Brew House will be crafting a unique drink, especially for the occasion.
• An art showcase in partnership with Bread and Salt, emphasizing the talents of BIPOC local artists. Additionally, festival attendees will get the opportunity to ignite their own artistic flair.

One of the remarkable feats of this year’s Latine Pride is that the event is entirely free and welcoming to all. The celebration is slated to have its first-ever stage and dance area, underscoring its magnitude. The party doesn’t end with the festival, as an official after-party will be held at The Rail (3796 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92103) from 8:00 pm onwards. The entry fee is $5, with 100% of the proceeds channeled to support year-round programming.

The Latine Pride 2023 also pays homage to the past, recognizing significant milestones and figures, such as Larry T. Baza, who was instrumental in promoting intersectional LGBTQ and BIPOC diversity and inclusion, particularly in the arts. The Latine Coalition’s continuous efforts have paved the way for more expansive and inclusive programs, ensuring that LGBTQ Latine voices are represented and celebrated.

San Diego Pride and the LGBTQ+ Latine Coalition invite everyone to join in this exuberant celebration and support the LGBTQ Latine community’s empowerment. Whether it’s by attending, donating, volunteering, or just spreading the word, every gesture amplifies the power and pride of this vibrant community.