Stonewall Inspirational Relationship Award Julie Hoffman & Summer White

Julie Hoffman and Summer White’s love story, which began in 1985 during Gay Pride Weekend at a lesbian bar in San Diego’s Hillcrest neighborhood, is a testament to enduring love, resilience, and community involvement.Celebrating their 40th anniversary together, they reflect on their journey not only as a couple but as active members of the LGBTQ+ community.

Their relationship has been shaped by their deep connection to Hillcrest, a neighborhood that has evolved alongside their love and the broader LGBTQ+ rights movement. Hillcrest has always been more than just a physical location for Julie and Summer it’s been a place where they could be their authentic selves, form lastingfriendships, and find solidarity. For them, it’s a space of freedom and acceptance, and they hope future generations continue to engage with and protect it.

“We hope that future generations know how important it is to get involved in volunteering to protect and preserve their rights to keep the area special,” they say.

In their early years together, Hillcrest was still an up-and-coming neighborhood. Over time, it has become a thriving destination known globally for its inclusivity and vibrancy.

“Now it’s more of a destination to visit,” they reflect.

This evolution mirrors larger cultural shifts in the LGBTQ+ movement, from a fight for visibility to today’s broader push for inclusivity. Julie and Summer emphasize preserving the neighborhood’s essence and ensuring it remains a space for all. Their commitment reflects a larger philosophy: “Our gay community is growing and becoming more inclusive,” they say, recognizing that ongoing involvement is necessary to maintain Hillcrest’s identity and strength.

In recognition of their enduring love and activism, Julie and Summer were named recipients of the InspirationalRelationship Award at this year’s Spirit of Stonewall Awards. The honor deeply resonates with them. The Stonewall riots of 1969 were a critical moment in LGBTQ+ history, and being recognized in that context holds significant meaning.

“To be considered an inspiration to any organization is an honor,” they said.

Receiving an award tied to Stonewall’s legacy adds a special layer of historical significance. The Spirit of Stonewall Awards celebrate individuals and couples who have made lasting contributions to the LGBTQ+ community. Julie and Summer’s award is a reflection of their lifelong advocacy.

When asked about the secret to their long-lasting relationship, they offer both humor and wisdom.

“We share a lot of the same bad habits,” they said.

But their response goes deeper than shared quirks. Their relationship has thrived because of their ability to growtogether, navigate challenges with respect, and find comfort in both the good and imperfect moments of life. Their lightheartedness underscores the importance of compromise, patience, and appreciation.

“Sharing bad habits can make you more comfortable longer,” they explain, adding that gestures like saying “please” and “thank you” still matter.

Julie and Summer’s outlook reminds us that strong relationships are rooted in mutual respect and understanding.

Looking toward the future of the LGBTQ+ community, they remain hopeful and optimistic. They acknowledge that the political climate presents challenges, but they believe the community’s strength lies in its diversity and inclusion.

“Our tolerance of our differences is what makes us stronger,” they say.

They believe activism and volunteerism are essential to sustaining LGBTQ+ progress. For Julie and Summer, the future means preserving values of inclusivity, love, and service.

Their message is clear: “The WORD is Volunteer with Pride.”

Julie and Summer’s story is more than a love story it’s a powerful reflection of LGBTQ+ resilience and the role ofactivism in shaping a more inclusive world. Over 40 years together, they’ve watched Hillcrest grow from an emerging neighborhood into a globally recognized LGBTQ+ district.

Their relationship is both a personal achievement and a reflection of the community’s collective strength. Their legacy is one of love, advocacy, and commitment to preserving the spaces and values that shaped their lives. Through continued involvement, they inspire others to live with pride, volunteer with purpose, and contribute to the ongoing fight for equality.