Los Angeles County Supervisor Celebrates LGBTQ+ Community and Pride Month
Lindsey Horvath, a Los Angeles County Supervisor, marked a significant milestone in honoring the LGBTQ+ community and celebrating Pride Month on Saturday, June 17, 2023. Unveiling the artwork by Artist KATBING, Lifeguard Towers 17 and 18 were transformed into vibrant displays adorned with the colors of the Progress Pride Flag. This transformative installation beautifully represented the enduring legacy of "Ginger Rogers" Beach as an LGBTQ+ sanctuary, providing respite from discrimination and oppression faced elsewhere.
During the event, Supervisor Lindsey Horvath addressed a gathering to honor Pride Month and unveil the transformed lifeguard towers. Expressing her enthusiasm and gratitude, Horvath thanked the community for their support in turning this vision into reality. She emphasized the significance of creating safe spaces and wholeheartedly celebrating the diversity of Los Angeles County, rather than simply tolerating or accepting it. Horvath highlighted the historical importance of "Ginger Rogers" Beach as a site for political activism, including rallies against McCarthyism, protests against the Vietnam War, and fundraising events for AIDS. She stressed the importance of unity and honoring the LGBTQ+ community, particularly in the face of ongoing challenges to LGBTQ+ rights. Horvath also acknowledged the contributions of various individuals and organizations involved in the project, such as artist KATBING, Assembly member Rick Zbur, the One Archives Foundation, and others.
Tony Valenzuela, executive director of the One Archives Foundation, spoke about their partnership with the county and the foundation's commitment to preserving and educating about LGBTQ+ history. Trevor Ladner, education program manager for the One Archives Foundation, provided insights into the history of "Ginger Rogers" Beach. He underscored its role as a safe haven for the queer community and its connection to the LGBTQ+ civil rights movement. Attendees were encouraged to explore the beach's history further through QR codes and archival photos.
The event concluded with expressions of gratitude and appreciation for commemorating the queer history of "Ginger Rogers" Beach. Participants were invited to continue building new memories at this historically significant location.
The beach's name, paying homage to the legendary actress Ginger Rogers, holds a special meaning. Recognized for her mesmerizing performances and influence on drag queens in the 1930s and 1940s, Ginger Rogers represents the captivating charisma that has shaped the beach's vibrant culture.
Throughout its rich history, "Ginger Rogers" Beach has served as a dynamic platform for political activism. It has hosted rallies against McCarthyism, protests opposing the Vietnam War, and fundraisers to support those affected by AIDS. These efforts have transformed the beach into a hub of cultural expression, political engagement, and joyous celebration. However, the profound story and significance of the beach have remained largely unknown beyond the LGBTQ+ community in Los Angeles.
This significant initiative, marked by the unveiling of artwork on Lifeguard Towers 17 and 18, brings long-overdue attention to the remarkable history of "Ginger Rogers" Beach. It stands as a jubilant celebration of the LGBTQ+ community, reminding us of their resilience and the crucial importance of equality and acceptance. This commemoration arrives at a critical moment when LGBTQ+ rights face challenges nationwide.