Academy Forum: From Rebellion to Resilience: Tracing the Journey of San Francisco's LGBTQ+ Community

Join us for an engaging Academy Forum as we celebrate PRIDE and delve into the captivating history of our city's LGBTQ+ community. Our distinguished panelists, including renowned activists, historians, and community leaders, will share their insights and personal experiences, shedding light on the struggles, triumphs, and resilience that have shaped the LGBTQ+ landscape in San Francisco. Don't miss this unique opportunity to deepen your understanding and appreciation for our shared history!

Panelists include:

• Graylin Thornton
• Gary Virginia
• Michelle Meow - moderator

featuring a special performance by Fred Small performing his song "Everything Possible"

6:30pm — Doors Open

7:00pm — Program Begins

8:00pm — After Reception

TO ATTEND

Academy Forum events are open to all. Please reserve your general admission spot for this limited-capacity indoor event.

TICKETS

• FREE for Academy Members w/ up to (5) guests
• $20 Non-Member

MEMBERSHIP

The Academy is currently accepting new memberships. If you are interested in becoming a Member and enjoying all of the associated perks and benefits, please click here to learn more.

ABOUT THE PANELISTS

Graylin Thornton

Graylin was the distinguished 2022 Academy Legends Archive Honoree, and was famously named International Mr. Drummer in 1993; he is still the only man of color to ever hold that title. As co-founder of Onyx Northwest, Graylin currently serves as President and Education Coordinator for the organization which represents men of color within the leather lifestyle. As an active member of The Leather Cultural District, a founding national board member of the Leather Leadership Conference, and Selection Committee Member for the Ringold Alley Leather History Walk, Graylin’s impact in the community is widely felt.

Gary Virginia

Gary moved to San Francisco in 1987 for his career in university development and later art gallery management. After his AIDS diagnosis in 1995, he went on disability and focused his energy on community work. He’s held the titles of Mr. San Francisco Leather 1996, President of Positive Resource Center, President of San Francisco Pride, and Advisory Board member of the SF Bay Times. In 2004 he founded the social, charitable club Krewe de Kinque which has raised more than $160,000 for causes locally and abroad. He and Donna Sachet co-founded the Annual Pride Brunch for PRC which has raised over $550,000. Gary’s helped raise a million dollars for more than 100 charities by donating his skills as an event producer, emcee and auctioneer, and is known for his political activism, community networking, and mentoring future leaders.

Michelle Meow @msmichellemeow

I've always dreamed big. As a little peculiar kid who grew up in Stockton, CA, I had an imagination that was too big for my little brain. I fantasized about a lot of things but as young as I can remember, I fantasized about being loved and accepted. The first time I tried to make friends with kids around my neighborhood, I was told to go "back to my country." Born here in California, I didn't know what they meant until the fights in the neighborhood became violent. The hatred you face from childhood to adulthood is dangerous and damaging. I hope one day we can change this for all of us. Why can't we learn to love and accept one another for our differences and our similarities? That is the journey or quest I am on and the reason behind the "Michelle Meow Show."

FOOD & BEVERAGE

Beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) and food items are available for purchase. Our menus can be found here. Academy Social Club Members receive certain beverages complimentary. Ask your bartender or host for details.

CLUB INFORMATION (FOR MEMBERS)

The Club will also be open during regular hours for Members and their guests not attending this event.

SAFE SPACE

The Academy is a safe space for all—in particular members of our LGBTQ+ community. We encourage you to learn more about our safe space principles & policies by clicking here.

ACCESSIBILITY

We strive to host inclusive, accessible events that enable all individuals, including individuals with disabilities, to engage fully. The event venue has an accessible entrance and restroom facilities. Please contact us if you have questions or specific requests regarding access.