PROUD VOICES: A Celebration of the LGBTQIA+ Community
Long Beach Public Library will celebrate LGBTQIA+ Pride Month throughout June with an array of special programs, curated book and film lists, and engaging activities for visitors of all ages. Recognizing June as a month of national significance for commemorating the history and accomplishments of the LGBTQIA+ community, this year's theme, Proud Voices, underscores the importance of visibility through various mediums including history, storytelling, art, and film.
Kick off Pride Month at our PaWalk for Pride where participants are encouraged to bring their fur babies and enjoy a family-fri picnic! Read on for more information and other exciting events.
Featured Events
PaWalk for Pride
Saturday, June 1
12 – 4 PM
Billie Jean King Main Library
The event will include a "paw walk" around Lincoln Park (12 – 1 PM), a storytime with picture book author Daniel Haack (1 – 2 PM), an Open Mic session with Swing Set Open Mic (2 – 3 PM), and an author talk featuring Rod Pulido and Erika Turner for teens. The event will include resources and a gender-affirming clothes swap.
Sew It Goes – Pride Flags
Saturday, June 8
1 – 4 PM
Michelle Obama Neighborhood Library
Special iteration of the Studio’s Sew It Goes workshop with a brief presentation on the origins of the Pride flag. A template will be provided to create one’s own flag. Customization, material mixture, and innovation are encouraged! Participants are encouraged to bring their own machines; supplies are free but limited.
Tie-Dye T-Shirt for Tweens and Teens
Tuesday, June 18
4 – 5 PM
El Dorado Neighborhood Library
Celebrate Proud Voices by making a tie-dye t-shirt. For grades 5-12. Supplies will be provided.
A Conversation with Author Charles Jensen
Thursday, June 20
5 – 6 PM
Billie Jean King Main Library
The author of the book Splice of Life: A Memoir in 13 Film Genres will discuss his new book and provide a Q&A for participants. Guests are encouraged to bring their copy of his book as he will sign copies at the end of the program. A bookseller will also be available for participants to purchase a copy.
Stonewall Displays
Throughout June, every Long Beach Public Library location will host a Stonewall display where patrons can use their voices to leave a message of what makes them proud.
The Long Beach Public Library invites the community to join in this inspiring celebration. For additional programming, please visit the LGBTQ+ Pride Month calendar of events.
