PRESS RELEASE

Long Beach, CA – 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.

"Long Beach is enriched by the diverse tapestry of our LGBTQIA+ community, and this celebration offers a wonderful opportunity to experience their history and traditions," said Mayor Rex Richardson. "We are thrilled to invite the community to join us for Proud Voices, our Library’s vibrant Pride celebration."

The festivities kick off Saturday, June 1, with Paw Walk with Pride from noon to 4 p.m. at the Billie Jean King Main Library. This inclusive event features a family-friendly picnic and encourages participants to bring their pets for a Paw Walk around Lincoln Park, as well as author story time for children, author talk for teens, and community resources for all.

"We welcome everyone to participate in our diverse array of programs, designed to foster inclusivity and celebration," said Cathy De Leon, Library Services Director. "Proud Voices is a testament to our commitment to offering enriching experiences that resonate with people from all walks of life."

Highlighted events are listed below, with additional programming scheduled throughout the month to engage families and individuals alike. The comprehensive list of events and more information available at lbpl.org. All events are free and open to the public. All events are free and open to the public.

• Sew It Goes – Pride Flags: Saturday, June 8, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Michelle Obama Neighborhood Library – A special iteration of the Studio’s Sew It Goes workshop, accompanied by a brief presentation on the origins of the Pride flag. Participants will create their own flags with customization and innovation encouraged.
• Tie-Dye T-Shirt for Tweens and Teens: Tuesday, June 18, from 4 to 5 p.m. at the El Dorado Neighborhood Library – A tie-dye workshop for grades 5-12 to celebrate Proud Voices, with all necessary supplies provided.
• A Conversation with Author Charles Jensen: Thursday, June 20, from 5 to 6 p.m. at the Billie Jean King Main Library – Charles Jensen, author of Splice of Life: A Memoir in 13 Film Genres, will engage in discussion and a Q&A session, followed by a book signing.
• A Stonewall Display: Throughout June, every Long Beach Public Library location will host a Stonewall display, inviting patrons to share messages of pride.

More information about Long Beach Public Library, including a vast array of programs, services, events and activities, is available at lbpl.org.

About the City of Long Beach 
Long Beach is nestled along the Southern California coast and home to approximately 466,000 people. As an award-winning full-service charter city, Long Beach offers the amenities of a metropolitan city while maintaining a strong sense of individual and diverse neighborhoods, culture, and community. With a bustling downtown and over six miles of scenic beaches, Long Beach is a renowned tourist and business destination and home to the iconic Queen Mary, nationally recognized Aquarium of the Pacific and Long Beach Airport, award-winning Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center and world-class Port of Long Beach. 

For more information about the City of Long Beach, visit longbeach.gov/. Follow us on social to keep up with the latest news: Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube. For more information about the Long Beach Public Library, visit lbpl.org and on social at: Facebook, X and Instagram.