Pride Social South County emerged from a small, cautious gathering in Morgan Hill due to fears of harassment. This group is dedicated to supporting the LGBTQ+ community in Southern Santa Clara County. On August 2, they will celebrate Gilroy's first Pride event, signifying a response to a history of local discrimination and creating hope for change. Organizers believe this milestone will encourage a more welcoming environment for queer residents in the area. They shared experiences of serious threats and harassment, underlining the community's resilience and need for visibility.
"It's something that can hopefully spark change ... I hope it makes a difference." - Jesse Santos, 23, a queer youth advocate and lifelong Gilroyan.
"To (the rest of the County), it's not monumental, but to us, it's just something we've never seen before." - Jesse Santos.
"Hernandez heard all kinds of horror stories: a couple filed a restraining order after being threatened by a neighbor wielding a gun."
"Many would recount how they had been harassed online or in person."
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