The Rainbow World Fund (RWF) World Tree of Hope® is the largest origami-decorated holiday tree in the world, traditionally standing over 22 feet tall and adorned with over 20,000 origami cranes and stars, each hand-folded and inscribed with wishes for the future of the world. The RWF World Tree of Hope is created each year as a symbol of global unity, promoting peace, love, and humanitarianism. The Tree is a gift from the LGBTQ+ and friends community to the world.
The first award of the night, the Architect Award, was presented by Dr. Betty Sullivan and Jennifer Viegas, co-publishers of this publication, to Sara Yergovich and Danielle Thoe, business owners of the new Rikki's bar at 2223 Market Street, named after the legendary Rikki Streicher. President of the SF Pride Board, Joshua Smith,presented the Diane Jones Solidarity Award to SF Pride Executive Director Suzanne Ford, who deserves so much credit for the proud continuation of our San Francisco Pride events.
"Making friends as an adult is hard. Especially if you're looking for friends who share your identity, interests and general proximity. So what are the odds that I found myself on a very rainy New York night (the restaurant was literally leaking), seated at a booth with two strangers around my age, also lesbians, who shared a love of musical theater, can't drive and all wanted salads with protein for dinner?"
Adult entertainment store Hubba Hubba is closing its doors after serving the alternative and LGBTQ+ community in the area for four decades. In an Instagram post last week, owner M.J. Pullins wrote that the store is ceasing operations on Nov. 24, citing rising costs, "miserly landlords," and an economic climate that is not conducive to small businesses. Pullins wrote that the challenges "made this a fight not worth fighting anymore."
While police have not confirmed a motive, Fletcher's Ice Cream and Cafe in Minneapolis has a massive Pride flag hanging above its door and is known in the community for its inclusive environment. It is also on the same block as the home of Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, a member of the Democratic-Farmer-Labor party, though it's unclear whether the suspect knew that.
57 percent of the LGBTQ+ adults surveyed said they have made "significant life decisions" or taken steps to alter their lives since November 2024 in response to the current political climate. Life changes in response to LGBTQ+-related politics or laws include moving to another state, changing jobs, becoming less visible in their community, and, conversely, becoming more visible and involved in LGBTQ+ advocacy.
‼️ Are you an aspiring journalist who wants to work with The Advocate? We're looking for the next generation of queer and trans storytellers to participate in the Future of Queer Media Fellowship. Applications are open now until Oct. 31. Learn more at advocate.com/fellowship
