Viva Las Vegas Wedding Chapel is putting on its blue suede heels this June as the wedding chapel famed for its theatrical, themed weddings launches two new wedding packages: ShElvis and Queens of Vegas. The chapel has always been LGBTQ+ friendly since its founding more than 20 years ago and is excited to further embrace the community and offer these two new wedding packages that feature four unique options all performed by an icon of drag.

Well, family, it’s PRIDE SEASON…and you know what that means… Wait…what does that mean? What popped up in your head when you read that first sentence? What is “Pride Season?” What does “gay pride” or “queer pride” actually mean? It opens a fascinating conversation that offers tons of opportunities for reflection, reflection that I invite you to join me in.

For students nationwide, participating in sports and being part of a team is an important part of growing up, staying engaged in school, and learning leadership and life skills. H.R. 734 would deny access to sports for many families by establishing an absolute ban on transgender students, even those as young as elementary schoolers, playing on a team consistent with their gender identity.

On November 19th, 2022, Club Q fell victim to a mass shooting hate attack that took the lives of five individuals, including two bartenders and three patrons, and injured 17 others. This tragic event has not only shaken the local community but also garnered national attention.

One of the things I love about Vegas is there’s always so much to do! When we visit our Desert Oasis, we like to go to concerts and shows if they are accessible and affordable. In early December 2022, we had a trip planned specifically to attend a concert of one of our long-time favorites. We bought the tickets when they first went on sale; we were so excited!

A lifelong wish to appear on the Broadway stage was granted to Howard Shapiro, an older adult who counts on the supportive services and resources of the LGBTQ Center of Southern Nevada. Fulfilling Howard’s wish is Wish of a Lifetime from AARP, a charitable affiliate of AARP that grants life-changing wishes to older adults and inspires people to redefine aging in America.

In the heart of the central coast of California is a city called San Luis Obispo, or SLO for short. The city isn’t necessarily known for its queer community; however, there is one sapphic party worth talking about. “Let There Be Lesbians” is the brainchild of Renee Periat.

The LGBTQ+ Center of Southern Nevada offers its own Youth Prom. It’s a fabulous night of music, food, dancing, and live entertainment for LGBTQ+ teenagers who otherwise may not get a chance to celebrate this special event and create positive lasting memories that will forever impact their lives.

Las Vegas PRIDE OUTside hosts monthly hikes all around the valley. These events are free to attend, open to all, and a nice way to get a little exercise and time in the great OUTdoors.