Issue 47
Browse the articles below, or read the entire issue as it was printed here.
Kathy Griffin
In a candid and heartfelt conversation, Andrew Ryan sat down with the legendary comedian and activist, Kathy Griffin, to discuss her life, career, and the profound impact she’s had on the LGBTQ+ community. From her daring stand-up routines to her unyielding commitment to advocacy, Kathy Griffin has become an icon for many. Andrew delved into her experiences, challenges, and the enduring connection she shares with her fans and the LGBTQ+ community.
A Royal Couple
Las Vegas PRIDE is PROUD to announce, in celebration of their 40th Anniversary, the appointed royalty in waiting, Mr. and Mrs. Las Vegas PRIDE 2024, Derek Guerrero and Norma Llyaman (Jim McCoy). In collaboration with all previous royalty, our 2024 sovereigns will be present throughout the next 18 months, honoring Las Vegas PRIDE’s eminent past, present, and future.
How I’m Proudly Working for LGBTQ+ Nevadans
In Las Vegas, we do things a little differently. While the rest of the country typically recognizes Pride Month in June, our city does it in October. And, as we have every year for the last 40 years, Las Vegas is as ready as ever to celebrate love and reaffirm our support for acceptance, equality, and fair treatment for all.
PRIDE OUTside Hikes Historic Railroad Tunnel Trail
The Las Vegas PRIDE OUTside Hike program began in July 2015. Community members requested a new event – something LGBT+ focused, all-ages, not in a bar, free to attend, and fun! Brady McGill, then Secretary of the PRIDE Board, had a history of outdoor exploring and took on the project.
A Journey of Dedication
Clair Koetitz and Lyndon Marquez have volunteered with various organizations throughout their time in the valley, including Las Vegas PRIDE, The Center, Golden Rainbow, HRC, and The Huntridge Family Clinic. They have donned multiple hats within these organizations over the years, and their dedication to community service remains unwavering.
PRIDE in Service
My name is Angelo Gomez. I am 26 years old. For the past four years, I have been honored to serve the city I grew up in, Henderson, Nevada. As a member of the LGBTQ+ Community, I appreciate Las Vegas PRIDE Magazine for giving me the opportunity to express my experience as a police officer and the role diversity can play in public service.
Kids Area at Las Vegas PRIDE to Become Fairytale Land!
PRIDE celebrates 40 years and is taking the always fun Kids Area at the festival on October 7 and creating something very special! A creative team of event professionals, actors, entertainers, and puppeteers are taking the heavily wooded area at the North side of the event and transforming it into a magical and enchanting Fairytale Land!
Letter from the President
Las Vegas PRIDE 2023 is HERE, and we are celebrating 40 YEARS of serving the community! Our all-volunteer Board has assembled an AMAZING lineup of events and celebrations for our RUBY ANNIVERSARY!
Magic and Science Collide at Museum of Illusions Las Vegas Grand Debut
The glittering lights of Las Vegas got a little brighter on August 29th, 2023, as the Museum of Illusions celebrated the grand opening of its largest and most captivating museum yet. Situated at 63 on The Strip, nestled conveniently between The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas and The Shops at Crystals, this new attraction promises an awe-inspiring adventure for visitors of all ages.
The History of LGBTQ+ PRIDE in Las Vegas, Nevada
The story of LGBT Pride in Las Vegas, like in many other cities across the United States, is one of perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity. During the mid-20th century, homosexuality was heavily stigmatized, and the LGBTQ+ community often lived in the shadows, fearing discrimination and persecution.
Exclusively Inclusive – Dig It! Coffee Co.
When I mentioned I was going back to Vegas again, a friend asked me if I had ever been to Dig it! Coffee Co. I had never heard of it, but I love coffee, so why not give it a try? Then I mentioned it to another friend, who said, “Karen, how have you never heard of this place? They focus on hiring people with disabilities,” And now it was my mission to go to Dig it! while visiting Vegas.