2022 Equality California Annual Report

QUEER TO STAY.

Letter from Executive Director Tony Hoang

Friends,

Thank you for your continuous support of Equality California and your commitment to the LGBTQ+ community in 2022. This past year, we continued to face an alarming rise of right-wing politicians attacking trans kids and LGBTQ+ students as anti-abortion extremists worked to strip away reproductive freedom after 50 years of it being the law of the land — our fight for full, lived LGBTQ+ remained essential.

Equality California secured major legislative and political victories in 2022, which will benefit our LGBTQ+ community for decades to come. The scope of progressive LGBTQ+ policies and laws we have helped to enact demonstrates how California sets the pace and expectations for other states.

This November, we achieved historic victories across the Golden State, helping to elect Robert Garcia as the first openly gay immigrant to serve in Congress. And we made California the first state in the nation to achieve 10% LGBTQ+ representation in our legislature — including new Assemblymember Corey Jackson (the first openly LGBTQ+ Black legislator in California, Assemblymember Rick Chavez Zbur (our former Executive Director), EQCA Board Member Senator Steve Padilla and Senator Caroline Menjivar.

In Sacramento — Governor Newsom signed eleven pro-equality bills sponsored by Equality California this year — including first in the nation legislation to protect trans kids and their families who come to California seeking

life saving gender-affirming care; to protect trans people and women of color from racial and gender profiling by police; and to protect the private medical information of people seeking abortion care.

In addition, shortly after the draft opinion in Dobbs v. Jackson was leaked in May, indicating that the Court would likely issue a ruling that would reverse Roe v. Wade and undercut nearly five decades of precedent that protected access to abortion — we joined our partners in the Legislature and Planned Parenthood to victoriously amend the California Constitution to protect a person’s right to basic healthcare and reproductive freedoms.

And when our community faced another global health crisis — the outbreak of MPOX (monkeypox), — we mobilized to meet the moment, advocating for greater access to testing, treatment and vaccines; connecting LGBTQ+ Californians across our state with accurate health information and resources; and launching partnership with Uber and META to provide free rides to vaccine clinics and increase online education — helping increase community accountability and ensuring transportation wasn’t a barrier to protecting our communities.

During the coming year, protecting our longstanding and hardfought LGBTQ+ rights and protecting LGBTQ+ youth will be a large focus for us. We plan to monitor and confront school boards in California that introduce policies attacking transgender and non-binary students, secure same-sex marriage by removing Proposition 8’s hate-filled language from our state’s constitution and sponsor legislation that moves the needle and improves the lives of all LGBTQ+ Californians.

We yearn for a time when we can feel safe walking down streets holding hands with the person we love, witnessing LGBTQ+ youth live their true authentic lives without fear of harassment and not being the target of right wing politicians and their extremist supporters for cheap political shots as a presidential election approaches.

When working in coalition — with our progressive partners, our champions in Congress and the California Legislature and all of you who have so generously supported our work over the decades — our advocacy can be more formidable and our prospects achieving full, lived equality for all LGBTQ+ people much brighter. Together, we will keep striving to create a world that is healthy, just and fully equal for all LGBTQ+ people — until the work is done.

In solidarity,

Tony Hoang Executive Director

we made California the first state in the nation to achieve 10% LGBTQ+ representation in our legislature

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

At Equality California, we have been committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion for over 23 years. We believe our success and strength comes from the diversity of our members, staff, and boards. We are dedicated to fostering this culture in order to better serve the LGBTQ+ community. By organizing every day to dismantle systemic racism for racial equity, repair the broken criminal justice system, end the fight on mass incarceration, build an immigration system that brings families together and supports refugees, and further gender equity and justice for people with disabilities — only then can we achieve our mission to create a world that is healthy, just, and fully equal.

Our promise remains, to continue advocating for the civil rights and social justice of LGBTQ+ people by mobilizing and working together, in California and across the United States — until the work is done.

Staff Demographics

2022 Election

Equality California increased its political reach and capacity in 2022 with the addition of a Political team. Thanks to the continuous support of donors, seed funding was secured to hire a full-time Political Director and for the first time, local field organizers were hired to provide on-the-ground support for Equality California’s priority candidates in four locations across the state: Palm Springs, Orange County, Sacramento, and San Diego. In addition, Equality California’s Political Action Committees (PACs) grew in total numbers, diversity, and fundraising capacity. Recent redistricting also allowed the organization to enhance and maximize the voice of LGBTQ+ people in places like San Diego and the Coachella Valley. As a result of this work, the 2022 general election saw 79% of endorsed candidates win their races, with California becoming the first state in the nation to have 10% out LGBTQ+ representation in the state legislature.

Accomplishments 202

Achieved a new record of endorsements with 202 endorsed candidates — 86 of those candidates being openly LGBTQ+ — and made maximum-allowable campaign contributions to all LGBTQ+ candidates in state legislative races in the general election. Played a crucial role in helping elect new LGBTQ+ leaders to the state legislature, including Corey Jackson, the first Black out LGBTQ+ state legislator, Caroline Menjivar, the first out lesbian Latina elected from SD 20, Equality California Board Member Steve Padilla, and former Equality California Executive Director Rick Chavez Zbur.

“The determination and the fight were there, and all I needed was the community to push me and lift me up to the finish line and they did. I get to participate and celebrate in various identities, and the excitement can be felt in Sacramento. It’s an excitement that I want to make sure does not die off, and [that] we push for the 2024 election to further increase those numbers.”

Senator Caroline Menjivar, Senate District 20

“With more capacity and the ability to operate on a larger scale leading into 2024, there’s no doubt that Equality California will continue to be a changemaker and thought leader when it comes to local, state, and federal elections.”

Ensured the re-election of Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara, the only out LGBTQ+ statewide official and secured the election of Robert Garcia to Congress, the first-ever LGBTQ+ immigrant to serve in that capacity.

In California, 10 percent of state legislature identifies as LGBTQ

Looking Ahead to 2023

Samuel Garrett, Vice President, J&Z Strategies

Why this will be the most diverse California Legislature ever

Equality California has built out the capacity to successfully handle a larger volume of endorsements and fundraising capabilities as the 2024 Presidential Election comes into view, and will continue maximizing all available resources to put candidates in a position to succeed. Though control of the U.S. House shifted in November 2022, the opposing majority is razor-thin, and the path to taking back the chamber runs through California. In the coming year, by building upon our wins, Equality California will strengthen its position as a premier endorsing organization and independent expenditure vehicle.

Sacramento

While far right politicians in Texas and Florida were attacking trans kids and criminalizing abortion, California remains a beacon of hope and keeps its commitment that our state will lead by example and understands the values of our democracy. In 2022, Governor Gavin Newsom signed a total of 11 pro-equality bills sponsored by Equality California, two budget allocations and an audit — one of the organization’s largest legislative packages to date. The bills help advance transgender equality and health, protect diverse LGBTQ+ families, safeguard reproductive freedom and ensure public documents reflect the identities of transgender and nonbinary Californians. Among the most significant legislative victories was SB 107, introduced by Senator Scott Wiener, which ensures that trans youth and their families traveling to California to seek gender-affirming care are protected. Additionally, several bills that protect and defend the right to reproductive care were passed in light of the devastating Dobbs decision at the Supreme Court, and California voters enshrined abortion rights into the state constitution in November through Proposition 1.

Accomplishments

11 sponsored Equality California bills signed into law by Governor Newsom.

$Secured key funding to improve school climate for LGBTQ+ students and worked to bolster state and county health agencies’ response to the ongoing MPOX health crisis.

“As so many states work to erase trans kids and criminalize their families, California must have their backs. With SB 107, we are forcefully pushing back against anti-LGBTQ+ hatred spreading across part of our nation.”

Sen. Scott Wiener, SD-11

Secured an audit of the California Department of Public Health’s collection and reporting of sexual orientation and gender identity data required by existing state law.

“At a time when transgender and LGBTQ+ rights are openly being attacked and erased across the country, I am committed to working with our colleagues across the state to protect equality and guarantee that California remains a safe place for those seeking care or refuge from harm.”

Asm. Chris Ward (AD-78), Vice-Chair, Legislative LGBTQ Caucus

1st-in-Nation Trans-inclusive health care act signed into law

Senator Wiener’s Historic Bill To Provide Refuge For Trans Kids And Their Families Signed Into Law

Looking Ahead to 2023

This year, the LGBTQ+ community is facing an onslaught of attacks by far-right extremists across the country with attempts to roll back civil rights that our community has fought tirelessly to achieve. Equality California continues to rise against hate and will continue leading the way to ensure LGBTQ+ Californians are protected, healthy, and can build a future that represents their values with a community that accepts and supports them. Our 2023 sponsored legislation aims to create safe and supportive environments for LGBTQ+ youth, protect gender-affirming care, improve access to PrEP and STI testing, and protect marriage equality.

Washington D.C.

Although Democrats held the White House and both chambers of Congress, slim majorities thwarted much of our legislative agenda. In June, the Supreme Court overturned nearly 50 years of judicial precedent with the Dobbs decision, stripping the constitutional right to abortion away from untold pregnant people. Several lawmakers attempted to pass legislation to codify abortion rights, but all were stalled. However, there was good news toward the end of the year: the Respect for Marriage Act — which mandates federal recognition of same-sex and interracial marriage and that states recognize valid marriage certificates from one another — was passed with bipartisan support and signed by President Biden in December.

Accomplishments

President Biden signed the Respect for Marriage Act in December 2022. Supported three executive orders of great importance to the LGBTQ+ community: Continuing To Strengthen Americans' Access to Affordable, Quality Health Coverage, Advancing Equality for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, and Intersex Individuals, and Protecting Access to Reproductive Healthcare Services

“As the first openly gay Member of color elected in history, enactment of the Respect for Marriage Act means the world to me, to my loved ones, and to millions of Americans. Yet we cannot rest— the necessity of this legislation in response to extreme Supreme Court action is a stark call for our vigilance in the fight for human rights. We must rise to the challenge, and we will prevail.”

Assisted in nominating and securing the appointment of openly gay Judge Daniel Calabretta to the US District Court for the Eastern District of California.

Biden signs bill to protect samesex and interracial marriages

President Biden issues executive orders to counter state actions he sees as anti-LGBTQ

Biden marks reauthorization of Violence Against Women Act

Looking Ahead to 2023

“I’m so honored to advocate for my siblings and the LGBTQ+ communities in San Diego and across the country. The responsibility to fight against the flood of anti-LGBTQ+ and specifically anti-trans, rhetoric, policies, and violence can’t fall solely on the LGBTQ+ community – we need more allies to step up, use their privilege, and push until everyone can exist and love freely.”

With Republicans gaining control of the House following the 2022 November elections, much of our legislative agenda will likely be thwarted or significantly stalled. We will continue to urge President Biden to take as much action as he is able through executive orders, and to continue considering LGBTQ+ appointees for the federal bench and other positions. The Supreme Court is also set to take up a handful of cases that could set dangerous precedent when it comes to affirmative action and the ability of businesses to discriminate, among other issues.

U.S. Rep. Mark Takano (D-Riverside) Chair, Congressional Equality Caucus

U.S. Rep. Sara Jacobs (D-San Diego), Vice Chair, Congressional Equality Caucus

LGBTQ+ Leadership

Developing capable LGBTQ+ leaders who can secure electoral victories, serve on public boards and commissions, and hold positions in elected officials' offices is vital for enhancing the political influence and community wellness of the LGBTQ+ community. We aim to create a pipeline of LGBTQ+ leaders who can effectively represent the community through our Comcast Fellowship, LGBTQ+ Leadership Academy, LGBTQ+ Leadership Summit and our LGBTQ+ Appointments Program. In 2022, members and attendees experienced a special year of in-person gatherings, marking a significant milestone since the COVID-19 pandemic and strengthening relationships within the community.

Prepared 5 LGBTQ+ youth to participate in an immersive internship at the State Capitol, which included seminars and mentorship opportunities with pro-equality state legislators

Attending the LGBTQ+ Leadership Academy and meeting other LGBTQ+ leaders who understand the difficulties of advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and raising our voice on behalf of the community was a truly inspiring experience. I'm looking forward to next year's event!"

Identified and trained 12 emerging LGBTQ+ mid-career level professionals and prepared them with guidance and resources through the Leadership Academy for their anticipated run for elected office or appointed positions in public boards or commissions

Accomplishments 100

Hosted 100 attendees at the LGBTQ+ Leadership Summit which consisted of key legislative conversations and strategic planning vital for building an inclusive and safe community for all, especially LGBTQ+ people alongside 47 panelists and speakers such as Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis, President Pro Tempore Toni G. Atkins, Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara, and more.

Secured the appointment of 23 LGBTQ+ people to federal, state and local entities out of 60 alumni and LGBTQ+ leaders who requested assistance with letters of recommendation.

Looking Ahead to 2023

Thomas

Wong, Public Affairs Manager, Southern California Edison

“I enjoyed making connections with other leaders across the state which inspired me to continue to serve as a representative of the voices of the community. So many amazing folks are doing great things in their community with varying layers of challenges, goals and objectives to move to a more equitable and socially just world.”

Dr. Sabrina Sanders, Educator, Servant Leader, Activist

“The LGBTQ+ Leadership Academy showed me how to navigate all of these situations and helped me to feel more confident in taking up space as I use my voice for the LGBTQ community. Since then, I have been appointed to 5 different commissions at various state departments where I am able to work on the implementation of healthcare legislation and hold systems accountable.”

Dannie Ceseña, Director, CA LGBTQ Health and Human Services Network

These programs are a long-term investment and we are starting to see the fruits of our labor, as we nearly doubled the number of Leadership Academy alumni (from 6 to 11) who have successfully been appointed to their respective positions. 2023 is a critical year as pro-equality leaders and fellows will have the opportunity to be a part of historical legislation that is crafted to protect LGBTQ+ children, the right to marry, and empowering LGBTQ+ people of color, trans, gender expansive intersex folks.

Safe & Supportive Schools

K-12 public schools have increasingly been the site of major policy disputes and legal challenges related to LGBTQ+ issues, particularly transgender youth, access to facilities, and youth sports. In addition, we advocated for best practices such as establishing Gay-Straight Alliance or Gender and Sexuality Alliance (GSA) clubs in schools and promoting inclusivity by allowing students to bring dates of any gender to school functions. Furthermore, we released our 2022 Safe and Supportive Schools Report Card, which provides data on policy implementation, particularly focusing on LGBTQ+ students. This year, 118 out of the 343 California unified school districts that were invited to participate responded.

Accomplishments

Published the second Safe and Supportive Schools report card with 118 out of 343 public school districts responding across California

Continued our Equality California Mentorship Corps Program in Fresno Unified, Palm Springs Unified, and Oceanside Unified, which provides affirming mentorship to LGBTQ+ students about creating safe and affirming school environments

“I am proud to support Equality California Institute’s release of the second Safe and Supportive Schools Report Card. The information and recommendations provided in this report will help us identify critical gaps and elevate successes as districts across the state work to support positive school climates not just for LGBTQ+ youth, but for all students.”

Tony Thurmond, State Superintendent of Public Instruction

Developed a network of contacts across all California school districts to share best practice recommendations for school board policies and facilities for the benefit of all LGBTQ+ students

"We are incredibly proud to be named a Safe and Supportive school for our LGBTQ policies. We believe that every student deserves to feel safe and supported in our schools, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our teachers, staff, and administrators to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students."

Julie A. Vitale, Ph.D., Superintendent

Oceanside, San Diego Unified school districts receive high marks for supporting LGBTQ rights

LGBTQ issues are a flashpoint in CA school races

'Every student should feel safe': Visalia Unified trustees vote to recognize Pride Month

Looking Ahead to 2023

Research indicates that a safe and supportive school environment allows LGBTQ+ students, and all students, to succeed academically and has a significant positive impact on their future prospects and overall well-being. We will continue to work with partners, district officials, and school board members to sponsor a range of state laws in California and at the local school board level.

MPOX (monkeypox)

In August of 2022, Gov. Newsom issued a state of emergency due to the growing MPOX outbreak, a rare disease related to the smallpox virus. While anyone of any sexual orientation can get MPOX, it disproportionately affects gay, bisexual, trans and queer men.

In response, we launched Equality California’s online Health Hub with MPOX resources followed by a vigorous social media ad campaign. We partnered with Uber to provide free roundtrip rides to MPOX vaccination sites and partnered with Meta to promote our online education resources. In addition, we joined other LGBTQ+ organizations in demanding an increase of testing and vaccine access. Within months, due to diligent advocacy, safe practice and an increase in vaccines, the MPOX outbreak declined and was declared no longer a health emergency.

Accomplishments

Distributed 2,201 rideshare codes enabling eligible people to receive their MPOX vaccine whereas lack of transportation would have prevented them.

Provided 95,364 people through our statewide database with time-sensitive educational information about MPOX testing, vaccination and resources.

“Transportation should never be a barrier to getting vaccinated against the Monkeypox virus. Uber has been a proud partner of Equality California since 2018 and is thankful for its leadership on this campaign to ensure equitable vaccine access for all communities.”

Ramona Prieto, Head of Public Policy and Communications-Western US, Uber

Partnered with 23 grassroots organizations and allies representing hard-to-reach and marginalized communities across the state.

Reached 297,923 people on social media with information about symptoms, preventative methods and testing information regarding MPOX.

“Transgender, Nonbinary, and Intersex people; especially those of color, know far too well the risks of violence displayed against us. Providing safe and free transportation to healthcare services, is a safety measure we should all be taking into strong account when serving the gender diverse community.”

Naya Marie Velazco, Director of Programs, Transgender Health & Wellness Center

Sponsored a MPOX Town Hall in the West Hollywood City Hall and the Los Angeles Community College alongside the Los Angeles Health Department to raise awareness and answer the community's questions.

MPX vaccines are becoming easier to access. Here’s how to get your shot

Looking Ahead to 2023

Uber will give you a free ride to your monkeypox shots

Uber ofrece viajes gratis para promover la vacunación contra la viruela del mono en California: así los puedes obtener

Our extensive work fighting the COVID-19 and MPOX health emergencies has reassured the support of our longstanding partners and elected officials and the essential need for LGBTQ+ voices to be at the table. While COVID-19 and MPOX are not currently growing health concerns, we will continue fostering relationships with our partners and representatives and refine our response to health emergencies that our community may face to ensure that health needs are met for all LGBTQ+ Californians.

COVID-19

With the support of the AT&T Foundation and Sempra Energy Foundation, our COVID-19 LGBTQ+ Health Center provided resources and support services for Californians impacted by the pandemic, with a particular focus on reaching Black, Indigenous, people of color, and LGBTQ+ individuals who are historically more vulnerable to discrimination and health inequities. Additionally, we conducted a 3-month campaign through various social media platforms and dating sites to specifically target the LGBTQ+ community with relevant and culturally sensitive content that debunked misinformation about the virus, testing, and vaccinations/boosters. Nearly three years later, after a robust community organizing model, we’re relieved to return to a state of normalcy.

Accomplishments

Collaborated with the OC LGBTQ Center, LGBTQIA+/2S Collaborative, Imperial Valley LGBT Resource Center, Stonewall Alliance of Chico, Central Valley Pride, and NorCal Outreach Project to provide resources for under-served communities across California

$450k

Received a total of $450,000 in grants for two Vaccinate All 58 communications campaigns targeting LGBTQ+ youth, in which we conducted focus groups, created messaging and raised awareness of vaccines

"Grassroots organizing for COVID vaccines/ boosters gave us an opportunity for people to connect directly with the community instead of all information only being accessible through websites. Because of this work we were able to reduce the gap of information and combat myths."

Joey Espinoza, Outreach Supervisor, IV LGBT Resource Center

Accomplished 6,263,691 impressions through two COVID-19 Vaccinate 58 campaigns with the primary goal of educating LGBTQ+ audiences about the importance of getting vaccinated and keeping each other safe

Launched the COVID-19 Youth Ambassador program where LGBTQ+ youth and allies from ages 18 - 24 conduct peer-to-peer outreach and canvassing on college campuses

California colleges open for fall term with relaxed Covid rules

Looking Ahead to 2023

Governor Newsom to End the COVID-19 State of Emergency

Moving forward, it is important to continue prioritizing the distribution of booster shots, especially among marginalized communities like BIPOC and LGBTQ+. We should also continue to provide realtime access to accurate health information through platforms and campaigns that are tailored to specific communities' needs and cultural sensitivities. Additionally, it's crucial to address the health inequities that have been amplified by the pandemic and work towards ensuring equitable access to healthcare for all.

Ending the HIV Epidemic

While HIV is no longer a death sentence and medical advances continue to be made in lowering risks of possible transmissions — more work is needed to address health disparities in treatment, testing, and prevention for LGBTQ+ communities of color. In 2022, we launched the Nosotros VIHviendo initiative, funded by ViiV Healthcare, which provides financial and organizational resources to grassroots organizations in California and Nevada that are working to end stigma and address high-risk rates of HIV infection among the Latine LGBTQ+ community. Additionally, we continued our work with the HIV is Not a Crime campaign, supported by the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation, and successfully supported partners in Illinois, Virginia, and New Jersey, with legislative strategies and public engagement to end discriminatory HIV laws.

Accomplishments

Hosted our first ever Twitter space HIV Charla with Nosotros VIHViendo grantees with experts in the field

Distributed HIV testing and vaccination information to 144,312 through our statewide database

Helped expand the capacity of 7 organizations to further their work to end discrimination against people living with HIV, totaling 18 organizations to date

Reached 11,126 people on social media raising awareness to reduce HIV stigma Coordinated a multi-state advocacy effort to modernize laws across the country that criminalized HIV, and in California advanced 1 law to require private health insurance plans to cover prescription drugs that prevent HIV

Co-authored a joint letter demanding the U.S. House Judiciary Committee to advance HIV legislation

Featured on Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights’ CHIRLA TV discussing the many barriers that BIPOC, especially Latine non-english speaking individuals, encounter when navigating HIV assistance and support services

Looking Ahead to 2023

“The Nosotros VIHviendo Leadership Academy helps us connect with well known leaders who have the experience working on the ground for our most marginalized people. It became a space of resource sharing, developing organizing tools, and pushing our holistic health goals forward.”

Kevin Perez, Somos Familia Valle

“My biggest take-way from the Nosotros VIHviendo Leadership Academy was the importance of collaborating with other agencies to support each other’s values, interests and hopes”

Alex Silva, LGBTQIA+/2S Collaborative

Together, we continue to work to address structural issues—such as racism, HIV stigma, homophobia, poverty, and limited access to high-quality health care, such as PrEP and PEP, through programs like Nosotros VIHviendo. With the aid of our dedicated staff, we’ll educate, inspire, and advocate for inclusive and equitable legislation that increases access and decriminalizes individuals who were unjustly convicted solely because of their HIV status.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Training

We believe it’s essential for healthcare and homeless service providers to have the tools and information they need to better serve our LGBTQ+ communities and the populations they belong to. In 2020, we expanded our in-person trainings to virtual and online settings to help California healthcare providers better understand and care for their LGBTQ+ patients. Our LGBTQ+ Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Trainings, both in-person and virtual, are designed to facilitate gender-affirming and culturally sensitive care. We have delivered nearly 5,000 training sessions to date.

STAY Equality California Annual Report 2022

Accomplishments

550 Trained!

Trained a total of 17 organizations with 550 total people during live online and recorded sessions regarding LGBTQ+ affirming healthcare, terminology and care.

"The LGBTQ+ Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Training impacts the work I do at ChapCare greatly. It's allowed me to apply the education and provide quality, safe, and supportive Risk Management Program, which involves patient being listened to that aligns with ChapCare's vision: Healthy People Building Strong Communities''

Supported by Gilead, we tailored a specific HIV/AIDS Diversity and Inclusion Training for healthcare and homelessness service providers that impacted the work and outcomes of 261 individuals within 5 organizations.

Rose Sailes, Safety Risk Coordinator, Community Health Alliance of Pasadena (ChapCare)

"Through resources like the LGBTQ+ Diversity and Inclusion Trainings, Venice Family Clinic is able to directly apply the information and provide culturally sensitive care to current and potentially new patients."

Worked with 11 homelessness service provider organizations out of a total of 17 throughout California.

Looking Ahead to 2023

Jennifer Amaya Gonzalez, LCSW Associate Director of Behavioral Health Department, & Nisa (Iliniza) Baty, LCSW, Director Behavioral Health Department, Venice Family Clinic

As we continue to combat hate and LGBTQ+ discrimination, we understand that an organization can only be as good as its culture. The trainings aim to give providers the tools needed to foster supportive and engaging care by helping them understand the perceptual, institutional and psychological aspects that impact the quality-of-life LGBTQ+ people face. In 2023, we hope to expand these trainings to nonprofits and community organizations and reach more providers working in rural communities.

Out Against Big Tobacco

Out Against Big Tobacco continued to hold community events and advocate for tobacco-free spaces and events, particularly those with an LGBTQ+ focus. The program’s annual event addressed how flavored tobacco impacts the LGBTQ+ community and brought together both current and former tobacco users for a frank, honest discussion. We also continued to have a strong presence at Pride events around the state from June to November.

Accomplishments

Gathered more than 300 responses on Tobacco Free Pride initiatives.

Sub-granted $5,000 to 10 organizations in the Central Valley and 8 organizations in Los Angeles County ($90,000 total across 18 organizations).

Held several successful coalition trainings, including one on the link between big tobacco and white supremacy.

Developed a tobacco-free Pride toolkit, soon to be published on the EQCA website.

Obtained two signed tobacco-free policies for events in Fresno.

Addressed the Women’s Caucus & the LGBTQ Caucus on tobaccorelated issues

Yes on California Proposition 31: This flavored tobacco ban will protect kids and save lives

Looking Ahead to 2023

“Quitting tobacco is hard. LGBTQ+ communities are disproportionately impacted by tobacco use, and now more than ever, we have to find new ways to support each other’s well-being. Sometimes, it just takes one breath at a time.”

Marielle Reataza, Executive Director, NAPASAFA (she/her/siya)

“The OABT annual event is important because it increases awareness of the impact tobacco has had on our community and the disparities in tobacco use, exposure, and access to cessation services in the LGBTQ+ community. My hope is that folks attending this event feel empowered to take action to improve health outcomes either through advocacy or beginning their journey in quitting tobacco, and know that OABT is here to support our community.”

Victor Cristanto, Current OABT LA Coalition Chair (he/him}

Gavin Newsom signed the flavored tobacco ban. Now, he’s defending it against repeal

With Proposition 31’s (a flavored tobacco ban) success at the ballot in November, the OABT Coalitions will work with local tobacco control agencies in the new year to help with implementation. They will also continue to develop trainings and resources for organizations wishing to engage in our work. In addition, the coalition is hopeful to add more names to their Kick Big Tobacco Out of Politics Pledge, where candidates declare they will not accept campaign contributions from the tobacco industry.

Silver State Equality

With the Nevada legislature meeting every other year, 2022 saw Silver State Equality focus on continuing to build the organization’s statewide presence as well as endorse a slate of pro-equality candidates for the November elections. New events such as the Equality Luncheon and Pride Happy Hour during the month of June saw their debuts, and a Student Advisory Council was launched to focus on the needs of LGBTQ+ students throughout the state.

Accomplishments

87%

Endorsed over 50 candidates, with an 87% election success rate — reelecting Senator Catherine Cortez Masto and Representatives Dina Titus, Susie Lee, and Steve Horsford, and securing a 67% pro-LGBTQ+ majority in the state Assembly and Senate.

Launched the Silver State Equality LGBTQ+ Student Advisory Council to examine and report on the wellbeing of LGBTQ+ students in the state.

“With an increasing wave of anti-transgender legislation being introduced across the country, it’s imperative that we work here in Nevada to prevent discrimination against this already vulnerable population. I am proud to work with Silver State Equality to come up with common-sense solutions that will treat transgender people with the dignity and respect they deserve.”

Senator Melanie Scheible, SD-9

3x

Worked with coalition partners to pass the Nevada Equal Rights Amendment, making it the most inclusive ERA in the U.S. by adding sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression to protected classes. Tripled personnel and increased board size to meet expanding needs of Nevada’s LGBTQ+ community.

“Part of working toward a fully just and equal society for all LGBTQ+ people is investing time and resources into LGBTQ+ youth. That’s why I’m proud to serve as a mentor for Silver State’s Student Advisory Council and provide guidance to the next generation of LGBTQ+ leaders as they address the important issues facing their communities.”

Jeff Dorocak, Deputy City Attorney, Las Vegas

Applications open for new Nevada LGBTQ+ student council

Looking Ahead to 2023

Nevadans to Vote on ‘Revolutionary’ ERA: ‘Equal Rights Crosses Party Lines’

‘We can never rest’ – NV groups speak about rise in anti-LGBTQ rhetoric and, in some states, laws

Lawmakers will be back in session for 2023, and Silver State Equality seeks to advance several legislative priorities including bills that would prevent insurance companies from discriminating against transgender people, create protections for transgender inmates based on nationallyrecognized best practices, and increase access to HIV prevention and treatment medication. The organization has also received grant monies to continue public health campaigns around COVID-19, Influenza, and MPOX vaccination efforts, and is seeking to secure funding for a Silver State Equality Leadership Academy to help the next generation of LGBTQ+ leaders run for office.

Our Financials

EQCA/I Revenue Overview/Analysis (2014-2022)

Boards

As of December 31, 2021

Executive Director’s Council

Hon. Ricardo Lara

Hon. Betty Yee

Dolores Huerta

Stuart Milk

Equality California Board

Scott Malzahn - Vice President

Cecilia Cabello - Secretary

Drew Murphy - Treasurer

Jason Chan - Governance Chair

Susan McCabe - PAC Chair

Jason Anderson

Rachel Anderson

Aaron Avery

Carl Baker

Jerry Bloom

Susan Burnside

Jason Chan

Jason Daniels

Sue Dunlap

Bevan Dufty

Janessa Goldbeck

Alicia Isaacs

Hon. Leslie Katz

Kate Maeder

John Marciano

Mandy Lee

Thomas Li

C. Scott Miller

Jane Natoli

Liliana Perez

Alfredo Pedroza

Hon. Alex Randolph

Yale Scott

Kasey Suffrendini

Nancy Sutley

John Tedstrom

David J. Tsai

Darrell L. Tucci

Nick Velasquez

Hon. James G. Williamson

Equality California Institute Board

Jackie Thomas - President

Juan Camacho - Vice President

Rabbi Barbara Zacky - Secretary

Ryan Harlow-Nakano - Treasurer

Katherine Forester, Governance Chair

David Ambroz

Jessica Stebbins Bina

Lisa Larroque Alexander

Hon. Richard Bloom

Steven Brancato

Hon. Anna Caballero

Beth Collins

David Cruz

Jeff Freitas

Hon. Lena Gonzalez

Mark Gonzalez

Laurie Hasencamp

Hon. Dallas Harris

Sara Jacobs

Kirk Kleinschmidt

Hon. Rafael Mandelman

Hon. Lisa Middleton

Bao Nguyen

Cat Packer

Hon. Steve Padilla

Amy Quartarolo

Amy Schneider

Laura Zagar

Board of Advisors

Laurie Hasencamp, Co-Chair

Rich Poppen, Co-Chair

Daniel Allender

Holly Amaya

Eric Andresen

Eric Armstrong

Rami Bachour

Amanda Bauer

Lana Barnett

Sapphire Blackwood

Nicholas Bloom

Dr. Diandra Bremond

Daniel Brownstone

Hon. Betsy Butler

Trevor Chandler

Tina Choi

Victor Christy

Randy Clark

Roberta Conroy

Ivan Dominguez

Emily Dysart

Trevan Fischer, M.D.

Sandra Fluke

James Frost

Drexel Heard II

Dylan Jacobs

Conor Johnston

Shreya Key

Billie Lee

Luis Alejandro Liang

Tom Maddox

Jason McCoy

Dharia McGrew

Jesse Melgar

Mark Morales

John Musella

Will Nguyen

Laura Parra

Anthony Reyes

Herb Schultz

Dr. Priya Shah

Woody Sides

Natalie Sofer

Brandon Stansell

Erik Terreri

Nora Vargas

Stephanie Wade

Chris Wagner

John Wirfs

William Yi

Hon. Ahmad Zahra a

PAC Committee

Jerry Bloom*, Chair

Joe Gregorich*, ex officio

Tony Hoang, ex officio

Sue Burnside*

Cecilia Cabello*

Ellen Evans

Clarissa Filgioun

Steve Hansen

Alicia Isaacs*

Lloyd Levine

Susan McCabe*

Jane Natoli*

Richard Poppen*

Nancy Sutley*

Hon. James Williamson*

* Member of EQCA Board of Directors

Staff

Tony Hoang - Executive Director

Samuel Garrett - Managing Director of External Affairs

Sunitha Menon - Managing Director of Operations

Tom Temprano - Political Director

Tami A. Martin - Legislative Director

Jorge Reyes Salinas - Communications Director

Erin Arendse - Program Director

Chris Negri - Program Director

Sarah Morrow An - Development Director

Valerie Ploumpis - National Policy Director

André C. Wade - State Director, Silver State Equality

Alice Kessler - Senior Legislative Advisor

Jesse Reed - Associate Director of Marketing & Communications

Jared Godes - Associate Director of Donor Relations

Melissa Stone, Associate Director of Events & Partnerships

Joel Gemino - Associate Program Director

Michelle Castillo - Administrative Manager

Jasmine Pantoja - Communications Manager

Shane Stahl - Communications Manager

LC Rapert - Communications Manager, Silver State Equality

Marisa De Los Santos, Events Manager

Jessica Munger - Program Manager, Silver State Equality

Eric Hernandez - Program Manager

Beatriz Baez - Program Manager

Wendy Anguiano - Program Manager

Jorge Diaz - Program Manager

Andrew Giang - Senior Program Manager

Alexandra Grissell Gomez - Senior Program Manager

Julz Goff - Senior Program Associate

Tymothie-James Bergendahl, Donor Relations Associate

Ari Wood, Events Associate

Alexandria Hughes - Grants Associate

Nicholas Phillips - Grants Associate

Kae Hodge - Program Associate

Ky Walker - Program Associate

Mario Woolfolk- Program Associate, Silver State Equality

Adrielle Welch-Brooks - Development Operations Associate

Cindy López - Regional Field Organizer

Samuel Turley - Regional Field Organizer

Jackie Park - Legal Fellow

Sponsors & Donors

2022 Leadership Sponsors

Institutional Funders

Americorps

Annenberg Foundation

AT&T Foundation

Caesars Entertainment

California Department of Public Health

California Legislative LGBT Caucus Foundation

California Office of Community Partnerships

and Strategic Communications

California Secretary of State

California Tobacco Control Program

Comcast

CVS Health

Edison International

Gilead Sciences, Inc.

Goodwin Family Memorial Trust

2022 Statewide Sponsors

Grace Helen Spearman Foundation

Healthy Communities Coalition of Lyon and Storey Counties

Movement Voter Project

Munger, Tolles & Olson, LLP

Nevada Department of Public Health

NV Energy Foundation

PG&E Corporation Foundation

Planned Parenthood Los Angeles

Pro Democracy Fund

Sempra

San Manuel Band of Mission Indians

Silver State Voices

Southern Nevada Health District

The California Endowment

The Center at Sierra Health Foundation

The Coca-Cola Foundation

2022 Presenting Sponsors

W. Noble

The E. Rhodes and Leona B. Carpenter Foundation

The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation

UC Berkeley - CA 100

The University of Nevada Las Vegas

ViiV Healthcare

Pro-Bono & In-Kind Support

Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP

Baker Marquart LLP

Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck

Greenberg Traurig, LLP

La Crema

Latham & Watkins, LLP

MinxFilms

Munger, Tolles & Olson, LLP

Reed & Davidson, LLP

Ropes & Gray LLP

Southwest Airlines

Tito’s Handmade Vodka

Uber

Frederick

Leadership Circle Members

National Trailblazer

Rabbi Barbara Zacky

State Innovators

Roberta Conroy

Fred Noble

Joyce Rowland

Tom Steyer & Kat Taylor

Hon. Rick Chavez Zbur

Regional Influencers

Senate President pro Tempore

Toni G. Atkins & Jennifer LeSar

Randy Clark & Thomas Maddox

Ronald Conway

Ryan Harlow-Nakano & Jeff Nakano

Laurie Hasencamp & Mike Lurey

Susan McCabe & Lee Antoinette

Drew Murphy

Tom Safran

Local Leaders

David Benz

Jerry Bloom

Joel Kim Booster

Steven Brancato

Tom Buttgenbach

Cecilia Cabello

David Cruz & Steven Greene

Cary Davidson & Andrew Ogilvie

Dr. Trevan Fischer & Lance Radford

Shayna Englin

Lee Erwin

Laura Brill & Ellen Evans

Kyle Ferari

Hon. Laura Friedman

Robert Gleason & Marc M. Matys

Lt. Governor Eleni & Markos Kounalakis

Scott Malzahn & Caesar Herrera

Elizabeth Mettler & Scott Garrett

Danielle Morris

Jane Natoli

Dean Pitchford & Michael Mealiffe

Rich Poppen

Clarissa Filgioun & Chris Robert

Matthew Rogers

Ranjit Pradhan & Vishal Saluja

Herb Schultz & Stuart Leviton

Ann Sheffer & Bill Scheffler

George & Loretta Whitesides

Laura Zagar

Capitol Club Members

Advocates

Pat Becker

Darrell Tucci

Barbara & Chester Crain

Rodney Davis

Katherine & Gillian Forster

Kathy Levinson & Naomi Fine

Robert Gower

Tyler Gregory

Keith Habersberger

Christopher Heritage

Edward Hoffman & Andrew Karas

Dorian Kendal & Jared Hunt

Alice Kessler

Lisa Larroque Alexander

Abbe Land

Andrew Linsky

Kate Maeder

John Monahan

Dawn & Phillip Rudolph

Jacqueline Thomas & DeeAnn McCoy

Dr. Priya Shah

Stan Shayer

Spencer Silna

Michaeljohn Horne

David Tsai

Supporters

Judy Appel

Aaron Avery

Diedrich Bader

Carl Baker

Tanya Baker

Shari Barman

Richard Beard

Deborah Fox & Donald Briggs

Denis Cagna & Carlos Medina

Peter & Rosemary Casey

Trevor Chandler

Dennis Chiu

Shannon Coit

Robert Darby

Curtis Dennison

Justin Diedrich

Dave Doody

Dale Dubach

Joseph Earley & Adrian Alvarez

Cathy Ebert

Laurence Eggers

Barry, Jared & Jill Frieder

Michael Allen Glover

Susan Gordon

Hon. Raymond Gregory

Hon. Dallas Harris

Jeff Hawkins & Janet Strauss

Winifred Hervey

Travis Jackson

Seth Jacobson

Marian Kalman

Hon. Leslie Katz

Hoon Jae Kim

Tracy Kirkham

Kirk Kleinschmidt & Will Federico

Hon. Geoff Kors & Hon. James Williamson

Paul Kowal

Eric Kranzler

Robert LaDuca

Ellyn Lindsay

Steven Lovejoy & Thane Kreiner

Morten Lund

James Maloney & Andrew Nance

Matthew McDearmid

Melanie & Spencer McFarland

Frank Meister

Hon. Lisa Middleton

David Mizener

James Moje & Nasseam Alavi

Mark Morales

Jennifer Morgan

Stuart Mosher

Cristina Mota

John Musella

Dena Oberst

Carl Page

Alfredo Pedroza & Wayne Bautista

Beverly Pollens

Eva Posner

Bobby Pourziaee & Yale Scott

Alex Randolph

Carol Risher

Adam Roth

Robert Schaeffer

Steven Schleier

Gregory Seller & Blade Branham

Ivan Solis

Linda Scott & Pat Stein

Roger Stoker & Michael Ostrow

Nancy Sutley

John Tedstrom

James Thilman

Nicholas Velasquez

Brenda Vosbein

Rita Wadhwani

Ron Wallen

Sage Weil

Bradley Whitford

Raya Yarbrough

Dr. Les Zendle & Jerry Hanson

Equality California brings the voices of LGBTQ+ people and allies to institutions of power in California and across the United States, striving to create a world that is healthy, just and fully equal for all LGBTQ+ people. We advance civil rights and social justice by inspiring, advocating and mobilizing through an inclusive movement that works tirelessly on behalf of those we serve.

Los Angeles Headquarters 555 West 5th Street, 35th Floor Los Angeles, CA 90013 Phone: (323) 848-9801 Fax: (323) 848-9246

Other Locations

Fresno

Palm Springs

Sacramento

San Diego

San Francisco

Las Vegas, NV

Washington, DC