Letter from Executive Director Tony Hoang
Friends,
I would like to start by thanking you for your ongoing support of Equality California and your commitment to the LGBTQ+ community during these turbulent times. Thanks to you, our community, our movement and this organization remain resilient — even in the toughest of times and against the greatest of odds.
In 2023, 510 anti-LGBTQ+ bills were introduced across the United States — including one in California. 84 became law with the majority of them targeting LGBTQ+ youth in schools and gender-affirming care.
Despite the challenging environment, Equality California achieved significant legislative and political victories. We countered attacks from far-right extremists and politicians who targeted LGBTQ+ youth, while sponsoring legislation that made schools safer and more welcoming for LGBTQ+ students, increased access to PrEP and PEP, provided additional legal protections for California healthcare providers that offer abortion and gender affirming healthcare, and paved the way to protect same-sex and interracial marriages by placing a ballot proposition on the November 2024 ballot to codify the freedom to marry in our state’s constitution.
We also celebrated the historic confirmations of Judge Daniel Calabretta to the U.S. District Court in the Eastern District of California, the first out gay judge to serve in this capacity and Judge P. Casey Pitts to the federal district court in San Francisco, the first out gay person to be appointed to this seat.
Sadly, our community continued to face an increasing number of hate crimes and hate related incidents in California. This included pride flags being burned outside of schools, hate speech directed at supportive and accepting parents during school board meetings, physical attacks against our transgender siblings, and the murder of Lauri Carlton — a steadfast ally of the LGBTQ+ community who was killed for flying the Pride flag outside her store near Lake Arrowhead, California.
Protecting LGBTQ+ youth amid unprecedented attacks remains a primary focus. We have been actively monitoring and holding accountable school boards that introduce policies attacking transgender and nonbinary students, and will continue to ensure that efforts targeting LGBTQ+ youth at the ballot don’t see the light of day.
Together, we will keep striving to create a world that is healthy, just and fully equal for all LGBTQ+ people.
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 give me hope that we will come out of these challenging times victorious and stronger than ever.
Until the work is done,
Tony Hoang Executive Director
Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
At Equality California, we've championed diversity, equity, and inclusion for 25 years. Our strength comes from the diversity of our members, staff, and boards and our collective understanding that intersectionality must be a priority to create a world that is healthy, just, and fully equal for all LGBTQ+ people. We strive to serve the LGBTQ+ community by dismantling systemic racism, reforming the criminal justice system, ending mass incarceration, supporting inclusive immigration policies, and advancing gender equity and disability justice.
Equality California is committed to continuing to advocate for the civil rights and social justice of LGBTQ+ people, mobilizing and working together in California and across the United States.
Staff Demographics
Sacramento
California continued to be a leader in protecting the LGBTQ+ community and the communities in which we belong as extremists across the nation continued their assault on civil liberties. In 2023, Governor Gavin Newsom signed a total of 6 Equality California-sponsored bills, including legislation that protects LGBTQ+ foster youth, defends the right to abortion and gender-affirming care, and creates a timeline for teachers and certified staff to receive LGBTQ+ cultural competency training to better support their LGBTQ+ students. In collaboration with the California Legislative LGBTQ Caucus and our legislative allies, we successfully stopped AB 1314 — dangerous legislation introduced by Asm. Bill Essayli — which would have required teachers and school staff to forcibly out transgender, nonbinary, and gender non-conforming youth to their parents without the student’s consent. Lastly, we successfully advanced ACA 5, a constitutional amendment now heading to the 2024 November ballot that will remove the outdated and discriminatory anti-marriage equality language of Proposition 8 from the California constitution. If approved by voters, the ballot proposition would help safeguard any future attempts to restrict marriage rights for same-sex or interracial couples in California.
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. Here in California, we are standing up 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. We are not allowing the ongoing attacks to set us back today — or ever.”
Tony Hoang, Equality California Executive Director
Accomplishments
6 sponsored Equality California bills signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom.
News Articles
Calif. lawmakers introduce legislation to protect same-sex marriage
Convened our first in-person Advocacy Day in Sacramento to advance our legislative priorities and the first Fair Share for Equality event since before the start of the COVID pandemic, bringing community leaders together from across the state.
Safe and Supportive Schools Act’ heads to California governor
Successfully advanced ACA 5 to remove Proposition 8 language from the California constitution.
Looking Ahead to 2024
With states across the nation expected to continue their attacks against LGBTQ+ youth, we are committed to advancing legislative protections for all LGBTQ+ people in our Golden State. We are closely monitoring possible anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and working closely with the LGBTQ+ Legislative Caucus to prepare for the fights ahead. We look forward to a 2024 legislative agenda that will defend all the progress we’ve made and continue advancing our mission to create a world that is healthy, just, and fully equal for all LGBTQ+ people by continuing our work in increasing access to gender-affirming healthcare and education for transgender, nonbinary, gender-nonconforming, and intersex (TGI) people, expanding LGBTQ+ inclusive fertility benefits, combating systemic discrimination, supporting unhoused LGBTQ+ young people, and addressing the disproportionate impact of climate change on LGBTQ+ communities.
California passes slate of LGBTQ protections
Washington, D.C.
With Congress paralyzed by infighting among extremist lawmakers for the Speaker of the House seat — very little was accomplished in 2023. AntiLGBTQ+ lawmakers held several hearings to stoke fear and disseminate misinformation regarding gender-affirming care and transgender youth in sports. The House passed a nationwide transgender youth sports ban, though the bill did not move in the Senate. These same lawmakers attached myriad anti-LGBTQ+ riders to must-pass spending bills — some of which passed, some of which were successfully removed during the legislative process. Following the passing of trailblazing Sen. Dianne Feinstein in September, Governor Gavin Newsom appointed Sen. Laphonza Butler to finish the remainder of her term — and Equality California briefed newly incumbent Sen. Butler on LGBTQ+ priorities just days into her official tenure. In between we also continued to support priority legislation, including the Equality Act, the Assault Weapons Ban, and the Women’s Health Protection Act.
Equality California and Silver State Equality remain hopeful that our pro-equality legislative priorities will one day become law and are immensely grateful that every Democrat in both chambers stood alongside the LGBTQ+ community against the wave of dangerous bills and appropriations riders introduced in 2023."
Valerie Ploumpis, National Policy Director
Accomplishments
News Articles
Supported the confirmation of Judge Daniel Calabretta to the U.S. District Court in the Eastern District of California, the first out gay judge to serve in this capacity and Judge P. Casey Pitts to a federal district court seat in San Francisco.
Supported the Department of Health and Human Services’ advisory of a Behavioral Health Care Advisory on Transgender and Gender Diverse Youth to provide evidencebased practices for mental health providers.
Gavin Newsom names Laphonza Butler to fill U.S. Senate seat"
Democrats reintroduce Equality Act amid Pride Month
Democrats reintroduce federal Trans Bill of Rights as GOP tries to advance restrictions
Supported a new LGBTQI+ Youth Homelessness Initiative announced by the Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Looking Ahead to 2024
With Speaker Mike Johnson — the most anti-LGBTQ+ Speaker in history — holding the gavel, Equality California will continue to work with California’s federal delegation to ensure that attempts to discriminate against LGBTQ+ people or roll back hard-earned rights are unsuccessful. The rightleaning Supreme Court will also take up several cases this year that hold enormous consequences — including a challenge to FDA approval of the medication abortion drug mifepristone, and whether individuals charged with domestic violence can be prevented from possessing firearms. We look forward to continuing fostering relationships with California’s congressional delegation, our LGBTQ+ representatives, and the next California U.S. Senator once Sen. Butler’s term ends.
Political
Although 2023 was not an election year, the political team endorsed in three special elections. With Tom Temprano assuming the role of Managing Director of External Affairs, Equality California hired Shay Franco-Clausen — a former elected official previously endorsed by the organization and longtime political consultant — to serve as the new Political Director. Samuel Turley and Cindy Lopez also transitioned into permanent roles as Civic Engagement Associates to further assist the growing Political Team.
Accomplishments
Hosted our second successful PAC retreat in Palm Springs.
News Articles
Guest Opinion: Black queer women make history in California politics
Endorsed in three special elections throughout California.
Increased staffing on the Political Team
Looking Ahead to 2024
The Political Team is laying the groundwork for the largest get-out-the-vote operation in organizational history ahead of the 2024 General Election, as well as preparing to endorse more LGBTQ+ and pro-equality candidates than ever before. With a rise in anti-LGBTQ+ extremism, particularly at the school board level, there is new and important emphasis placed on electing proequality allies — which is why for the first time, Equality California will offer endorsements to nonLGBTQ+ candidates in targeted school board races. Equality California is also leading the effort to enshrine marriage equality in the California constitution through a ballot initiative in November that will drive pro-equality voters to the polls.
Silver State Equality
In 2023, amidst Nevada's biennial legislative sessions, Silver State Equality concentrated on expanding its statewide influence. The organization prioritized preparing to endorse a diverse lineup of pro-equality candidates for the November elections. Silver State Equality also expanded into Northern Nevada and established a community presence through Pride events, community health education, and local advocacy efforts.
Accomplishments
Silver State Equality played a crucial role in passing pro-equality legislation by successfully sponsoring five bills signed by Governor Joe Lombardo. The bills focused on protections for incarcerated transgender persons, non-discrimination in insurance coverage for gender-affirming care, minor/adolescent access to preventative health care, marriage certificate change, and HIV.
News Articles
Local organization highlights LGBTQ+ legislation at equality luncheon
LGBTQ community celebrates successful session of Legislature
Designed, published and implemented the Silver State Equality LGBTQ+ Student Advisory Council Student Survey for LGBTQ+ junior high and high school students statewide.
Organized a successful Equality Day event attended by 60 people from across the state, including community members and partnering organizations from Las Vegas to Carson City. The event was a testament to our effectiveness in lobbying for proequality legislation, and it was a great opportunity for our community to come together.
Senate bill aims to protect Nevada doctors who provide gender-affirming care
Hosted Silver State Equality's annual National Black HIV AIDS Awareness Day Dinner, Pride Happy Hour, and Equality Luncheon.
Looking Ahead to 2024
Looking ahead, Silver State Equality aims to continue advancing several legislative priorities. Efforts will be made towards securing funding for the inaugural 2024 Silver State Equality Leadership Academy, which seeks to empower the next generation of LGBTQ+ leaders to pursue political office. These initiatives are pivotal to their ongoing advocacy efforts as they prepare for the November 2024 election.
LGBTQ+ Leadership
Empowering LGBTQ+ leaders to achieve electoral success, contribute to public boards and commissions, and hold critical legislative offices is essential for strengthening the political representation and overall well-being of the LGBTQ+ community. Equality California continues to establish a robust pipeline of LGBTQ+ leaders who will increase representation and authentically serve the communities they are elected or appointed to serve. Our Comcast Fellowship continues to inspire and support LGBTQ+ youth to get involved in public service, and we are excited to celebrate its 15th anniversary in 2024. Our LGBTQ+ Leadership Academy and LGBTQ+ Leadership Summit continue to shape the next generation of leaders and inspire them to run for office.
As an alum of the Comcast Fellowship, I can attest to the invaluable experience and confidence it provided me. The skills I gained during the fellowship have been instrumental in my role as Legislative Director for Senator Scott Wiener as it provided further experience in policy-making and issues-based organizing firsthand.”
Severiano Christian, Legislative Director for Senator Scott Wiener
Accomplishments
Six Comcast Fellows were placed in the legislative offices of Sen. Susan Eggman, Sen. John Laird, Asm. Joaquin Arambula, Asm. Evan Low, Asm. Chris Ward, and Asm. Josh Lowenthal. Among the fellowship members hosted, one is the youngest elected school board member in her county.
News Articles
How LGBTQ leaders navigate a predominantly non-LGBTQ world
Why Queer Leadership Matters
In 2023, Equality California Institute welcomed and trained 33 LGBTQ+ emerging leaders across California on running for office and current political issues affecting LGBTQ+ Californians.
After years of erasure, Black queer leaders rise to prominence in Congress and activism
Looking Ahead to 2024
Our pipeline programs represent our long-term commitment to LGBTQ+ representation, and we anticipate a continued increase in the number of Leadership Academy alums successfully appointed or elected to their respective positions. The LGBTQ+ Leadership Academy program is set to conduct two additional live training sessions to further our commitment and mission. We look forward to implementing additional networking events with program alumni to continue building momentum and connections. Drawing insights from the recent and increasing anti-LGBTQ+ attacks happening in schools, we are committed to aligning and revamping our programs to meet the need to protect LGBTQ+ students across school boards by preparing and electing LGBTQ+ leaders across school boards.
Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Training
Equality California’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion training program was designed to empower service providers with the tools to serve the LGBTQ+ community in an inclusive and affirming way. With the rise of anti-trans rhetoric targeting gender-affirming care and the rise of unhoused LGBTQ+ youth, our DEI training continues to focus on healthcare and homeless service providers. The DEI team has increased its outreach to providers across California, spreading sensitive knowledge and debunking the myths and false information that we have seen across the media. priority legislation, including the Equality Act, the Assault Weapons Ban, and the Women’s Health Protection Act.
The LGBTQ+ Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Training impacts the work I do at ChapCore 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 ChopCore's vision: Healthy People Building Strong Communities" Rose Sailes, Safety Risk Coordinator, Community Health Alliance of Pasadena (ChapCare)
Accomplishments
Initiated the development of a new curriculum with a specific focus on harm reduction and opioid use within LGBTQ+ communities.
News Articles
California celebrates diversity, but also confronts hate
With support from Sempra, Carpenter Foundation, Coca Cola Foundation, and Gilead, Equality California successfully trained a total of 720 healthcare providers, homeless service providers, and other professionals through its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion training program in 2023. This training was conducted across 19 organizations.
USU Finds Clinicians Aren't Well-Versed in Transgender Health Care
Report: Latinx LGBTQ Young People Face Unique Mental Health Challenges and Disparities in Suicide Risk, Attempts
Launched a public education campaign to raise awareness about HIV prevention and LGBTQ+ homelessness. The campaign reached a substantial audience, with 101,382 people via email and 9,931 people through social media channels.
Looking Ahead to 2024
Discrimination Prevents LGBTQ People From Accessing Health Care
As we enter 2024, new reports highlight the lack of dedicated LGBTQ+ resources for medical and housing services - reaffirming the need for the work we are doing through our DEI training. To bridge this gap, we're expanding our training initiatives by extending our impact to providers in rural communities. Additionally, we are broadening our training program curriculum to address the ongoing opioid crisis affecting the LGBTQ+ community and incorporating educational tools to increase harm reduction and resource awareness.
Stop the Hate
In 2023, Equality California Institute launched the Stop the Hate program. In its inaugural year, the program shined a light on the negative impact of hate crimes and hate incidents on the LGBTQ+ community in California. Throughout its history, Equality California has supported initiatives and legislation that aim to reduce anti-LGBTQ+ hate crimes. The Stop the Hate program continues this work by engaging with communities, organizations, and government agencies to create and recommend prevention and intervention strategies that mitigate hate crimes in California. Stop the Hate is an initiative by the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) to provide support and services to victims and survivors of hate incidents and hate crimes and their families and facilitate hate incident or hate crime prevention measures.
Equality California Institute is incredibly proud to receive generous funding from the Governor's office and the California Department of Social Services to continue our existing Stop the Hate programming, which consists of resource development for LGBTQ+ survivors of hate crimes and hate incidents, as well as engaging community organizations and partners in dialogue on suggested policy changes to combat amplified hate against the LGBTQ+ community."
Jorge Reyes Salinas, Communications Director, Equality California
Accomplishments
The first Stop the Hate Convening took place in Long Beach. The community event held a panel discussion with community leaders addressing the impact of hate on the transgender community in California. Created specialized outreach materials to inform LGBTQ+ communities about their rights in case of a hate incident, offering practical guidance for bystander intervention to reduce harm that were disseminated at seven pride festivals across California.
News Articles
Newsom’s newest battle against hate crimes includes $4.5 million for Central Valley groups
State and Community Leaders Praise Launch of New Hotline and Resource Network to Combat Hate Across California
Equality California On Far-Right Protest At Drag Queen Storytime In San Fernando
With the assistance of an advisory committee made up of LGBTQ+-serving organizations in the state, Equality California Institute released a policy white paper focused on broadening the eligibility for state victims’ compensation in California.
Looking Ahead to 2024
Equality California On Los Angeles Dodgers Removing The Sisters Of Perpetual Indulgence From Pride Night Celebration
CDSS has provided funding for the Stop the Hate program for an additional two years. In the coming year, Equality California will increase its outreach initiatives, publish a second policy white paper, and collaborate on establishing a new rapid response program for issues arising in schools and school board meetings across California.
Out Against Big Tobacco
Out Against Big Tobacco Central Valley continued to hold community gatherings and push for tobacco-free spaces and events — particularly LGBTQ+ ones. The OAGBT-CV team increased their presence at Prides across California from June to November. In addition to expanding their presence and advocacy in the Central Valley, they uplifted grassroots work through subgrants, sponsorships, and cross collaboration with other organizations.
Accomplishments
Distributed sub-grants of $5,000 each for a total of $50,000 across 10 organizations in the Central Valley. Additionally, granted sponsorships to support LGBTQ+ events in the Central Valley, totaling $9,150 across 11 recipients.
News Articles
Biden administration looks to ban menthol cigarettes: ‘There’s no going back’
Conducted an educational campaign sharing resources and information to raise awareness of tobacco use risks — reaching 5,519 people via social media channels.
Publications Marginalized Communities Need Relief From Big Tobacco
Gathered signatures from 120 constituents on a petition urging California legislators to reject campaign contributions from the tobacco industry.
Collaborated with the Placer LGBTQ+ Center to successfully establish Placer Pride as a tobaccofree event, marking a significant accomplishment in promoting a healthier and inclusive environment.
Looking Ahead to 2024
Tobacco in the LGBTQ+ Communities Tobacco Policy & Use Survey
Over the next 18 months, within the remaining duration of the OABT-CV grant, the primary objective will be to successfully advocate for the implementation of a comprehensive tobacco retail license in the City of Fresno. This initiative aims to establish effective regulations and oversight within the city concerning tobacco retail practices. Furthermore, the team is committed to facilitating a strategic transition of the OABT coalition. The goal is to evolve the program into an LGBTQ+-focused coalition that can endure beyond the conclusion of the grant. This transition would continue the efforts and findings in addressing the needs and concerns of the LGBTQ+ community in Fresno.
Trusted Messenger
In 2023, we unveiled an exciting partnership with the Governor’s Office of Community Partnerships and Strategic Communications (OCPSC). This collaboration is dedicated to providing public awareness and community outreach services for individuals grappling with significant health and social inequities. Throughout the grant period, our emphasis will revolve around critical topics facing Californians including extreme heat preparation, water conservation, and tax preparation for undocumented workers.
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
Accomplishments
Conducted an educational campaign sharing resources and information to raise awareness that reached a substantial audience, with 31,106 people reached via social media channels and 4,521 people reached through email.
News Articles
For LGBTQ people, friendly health care is important but can be hard to find
Awarded an extension by an additional 3 months, accompanied by a 25% increase in funding.
The Complexity Of LGBT Poverty In The United States
Subcontracted to six local organizational outreach partners from across the state and outreached to over 240,000 community members through Prides, phone banking, and other LGBTQfocused events.
Looking Ahead to 2024
The Trusted Messenger grant will continue until 2025, focusing on expanding outreach strategies at LGBTQ+-centered events and online. Equality California has committed to partnering with five local organizations across the state to conduct targeted public outreach to vulnerable LGBTQ+ populations — providing essential information and resources on topics such as extreme heat, water conservation, COVID-19 mitigation, ITIN services, and mental health. Furthermore, the programs team will increase its in-person outreach at various LGBTQ events and gatherings to increase access to community resources and best practices.
Nosotros VIHviendo
While medical advancements have transformed the life expectancy of people living with HIV, efforts to reduce transmission risks and address health disparities in treatment, testing, and prevention remain crucial for LGBTQ+ communities of color. Riding the success from its inaugural year, we continued the Nosotros VIHviendo program and increased its impact and outreach across the state. Funded by Viiv Healthcare, this initiative allocates financial and organizational resources to grassroots organizations in California and Nevada dedicated to eradicating stigma and tackling high-risk rates of HIV infection among the Latine LGBTQ+ community.
Accomplishments
Supported 6 grantees: AGUILAS, The Three Brown Jotos, Q Youth Foundation, Rainbow Community Center, East Bay Getting to Zero, and Fresno Barrios Unidos.
Unique Project Highlights:
AGUILAS focused on community mobilization, linking Brazilian men who have sex with men to HIV treatment/testing and PrEP/PEP.
Each grantee received $10,000 to lead community projects addressing HIV infection rates, stigma, and education in the Latino/ Latine community.
Projects tackled social issues through art, storytelling, community outreach, and education. Varied approaches included Podcasts, story-telling for self-empowerment, and community events for HIV testing, PrEP, and PEP.
The Three Brown Jotos Podcast doubled its viewership, addressing social issues impacting the Latinx community.
Conducted an educational campaign sharing resources and information whereas it generated 22,758 impressions via social media.
East Bay Getting to Zero collaborated on a mural in Oakland addressing HIV shame and stigma with input from an HIV positive support group, a local artist, and a mental health therapist.
News Articles
Jorge-Armando Diaz: A Trailblazer for Mental Health and HIV Awareness
California Bill Allows Pharmacists to Provide More PrEP to Prevent HIV
Looking Ahead to 2024
Entering its third and final year of funding, the Nosotros VIHviendo program will conduct a community assessment targeting small groups, organizations, and funded projects. In its last year, the team will host a live community forum to wrap up the program's success and continue increasing the conversation on HIV awareness and the need to increase resources within the Latine community. Equality California Institute plans to actively seek additional funding opportunities to continue supporting this program and the efforts it has accomplished within the communities the subgrantees served.
Improving Schools Climate
In response to the pervasive incidents targeting transgender and nonbinary students, the Equality California's Schools team, in collaboration with the ACLU and Public School Defenders Hub, established an incident and advocacy alliance. The primary objective of this alliance is to monitor and counteract endeavors that seek to inflict harm upon LGBTQ+ youth in schools. In addition, Equality California Institute's Mentorship Corps Program continues to grow across California, providing additional support to students and assisting teachers, counselors, and other professionals through a combination of virtual in-class and after-school programs.
Accomplishments News Articles
Developed a tracker in collaboration with ACLU and UCLA to track increasing issues affecting schools like the censorship of student identities, Pride flags, LGBTQ+ literature, and curriculum, in addition to monitoring anti-LGBTQ+ school board policies, board transparency, and Brown Act violations.
Newsom signs law requiring gender-neutral bathrooms in schools amid LGBTQ+ student debate
State Superintendent-Sponsored Bills to Strengthen Supports for LGBTQ+ Youth Signed by Governor Newsom
Launched a dedicated Forced Outing Resource Hub in response to the escalating number of attempts by school boards to forcibly out transgender, nonbinary, and gender nonconforming students against their will, which includes the list of boards considering such policies, status updates, and a social media toolkit encouraging people to speak out against these efforts
In the 2023 school year, EQCA AmeriCorps members mentored 107 students at ten school sites. Survey results showed a 67.5% increase in social and emotional learning (SEL) competencies and a 37.5% increase in feelings of safety on campus.
California AG Sues Chino Valley School District Over Policy Outing Trans Students
My time at Lincoln Middle School and the North County LGBTQ Resource Center has been a unique experience... Besides improving leadership skills, I have gained a personal sense of satisfaction from knowing that I have helped someone. Yes, issues have not completely vanished, but the small progress one makes with these students shows within the student’s life.”
Zuriel
Hernandez, AmeriCorps member
Looking Ahead to 2024
In 2024, the EQCA Schools team will persist in monitoring incidents at the school, district, and school board levels across California. There are plans to forge future collaborations with the ACLU and UCLA, focusing on the development of a scraping tool and engaging student volunteers. The team is also contemplating the inclusion of limitations on school healthcare, including gender-affirming care. Additionally, the team aims to establish a timetable for action items and develop a dedicated platform on the EQCA website to house pertinent information and messaging.
Safe & Supportive Schools
K-12 public schools have increasingly been the site of significant policy disputes and legal challenges related to LGBTQ+ issues, particularly transgender youth, access to facilities, and youth sports. This year, Equality California has revised and issued a third edition of The Safe and Supportive Schools Survey to better gauge and advocate for the successes and challenges that CA Unified School Districts face as they implement policies and best practices to ensure safe and supportive learning environments.
Using our 2022 report data, we advocated for best practices such as establishing Gay-Straight Alliance or Gender and Sexuality Alliance (GSA) clubs in schools by meeting with district administrators and presenting at several conferences, including Creating Change, The National Educators Association (NEA) LGBTQ+ Conference, at ACSA’s Lead with Pride. This year, we hope to reach even more of California’s unified school districts.
"As LGBTQ+ rights across the country come under attack, from book bans to outlawing instruction on sexual orientation and gender identity in schools, California is leading the way in preserving the rights of LGBTQ+ students across the state."
Assemblymember Rick Chavez Zbur
Accomplishments
Developed a third edition of the Safe and Supportive Schools Survey to address new and ongoing challenges to school safety and inclusivity
News Articles
California Department of Education Making Schools Safer and More Supportive for LGBTQ+ Youth
Developed an advisory committee of 30 contacts across the California Department of Education, California school districts, county offices of education, school administrators and teachers, and other community organizations to share best practice recommendations for school board policies and facilities for the benefit of all LGBTQ+ students
California’s Democratic leaders escalate fights with conservative school boards
California LGBTQ+ and Education Advocates Applaud Guidance Affirming Students’ Rights To Accurate And Inclusive Education Materials
Presented our findings at Creating Change, The National Educators Association (NEA) LGBTQ+ Conference, at ACSA’s Lead with Pride.
Looking Ahead to 2024
Research indicates that a safe and supportive school environment allows LGBTQ+ students and all students to succeed academically and significantly impacts their future prospects and overall wellbeing. We will continue to work with partners, district officials, and school board members to gauge and sponsor a range of state laws in California and at the local school board level.
Our Financials
EQCA/I Revenue Overview 2023
Boards
As of December 31, 2023
Executive Director’s Council
Hon. Ricardo Lara
Hon. Betty Yee
Dolores Huerta
Stuart Milk
Equality California Board
Scott Malzahn, President
Cecilia Cabello, Vice President
Drew Murphy, Secretary
Jason Anderson, Treasurer
Jason Chan, Governance Chair
Jane Natoli, PAC Chair
Joe Gregorich, At-Large Member
Hon. Leslie Katz, At-Large Member
Hon. Alex Randolph, At-Large Member
Brenda Lorena Aguirre
Rachel Anderson
Aaron Avery
Carl Baker
Jerry Bloom
Tracey Broadman
Sue Burnside
Francisco Castillo
Jason Daniels
Hon. Bevan Dufty
Sue Dunlap
Shirin Etessam
Janessa Goldbeck
Alicia Isaacs-Lee
Mandy Isaacs-Lee
Thomas Li
Adam Ma
Kate Maeder
John Marciano
Alfredo Pedroza
Liliana Perez
Jeff Riles
Hon. Gabriel Quinto
Yale Scott
Nancy Sutley
Kasey Suffredini
David J. Tsai
Darrell L. Tucci
Equality California Institute
Jackie Thomas, President
Juan Camacho, Vice President
Rabbi Barbara Zacky, Secretary
Jeff Freitas, Treasurer
Katherine Forster, Governance Chair
Beth Collins, At-Large Member
Mark Gonzalez, At-Large Member
Laurie Hasencamp, At-Large Member
David Ambroz
Daniel Arriola
Alberto Bautista
Hon. Anna Caballero
David Cruz
Hon. Lena Gonzalez
Ryan Harlow-Nakano
Hon. Dallas Harris
Hon. Rafael Mandelman
Hon. Abigail Medina
Hon. Lisa Middleton
Alberto Nodal
Hon. Steve Padilla
Amy C. Quartarolo
Amy Schneider
Laura Zagar
Board of Advisors
Susan McCabe, Co-Chair
Richard Poppen, Co-Chair
Daniel Allender
Holly Amaya
Eric Andresen
Eric Armstrong
Rami Bachour
Sapphire Blackwood
Nicholas Bloom
Dr. Diandra Bremond
Daniel Brownstone
Hon. Betsy Butler
Trevor Chandler
Tina Choi
Victor Christy
Randy Clark
Roberta Conroy
Ivan Dominguez
Patrick Driscoll
Trevan Fischer, M.D.
Sandra Fluke
James Frost
Drexel D. Heard II
Conor Johnston
Mattew Kaiser
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
Hon. Nora Vargas
Stephanie Wade
Chris Wagner
William Yi
Hon. Ahmad Zahra
PAC Committee
Jane Natoli, Chair*
Alex Randolph, Vice Chair*
Joe Gregorich*, ex officio
Tony Hoang, ex officio
Jerry Bloom*
Sue Burnside*
Cecilia Cabello*
Jason Chan*
Bevan Dufty*
Jeff Riles*
Nancy Sutley*
Darrell Tucci*
Gabriel Quinto*
Leslie Katz
Drexel Heard
Susan McCabe
Richard Poppen
Shayna Englin
Clarissa Filgioun
Joe Goldman
Steve Hansen
Cheryl Hori
Lloyd Levine
Jane Wishon
Thomas Li*
* Member of EQCA Board of Directors
Staff
As of December 31, 2023
Tony Hoang, Executive Director
Sunitha Menon, Managing Director of Operations
Tom Temprano, Managing Director of External Affairs
Theresa Carlisle, Director of Human Resources and Administration
Sarah Morrow An, Development Director
Jorge Reyes Salinas, Communications Director
Craig Pulsipher, Legislative Director
Shanta Franco-Clausen, Political Director
Valerie Ploumpis, National Policy Director
Erin Arendse, Program Director
Andre 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 and Sponsorships
Mallery Jenna Robinson, Associate Program Director
Joel Gemino, Associate Program Director
Michelle Castillo, Administrative Manager
Jasmine Pantoja, Communications Manager
Shane Stahl, Communications Manager
Bianca Sy, Events Manager
Jose Morales, Donor Relations Manager
Mario Woolfolk, Program Associate, Silver State Equality
Jessica Munger, Program Manager, Silver State Equality
Andrew Giang, Senior Program Associate
Alexandra-Grissell Gomez, Senior Program Associate
Eric Hernandez, Program Manager
Beatriz Baez, Program Manager
Wendy Anguiano, Program Manager
Jorge Diaz, Program Manager
Julz Goff, Programs Associate
Arie Abija, Events Associate
Alexandria Hughes, Grants Manager
Nicholas Phillips, Grants Associate
Li Arnee, Community Health Worker, Silver State Equality
Yoshi Castro, Community Health Worker, Silver State Equality
Kae Hodge, Senior Program Associate
Ky Walker, Senior Program Associate
Aldo Macias Arellano, Executive Manager/Board Liaison
Adrielle Welch-Brooks, Senior Associate of Database Operations
Cindy Lopez, Political & Civic Engagement Associate
Samuel Turley, Political & Civic Engagement Associate
Bri Schmidt, Program Associate, Silver State Equality
Paton Moody, Legal Fellow
Sponsors & Donors
EQUALITY CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE
INSTITUTIONAL
FUNDERS
AmeriCorps
Blue Shield of California
Caesars Entertainment
California Department of Public Health
California Department of Social Services
California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services
California Legislative LGBTQ Caucus Foundation
California Office of Community Partnerships
and Strategic Communications
California Tobacco Control Program
Catalyst California
The Center at Sierra Health Foundation
Comcast
E. Rhodes & Leona B. Carpenter Foundation
Edison International
Equality Federation
Everytown for Gun Safety
Gilead Sciences
Goodwin Family Memorial Trust
The Healthy Communities Coalition of Lyon and Storey Counties
The Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles
Los Angeles County Office of Education
Movement Voter Project
The PG&E Corporation Foundation
Planned Parenthood Los Angeles
Sempra
Valor
ViiV Healthcare
Wescom Foundation
SILVER STATE EQUALITY INSTITUTE
INSTITUTIONAL FUNDERS
Caesars Entertainment
Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance
Movement Voter Project
Nevada Department of Public Health
NV Energy Foundation
San Manuel Band of Mission Indians
Silver State Voices (NEO Philanthropy)
Southern Nevada Health District
PRO-BONO & IN- KIND SUPPORT
Aldina Vineyards
Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, LLP
Convene by Dan Costa
DIAGEO
Dot Wines
Joe Gregorich
The Griffin Co
Laurie Hasencamp
La Crema
Latham & Watkins LLP
Life Elements
Lyft
Lynn Hammond Catering
Mahala Hotel
May Lindstrom Skin
The Melt
Minx Films
Munger, Tolles & Olson LLP
Reed & Davidson, LLP
Roclord Studio
The Setting Wines
Smith Story Wine Cellars
Southwest Airlines
The Venetian Resort Las Vegas
Tito's Handmade Vodka
Uber
United Airlines
Waymaker LLP
Westgate Resort
Westin Bonaventure Hotel & Suites
Westside Sparkling
2023 Capitol Club & Leadership Circle Members
LEADERSHIP CIRCLE
National Trailblazer
Rabbi Barbara Zacky
State Innovators
Roberta Conroy
Tom Steyer & Kat Taylor
Regional Influencers
Rosemary & Peter Casey
Laurie Hasencamp & Mike Lurey
Seth Jacobson
Rich Poppen & Eric Lao
Joyce Rowland
Tom Safran
Local Leaders
David Benz
Tom Buttgenbach
Cecilia Cabello
Randy Clark & Thomas Maddox
Glen Dake
Cary Davidson & Andrew Ogilvie
Dr. Trevan Fischer & Lance Radford
Travis Jackson
Scott Malzahn & Caesar Herrera
Susan McCabe & Lee Antoinette
Andreas Meyer
John Monahan
Danielle Morris
Dean Pitchford
Herb Schultz & Stuart Leviton
Lori Stanford & Jennifer Hill
Jacqueline Thomas & DeeAnn McCoy
Nicholas Velasquez
Laura Zagar
CAPITOL CLUB
Advocates
Hon. Alex Randolph
Rodney Davis
Katherine & Gillian Forster
Tyler Gregory
Donald Grether
Christopher Heritage
Edward Hoffman & Andrew Karas
Michaeljohn Horne
Kathy Levinson & Naomi Fine
Mark Morales
Stephen Nathan
Jane Natoli
Dawn & Phillip Rudolph
Beth Schroeder
Dr. Priya Shah
Spencer Silna
Mark Stuart & Tim Rupe
Kevin Tilden
Darrell Tucci
Supporters
Hon. Bevan Dufty
Hon. Leslie Katz
Hon. Lisa Middleton
Judy Appel
Aaron Avery
Diedrich Bader
Carl Baker
Tanya Baker
Richard Beard
Leslie Beemer
Todd Bloom & Bryce Linsenmayer
Donald Briggs & Deborah Fox
Giselle Bosc
Betsy Butler
Denis Cagna & Carlos Medina
Juan Camacho
Dennis Chiu
Shannon Coit
Curtis Dennison
Justin Diedrich
Dave Doody
Dale Dubach
Joseph Earley & Adrian Alvarez
Cathy Ebert
Laurence Eggers
Jill Frieder
Miriam Gauss
Michael Allen Glover
Susan Gordon
Robert Gower
Ryan Harlow-Nakano & Jeff Nakano
Jeff Hawkins & Janet Strauss
Winifred Hervey
Timothy Hollingsworth
Michael Johnson
Marian Kalman
Tracy Kirkham
Dan Kishner
Eric Kranzler
Hoon Jae Kim
Robert LaDuca
Jackson Lanzing
Lisa Larroque Alexander
Ellyn Lindsay
Andrew Linsky
Steven Lovejoy & Thane Kreiner
Jim Maloney & Andrew Nance
Justin McBaine
Jason McCoy
Melanie & Spencer McFarland
Frank Meister
Scott Miller
David Mizener
James Moje & Maurice Minno
Jennifer Morgan
Stuart Mosher
Cristina Mota
John Musella & Ivan Volschenk
Dena Oberst
Andrea Oneil
Alfredo Pedroza & Wayne Bautista
Beverly Pollens
Bobby Pourziaee & Yale Scott
Philip & Wendy Sandstrom
Robert Schaeffer
Lisa Schilbe & Jane Manning Hyatt
Steven Schleier
Sarah Schoellkopf
Linda Scott & Pat Stein
Gregory Seller and Blade Branham
Stan Shayer
Nancy Sutley
Elwood "Woody" Sides
John Tedstrom
James Thilman
Ethan Vaughan
Sage Weil
Bradley Whitford
Raya Yarbrough & Bear McCreary
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
1150 S Olive Street, 10th Floor
Los Angeles, CA 90015
Phone: (323) 848-9801
Email: email@eqca.org
Other Locations
San