In recognition and support of its LGBTQ+ students, faculty and staff, California State University, Monterey Bay raised a Pride flag on the main quad for the start of Pride Month. 

“It’s validating to see the university make this public gesture,” said CSUMB staff member Eric Orosco. “I look forward to seeing the university continue to honor and recognize the community throughout the year.”

The university intends to deliver on that expectation, starting with co-sponsoring the Living! Out and Proud Celebration and Parade for the Monterey Peninsula. The parade begins in Monterey at 11 a.m. Saturday, July 15, on Polk Street, continues toward Pearl Street, and down Alvarado Street. The parade finishes at Custom House Plaza where a full festival celebration will be held noon to 3 p.m. 

People are invited to shop and eat foods provided by a variety of local vendors at the festival while enjoying a lineup of queer entertainers including emcees Rogue Roulette and Khloe QuarterPounder.

CSUMB alumnus and City of Monterey Mayor Tyller Williamson, who co-founded Monterey Peninsula Pride, was selected to be this year’s parade grand marshall. 

On July 16, CSUMB is hosting an on-campus panel discussion on “Supporting LGBTQ+ Youth and Staff in the K-12 system.” This panel builds on the expertise and history of the College of Education, which has trained students to become highly-qualified and effective teachers in our region. 

These events are just some of the ways in which the university aims to foster an environment that supports and celebrates the LGBTQ+ community on campus and beyond.

The university's commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusivity extends beyond Pride Month. CSUMB’s Otter Cross Cultural Center offers various resources and support systems for LGBTQ+ students, including a Queer/Trans Peer Mentoring Program and the Werk Witch Drag Show. 

Otter Pride, a student-led organization on campus, also helps ensure pride exists on campus throughout the semester. It creates an LGBTQIA+-friendly atmosphere, provides a visible community and safe space for students to join, and helps educate the campus about the LGBTQIA+ community.

We encourage our community to join us in these celebrations not only during the month of June but all year long.