The LEATHER & LGBTQ Cultural District held its second Town Hall of the year on Saturday afternoon, June 21, at the Folsom Street Community Center. The event was free, and refreshments were served.
Board President Reika Faust reviewed recent achievements and accomplishments, including the monthly Play on the Plaza events, LeatherWalk, Sidewalk Plaque fundraising, the Golden Dildeaux Awards, the Entrepreneur Training Program, the SOMA Walking Tours, the Holiday Market, Outreach Booths at numerous events, the Safety Forums, and the Ringold Block Party that celebrated the Cultural District’s seventh anniversary.
The work of the Membership Committee was highlighted, including plans for membership discounts at participating merchants, and the recruitment of new Business Members.
Executive Director Robert Goldfarb reported on the Cultural District’s work with the City, including our work to allow bathhouses and entertainment zones, which we expect to bear fruit in the coming year or two.
Guest facilitator Jayme Roderick led a conversation, gathering valuable input from attendees about the issues and projects that matter most to them. Discussion covered the importance of preserving our history and culture, supporting our businesses and artists, helping entrepreneurs, and protecting our physical safety and freedom.
Values were discussed: Service, community, culture, visibility, belonging. Providing leadership in troubled times. Engaging the spectrum of the different segments of our community.
District historian Gayle Rubin offered historical perspective. Looking to the future, participants spoke of sustainability, creating strong structures, continuing and revitalizing traditions like LeatherWalk and the Golden Dildeaux Awards, and protecting freedom of self-acknowledgement and sexual identities.
Surveys were taken, inviting participants to weigh on on future Golden Dildeaux Award categories, and District priorities.
There was talk about the neighborhood: what it lacks/needs (e.g. retail and services, more public transport, health care providers, late night vibrancy) what is possible, and how increased and affordable housing can be provided while preserving what matters to us.
Folks discussed how to promote the District as a tourist destination, and envisioned creating ‘the perfect day in our neighborhood’.
The Cultural District’s own needs were also a focus: e.g. volunteers to help maintain and expand our event calendar, and to get venues and promoters to share event posts for greater visibility.
Reika closed with a review of upcoming critical dates and opportunities for involvement, and thanks to all for their time and participation.
