On Sunday, Feb. 22, Fresno LGBTQ+ community lost a true pioneer and a generous soul. Virgil Wigley, the 88-year-old founder of The Red Lantern and a cornerstone of local LGBTQ+ history, passed away suddenly. For nearly 50 years, Virgil carried the weight of providing a sanctuary for our community. Opening a gay bar in 1976 […]
At LGBTQ Fresno, we know how important it is for our youth to have a consistent, safe space to connect, share their stories, and learn how to make a difference. That is why we are thrilled to announce that our EmpowerYouth program, is expanding! Starting this February, we are doubling our meetups to ensure youth
On October 22, 2025, twice reelected California State Senator Scott Wiener announced his campaign to run for the congressional seat, which had been occupied by Speaker Nancy Pelosi for almost four decades. Having entered the Congress in the late 80s, Pelosi followed the trajectory set by the Democratic party and advocated for human rights, condemned
One by one, students rise from their seats and stand on their desks. As their new teacher shouts at them to sit, they turn to their departing teacher, Mr. Keating, their faces glowing in admiration. A few say warmly, “O captain, my captain.” This is the final scene of Dead Poets Society. (Sorry if that
The following list highlights several key scholarship opportunities dedicated to supporting LGBTQ+ students and allies in their educational endeavors. From local initiatives like the Bulldog Pride Fund at Fresno State to national programs like the Point Foundation, these resources offer more than just funding; they provide mentorship, community connection, and a validation of identity. Whether
In 1980, former California Governor Ronald Reagan launched his presidential campaign with a promise that would come to define an era: “Make America Great Again.” More than four decades later, Donald Trump resurrected the same slogan. But while the words remained unchanged, their meaning—and the political worldview behind them—shifted dramatically. The evolution of the phrase
For many young people—and for those who’ve embraced their true selves later in life—fashion becomes a powerful form of self-expression. Before we even speak to someone, we often notice how they present themselves, and while appearances aren’t everything, they can play a meaningful role in how we connect and find community. From glamorous drag looks
This time of year can be a joyous and/or sad time for those in the LGBTQ community. For queer individuals who don’t have safety nets in place this holiday season, it is hard to know where to turn for support; and with President Trump, over the summer, slashing the 988 young LGBTQ+ specialized support hotline
When the Trump Administration announced today, Thursday Dec. 18, that he would take steps to order the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to end transition-related care for sex change operations, the proposals would effectively pull funding away from offering transgender care to minors. These actions are the President’s latest efforts to restrict access
If your holiday traditions include cuddling up and watching movies, chances are they are staples in most American homes. A Christmas Story, Elf, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, The Grinch. All of them classics, all of them great, all of them straight. As a queer person, it can be discouraging to not see yourself reflected on
