For the second year in a row, the Delano City Council has approved the pride flag being flown at City Hall during Pride Month.

“It means so much to me because for years I was afraid to fully express myself and my identity and driving past the flag makes me feel seen and represented,” said Biviana Camacho. “It also means a lot to me because I remember all the young queer and trans folks who have reached out and shared their experiences with us and express how seeing that flag makes them feel. It truly warms my heart.”

Pride month is celebrated in June to honor the 1969 Stonewall Riots. Camacho said pride month means queer and trans folks are celebrated and uplifted. 

“It’s a reminder that we are seen, we exist, and we are valid but also a reminder that there is still so much work to be done as queer and trans folks are very often left out of conversations and made to feel as if we don’t exist,” said Camacho.

Camacho is part of a Delano organization — Loud for Tomorrow — where they advocate and focus on civic engagement. During pride month, the organization holds events in the community to celebrate everyone.

“As Loud For Tomorrow, we always strive to create a safe, inclusive space for everyone. We know it’s important to continue to have and create spaces like these and continue to advocate for marginalized folks,” said Camacho. “Holding workshops and educating people as much as we can is crucial in working to create an environment in which we all thrive.”

As a member of the LGBTQ community and a Loud for Tomorrow member, Camacho does her best to educate people on this.

“Sometimes it is difficult and overwhelming to have conversations with folks who aren’t really willing to listen. However it’s important for me to have these conversations with my family and community and provide as much education and resources as possible to change that narrative,” said Camacho.

This month is very important to Camacho because she knows how difficult it can be for people to talk about this matter.

“I will always be a safe space for conversations like these and provide any resources necessary. To anyone who may be struggling with this, you are seen, you are very much valid, and you have a community who loves you, cares for you, and supports you,” said Camacho.

Camacho wants everyone to know that the Loud for Tomorrow organization is a safe space for anyone and everyone who wants to talk/discuss anything.