East Bay Stonewall News

Statement Condemning Trump Administration’s Anti-Trans Executive Order

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 07:36:39 GMT

The East Bay Stonewall Democratic club strongly condemns the Trump Administration’s executive order which aims to dismantle life for transgender people in America. The executive order redefines gender as exclusively male or female as assigned at birth, eliminates “X” gender markers on U.S. passports, reverses guidelines protecting transgender inmates, and severely limits other federal recognition and protections for transgender individuals.

These executive orders are cruel, hateful, and do absolutely nothing to improve the lives of Americans. It aims to narrowly define sex in a way that will allow those in power to impose their own outdated ideology which will harm and threaten the rights for ALL Americans (transgender and cisgender alike).

The East Bay Stonewall Democratic Club stands strong against this blatant hate, reaffirms its support for the transgender community, and vows to do everything in its power to protect and uplift trans folks and the broader LGBTQ+ community in Alameda County and beyond from the hateful policies of this openly fascist administration.

Furthermore, we will work closely with our locally elected officials (many who were endorsed by our club) to ensure they will do everything in THEIR power to support and uplift the trans community in Alameda County and throughout the entire Bay Area. We are asking our elected officials to sign on to this letter and demonstrate their willingness to champion the rights of the transgender community and broader LGBTQ+ community and fight for:

Access to Gender-Affirming Care: Ensuring that all transgender individuals have access to the healthcare they need to live authentically.
LGBTQ+ Inclusive Education: Supporting comprehensive sex education and LGBTQ+ history in our schools to foster understanding, acceptance, and respect.
Protection of Trans Youth: Safeguarding transgender youth from discrimination, bullying, and violence, both within and outside of schools. Including safeguarding the rights of trans students to play in sports activities that align with their gender identity.
Sanctuary for LGBTQ+ Immigrants: Providing a safe haven for LGBTQ+ immigrants seeking asylum and opportunity and protecting our current immigrants from hate-based deportation.
Ensuring Protection from Violence in Government Facilities: Work to make sure transgender individuals are protected from violence in jails, prisons and other government facilities.

Our local officials must use the powers bestowed upon them by us, the people, to not only show solidarity with our transgender neighbors, but to enact policies which will protect them in the face of great hate from our federal government.

In these intemperate times it is vital we stay rooted in community, care for each other deeply, and remember our collective power is stronger than any one administration.

Statement Condemning LGBTQ+ Hate Crime at San Lorenzo Public Library

Matt Lardner — Wed, 15 Jun 2022 15:05:05 GMT

As out and proud LGBTQ+ elected officials and community leaders, the East Bay Stonewall Democratic Club Board is outraged about the senseless act of hate caused during the Drag Queen Story Hour at the San Lorenzo Public Library on June 11th. We call upon the Alameda County Sheriff's Office and District Attorney to investigate and charge, to the greatest extent possible under the law, these acts of hate aimed at harming members of our community and our allies. Additionally, we urge our non-LGBTQ+ allies in offices across the region and state to provide additional support to our community during these increasingly challenging times.

On Saturday June 11th, The San Lorenzo Public Library hosted a Drag Queen Story Hour. This event was part of a series of events throughout the Alameda County Library system designed to celebrate PRIDE month and uplift LGBTQ+ stories and experiences. During this event, members of the Proud Boys, a right-wing hate group, stormed the story hour yelling homophobic and transphobic slurs, with the obvious intent of threatening and intimidating the participants of the event.

We strongly condemn this act of hate aimed at harming members of our community and our allies. We are living in a time where LGBTQ+ rights are under attack across several states in our nation, and sadly, even accepting and welcoming places like Alameda County are not exempt from this type of hate. Hate has no place in our community and must be met with decisive action.

In solidarity,

Lisa Hu, Matt Lardner, Joe Greaves, George Perezvelez, Terry Taplin, Victor Aguilar, Alex Randolph, and Shane Krpata

(East Bay Stonewall Democratic Club Board)

Stonewall Endorsement Vote: AD 18 Special General Election

Sun, 25 Jul 2021 18:11:20 GMT

Prepare to cast your ballots!

East Bay Stonewall Democratic Club will be hosting a virtual endorsement meeting for Assembly District 18.

Help decide who Stonewall endorses - Mia Bonta or Janani Ramachandran
Login to the Stonewall member portal on August 3rd from 5 PM to 8 PM to cast your vote
To be eligible to vote, you must have paid your annual dues by July 27, 2021

Only members whose annual dues were paid prior to May 19th are eligible to vote. You can make sure you are an active club member by logging in to the member portal here. Your email is your username. You can reset your password here if you don't know it.

Get to Know the Candidates!

Candidate Interviews:

Candidate Questionnaires:

Mia Bonta

Janani Ramachandran

If you have any question as to whether you are an eligible voting member, please email, eastbaystonewalldems@gmail.com.

We look forward to your participation on August 3rd from 5:00 to 8:00 PM.

East Bay Stonewall Board Calls for Board Election

Matt Lardner — Mon, 22 Mar 2021 01:18:31 GMT

The East Bay Stonewall Democratic Club's Board has called for a board election to help fill some unexpected vacancies. Any current club member is eligible to apply to serve on the Board.

If increasing LGBTQIA+ representation in elected office and developing local, grassroots political participation that advances policies that will improve the lives of LGBTQIA+ community members and their families is important to you, we have opportunities!

Our Board is planning a series of robust discussions to help shape the future of our Club in the coming months. We opted to fill existing vacancies and confirm currently appointed members through an election so the Board can develop an action plan for the future of our Club and its members.

To run for the Club's Board, please download the board member application below, and follow the instructions on the form to submit your candidacy. The deadline to submit applications will close on April 9, 2021 at 5pm.

If you'd like to run for an Executive Officer position, there are three positions that are up during this election: President, Vice President, and Political Action Committee Chair. To learn more about these positions, the board, or the duties associated with them, please contact John Bauters at jbauters@gmail.com.

The Board will hold an online/virtual election on Saturday, April 17, 2021 at 1pm.

Click here for Board Member Application

East Bay Stonewall Statement Supporting Transgender Awareness Week 11/13-11/19/2020

Tue, 17 Nov 2020 03:46:30 GMT

Every month and especially this November, we urge the East Bay Stonewall Democratic Clubcommunity, allies, and supporters to: center transgender activists, advocates, and organizations; donate and support individuals and organizations delivering life-saving services in housing, health, and more; learn more about key issues facing trans community members; and identify additional ways to celebrate and stand with transgender communities in your personal and professional lives. We hope you will join us in this necessary work of love, justice, and community.

Truvada for the Soul: East Bay Stonewall Pride Playlist

Matt Lardner — Thu, 25 Jun 2020 22:33:00 GMT

Kickstart your Pride playlist with East Bay Stonewall Dems. We’ve selected some songs for you to enjoy on our Truvada for the Soul playlist on Spotify!

Celebrate Pride 2020 safely with a party music mix to unite us all!!

https://t.co/ZUuszWCe0x

We're recruiting! Join Our Board!

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 02:11:47 GMT

East Bay Stonewall Board is Recruiting!

Are you interested in increasing LGBTQ+ political participation and representation? Look no further, East Bay Stonewall Democratic Club is recruiting new members to join our board. We encourage you to volunteer your time and talents! The deadline to submit applications closes July 14, 2020 at 5pm. Click here for application.

East Bay Stonewall Statement on Ending Racism

Matt Lardner — Mon, 01 Jun 2020 23:31:47 GMT

We embrace anti-racism and the end of white supremacy. Tony McDade, George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and Ahmaud Arbery are the latest names added to the long list of loved ones we remember alongside the senseless loss of so many other lives.

East Bay Stonewall Democratic Club stands in solidarity with others who are committed to supporting structural change and ending police brutality and violence against the Black, Inidigenous, and all other communities of color. We will continue to lead with voices that promote inclusion and equality grounded in our shared vision of justice for all.

Please consider making a donation to Black Visions Collective as a sign of solidarity from our community. Black Visions Collective is a black- and queer-led organization based in Minneapolis who is on the frontlines of the uprising in response to the murder of George Floyd, and invested in long-term organizing.

East Bay Stonewall Quarterly Update

Matt Lardner — Thu, 02 Apr 2020 01:12:18 GMT

Dear East Bay Stonewall Deomcratic Club Members,

These are incredibly tough times. As no doubt you are aware, COVID-19 will continue to have a devastating impact on our world. As we brace for the effects this pandemic will have on our lives, we realize more than ever the importance of community.

Stonewall stands united with over 100 organizations across the country reminding media and health officials of the devastating effect COVID-19 has on LGBTQ+ communities. We recently signed onto the open letter from our friends at the National LGBT Cancer Network.

Since our founding in 1982 it has been the mission of Stonewall Democratic club to give voice to the East Bay LGBTQQI community. We understand that in crises such as these, historically marginalized communities will suffer most. LGBT populations are particularly vulnerable to the negative effects of this virus. We are monitoring the rapid developments of COVI-19 and committed to keeping you updated with resources and ways to lift our voice at this time. Please be safe and take all the necessary precautions, we are our most important resource.

Some articles to reference:

Update on Endorsed Candidates

Although it is a hard time for many, we wanted to take a moment to celebrate the wins of our endorsed candidates in the March 2020 elections! Congratulations to these candidates! We are looking forward to working with each and everyone one of you!

15th State Assembly District

Buffy Wicks

18th State Assembly District

Rob Bonta

Alameda County Supervisor, District 4

Nate Miley

Alameda County Supervisor, District 5

Keith Carson

Board of Education, District 2

Angela Normand

Board of Education, District 5

Janevette Cole

Democratic County Central Committee, 20th District

Melissa Shuen-Mallory

Democratic County Central Committee, 18th District

Victor Aguilar, Jr

Brendalynn Goodall

Measure C was also passed with a strong majority!

Welcome New Stonewall Board

In addition to some newly elected officials, we wanted to welcome our new Stonewall Board that was unanimously voted into office at our Annual Member Party in February!

President

Kamika Dunlap

Vice President

John Bauters

Secretary

James Chang

PAC Chair

Amy Fitzgerald

Treasurer

George Perezvelez

At-Large Board Members

Victor Aguilar, Jr.

Anne Marks

Ces Rosales

Vince Steele

Upcoming Club Events

Be sure to join us at our upcoming events later this Spring! Note: depending on shelter-in-place order, events may be held virtually.

Virtual Panel Discussion: Lessons from AIDS and COVID-19: Building Community in a Pandemic

(Wednesday, April 15 from 6:00 - 7:30 pm)

Join us for a virtual panel discussion with Bay area community leaders, mental health specialists and historians as we discuss the ever growing COVID-19 crisis. What lessons have members of our community learned from the HIV/AIDS crisis that we can apply to our current health emergency? How do we prioritize self-care in the midst of a pandemic? Let’s channel our feelings of anxiety, fear and anger into productive action as we discuss ways to build community while in isolation.

Membership Meeting

(May 13 from 6:00 - 7:00 pm)

Join us for our second Membership Meeting of 2020! Location TBA closer to the event.

What our Board Members are Reading, Watching, and Listening to Right Now

In these times, it’s important we’re all taking time for activities that are giving us joy. We want to share with our community what we’re watching, reading, listening to individually that is keeping us calm/grounded.

Reading

The Little Book of Hygge: The Danish Way to Live Well by Meik Wiking
“Dare to Lead” Brene’ Brown

Watching

Derry Girls on Netflix
“Tiger King” on Netflix
“Self Made: Inspired by the Life of Madam C.J. Walker” on Netflix

Listening

“The Read,” a hilarious podcast covering pop culture and hip hop.
80s hits - Queen
Women’s Foundation of California Rebel Joy Playlist Uncut

Renew your membership/Sign up Friends

Don’t miss out on these exciting events and more! Make sure you are an active club member by logging in to the member portal here.* Please also encourage your family, friends, and community to consider becoming a member of our club as well!

*Are you a member but don't know your password to log in? No problem. Just reset your password here.

Follow us on social media

Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!

Proposed Amendments to East Bay Stonewall Democrats Bylaws

Matt Lardner — Mon, 10 Jun 2019 18:50:05 GMT

Proposed Amendments to East Bay Stonewall Democrats Bylaws

The board wants to share our proposed bylaw changes related to our club's endorsement process. Members will be voting on these changes at General Membership Meeting on Wednesday, July 17th (location TBD). Please read the changes below:

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ARTICLE VIII – COMMITTEES

8.1 – Committees: Each committee shall serve in an advisory capacity to the Board of Directors and may develop recommendations for consideration by the Board. The Board may also delegate certain matters to committees, including developing new projects, improving existing services and identifying problems for resolution.

8.2 Scope - The Board may establish committees as needed. The size, duration and responsibilities of such committees shall be established by a majority vote of the Board of Directors. In addition, the club shall maintain the following standing committees:

· The Political Affairs Committee (PAC) is responsible for the political activities of the club. The PAC shall be comprised of only members of the Board. Consistent with the provisions of Article IX, the PAC shall develop protocols for holding meetings of the general membership for the purpose of considering the endorsement of candidates and ballot measures. The PAC shall also make recommendations regarding the disbursement of funds in affiliated political action committees. The PAC Chairperson shall preside over the PAC. Board members may not serve on the PAC at any time when their service would constitute a conflict of interest. Examples of conflicts include but are not limited to declaring candidacy for political office or being employed on behalf of a candidate or their committee. Members of the PAC must resign from the committee immediately upon the existence of a conflict. The PAC Chairperson shall establish an annual budget for PAC funds and the PAC shall be tasked with developing strategies for raising those funds.

· The Membership and Communications Committee is responsible for developing recommendations regarding the recruitment and retention of club members and managing related membership and communications processes. The President shall designate a member of the Board of Directors to serve as chairperson and preside over the committee.

· The Policy and Advocacy Committee is responsible for the policy activities of the club, including developing recommendations regarding the endorsement of legislation, and regarding the club’s involvement in related policy matter. The Committee is also responsible for coordinating the advocacy activities of the Club.

8.3. Committee Membership - Committees shall be comprised of Executive Officers, Board Members, and/or members of the club. Committee appointments are made by the President, and unless otherwise specified herein the President shall designate one member of each committee to serve as chairperson. The President shall appoint each Board Member to serve on at least one committee.

ARTICLE IX – ENDORSEMENTS

9.1 – Offices Endorsed: Subject to the requirements of the State Party By-Laws and the laws of the State of California, the Club may make endorsements of candidates for local elected offices as well as Democratic Candidates in primary elections for state and federal offices and for State and Local Ballot Measures that have been qualified. Endorsements for Democratic Party positions are subject to the process described in Section 9.11. To be eligible for endorsement, a candidate must be a registered Democrat. The PAC may determine which election races and ballot measures to consider for endorsement in a given election cycle.

9.2 – Candidate Endorsement Eligibility: A candidate seeking public office with a jurisdiction over all or a portion of Alameda County may seek the official endorsement of the Club. To be eligible, the candidate must submit a completed endorsement questionnaire to the PAC Chairperson no later than seven days after the latest candidate filing date for the election, as set by the Alameda County Registry of Voters. The questionnaire shall contain a provision that may be signed and dated by the candidate identifying and authorizing a third party to submit the questionnaire on their behalf.

9.3. – Ballot Measure Endorsement Eligibility: Only a ballot measure that will appear on a ballot within Alameda County may seek the official endorsement of the Club. To be eligible, the chair of an FPPC-recognized campaign committee must submit a completed ballot measure endorsement questionnaire to the PAC Chairperson not later than seven days after the latest candidate filing date for the election, as set by the Alameda County Registry of Voters. If no campaign committee exists, any person who signed the official Argument in Support of the measure for the Alameda County Voters Guide may file to seek the measure’s endorsement, subject to the same requirements, identified above. The questionnaire shall contain a provision that may be signed and dates by the ballot measure representative identifying and authorizing a third party to submit the questionnaire on their behalf.

9.4 – Endorsement Process: After the endorsement application deadline has passed, the PAC Chairperson shall notify the Board of the number of candidates and ballot measures seeking the Club’s endorsement and shall notify all candidates of the date, time and location of the endorsement meeting with the general membership. Notice of the meeting shall conform with the provisions of Article V of these bylaws and be made available to the public. The PAC Chairperson shall establish the format and manner for evaluation of candidates and measures, as well as the date, time and location for the endorsement meeting. Upon approval of the date and location by the Board, the PAC Chairperson shall notify the candidates and ballot measure representatives of the date and time for the endorsement meeting, along with instructions for the format of the meeting and the Club’s endorsement tiers.

9.5 Threshold for Endorsement – All candidates and ballot measures must receive at least 60% of the votes cast in order to receive the Club’s endorsement. Members shall be provided the names of all candidates and ballot measures that meet eligibility requirements, as determined by the PAC Chairperson. In instances where a member does not cast a vote, it shall not be included in the total of votes cast for purposes of determining whether the threshold for endorsement has been reached.

9.6 – Ballot Markers – For candidate endorsements only, the PAC Chairperson shall place two markers besides the names of each candidate who appears on the ballot.

LGBTQ Candidate Marker – For each candidate who identifies themselves as LGBTQ in their candidate questionnaire, there shall be a marker beside their name on the ballot identifying them as such, for the benefit of the membership.

East Bay Stonewall Democratic Club Member Marker – For each candidate who is a current, dues-paying members of the Club, there shall be a marker beside their name on the ballot identifying them as such, for the benefit of the membership.

The PAC Chairperson shall determine the marker for the ballots and shall include a prominent legend explaining each marker at the top of the first page of the ballot for the benefit of the membership.

9.7 – Tabulation of Results: The PAC Chairperson, or another member of the PAC if the Chairperson is unavailable, along with not less than one other Board Member, shall meet in private after the endorsement meeting to tabulate the vote of the general membership. The PAC Chairperson shall report the outcome to the full Board within 24 hours of the endorsement meeting, along with the tiered endorsement benefits each endorsee is entitled to, pursuant to Section 9.10 of this Article. The reported results shall be limited to “endorsed” or “not endorsed” and shall not contain specific information about vote counts. The ballots shall be retained by the PAC Chairperson through the date of the election. Any requests to recount votes or other challenges to the endorsement process shall be adjudicated by the PAC Chairperson, in consultation with the Board President.

9.8 – Publishing Slate of Endorsed Candidates: The Secretary shall notify all candidates, ballot measure proponents, and the Club’s membership of the outcome of the vote taken at the endorsement meeting within 48 hours of the adjournment of the meeting.

9.9 – Rescission: A request to rescind an endorsement may be filed by any member of the Club by submitting a signed, dated request, with a basis for the request to the PAC Chairperson. If supported by a majority of the Board, the endorsement of a candidate or ballot measure may be placed before the general membership for rescission. The general membership, by a two-thirds majority vote, may vote to rescind an endorsement.

9.10 – Endorsement Benefits: Candidates and ballot measures that secure the endorsement of the Club are entitled to various levels of endorsement support by the Club, its Board, and Members.

Tier 1 – For all candidates who are neither LGBTQ nor Club Members, as well as all ballot measures, the Club shall authorize the use of the Club’s name and seal on campaign literature or materials, and the endorsee may identify themselves as endorsed by the Club through the date of the election for which they sought Club endorsement.

Tier 2 – For all candidates who are members of the Club but do not identify as LGBTQ, the endorsee shall have all the benefits of a Tier 1 endorsee but shall also be eligible to receive a campaign contribution from the Club. The amount of any financial contribution shall be recommended by the PAC and approved by the Board.

Tier 3 – For all candidates who identify as LGBTQ, the endorsee shall have all the benefits of Tier 1 and 2 endorsees but shall also be eligible to receive volunteer hours from the Club’s Board and membership. The amount of any financial contribution shall be recommended by the PAC and approved by the Board.

The PAC will determine the amount of financial assistance to provide eligible Tier 2 and 3 endorsees by considering the total amount of eligible funds. Priority in funding shall always be given to Tier 3 candidates and the amount of assistance awarded shall be tiered such that Tier 3 candidates receive larger contributions.

The number of volunteer hours provided to Tier 3 candidates shall be determined by the Board, at the recommendation of the PAC.

The PAC may hold additional fundraisers for endorsed candidates or measures that align with the Club’s mission that are separate from and in addition to the endorsement process.

9.11 – Endorsements for Democratic Party Positions: An openly LGBTQ member of the Club may seek the endorsement of the Board for a leadership position in another Democratic club or caucus that is part of the official political apparatus of the California or Alameda County Democratic Party. An applicant for an endorsement under this section may apply to the PAC Chairperson for the endorsement by identifying the organization, position, and the date of the appointment or election in writing. If the applicant is part of a slate of candidates, the Board may consider endorsement of the entire slate. The decision to endorse shall be official upon the vote of a majority of the Board. The endorsed candidate may use the Club’s name and logo for the race and position for which they were endorsed.

EB Stonewall Endorses Candidates for June Primary

Matt Lardner — Mon, 26 Mar 2018 21:27:58 GMT

We had an exciting Membership Meeting last Thursday!

We came together and voted on endorsing local and state candidates for the June 2018 Primary Election. Thank you to all members who came to cast their vote and support the club!

Per club bylaws, to be eligible for endorsement a candidate must be a registered Democrat and fill out our candidate questionnaire. A candidate must receive at least 60% of the votes cast to be endorsed.

The following candidates have received endorsements from the East Bay Stonewall Democratic Club for the June 2018 Primary Election:

Secretary of State: Alex Padilla

State Treasurer: Fiona Ma

State Controller: Betty Yee

State Insurance Commissioner: Richard Lara

State Superintendent of Public Education: Tony Thurmond

State Board of Equalization, 2nd District: Malia Cohen

U.S. Congress CA District 13: Barbara Lee

Alameda County Superior Court, Seat 11: Judge Tara Flanagan

Alameda County Board of Education Trustee, Area 1: Joaquin Rivera

While the club also voted on the Alameda County District Attorney and Assembly District 15 races, no candidate reached the 60% threshold.

Congratulations to all candidates who received an endorsement!

Stay tuned for more exciting club news and events!

East Bay Stonewall Democratic Club denounces challenge to one of only two LGBTQ judges in Alameda County

Matt Lardner — Thu, 01 Mar 2018 01:00:13 GMT

The East Bay Stonewall Democratic Club has voted to early endorse Alameda County Superior Court Judge Tara Flanagan in her race for re-election. The early endorsement is a reaction to her seat being challenged by retired public defense lawyer Karen Katz.

In the 1990’s, the LGBT community took to the ballot box in San Francisco to elect judges from their community, after years of being shut out by Republican governors George Deukmejian and Pete Wilson. In 2010, Vicky Kolakowski was the first LGBTQ person elected to the Alameda County Superior Court. She was re-elected in 2014.

Prior to the Republican governors, Jerry Brown appointed four LGBTQ judges to the bench, beginning with the Honorable Stephen Lachs, who served on the Los Angeles County Superior Court from 1979-1999.

“We are shocked and saddened that the very same ballot box that was used to empower the LGBTQ community is now being used to disempower us in the Alameda courts,” stated PAC chair Michael Colbruno. “Tara Flanagan is one of only two LGBTQ judges on the bench in Alameda County and she has served as an honorable and independent member of the court. It is reprehensible that the only challenge being mounted this year is aimed at a distinguished LGBTQ member of the court.”

The Federal Judiciary clearly sets forth the standards by which a member of the bench should be judged:

“An independent and honorable judiciary is indispensable to justice in our society. A judge should maintain and enforce high standards of conduct and should personally observe those standards, so that the integrity and independence of the judiciary may be preserved.”

“The East Bay Stonewall Democratic Club will do everything in its power to protect this seat,” stated club president Brendalynn Goodall.

Happy LGBTQI new year from Stonewall!

Mon, 01 Jan 2018 23:11:57 GMT

December 22, 2017

Dear Members,

Happy Holidays and New Year! 2017 marked East Bay Stonewall Democratic Club 35 years of advocacy for equality. The LGBTQI community has accomplished a great deal over the past 35 years and we see that locally as well. We are thrilled that two of our most visible LGBTQI elected officials are now serving as mayors in the East Bay. John Bauters, Mayor of Emeryville, and Gabriel Quinto, Mayor of El Cerrito. John and Gabriel will serve in their respective roles for the next year. We know they will represent our community well and stand firm for our rights.

Unfortunately, this year has also been challenging given the national political climate. While we saw some great victories (yay Danica and Doug!), the LGBTQI community has been targeted both through policy, judicial bench confirmations and political appointees in opposition to our rights and the fight for full equality. Now more than ever, it’s important that we join hands and stand united as we lift each other up and pursue progressive and inclusive policies. Stonewall is helping to lead that charge. Here’s a partial list of how we represented and advocated on your behalf in 2017:

Hosted the 5^th Annual East Bay Stonewall Democratic Club Oakland Pride Breakfast and honored six individuals and organizations for providing leadership and promoting equality in the LGBTQI community. Special Guest Speaker: Congresswoman Barbara Lee.
Educated our general membership about legislative bills of interests to the LGBTQI Community – SB179 Gender Identity & SB219 LGBT Senior Long-term Care Bill of Rights, and the Healthy California Act, SB562.
Joined Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf to reaffirm that no resources shall be used for city business to North Carolina (in response to new legislation erroneously touted as “a repeal” of the discriminatory HB2 law)
Advocated on behalf of LGBTQI elders – the Trump administration was attempting to erase our Trans elders from a federal survey that determines how billions of dollars are spent on elder care and support.
Hosted a community forum on immigration policy and reform and its impact on the LGBTQI community with Oasis Legal Services, National Center for Lesbian Rights, Senator Nancy Skinner and Assemblymember Rob Bonta.
Successfully advocated Mayor Libby Schaaf on behalf of the re-appointment of our own board member Michael Colbruno to another term as a Port of Oakland Commissioner.
Successfully lobbied Piedmont City Council members to pressure the acting mayor to resign because of hostile comments directed at our trans community.
Joined Lambda Democratic Club of Contra Costa County to officially condemn Trump’s tweets banning transgender members from the military.
Hosted a community forum on the City of Oakland’s infrastructure and housing bond and Alameda County priorities with Alameda County Board of Supervisor Wilma Chan and Oakland’s Policy Director for Infrastructure and Transportation, Matt Nichols.
Wrote an open letter to Donald Trump on “Real Leadership” stating that Stonewall will continue to work every hour of everyday to make certain that this nation is one that welcomes and lifts up the health and wellbeing of workers, immigrants, Blacks, whites, Jews, Muslims, Transgender people, gays and lesbians.

As we move into 2018, please make sure to keep the following dates in your calendars:

East Bay Stonewall Holiday Social

Special Guest: Honorable John Bauters, Emeryville Mayor

January 17, 2018, 5:30-7:30 PM

The Port Bar

2023 Broadway, Oakland

East Bay Stonewall & Lambda Democratic Club Assembly District 15 - LGBTQI Candidates Forum

February 21, 2018, 6:00-8:00PM

Sports Basement

2727 Milvia St., Berkeley

East Bay Stonewall Annual Membership Meeting

Board Elections, Candidate Endorsements

March 21, 2018, 6:00-8:00PM

Location to be announced

Thank you again for your support.

In solidarity,

The East Bay Stonewall Democratic Club

Brendalynn Goodall, President

James Chang, Vice President

Nick Resnick, Secretary

Joaquin Rivera, Treasurer

Michael Colbruno, Political Action Chair

At-large members

Lori Droste

Kamika Dunlap

Joseph Greaves

Anne Marks

George Perezvelez

Ces Rosales

Apply for our paid Stonewall Fellowship - Deadline Extended

Thu, 16 Nov 2017 18:41:10 GMT

Student Fellow for East Bay LGBTQI Advocacy Group 2017 -2018

East Bay Stonewall Democratic Club - the longest serving LGBTQI advocacy organization in the East Bay - is seeking an undergraduate student fellow to help coordinate our advocacy, communications and membership activities. This is a great opportunity for a student with an interest in LGBTQI activism, politics and public policy. The duration of the fellowship is a minimum of two academic semesters, and may continue beyond that. The fellow will receive a $300 monthly stipend. The fellow will be expected to meet one hour each week with the President of the club or their designee, and to attend board meetings and club events when possible (approximately once per month). In addition, the fellow will spend an average of 5 hours per week working remotely from home or school on various organizational tasks. The fellow should have access to a computer with internet.

Responsibilities include:

· Communications – supporting the execution of the Club’s communications strategy, including posting content on the Stonewall website; preparing email blasts and e-newsletters; and drafting correspondence and press releases.

· Membership – processing and maintaining membership information on current members; following up with non-member event attendees to encourage them to become members; supporting outreach efforts; etc.

· Events – helping to coordinate Club events, including helping to plan and promote the event, coordinate volunteers, and onsite support.

· Advocacy – supporting Club effort to promote policies and candidates that are supportive of the LGBTQ community. The fellow will have an opportunity to interact regularly with board members, local elected officials, and community leaders.

If you are interested in applying to become the next East Bay Stonewall Democratic Club student fellow, please submit your resume and a short cover letter explaining why you are interested in the position. Submit your materials to: eastbaystonewalldems@gmail.com.

When emailing and submitting application, please put in the subject line of your email “YOUR FULL NAME: Fellowship”

Deadline: 11/20/2017 at 5pm

Alameda County Democratic Party Candidate Training on December 2nd

Thu, 16 Nov 2017 02:22:32 GMT

https://secure.actblue.com/donate/2017training

Statement from California Democratic Party Women's Caucus Chair Christine Pelosi on Sexual Harassment in Politics

Fri, 20 Oct 2017 18:05:22 GMT

San Francisco—California Democratic Party Women’s Caucus Chair Christine Pelosi released the following statement responding to the growing discussion of sexual harassment in California politics:

“The last few days have made clear that the pervasive, demeaning and degrading harassment women face in political circles is a problem that goes beyond partisanship and everyone is accountable. We as Democrats must continually strive to advance equality for all. The bipartisan #WeSaidEnough movement started by Adama Iwu is a clarion call to do better immediately.

We stand by the coalition's call for much-needed reform, including the following suggestions for workplace procedures:

A confidential hotline to report incidents of harassment or abuse.
An independent outside entity, staffed by professionally trained investigators, to review and make determinations on claims;
Public disclosure of how tax dollars are used to adjudicate claims and settlements;
A party that holds candidates and elected officials accountable to promote and maintain a safe culture for all; and,
Laws that provide whistleblower and retaliation protections for all victims.

Our party should be an inclusive place where people can achieve their potential and make real contributions to a progressive future for our country. Democrats at every level must embrace a zero-tolerance approach to sexual harassment and assault, from small clubs to our candidates to our national party. We must look to the best practices of private entities and adapt those practices to our own operations—things like anonymous hotlines for complaints and making sure investigations are handled by experienced professionals in a sensitive and comprehensive manner. And it’s incumbent upon every single one of us to build a culture that respects and values women and the contributions we have made to our Party.

We are witnessing a powerful moment where women are standing up and refusing to stay quiet about the treatment we have endured for too long. This is how change for the better starts, and our Democratic Party must stand in solidarity with the amazing women driving this long overdue and badly needed movement.”

# # #

Oakland Pride Breakfast 9/10/2017

(Past member) — Sun, 10 Sep 2017 15:00:00 GMT

Come celebrate Oakland's Pride Breakfast with friends, food, and the East Bay Stonewall Democratic Club.

Annual East Bay Stonewall

Oakland Pride Breakfast

Sunday, September 13, 2015
8:00 am-9:30 am
California Nurses Association

Sunday, September 10, 2017, 1544 Broadway, Oakland
RSVP Online

This event is FREE for members of the East Bay Stonewall Democratic Club. If you are not a member and would like to attend, please become a member. Stonewall is offering a one-time only Oakland Pride membership special for $25. Bring cash or a check to the breakfast, or please join online.

We are pleased to welcome Congresswoman Barbara Lee, our keynote speaker!

Please join us for a morning celebration before the Oakland Pride Parade.

Click Here to RSVP

Thank you to our generous event sponsors:

Sponsorship Opportunities Available - Click Here

An Open Letter to Donald Trump on Real Leadership

(Past member) — Sun, 20 Aug 2017 00:51:06 GMT

August 18, 2017

The White House

1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW

Washington, DC 20500

Dear President Trump,

This past week you let us all know beyond a shadow of a doubt that you are unfit to lead this nation. You lifted up violent racists as reasonable and valuable members of this society, stating repeatedly that “both sides” are to blame for the bloodshed and chaos in Charlottesville. To be very clear, violent racists are not reasonable or valuable, and they are solely to blame for this horrific act that led to death, horror and injury for so many. Your lack of a moral compass is outrageous and showcases at best a stunning ignorance of our collective democratic values and at worst a willful disregard for the wellbeing of our nation.

We are writing to let you know that while your leadership is an abject failure, the leadership of the people at the local level abides. We are grateful today that our nation is one that is built upon strong institutions at all levels, from the national to the local. It is clear that our voices at the local level matter now more than ever.

We are writing to let you know that we wholeheartedly believe in the saying that a nation is not to be judged by the character of its leader but by the character of its people. We know that what you lack in moral fiber and aptitude for service, we the people are working to exemplify every day and every waking minute. And while you have consistently chosen to not stand up against violence and abuse, we the people will stand up.

We say no to horror. We say no to white nationalism. We say no to xenophobia and transphobia. We say no to divisive, non-democratic rhetoric that scapegoats and vilifies our loved ones and neighbors. We will fight for our nation, and we will be strong and unwavering in our commitment to justice and equity.

It is clear that you will continue down an abysmal path that serves the narrowest possible interest: your own. While we shudder at the reality that the man currently entrusted with upholding our nation’s highest office is entirely incapable of doing his job, we will continue to work every hour of every day to make certain that this nation is one that welcomes and lifts up the health and wellbeing of workers, immigrants, blacks, whites, Jews, Muslims, transgender people, gays and lesbians. Moreover, we will continue to lift up the voices and wellbeing of women and men regardless of their race, religion or income level. We will, in short, do what you are incapable of doing, and that is to lead with heart and courage in a time of difficulty and great peril in our nation.

Sincerely,

Brendalynn Goodall, President
The East Bay Stonewall Democratic Club

PRIDE Special! Join the club today for only $25!

Sun, 30 Jul 2017 19:30:59 GMT

In honor of the upcoming Oakland Pride and our club's 35th anniversary celebration, you can join or renew your club membership for only $25!

Membership has its privileges as it allows you free registration for our annual pre-parade breakfast with Congresswoman Barbara Lee.

Lambda Democratic Club of Contra Costa County and East Bay Stonewall Democratic Club Joint Statement in Response to Trump's Tweets Banning Transgender Members in the Military

(Past member) — Thu, 27 Jul 2017 06:22:11 GMT

Marriage Equality Win

(Past member) — Wed, 01 Jul 2015 20:15:50 GMT

Letter from Brendalynn Goodall, Club President, on The Supreme Court decision.

Wednesday July 1st, 2015

Dear Community,

With the historic decision on marriage equality by The Supreme Court, we have come closer to full equality in the eyes on the law, our loved ones and the communities in which we live, work and thrive.

I am reminded at times like this of our mission as a club:

To further equality through the political process and community activism,
To bring together lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender, (LGBT) individuals and our allies to achieve equality for all and to advance progressive values through the Democratic Party,
To raise the issue of LGBT rights in political campaigns, and
To lobby for legislation that advances and upholds the rights of LGBT individuals.

The Supreme Court decision is a celebratory victory, however, there are many challenges and issues that we need to continue to address. We need to continue to fight for equality in health care services, workplace discrimination by supporting the passage of ENDA, open adoption policies to all LGBT members, transgender issues, racism within and from outside of our communities, and elder and youth issues.

As a community, we need to continue to re-energize and use what we have learned in the fight for marriage equality – and continue to fight for all LGBT rights. A battle has been won but many more are still ahead of us. The road is long, but together and with our non LGBT allies it will be a successful one. Lasting changes take time but we are on our way. With your support, your energy and your passion, we will continue to change hearts and minds and reach full equality.

Sincerely,

Brendalynn Goodall, President
East Bay Stonewall Democratic Club

BART SF Pride Service

(Past member) — Thu, 25 Jun 2015 20:15:00 GMT

The East Bay Stonewall Democratic Club has continued concerns about the adequacy of BART service during this coming weekend's SF Pride festivities. Although BART has committed to run extra trains on an on-call basis, they have fallen short of implementing a weekday schedule even though SF pride is one of the Bay Area's largest cultural events and BART’s highest ridership days of the year. To compound matters, both the Giants and A's also play home games on both Saturday and Sunday this weekend. And even though there are events on Sunday that begin well before 8 A.M., that's when BART will start operating.

East Bay Stonewall's message to BART has been clear throughout: our community expects adequate BART service on SF Pride weekend.

Please help us hold BART accountable by telling us about your BART experience this weekend. Use #FixBARTPride or e-mail eastbaystonewalldems@gmail.com.