John’s identities, including his journey in recovery, army service, living with HIV, and a Latinx farmworker’s son, profoundly shape his advocacy. With purpose and joy he leads the LGBTQ+ Collaborative. Partner of Steven Cullen and father to Cody.

Morgan is a poet, cat parent, and fried chicken connoisseur, actively supporting the local creative scene through attending concerts, comedy shows, and gallery open houses. As an openly queer advocate, Morgan takes pride in being a voice for LGBTQ+ visibility, representation, education, and acceptance in the rural community.

Growing up as a visibly trans youth in Merced during the 1990s, Katalina experienced firsthand difficulties faced by queers in small towns with limited resources. Determination, empathy, and commitment to social change makes her a powerful champion for LGBTQ+ rights.

Roman grew up in Merced, CA. As a gay male, he realized quickly the lack of services and resources provided to the LGBTQ community in his home town. After living in San Francisco for 16 years he decided to return to his roots and provide those resources that were not available to him as a youth. He became a Peer Support Specialist at San Francisco State University and is an active member of the CHATT Bureau with the UCSF Trauma Recovery Center. He has led conferences on PTSD and DFSA. He has yearly participated as a Speaker at Standford Law providing a program on Compassionate Lawyering. Roman is an Advocate for LGBTQ+ Individuals and has continued to promote, advocate and encourage change for the LGBTQ+ Community.

Alex is a hardcore foodie and appreciates culinary delights. He is a passionate partcipant of grey sweatpants season. Alex contributes to the LGBTQ+ Collaborative’s mission, fostering an inclusive environment and advancing LGBTQ+ rights and representation.

Salma enjoys exploring history, art, literature, and Japanese popular culture, all while relishing in the company of live music. Despite the occasional intimidating eyeliner they faithfully serve the queer community in the Central Valley, leveraging their capabilities to create positive change.

Whether pen or eyeliner, her artistic talent knows no bounds. Astrology deep-belly laughs, and being a slut for charcuterie are endearing qualities only shadowed by her love and radical advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community.

Anthony’s passion, expertise, and lived experience is vital to those he serves. Having experience in farmworker issues, environmental justice, health equity, harm reduction, and queer persons history, Anthony finds it important to understand the historical context which impacts the present in his work.

Patty’s journey began on a ranch, but evolved into unintentionally becoming a country girl, later transforming into a renowned and beloved songstress. Her affection for vodka and carbs is only eclipsed as an unwavering advocate of LGBTQ+ and womens rights.

Jaime has had an inspiring journey to the United States from Mexico, filled with challenges, including cultural barriers and language differences. He remains undeterred, pursuing a fulfilling life. In this country, Jaime finds refuge from the discrimination faced by LGBTQ+ .

At the age of sixteen, Mindy made the decision to leave school and enter the workforce, encountering personal challenges along the way. Despite these hurdles, she demonstrated resilience and emerged as a Trans – recovering addict and alcoholic, determined to support others on their own paths.