Masks Off. Pants down. Wigs on. Heels high. Looks Expected.
There will be no June gloom in San Francisco
I did it. Today, I walked Jackson around the block with my mask off. Yes, it felt weird. But, it also gave me an overwhelming sense of relief. Like many so many in our community, I have officially been fully vaccinated. It’s upsetting to hear that not everyone in this country is willing to participate and get vaccinated. For me, a very simple trip around the block was, in truth, the culmination of a tremendous journey that we’ve all been on together this past year or so. My own journey took its final step when I went to Moscone Center to receive my second shot of the COVID vaccine. After their jab, while I sat for the 15-minute observation period — just in case I had some rare allergic reaction — I was struck by the music playing in the background (the playlist is available on Spotify).
Memories of attending an opening night party for the original Moscone Convention Center in 1981 were quick to follow. Just picture it — a rag-tag gang of Trocadero, EndUp, and IBeam regulars pulling looks and making a scene. If memory serves me well — and she’s getting a bit fuzzy these days — I shopped at Wilkes Bashford the week before, purchasing a Fiorucci shirt and a pair of Vittertti shoes, just for the occasion. We rode down that escalator to the beat of throbbing music entering the party below — as though we owned the place.
Today the CDC announced new COVID-19 guidelines regarding what you can start doing if you are fully vaccinated. We can resume activities that we did before the pandemic without a mask.
So what does all this mean? It means we are celebrating Pride in June. Pants down. Wigs on. Heels high. Looks Expected. I’ve got many great things lined up throughout the month and will get those details to you as soon as possible. But first, let us talk about The People’s March and my annual non-profit Pride Party, which has benefited some of the cities’ most vital organizations.
The People’s March was much needed last year, and it is needed again. As a collective, Alex U. Inn and I want to celebrate our Black and Brown family members, friends, lovers, and neighbors. We want you to join us in denouncing and condemning violence against all communities of color. The march will happen again and be led by an all-Black and Brown committee of queer and trans community leaders, artists, and performers. More details to come.
The JM! Pride Party will return to its home at 620 Jones, where it has taken place since 2012. Under the direction of the CDC, you will need proof of a negative test or vaccination, which is required for entry. For me, this event is a coming home and a gathering to celebrate our chosen families.
And, boy-oh-boy, have I missed you. I think my heart will burst to see everyone together in the same place. I can see your smiles already!
If you are interested in sponsoring the event please contact me HERE. Tickets and event information will come next week. So please stay tuned.
Until then, I am sending you…
Loads of Love. Juanita!
