365: A PRIDE 2025 Overview at the Lab
As our summer program is coming to a near close, we'd like to take the time to reflect and share the opportunities we had this summer as an organization. Based on how fast programming can be, we oftentimes and unintentionally bypass the moments where we realize an impact is made, whether it's from a queer youth feeling safe within a space for the very first time, building long-lasting connections through mentorships, or expanding our community network in ways we couldn't have imagined. It's corny to say, but summer 2025 was one to remember and opportunistically laid the groundwork for expansive Rainbow Labs programming this fall. BUT, before we dive into the excitement of Rainbow Labs' future, let's look back at the moments that led up to this abundant growth!
For the entire month of June and even into May, it felt like every weekend brought another opportunity to be in the community...not just as guests but as active participants, bringing Rainbow Labs energy wherever we went. These weren't just events; they were moments of deep connection, joy, and visibility.
Long Beach Teen Pride Festival
This was our first big Pride outing of the season, setting the tone for what was to come. Organized by the City of Long Beach and CSULB's School of Sexuality Studies, the festival was designed by and for LGBTQIA+ youth. The energy was vibrant, full of color, music, dancing, and young people unapologetically taking up space. We hosted a booth where youth stopped by to learn about our programs, share stories, and take home affirming resources. Many expressed that it was their first-ever Pride event, and seeing Rainbow Labs as part of that memory felt deeply full-circle.
Pride in Bloom
Set inside the stunning gardens of NHM, this event, curated by the Drag Arts Collective and hosted by our lab partner and drag royalty Pickle, was both magical and meaningful. Picture this: drag performances in front of dinosaur skeletons, queer families exploring exhibits, and queer vendors lining the pathways with affirming merch and handmade goods. We were one of the few youth-focused orgs present, and having our table there allowed young people and families to connect with us in a space that blended celebration with education. The joy was palpable.
Queer Prom
This was a dream realized. Co-hosted with our excellent partners Latino Equality Alliance, Reach LA, Children's Hospital LA, and Chicxs Rockerxs SELA we transformed the Black and queer-centered Pieter Performance Space into a vibrant, affirming dance floor. From the rainbow lights to the photo booth to the food and slow dances, this prom was a space that centered joy without compromise. For many of our youth, it was their first prom where they could show up authentically, wearing what they wanted, dancing with who they wanted, and feeling safe doing so.
Tabling at Queer Prom
LA Galaxy Pride Night Game
A major highlight of the season. We had the honor of tabling at the LA Galaxy's official Pride Night game at Dignity Health Sports Park. Thousands of fans poured in to celebrate, and we were front and center meeting LGBTQIA+ youth, families, and allies who were excited to learn about Rainbow Labs. We weren't just visible, we were recognized on the jumbotron as a featured community partner for our work at the intersection of youth, identity, and sports inclusion. Seeing our name up there in a major stadium? A moment we won't forget.
These Pride events weren't just checkboxes on a calendar they were intentional spaces for us to stand proudly in front, not just behind the scenes. Our team many of us queer, trans, and BIPOCshowed up visibly and loudly, modeling what it means to lead with authenticity. We weren't just telling youth "you belong," we were proving it by being there, fully ourselves.
Ball delivery at the LA Galaxy Pride night game
