San Diego LGBT Pride Official Souvenir Guide 2014 | Page 19

COMMUNITY GRAND MARSHALS
PIONEERS OF PRIDE
On our 40th Anniversary, San Diego Pride honors four LGBT organizations that laid the
groundwork for the vibrant community we have today. The San Diego LGBT Community
Center, Dignity San Diego, The Imperial Court de San Diego, and the Metropolitan
Community Church have withstood the test of time, continuing to play important roles in our
community today.

The San Diego LGBT Community Center traces its roots back to community leader Jess Jessop
setting up an answering machine in a utility closet in 1971. Today, The Center is a multifaceted organization supporting the LGBT and HIV communities with programs and services
that link and empower community members; provide resources; and promote human rights
and diversity.

Dignity San Diego was started in 1973 by Pax Nidorf to provide a safe and supportive faith
community for LGBT Catholics and all who seek a healthy connection between their religious
traditions and spirituality. Dignity is a voice of change within the Catholic Church, a beacon
of light for all who seek justice and equality, and a place for peaceful reflection without bias.

The Imperial Court system was founded in 1965 by WWII veteran and gay icon Jose Julio
Sarria, and came to San Diego in the early 70’s. In 2007, he crowned The Imperial Court de
San Diego’s long ѥ