THE FIGHT SOCAL'S MONTHLY LGBTQ MAGAZINE JUNE 2025

JUNE 2025 | THE FIGHT 1

2 THE FIGHT | www.thefightmag.com


FEATURES

11 PRIDE MARCHES ON

55TH ANNUAL LA PRIDE PARADE

14 WE WILL NOT GO BACK!

THE LOS ANGELES LGBT CENTER

16 HEALING PRIDE

FIERCE RESISTANCE & RADICAL CARE

18 BE PARENT

YOUR GLOBAL FAMILY JOURNEY

22 MANNING UP

MIKE MANNING’S TRAILBLAZING ROLE

26 AUTHENTIC STORYTELLING

CINEPRIDE FILM FESTIVAL LOS ANGELES

DEPARTMENTS

06 THE EDITOR

08 THE TALK

10 THE CITY

12 THE NATION

20 THE SHARE

28 THE EVENT

ON THE COVER

(TOP) BECK GEE

(BOTTOM L-R)

MIGUEL PALACIOS,

EMMY OLEA

ON THIS PAGE

(L-R) EMMY OLEA,

MIGUEL PALACIOS,

BECK GEE

PHOTO BY

ZIV SADE

PHOTOSHOOT LOCATION

THE BLACK CAT

WWW.THEBLACKCATLA.COM


Proud to stand with you—

today and everyday.


This issue features interviews with three local mental health advocates

Emmy Olea, Beck Gee, and Miguel Palacios, (“Healing Pride,” pages 16-17).

Olea, Gee, and Palacios champion “Healing Pride” through fierce resistance

and radical care for the queer community, particularly trans individuals.

Emmy Olea, from Breathe Life Healing Centers, emphasizes her work

is rooted in her own recovery journey, advocating for accessible care and

spearheading trans sensitivity training. She stresses the critical need for

gender-affirming care and calls for amplifying trans voices amid political

challenges and diminishing resources.

Beck Gee, CEO of Breathe Life Healing Centers, draws on his personal

experience as a queer and closeted youth, dedicating his work to creating

safe spaces for queer and trans individuals to heal. He highlights the

devastating impact of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation on trans mental health

and advocates for “fiercely protective, radically loving” environments and

active allyship, urging the community to show up for trans siblings as they

did during the AIDS crisis.

Miguel Palacios, a non-binary advocate, focuses on illuminating trans

erasure, especially for older adults and trans women of color, emphasizing

the compounded challenges they face and advocating for authentic visibility

and equitable care across all marginalized identities.

Also in this issue — an interview with Naia Adamia, the Director of Be

Parent, a global surrogacy agency established in 2017 (“Be Parent,” page 18).

She discusses Be Parent’s mission to provide ethical and supportive

surrogacy journeys for intended parents worldwide, including LGBTQ+ individuals.

The interview highlights the advantages of international fertility

options, key considerations for LGBTQ+ families, common pitfalls to avoid,

and what makes Be Parent’s approach unique, emphasizing personalized

care and comprehensive support.

For more info visit: beparentsurrogacy.com.

STANFORD ALTAMIRANO

Editor-In-Chief

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Stanford Altamirano

MANAGING EDITOR Mark Ariel

ART DIRECTOR Nadeen Torio

MARKETING CONSULTANTS Sean Galuszka

Antonio Garnica

Marcus Knight

NATIONAL ADVERTISING Rivendell Media

www.rivendellmedia.com

SOCIAL MEDIA Mark Ariel

Antonio Garnica

WEB DEVELOPER Nadeen Torio

CONTRIBUTORS Race Bannon

Sean Galuszka

Orly Lyonne

Victor Melamed

Paulo Murillo

Motorboot Photography

Ann Rostow

Ziv Sade

EVENTS MANAGER Antonio Garnica

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A History of Photography


>> WHAT THEY’RE SAYING <<

SCOTT

EVANS

COLLECTIVE

ACTION

“It’s really important…

that we look ahead and

realize that we have

to continue fighting…

we have to be vigilant.

The power of collective

action is powerful as

long as we engage in it.”

—Model, actor, filmmaker, activist and

author Nyle DiMarco in an interview with

Queerty, last month.

SEE THEMSELVES

“I do value and understand the impact

that my work has on people within

the gay and queer community, to see

themselves in a way that is maybe unlike

other places they see black men or Black

queer men or queer men, or any other

combination of communities that I

might belong to.”

—Access Hollywood’s

Scott Evans in an

interview with

Queerty, last

month.

ITS FOUNDING

“I’m committed to making sure

we bring this nation closer to

the promise of its founding for

everyone. That includes the trans

community, which I know is

under a great threat and attack

from the White House to state

capitals across our country…”

—Gay Senate candidate Chris Pappas

CHRIS

PAPPAS

in an interview with The Advocate,

last month.

NYLE

DIMARCO

LOVE ME

“It was inspired by my

experience of coming

out and feeling

so confused the

entire time… I

didn’t know who

I was anymore.

I didn’t know if

people would

still love me.”

—Benito Skinner on

his new television series

Overcompensating (Amazon

Prime Video), in an interview

with PRIDE, last month.

LUX

PASCAL

PROUD TO BE

“I’m fucking proud to be

part of the LGBT community.”

—Bain, a member of the six-person

K-pop boy band JUST B, coming

out during a concert at Vermont

Hollywood last month, later sharing

the news on Instagram.

BENITO

SKINNER

JUST CHILL

“We just went

through a pandemic.

Can we all just chill

for a while and show

empathy towards

one another?”

—Trans actress Lux Pascal

(Pedro Pascal’s sister) in an

interview with The Hollywood

Reporter last month.

SOMEONE’S GENDER

“We need to tell people your cost of

eggs, your health care being denied,

your homeowner’s insurance, your

lack of getting warning on tornadoes

coming has nothing to do with

someone’s gender.”

—Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz in an interview with

The Independent last month.

TIM

WALZ

BAIN


TICKETS ON SALE MAY 6

GUSTAVO DUDAMEL

HUGH JACKMAN

CYNDI LAUPER

EARTH, WIND & FIRE

GRACE JONES

JUANES

ALABAMA SHAKES

JOHN LEGEND

YO-YO MA & ANGÉLIQUE KIDJO

DIANA ROSS

CYNTHIA ERIVO

IN

TIM RICE & ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER’S

CYNTHIA ERIVO

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DIRECTOR AND CHOREOGRAPHER

STEPHEN OREMUS,

CONDUCTOR AND MUSICAL

DIRECTOR

THORGY THOR

CHARLIE WILSON • BABYFACE

K-CI HAILEY

hollywoodbowl.com 323 850 2000

Groups (10+) 323 850 2050

Parking, shuttle, and venue policies at hollywoodbowl.com/gettinghere

Programs, artists, dates, prices, and availability subject to change.

Ticket limits may apply. All sales are final.

The Hollywood Bowl is

a public park owned

by the County of Los

Angeles Department of

Parks and Recreation.


>> BY PAULO MURILLO <<

work with the state and federal officials

to restore funding.

PICKLE

THE DRAG

QUEEN

PALM SPRINGS

PALM SPRINGS TO UNVEIL

LGBTQ+ PRIDE MONUMENT

THIS FALL

Palm Springs Pride and city officials

unveiled plans for a new LGBTQ+ Pride

monument set to be installed later this

year at Alejo Road and Indian Canyon

Drive. Designed by local artist Jim

Isermann and currently being fabricated

in Houston, the rainbow-colored

sculpture is expected to be unveiled in

September ahead of the International

Gay and Lesbian Travel Association convention

in October.

The monument, which incorporates

the triangle, the lambda, and the rainbow—three

historic symbols of LGBTQ+

solidarity—aims to serve as a civil rights

tribute and a beacon of hope.

WEST HOLLYWOOD

WEHO EYES WORLD

RECORD FOR LARGEST

DRAG STORY HOUR

The City of West Hollywood voted to

officially attempt to break the Guinness

World Record for the largest Drag Story

Hour during its City Council meeting

last month. Proposed by Mayor Chelsea

Lee Byers, the initiative would celebrate

LGBTQ+ visibility, highlight the city’s

Drag Laureate program, and serve as a

symbol of resilience amid growing anti-

LGBTQ+ sentiment. The current record

was set in 2024 in Philadelphia with 263

attendees. West Hollywood was the first

city in Los Angeles County to fund Drag

Story Hour in 2017 and currently hosts the

program through its Drag Arts Lab and

Drag Laureate, Pickle the Drag Queen.

LOS ANGELES

L.A. LGBT CENTER CONDEMNS

COUNTY CUTS TO HIV

PREVENTION FUNDING

The Los Angeles LGBT Center has

strongly condemned a decision by the

L.A. County Department of Public Health

to terminate HIV and STI prevention

contracts with community-based organizations,

including a $3.8 million annual

allocation to the Center.

In a sharply worded statement, the

Center warned that the cuts pose a direct

threat to public health, risking a resurgence

in HIV infections and disproportionately

harming LGBTQ+ and BIPOC

communities. Services such as HIV testing,

STD screening, and PrEP navigation could

be eliminated, and hundreds of frontline

health workers may lose their jobs.

The Center criticized the County for

acting without clear justification or

transparency, calling the move reckless

and unprecedented. It urged County

leaders and the Board of Supervisors to

immediately reverse the decision and

ORANGE COUNTY

GAY NIGHTCLUB STRUT

ORANGE COUNTY LISTED

FOR SALE

Strut Orange County, the vibrant queer

nightclub in Costa Mesa known for its

neon lights, disco ball ceiling, and Dolly

Parton mural, is up for sale after over

5 years in operation. Owner Luke Nero

announced the decision on social media,

stating the club will remain open until

September. While Nero did not provide

specific reasons, he responded to comments

noting he couldn’t stay open simply

to provide “the option” for queer nightlife.

SANTA MONICA

SAMO PRIDE RETURNS TO

CITY OF SANTA MONICA

SaMo Pride returns to Santa Monica this

June with a month-long celebration of

LGBTQ+ visibility, inclusion, and community,

culminating in a full day of festivities

on Saturday, June 21. Events will span

the Santa Monica Pier, Third Street

Promenade, Santa Monica Place, and

Main Street, offering interactive experiences,

family-friendly programming, art,

music, and community resources.

The weekend wraps with the Pride on

the Pier Dance Party on Sunday, June 22.

Full event details can be found at www.

SMPride.com. n

10 THE FIGHT | | www.thefightmag.com

PRIDE

(L-R) JESSICA BETTS,

NIECY NASH,

ANDREW RANNELLS

MARCHES ON

Niecy Nash, Jessica Betts, Andrew Rannells

Lead 55th Annual LA Pride Parade

The 55th annual LA Pride Parade,

produced by Christopher Street

West Association (CSW), will take

place on Sunday, June 8th, celebrating

the theme “Pride Marches On.”

This year’s Grand Marshals include

Niecy Nash and Jessica Betts

(Vanguard), Andrew Rannells (Celebrity),

and Trino Garcia and Adam Vasquez

(Community).

The parade will honor “Heroes of the

Wildfires” in a special section, recognizing

those who aided during recent unprecedented

wildfires.

Following the parade, LA Pride

Village will host a free street festival

on Hollywood Boulevard featuring two

stages, over 80 vendors, sponsor activations,

food trucks, and bars. For the third

year, the Village will also host a “Ballroom

Battle” voguing competition with celebrity

judges, including Margaret Cho.

Additionally, the “Bring the T” art exhibition

will showcase works by trans artists.

For more info visit www.lapride.org.


THENATION

>> NEWS BRIEFS <<

FORTUNE 500

COMPANIES WITH

LGBTQ+ DIRECTORS

OUTPERFORM PEERS

Research from Northeastern University

indicates that Fortune 500 companies

with LGBTQ+ representation on

their boards demonstrate superior

performance in both financial and

non-financial areas compared to their

counterparts.

According to Ruth Aguilera, a

professor at Northeastern University,

these companies tend to excel in sustainability, financial results, long-term risk management,

and various organizational outcomes.

She emphasizes that incorporating diverse perspectives, including those of LGBTQ+

individuals, can reduce risks and foster innovative solutions when effectively integrated

into board operations.

KATIE

HOBBS

WORLDPRIDE D.C. KICKS

OFF AMID RENEWED

LGBTQ+ RIGHTS BATTLE

As WorldPride kicks off in D.C., coinciding

with Capital Pride’s 50th anniversary,

the celebration is tinged with urgency

due to a renewed assault on LGBTQ+

rights. The Trump administration’s

policies, notably the transgender military

ban, highlight this critical moment.

Ryan Bos, Capital Pride Alliance

Executive Director, emphasizes Pride

as both a celebration and resistance.

WorldPride, a global InterPride initiative,

embodies this dual purpose, rooted

in post-Stonewall protest for equality.

The event aims to foster defiant joy

and community against those denying

LGBTQ+ existence.

ARIZONA GOV. HOBBS

VETOES TRIO OF

ANTI-TRANS BILLS

Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs (D)

has vetoed three anti-transgender

bills passed by the state’s Republicancontrolled

legislature. Despite party-line

votes, Republicans lack the two-thirds

majority needed to override these vetoes.

The rejected bills included H.B. 2438,

which would have blocked gender marker

changes on birth certificates; S.B. 1694,

which aimed to defund colleges teaching

“gender identity”; and H.B. 2062, which

sought to end all legal recognition of

transgender people in Arizona. These bills

reflect recent executive orders signed by

the Republican president.

ANGIE

CRAIG

OUT REPS. ANGIE CRAIG,

CHRIS PAPPAS ANNOUNCE

SENATE RUNS

Out Rep. Angie Craig (D-MN) has announced

her bid for the U.S. Senate. In her

campaign announcement video, she criticized

the president for “trampling our rights

and freedoms” and Elon Musk for attempting

to “take over our government and burn

it to the ground.” If successful in both the

primary and general elections, Craig would

become the second out LGBTQ+ senator,

joining Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D-WI).

Separately, out gay Rep. Chris Pappas

(D-NH) also announced a Senate run last

month. If he wins, he would be the first

out gay man elected to the Senate.

J.B.

PRITZKER

GOV SLAMS DEMOCRATS

BLAMING LOSSES ON

DEFENSE OF TRANS KIDS

Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker recently

criticized “do-nothing” Democrats who

“blame our [election] losses on our

defense of Black people, of trans kids,

of immigrants.” Speaking at the New

Hampshire Democratic Party dinner, he

urged Democrats to “fight” the current

administration “everywhere and all

at once,” endorsing “mass protests, for

mobilization, for disruption.” Pritzker

declared, “America’s house is not on fire,

even as the flames were licking their faces

today, as the blaze reaches the rafters,”

rejecting timid approaches. n


Brian had his HIV under control

with medication. But smoking with

HIV caused him to have serious

health problems, including a

stroke, a blood clot in his lungs

and surgery on an artery in his

neck. Smoking makes living with

HIV much worse. You can quit.

CALL 1-800-QUIT-NOW.

#CDCTips

HIV alone

didn’t cause the

clogged artery

in my neck.

Smoking with

HIV did.

Brian, age 45, California



WE WILL

NOT GO

BACK!

Following Gov Newsom’s decision

to cut dedicated funding for LBTQ+

women and non-binary health

programs, the Los Angeles LGBT

Center CEO, Joe Hollendoner,

issued the following statement:

The Los Angeles LGBT Center is outraged by Governor Gavin

“

Newsom’s decision to eliminate critical funding dedicated

to the health of lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and queer

(LBTQ) women, trans men, and non-binary people — populations

already facing severe health disparities and systemic neglect.

On May 10, the State of California convened an emergency

meeting with grantees of the landmark $17 million LBTQ Health

Equity Fund. We were informed that all contracts under this funding

— including ours — would be terminated six months early, and

that the California Department of Public Health’s Office of Health

Equity — a historic division created to serve this population—

would be shuttered. This decision would halt life-affirming services

on June 30, stripping care from those who need it most.

This reversal is not just a budget adjustment— it is a betrayal of

queer and trans Californians.

For decades, LBTQ women, trans men, and non-binary people

have been marginalized within both public health systems and

LGBTQ+ care spaces. Health risks for this population — including

higher rates of cancer, chronic illness, and barriers to preventive

care — are well-documented. It was only after years of relentless

advocacy that California finally recognized this gap in 2019 and

committed funding to address it.

In 2022, the Center, in coalition with five community partners, received

$1.9 million to expand our Audre Lorde Health Program — a

clinic rooted in trauma-informed, body-positive, gender-inclusive

care. Since then, we’ve hired dedicated staff, expanded services,

and restored trust with communities historically left behind. Now,

that trust is at risk — again.

Let’s be clear: balancing the state budget on the backs of

vulnerable queer communities is a moral failure. In cutting this

funding, Governor Newsom has chosen to sacrifice the health and

dignity of those already navigating intersecting barriers of misogyny,

racism, transphobia, and xenophobia — including undocumented

LGBTQ+ people. These cuts, along with the pausing of

enrollment for adult undocumented Californians, are a clear attack

on our healthcare system and the people who depend on it.

We call on the Governor and the State legislature to reverse this

harmful decision by honoring the promise made by the legislature

in 2019 and renewing this critical funding for next year.

The health and safety of LGBTQ+ women and non-binary people

cannot be optional.

We will not go back.”

HE

Not

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HEALING

PRIDE

Fierce resistance and

radical care. An interview

with three local mental

health advocates

BY MARK AIREL | PHOTO BY ZIV SADE

EMMY OLEA

Pioneering Inclusivity for Trans Futures

For Emmy Olea (she/her), Director of Business Development and

Marketing at Breathe Life Healing Centers in Los Angeles, her

life’s work stems from her own recovery journey. Sober since 2007,

Emmy learned a vital truth: “We can’t keep it unless we give it

away.” This ethos fuels her dedication to accessible care, especially

for the queer community.

Emmy honors the “courageous pioneers” before her, emphasizing

the ongoing duty to support future generations. Yet, she notes

the growing challenges. “The current political climate has restricted

vital resources, disproportionately impacting trans individuals,”

Emmy explains. “Rising anxiety and fear due to discriminatory

policy rollbacks make affirming trans lives more critical than ever.”

A cornerstone of Emmy’s career has been her proactive approach

to cultural shifts. As often the first openly trans woman in

her workplaces, she didn’t just exist; she instigated change. Emmy

spearheaded trans sensitivity training, building foundations of understanding

and safety. “It was essential to ensure trans individuals

who followed me would find truly inclusive environments.”

Emmy’s advocacy fiercely champions gender-affirming care.

“As a queer community, we must amplify trans voices and

demand unfettered access to this essential care,” she asserts.

“Staying informed and engaged with policies impacting

trans lives is paramount. It’s how we protect each other,

leaving no one behind.”

BECK GEE

Building Sanctuaries of Radical Love for Trans Lives

Beck Gee (he/him), CEO of Breathe Life Healing Centers in West

Hollywood, brings a profound personal understanding to his

mission. Growing up queer and closeted in a small town, Beck

turned to substance use to cope. Now, his focus is clear: “creating

spaces where queer and trans folks, alongside allies,

can show up authentically and heal.”

Nearly two decades sober, Beck’s commitment is deeply personal.

“I want to be the person I needed when I was young,” he

explains. “Trans people deserve more than survival; they deserve

to thrive, to live lives that are truly magical.”

Beck underscores the urgent need for action in the current political

climate. “The surge in anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and violence,


(L-R) MIGUEL

PALACIOS,

EMMY OLEA,

BECK GEE

particularly targeting trans people, is terrifying,” he states. “This climate of fear has a

devastating impact on trans mental health. We’re seeing a surge in crises and a desperate

need for affirming care. The stakes for our trans community have never been higher.” This

necessitates “fiercely protective, radically loving” spaces.

Leading Breathe LHC, Beck champions “community care” as vital support. “Healing

isn’t solitary,” he emphasizes. “Showing up for each other with honesty and resilience

is crucial, especially for our trans siblings facing disproportionate adversity.” He calls

for unwavering commitment to trans lives, reminiscent of the AIDS crisis. “We need to

show up, help others, and speak out!”

Beck’s powerful message to the queer community is a call for active allyship: “Move

beyond passive solidarity to active advocacy for our trans siblings. Amplify trans

voices, share their stories, support their work, hire them, and protect them. Challenge

transphobia relentlessly. Educate yourselves and others. Critically, support trans-led

organizations, and center Black and Brown trans voices. Practice deep, ongoing community

care. Advocacy for trans lives is love in action.”

MIGUEL PALACIOS

Illuminating Trans Erasure at Intersections

Miguel Palacios (they/name), a non-binary advocate, brings a vital perspective

shaped by navigating a strict upbringing and their current advocacy for older adults.

Their journey highlights the urgent need for authentic visibility for all marginalized

identities. “My work is rooted in my own quest for belonging,” Miguel shares. “The

desire to be seen as inherently worthy of love.”

Miguel’s focus on older adults reveals another layer of marginalization. “The invisibility

faced after 55 is an injustice,” they state. “Visibility isn’t just being seen; it’s about affirming

the value of every life stage.”

Reflecting on the political climate, Miguel emphasizes the compounded challenges

faced by trans women of color. “Societal pressures force trans women of color

into deeper invisibility, denying them recognition and respect,” Miguel explains.

“Their struggle for survival within oppressive systems is often unseen.”Miguel points

to disparities within the LGBTQ+ community, where resources often overlook trans

women of color. “The lack of support for their addiction and mental health needs is

heartbreaking.” For Miguel, their own recovery is intrinsically linked to advocating for

visibility and equitable care for all marginalized communities.

RESOURCES

LA LGBT Center—Trans Wellness Center

www.lalgbtcenter.org

Trans Latin@ Coalition

www.translatinacoalition.org

Breathe Life Healing Centers

www.breathelifehealingcenters.com

Trans Lifeline

https://translifeline.org

Transgender Law Center

www.transgenderlawcenter.org

THE BLACK CAT

Beck Gee on the photo shoot location

“We chose The Black Cat in Los Angeles as our photoshoot setting because it’s a powerful

symbol of queer resistance and a meaningful backdrop for today’s trans movement.

On New Year’s Eve 1966, The Black Cat was violently raided by police. In response, the

LGBTQ+ community organized one of the first documented protests for queer rights in the

U.S. there in February 1967—over two years before Stonewall. This act of defiance helped lay

the groundwork for the fight for equality in Los Angeles and beyond.

By choosing this location, we honor that legacy and acknowledge the ongoing struggles

trans people face today. The Black Cat reminds us that the fight for queer and trans liberation

isn’t new; it’s part of a long history of resistance, courage, and community power.

We’re also mindful of the setting. While The Black Cat is a bar, our presence here reflects

the truth that healing and recovery don’t have to look one way. Many of us working in

mental health and substance use treatment understand that community, connection, and

storytelling can happen in all kinds of spaces, including those historically significant to our

movement. We’re not drinking, but we are serving. Sober and fabulous, darling.

Being here is about reclaiming joy, visibility, and pride in who we are. Capturing trans

beauty, strength, and resilience in a space like this is an act of reverence. We’re proud to

stand in the legacy of those who came before us and contribute to a future grounded in

justice, healing, and authentic expression.”



BE PARENT

Your Global Family Journey:

An interview with Be Parent

Director Naia Adamia

BY MARK ARIEL

When was Be Parent established?

Be Parent was founded in 2017 with a vision to create ethical, transparent,

and emotionally supportive surrogacy journeys worldwide. We’ve

since grown into a global organization with branches in Georgia, Mexico,

Cyprus, and Armenia, supporting parents from over 35 countries.

NAIA

ADAMIA

What motivated your involvement in this field?

My motivation stems from personal experience in reproductive health

and a passion for advocacy. Early in my career, I saw significant gaps in

cross-border surrogacy. I wanted to build an agency centered on compassion,

education, and holistic support for both intended parents and

surrogate carriers—not just successful outcomes. My aim was an agency

built with heart, not just smooth logistics.

What should LGBTQ+ individuals consider when starting a family?

LGBTQ+ intended parents should choose agencies or clinics experienced

with diverse family structures and legal nuances. It’s vital to clarify

parentage rights, legal documentation in the birth country, and recognition

steps in the U.S. Emotional support, inclusivity, and transparent

communication are also crucial, as this is a deeply personal journey.

What are the advantages of international fertility journeys?

Many parents consider international options for several reasons:

Cost-effectiveness: Surrogacy and fertility treatments abroad are often

significantly more affordable without compromising medical quality.

Shorter wait times: International programs typically have much shorter

wait times.

Flexibility: Many offer greater flexibility in donation options and treatment

choices, especially for single parents or same-sex couples, depending

on local laws.

Streamlined processes: Some countries have efficient legal processes,

reducing cost and journey time.

What are common pitfalls to watch out for?

A common pitfall is underestimating the emotional and administrative

complexity of surrogacy—it’s not a linear journey. Another is choosing an

agency that feels transactional. Be wary of programs promising “too-goodto-be-true”

timelines and success rates. Transparency, legal preparedness,

and realistic expectations are essential for a positive experience.

What makes Be Parent unique?

Be Parent stands out with its three pillars: ethics, personalized care, and

full-circle support. We tailor every journey—medical, emotional, and legal—

to each family’s unique situation. We only work in countries with supportive

laws that protect and fairly compensate surrogate carriers. Our coordinators

provide support from the initial assessment to legal parenthood. Our goal is

a baby’s birthday, but our purpose is the journey to parenthood.

Is there anything else you’d like to share?

Surrogacy is more than just a medical pathway; it’s an act of vulnerability,

trust, and hope. A strong network of support, care, and respect

from experienced agency experts is crucial. My hope is that everyone,

regardless of relationship status, gender, or nationality, feels empowered

to explore cross-border options and realize they can have the family they

deserve, without compromise.


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OVERCOMING TRIGGERS

With summer months upon us, we asked these clean and sober

individuals with different lengths of recovery time how they deal

with situations that may trigger them to drink or use

MY SOBER

FAMILY

“Dealing with triggers

is definitely

about keeping the

people close that I

trust. Feeling lonely

and being in isolation,

is a recipe for a

relapse. I keep people

close whose advice

I trust, and know

that I can talk about

anything with. It’s

people that I can

call at three in the

morning whenever I

experience something.

I experience

triggers surrounding

death, grief and

loss, which is difficult for

me to deal with, and unfortunately, that’s something we can

always depend on in life. I definitely keep my sober

family close to me… I’m very

close to my parents

and both of my

younger siblings

back home… So,

I just keep certain

people very close to

me for certain things

that I may experience

in life.”

—Jordan Harris,

sober since May 18, 2025.

JORDAN

HARRIS

JIMMY

WILLIAMS

FOCUS

OUTWARD

“I really do not get triggered

anymore, weirdly,

and I’m not always completely

around all sober

people either, but I do talk

to people that do get triggered.

Newly sober people reach out to me and

ask me for advice and the biggest advice I give

them is what my sponsor always tells me, which is

instead of focusing inward, focus outward. Focus

on something or somebody else. Be of service…

Pride is coming up, and I enjoy pride now more

than when I was out there, because when I was

out there, I was always too high or low to even do

pride. So now, I enjoy it.”

—Jimmy Williams, sober since December 12, 2022.

PAUL

HANCOCK

CALL A

SPONSOR

“Triggers are a

tough one… I did

get triggered at

a pool party and

the first thing

that I did was I

ran away from it.

It was basically

a hot tub full of

boys, and I was

overwhelmed.

What I did was

I ran to 12 step

meetings. That

was what they

taught me to

do. Tragedy also

triggers me. I

lost a boyfriend

to addiction. It

was a terrible situation. He was having a psychosis.

He triggered a fire alarm and he broke into my closet

and got my firearm and he pointed it at a cop and

they shot him to death… The way I dealt with that,

thank God, was I called my sponsor, because all

kinds of things ran through my head. I needed a

drink. I needed relief. But rather than do that, the

contrary action was to call a sponsor, and the program

of recovery surrounded me. They showed

up for me… Service is what gets me out of trigger,

because it’s not about me anymore, I lean in

to my sobriety and my support.

—Paul Hancock, sober since August 10, 2016.



MANNING UP

From “Real World” to

“Beyond the Gates:” Out actor

Mike Manning’s trailblazing role

BY VICTOR MELAMED | PHOTO BY PAUL SMITH

Mike Manning is stepping into a groundbreaking role on

“Beyond the Gates,” the first new hour-long soap in 25 years

and the first to center on a Black family from its inception.

Manning’s character, “Smitty,” breaks new ground as a

biracial gay man married to a Congressman, raising two children—a first

for network daytime drama. “I love CBS for doing that,” Manning shares,

clearly thrilled by the historical significance.

Manning, a Daytime Emmy winner for “The Bay,” is no stranger

to the fast-paced world of soaps, having also worked

on “Days of Our Lives.” He marvels at the demanding

schedule of “Beyond the Gates,” where an episode is

shot daily with minimal takes. “I have a tremendous

amount of respect for daytime actors,” he states.

His diverse career, spanning reality TV (“MTV’s The

Real World”) to primetime dramas (“This Is Us”),

has honed his acting approach. “Acting is acting

regardless of the format,” he emphasizes, focusing

on believability and vulnerability. While he appreciates

his “Real World” experience, he values

his privacy too much to revisit reality TV.

Beyond acting, Manning has also embraced

producing. The contrast is stark: “In

front of the camera, I try to stay relaxed,

present... As a producer, I’ll be running

around like a chicken with my head cut off.”

As a bisexual man, Manning acknowledges

facing professional challenges due to his

identity, having “100% lost out on roles because

of my sexuality in the past.” However,

his openness has also fostered meaningful

connections within the LGBTQ+ community,

leading to exciting collaborations.

Reflecting on his career, “Cloud 9”

marked a turning point, opening doors to

bigger opportunities. “This Is Us” brought

widespread acclaim, even impressing his

parents. Recent roles have pushed his boundaries,

from a naked shower scene in “The

Way Out”—for which he gained 14 pounds

through boxing training—to playing a demonpossessed

character in “The Bell Keeper.”

Manning finds inspiration in a wide array of

filmmakers, citing visionaries like Wes Anderson,

Ridley Scott, and Steven Spielberg, and expressing

current admiration for RaMell Ross.

Looking ahead, Manning just wrapped filming

“Eyes in the Trees” in Thailand with Sir Anthony

Hopkins and Jonathan Rhys Meyers, a role vastly

different from Smitty.

He teases more details to come on his Instagram,

@mike_manning_.



Prioritizing Your

Mental Wellness

for Pride Month

and Beyond

Pride month is here, bringing together communities.

But amidst the celebrations and rainbows, it’s crucial

to check in with our mental well-being. LGBTQ+ individuals

statistically face higher rates of depression

and anxiety due to minority stress.

Refuel Your Fabulousness

Pride is about embracing who we are, flaws and all.

Celebrate your joy, honor your struggles, and prioritize

your well-being. Go out, be fabulous, and take care of

yourself. You deserve it.

Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep to avoid

burnout.

Move: Physical activity, whether dancing or walking,

boosts your mood.

Nourish: Balance Pride treats with healthy foods for

sustained energy.

Connect: Surround yourself with supportive people

who celebrate you.

Know the Signs

Pay attention to your inner world. Look for warning

signs may include persistent sadness or hopelessness,

extreme mood swings, or changes in sleep

or appetite. Keep an eye our for withdrawal from

activities, increased anxiety or panic, or thoughts of

self-harm.

Navigating Pride means finding the intersection of

queer joy and self-care. Taking care of yourself isn’t

a betrayal; it’s radical self-love that empowers you

to shine brighter. You don’t have to choose between

partying and prioritizing your mental health.

You’re Not Alone

Taking care of your mental health is just as important

as taking care of your physical health. Reaching

out for support is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Reaching out is strength.

Immediate Danger: Call 911.

Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 (24/7 support).

Professional Help: Encourage seeking a doctor,

therapist, or psychiatrist.

Offer Support: Let them know they’re not alone.

Stay Safe, Stay Fabouless,

and Stay Well

When you need brain care, choose a Dignity Health

hospital in LA County and the Inland Empire. They’re

recognized as LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality Leaders

(HRC) and boast Healthgrades Five-Star ratings.

That means top-notch care, advanced diagnostics,

and treatments so you can get back to living your

best, most fabulous life. Learn more and plan

ahead: dignityhealth.org/socal/mentalhealth

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

EXTENDING A WARM WELCOME TO THE LGBTQ COMMUNITY


AUTHENTIC

STORYTELLING

CinePride Film Festival Debuts in Los Angeles,

Celebrating Queer Cinema This September 2025

A

bold new chapter in queer cinema

begins this fall as CinePride Film

Festival, an innovative LGBTQIA+

film festival, makes its debut in

Los Angeles, September 11-14, at Landmark

Theatres Sunset in West Hollywood.

This four-day event promises a transformative

journey through authentic and diverse

queer narratives, spotlighting stories

that challenge convention, ignite conversation,

and affirm the powerful impact of

LGBTQIA+ voices in film.

“The country is at a cultural crossroads

where visibility and representation can

literally save lives,” says Cecilio Asuncion,

Executive Director of CinePride Film Festival.

“Authentic storytelling challenges stereotypes,

humanizes our experiences, and

ensures that queer people—especially the

most marginalized—see themselves reflected

in ways that affirm their existence.”

The festival’s lineup will feature 30-40

films across genres, including feature films,

shorts, and documentaries. Selections

will be chosen by a collaborative team of

filmmakers, critics, and community leaders

passionate about queer cinema. The focus

will be on artistic excellence, fresh perspectives,

and the ability to spark conversations—with

a strong emphasis on elevating

the stories of those who are transgender,

non-binary, BIPOC (black, indigenous,

“THE COUNTRY IS AT A

CULTURAL CROSSROADS

WHERE VISIBILITY AND

REPRESENTATION CAN

LITERALLY SAVE LIVES.”

people of color), immigrants and those

with disabilities.

“We aim to showcase films that are bold,

unapologetic, and emotionally resonant,”

says transgender supermodel and actress,

Arisce Wanzer, who serves on the festival’s

Board of Directors. “Stories that take risks,

speak the truth, and capture the full spectrum

of the LGBTQIA+ experience—joy,

love, pain, and resilience.”

Joining Wanzer on the CinePride Film

Festival board are, Winston Emano,

founder of Mano Y Mano Media, a boutique

media strategy firm representing

films as well as NBA and NFL athletes,

and Sabrina Riddle, a founding

member of the San Francisco

LGBT Center who played a pivotal

role in launching the premiere of

Showtime’s The L Word.

The executive team features

Cecilio Asuncion, an award-winning

documentary film director

and TV producer; Programming

Director Miguel Santos, a media

executive and producer currently

serving as COO of Whoopi

Goldberg’s All Women’s Sports

Network; and Development

Director Michael Daly, a sales and

experiential marketing consultant.

CinePride Film Festival will

present awards in 17 categories,

including Best Narrative Feature,

Best Documentary Feature, Best

Web Series or TV Pilot, Best Lead

Performance, Best Director, and

the Trailblazer Award. The coveted

Audience Choice Award will be

decided by festival goers.

Screenings will be enhanced

by workshops, filmmaker Q&As,

panel discussions, and a Director’s

Brunch. A dedicated workshop will

support emerging queer filmmakers,

reinforcing CinePride Film

Festival’s commitment to providing

institutional support and funding

for creators from marginalized

backgrounds. Additionally, in a nod

to the past, the festival will feature

a retrospective honoring groundbreaking

queer films from Asia.

Beyond the four-day festival, CinePride

Film Festival aims to foster community

engagement year-round through initiatives,

workshops, and collaborations with

LGBTQIA+ organizations. “CinePride Film

Festival isn’t just a film festival—it’s a

movement that belongs in Los Angeles,

the epicenter of the film industry,” Mr.

Santos declares. “We’re setting the stage

for the next generation of storytellers who

will redefine what’s possible in film.”

“True progress happens when queer

films aren’t just for queer audiences but

are seen as vital storytelling for everyone,”

says Ms. Riddle.

Mr. Asuncion adds, “For too long,

LGBTQIA+ narratives have been sidelined,

tokenized, or filtered through a heteronormative

lens. We must challenge outdated industry

gatekeeping and demand seats at the

table—whether in festival circuits, distribution

deals, or award bodies—while pushing

audiences beyond their comfort zones.”

For more information, visit

www.CinePride.org.


.


> PHOTOS BY LUCAS GORDON PHOTOGRAPHY <

LONG BEACH PRIDE 2025

With the theme “The Power of Community,” Long Beach Pride 2025 brought thousands together for a weekend of

celebration and visibility on May 17-18. The 42nd Annual Festival turned the city’s waterfront into a vibrant hub of LGBTQ+ pride.

Long Beach Pride remains one of the country’s longest-running celebrations, honoring LGBTQ+ history and shaping its future.



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FIGHT 31

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When alarming symptoms arise, you want the best care possible. And when

it comes to your mental health, or that of a loved one, that means getting

to a hospital with specialized expertise in treating a range of emotional,

behavioral and developmental disorders. At Dignity Health hospitals in

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before an emergency strikes at dignityhealth.org/socal.


THE FIGHT SOCAL'S MONTHLY LGBTQ MAGAZINE JUNE 2025

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