CommuniCare Health Centers (CCHC) planned to co-sponsor a Pride event with Mojo's Restaurant in Woodland on June 30 to celebrate and affirm the last day of Pride Month as a part of its Elevate Queer Yolo programming.
Multiple hate groups became aware of the event, and unfortunately, negative social media activity increased causing significant safety concerns. CommuniCare, in strong collaboration with Mojo's, Woodland Police Department and other partners, worked to increase security protection and safety with the hopes of continuing the event. When online threats escalated, there was a decision to re-schedule.
The Elevate Queer Yolo Team, along with other supporters, still went to Mojo's to celebrate Pride and welcome individuals who may not have heard that the event was cancelled. The result was an informal, joyful gathering and celebration. That gathering was interrupted by a hate group who stormed the restaurant.
"We have many patients, clients and employees who live in Woodland," Dr. Melissa Marshall, CEO of CommuniCare, said. "We appreciate the local LGBTQ+ and ally community response to this bigotry as well as their support for the important work we do every day at CommuniCare Health Centers."
"Offering affirming, inclusive and visible support is core to our mission and this event highlights why what we do matters and is so needed," stated Sara Gavin, LMFT, LPCC, CommuniCare's Chief Behavioral Health Officer. "Events like this can be triggering for individuals and the community."
CommuniCare continues to offer support to their employees as the well as broader community through a full-range of healthcare services including Behavioral Health and Substance Use Treatment to adults, youth and families. CCHC hosts the Elevate Queer Yolo program that offers free community resource navigation for LGBTQ+ people in Yolo County, personalized help with getting medical insurance, peer advocate support, and social support groups. To find out more please visit: LGBTQ Care – CommuniCare Health Centers (communicarehc.org)
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