Robby Starbuck has major corporation CEO’s on their heels, forcing corporations such as Ford, Lowe’s and others to back away from DEI initiatives. The right wing internet troll is dangerous in that he uses his Twitter/X account to rail against pro-LGBTQ policies that we fought for over the years at corporate America and in our legislatures.
HRC for its part is fighting back. Just prior to Labor Day, it began calling out Ford and other corporations. It launched a petition campaign to show our disgust with this pullback.
Human Rights Campaign President Kelley Robinson issued a statement, writing in part:
After decades of commitment to inclusion and top ratings on the HRC Foundation Corporate Equality Index, the Bloomberg Gender-Equality Index, Disability:IN’s Disability Equality Index as well as their longstanding philanthropic record funding scholarships for Hispanic students, the Human Rights Campaign could not be more disappointed to see Ford Motor Company shirking its responsibility to its employees, consumers, and shareholders. By failing to support women leaders, employees of color, and LGBTQ+ employees, Ford Motor Company is abandoning its financial duty to recruit and keep top talent from across the full talent pool. In making their purchasing decisions, consumers should take note that Ford Motor Company has abandoned its commitment to our communities.
Reading the comments from his followers is disturbing. And it goes to show that a divided America harbor deep disdain for those of us who work to advance inclusion and human rights. Kevin Naff’s commentary in the Los Angeles Blade offers some hope as he credits a few CEO’s who “have a spine” and offers glimmers of hope that others continue to do the right thing.
I’m not in favor of boycotts against Ford, Lowe’s and others who have caved, and HRC is not calling for one. But it does give me pause as to where I will spend my ‘gay’ dollars. Those who support our community will be rewarded with my patronage.
Brad Fuhr, your Gay Desert Guide on KGAY 106.5 Palm Springs
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Presidential Debate Watch Party
Join friends on Tuesday, September 10, from 5:30–8:30 pm at Hunters on Arenas for an exciting Presidential Debate Watch Party as Kamala Harris and Donald J. Trump go head-to-head for the first time. Watch the debate unfold on their many big screens and engage in lively discussions with fellow attendees, hosted by KGAY Morning Show host John Taylor and Shann Carr. Stick around after the debate for Hunters Live Band Karaoke hosted by Michael Malfavon at 8:30 pm, and sing your heart out with the fantastic all-girl cover band, Pulp Vixen. More info
Gay Days Anaheim
Gay Days Anaheim takes place this weekend, from September 13–15. This is a “mix in” event where gay and straight people mingle at Disneyland Resort, wearing red shirts to identify each other. The schedule includes the Gay Days Welcome Center, PRIDE Meet Up, performances by Cheyenne Jackson and Jackie Cox, a scavenger hunt, themed lunches, and a group photo at Sleeping Beauty Castle. Highlights also feature The Mis-Match Game, Not so Disney Disney shows, a pool party, and Varla Jean Merman: The Errors Tour! See our event listing for a full detailed schedule of all the fun: Get tickets
DBA Mixer at Canyon Print & Signs
Join the Desert Business Association (DBA) for a Networking Mixer at Canyon Print & Signs with new DBA member the Boys & Girls Club of Cathedral City on Monday, September 9 at 5:30 pm. Discover the ultimate in print and sign solutions at Canyon Print and Signs, serving the Coachella Valley for over eleven years. The Boys & Girls Club of Cathedral City is a youth serving organization that provides opportunities for Great Futures through a safe place, with caring mentors and life-enhancing programs focused on academics, health and leadership. Donations of sports equipment will be welcomed, see the link in our event listing for details: More info
Open Rehearsals/Auditions for Modern Men Holiday Concert
Modern Men – Coachella Valley Men’s Chorus is on the lookout for talented voices to join them for their 11th season and holiday concert, “Home for the Holidays” with an open rehearsal on Monday, September 9 at 6:30 pm, followed by auditions at 8 pm, at United Methodist Church of Palm Springs. While tenors are especially needed, all vocal parts are welcome. Additional auditions will be held on Saturday, September 14 from 11 am–noon at the same location. If you have a passion for singing and want to be part of an amazing musical journey, come share your voice! More info
Palm Springs Fire Department 9/11 Memorial Event
On Wednesday, September 11, the Palm Springs Fire Department invites the community to a Memorial Event to honor and remember the victims and heroes of the 9/11 tragedy. The event begins at 8:20 am at the 9/11 Memorial at 300 North El Cielo. A moment of silence will be observed at 8:46 am, followed by remarks from Fire Chief Paul Alvarado. The American Flag will be lowered to half-staff by the Honor Guard, accompanied by a performance from the Palm Springs Air Museum Pipes & Drums Band. More info
🏓 Pickleball Fall 2024 Registration
Get ready for some pickleball fun with Pride Sports Palm Springs! Fall registration is open from September 10-15 at DeMuth Park. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the game, join this vibrant community for friendly competition. Don’t miss out on this exciting season! For more details and to register, see the link in our event listing: More info
The Alvarez Band at Agua Caliente
Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs presents The Alvarez Band on Wednesday, September 11 from 7–8:30 pm. This electrifying power trio based in Los Angeles specializes in high energy Blues Rock and will take you on a musical journey of virtuosic guitar playing and a commitment to keeping blues rock alive! Get tickets
Wine Down Wednesday Benefiting Meals on Wheels
Come on down for Wine Down Wednesday on September 11, from 5–7 pm at Agua Caliente Cathedral City. Enjoy wine tastings and full pours for just $15, with all proceeds supporting the Meals on Wheels Program at Mizell Center. This event promises a delightful evening of community and charity. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to support local charities while savoring great wine. More info
Free Vaccine Clinic
Riverside County Public Health will host a FREE Vaccine Clinic on Thursday, September 12, from 11 am–2 pm at the Palm Springs Public Library. This clinic will provide several vaccines, including MPOX, Shingles, Tdap, RSV, and Hepatitis B, while supplies last. No appointment is necessary, making it convenient for anyone to stop by and get vaccinated. This is a great opportunity to stay up-to-date with important vaccinations and protect your health. More info
Meet Author Blake Allwood
The Best Little Bookstore in downtown Palm Springs presents a special meet and greet with acclaimed gay fiction author Blake Allwood on Thursday, September 12 from 1–3 pm. Explore Blake’s captivating collection of gay men’s fiction, discover his latest works, and enjoy the chance to have your books signed. Whether you’re a devoted fan or just intrigued by his storytelling, this event is a wonderful opportunity to connect and engage with the emotional journeys of his characters. More info
Sunnylands Films in the Gardens: Labyrinth
Sunnylands is bringing back its popular Films in the Gardens series this fall! Starting with the 1986 fantasy film classic Labyrinth on Friday, September 13, enjoy free outdoor movie nights on three consecutive Friday evenings at 7:30 pm. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and small picnics to the beautiful gardens of Sunnylands Center & Gardens in Rancho Mirage, perfect for a cozy evening under the stars. Upcoming films: Monster House (2006) on 9/20, and ParaNorman (2012) on 9/27. More info
Greater Joshua Tree Art Expo
The Greater Joshua Tree Art Expo is taking place September 6–22 at the Joshua Tree Gallery of Contemporary Art, open daily from 2–6 pm. The Gallery is dedicated to showcasing diverse and thought-provoking exhibitions in a technologically advanced space, making world-class art accessible to all. More info
ALSO THIS WEEK
Tuesday, September 10
Trans and Nonbinary Tuesday Palm Springs | 6–8 pm at Trixie Motel
Wednesday, September 11
Volunteer for Will Rollins for Congress | 10 am–12 pm in Palm Springs
Thursday, September 12
Free Thursdays at the Palm Springs Art Museum | 5–8 pm
Terrell Edwards – “Unforgettable— the Greatest Black Jazz and Soul Singers of All Time” | 7 pm at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs
Friday, September 13
Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire Free Film Screening | 10 am at PS Public Library
All Valley Mayors and Tribal Chairpersons Luncheon | 10:30 am–1:30 pm at Renaissance Indian Wells Resort & Spa
Mean Girls (2024 Musical) Free Film Screening | 2 pm at PS Public Library
Country Dance Fridays: Ooh Aah Line Dance with Andrew Jimenez | 7 pm at Step by Step
Saturday, September 14
Palm Springs Certified Farmers’ Market | 8 am–1 pm indoors at the Palm Springs Pavilion
Cat Fanciers Association Cat Show | 10 am–4 pm at the Palm Springs Convention Center
Sunday, September 15
Oscar’s Sunday T-Dance feat. DJ Galaxy | 3 pm
