On April 21, the West Hollywood City Council issued a proclamation recognizing April 21 to April 27 as Lesbian and Queer Women Visibility Week, celebrating the contributions and experiences of lesbian, queer women, and non-binary individuals. Vice Mayor John Heilman presented the proclamation, emphasizing the city’s historical support for these communities and its commitment to fostering visibility and advocacy. Members of the city’s LGBTQ+ Commission, including Renee Sotile and Ron Cortez, accepted the proclamation, joining the council for a photo to mark the occasion.
Heilman highlighted West Hollywood’s longstanding role as a leader in LGBTQ+ rights, noting the annual observance of Lesbian Visibility Week in the U.S. and Europe. The city will honor the week by illuminating City Hall and the globe lanterns above Santa Monica Boulevard in pink, orange, and white—the colors of the lesbian pride flag—and displaying the flag at City Hall and along Santa Monica Boulevard medians. A co-sponsored event by the L-Project, the WeHo Mini Film Fest, will take place on April 27 at the City Council Chambers, showcasing diverse stories from lesbian, queer women, and non-binary filmmakers.
Reflecting on the city’s history, Heilman shared a 1995 LA Times quote from his time as mayor: “Part of the reason we started Lesbian Visibility Week was because there was a lot of attention for the gay male community, but not as much for lesbians. It’s unlikely that we’ll ever have as many lesbians as we have gay men, but we do want lesbians to feel safe here—safe and seen here.” The proclamation encourages community members to honor and uplift lesbian and queer women, reinforcing West Hollywood’s dedication to inclusivity.
Sotile, speaking for the LGBTQ+ Commission, recalled past events like the “Dykes and their Dogs” contest, proposing a modern twist: “I think with our new pet mayor Shadrach, we can have Lesbians and their Cats from now on.” She expressed gratitude to the council for keeping the “L” alive in West Hollywood. Cortez, also on the commission, added, “I don’t identify as a lesbian woman, but on behalf of the commission, it begins with the L,” thanking the mayor, vice mayor, and council for their support.
The proclamation reflects West Hollywood’s ongoing commitment to celebrating its diverse communities, creating spaces where lesbian and queer women’s voices are amplified. Through symbolic gestures and community events, the city continues to champion visibility and advocacy for all LGBTQ+ individuals.
Good grief.