The color purple inspires interest, courage and need. It invites a bit of evil, also. The Red Dress/Dress Red Party ( RDDR), presented by The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert ( The Center ), embraced all of those, and more.
On March 16 at the Palm Springs Air Museum, customers dazzled, adorned in lively masks and styles that featured tinges, voices and accents of purple. There were birds and fedoras, tutus and clothes, wigs and brooches, bangles and jewelry and shoes, sandals and condos. There was makeup apparel. Thousands of it.
Seen in the audience were devils and spirits, dancer and stewardesses, many matadors and even some geishas. DJ Galaxy played modern beat and souped-up, remastered classics until midnight as the audience danced all the way to evening. As some had worked their hard for months to press into their get-ups, cocktails and bites from some of the city’s best eateries quenched thirsts and happy famished tummies.
” Red Dress/Dress Red is more than a party celebration”, said Mike Thompson, chief executive officer at The Center. ” It’s a joyous display of people in full creative expression. The occasion celebrates “putting it out there” and “finding your true self.” The occasion serves as both a meeting and a relationship. And that’s our labor, year- round. assisting our vibrant area and assisting Gay people along their path.
” It’s one of the month’s best events, and not just because of those endless Krispy Kremes”, said Scott Nevins, community activist. ” This city loves a concept, and it’s fun seeing people hype one another up, celebrating their intellectual clothes.
” There’s a true sense of togetherness, and the power is energy. Red is a strong colour. And we’re a strong area, taking treatment of one another and supporting companies like The Center.”
E. Levin, a bar, gave a second chance to RDDR. This group is a great way to leave, meet new people, and have joy, Levi said. But I still feel togetherness with other people. Our LGBTQ brothers and sisters still fight to have their voices heard in some places. The Center and RDDR are two excellent examples of what great things can be accomplished in partnership.
RDDR 2024, spearheaded by Raúl Rodriguez, top activities director, and James Lindquist, director of creation, reinforced The Center’s vision of connecting the group to accessible resources. The Coachella Valley is home to its programs and services.
like the Palm Springs Community Food Bank on Thursdays. It does more than just supply food aid. It’s about how individuals interact with clients. the quick exchanges and great grins.
Manager Stuart Huggins said”, I see the like. After challenging times, we may see our customers. But when they’re around, all puts out good energy. It’s viral!”
” I love helping these people,” said charity Dean Krumme”. Our customers may have an hour to wait in their vehicles. But they are so glad. We really are a particular type of family.”
The Center even contributes to ‘ belonging’ through its older applications, which help fight isolation and loneliness.
” Whether it’s a knitting group or a prostate cancers support team, our plans are about connecting people to each other and to our resources,” said Candice Nichols, chairman of women & top programs”. We provide opportunities for socializing. Individuals share stories and build relationships.”
The programs, including bridge, guitar lessons, 12- step meetings and yoga, enhance individual and collective experiences.
It’s those experiences that make Red Dress/Dress Red fit seamlessly into The Center’s objective of creating’ welcoming environments.’
” This party was nothing short of magical,” Thompson said”. Over 3, 000 guests had an incredibly enjoyable time and witnessed the beauty of our community. Our vibrancy was on full — and fabulously red — display! Making meaningful connections and creating lasting memories was at the center of it all.
The event’s presenting sponsor was Contractors State License Schools & Contractor Insurance Agency, cherry level sponsors were Jay Allen, Arnie Kassoy, David Hood and George Sellers and Tito’s Handmade Vodka. Special thanks to all the participating restaurants and sponsors.
To learn more about The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert, visit.
Sergio Garcia enjoys writing about the good people who contribute greatly to our society. Reach him at.