Rebranding of the Imperial Valley LGBT Resource Center - December 20, 2024
As a steward of LGBTQ+ history, Lambda Archives of San Diego is deeply disheartened by the recent statements made by the Executive Director of the rebranded Donnelly Community Services Center (formerly the Imperial Valley LGBT Resource Center). These comments, which include dismissive and misinformed rhetoric about affirming transgender identities, are not only harmful but perpetuate a culture of erasure and discrimination.
Transgender people, particularly those in rural and underserved areas like Imperial Valley, face unique challenges, including limited access to affirming healthcare, education, and community support. The assertion that affirming a transgender person’s identity is anything but necessary for their well-being reflects a profound misunderstanding of both science and humanity.
The decision to shift away from explicitly serving the LGBTQ+ community under the guise of "serving the broader community" effectively leaves Imperial Valley’s trans and nonbinary population without a safe space—a critical lifeline in an already hostile climate. At a time when transgender rights are under attack nationwide, such rhetoric is particularly damaging and stands in direct opposition to the principles of inclusion, equity, and respect.
Lambda Archives remains committed to preserving the stories of LGBTQ+ people, including those who have faced discrimination, and will continue working toward a future where all individuals are valued and affirmed. We stand firmly with trans and nonbinary people in Imperial Valley, asserting their right to exist freely and proudly. Their lives and stories matter, and no rhetoric can erase their truth.
To ensure that attempts to erase their histories fail miserably, we invite trans and nonbinary people of all ages from the Imperial Valley to share their stories with us. You can submit photos or write a letter that speaks to your experience—your dreams, your challenges, your triumphs, or the love and strength that keep you moving forward. Tell us what being your true self means to you, what you wish others understood about your identity, or what you envision for the future of your community in Imperial Valley. Your words matter, and by sharing them, you ensure that your voice becomes part of a lasting legacy. Upload your letters and photos to our digital preservation portal, where they will be safeguarded for generations to come.
In solidarity,
Nicole Verdés
Managing Director, Lambda Archives of San Diego
Transgender people, particularly those in rural and underserved areas like Imperial Valley, face unique challenges, including limited access to affirming healthcare, education, and community support. The assertion that affirming a transgender person’s identity is anything but necessary for their well-being reflects a profound misunderstanding of both science and humanity.
The decision to shift away from explicitly serving the LGBTQ+ community under the guise of "serving the broader community" effectively leaves Imperial Valley’s trans and nonbinary population without a safe space—a critical lifeline in an already hostile climate. At a time when transgender rights are under attack nationwide, such rhetoric is particularly damaging and stands in direct opposition to the principles of inclusion, equity, and respect.
Lambda Archives remains committed to preserving the stories of LGBTQ+ people, including those who have faced discrimination, and will continue working toward a future where all individuals are valued and affirmed. We stand firmly with trans and nonbinary people in Imperial Valley, asserting their right to exist freely and proudly. Their lives and stories matter, and no rhetoric can erase their truth.
To ensure that attempts to erase their histories fail miserably, we invite trans and nonbinary people of all ages from the Imperial Valley to share their stories with us. You can submit photos or write a letter that speaks to your experience—your dreams, your challenges, your triumphs, or the love and strength that keep you moving forward. Tell us what being your true self means to you, what you wish others understood about your identity, or what you envision for the future of your community in Imperial Valley. Your words matter, and by sharing them, you ensure that your voice becomes part of a lasting legacy. Upload your letters and photos to our digital preservation portal, where they will be safeguarded for generations to come.
In solidarity,
Nicole Verdés
Managing Director, Lambda Archives of San Diego