The Mountain Bears Democratic Club was honored to participate in the Lake Arrowhead Pride Parade, alongside the Mayor of Big Bear and our California Assembly candidate, celebrating love, equality, and community!
Our theme was “The Love Is Love Boat” — and what a crew we had!
JT — our fabulous singer
Diana — our beautiful bear
Yolanda — our unforgettable donkey
Jane & John — our captains
Terri & Randall — our deckhands
Laura — our Facebook Live Queen!
The boat ride was definitely turbulent, but that didn’t stop us from smiling, waving, dancing, and spreading a whole lot of LOVE!
And the celebration didn’t end when the parade was over! Afterward, we hosted a booth where Henry and Nancy greeted community members, listened to local concerns, and connected with folks who stopped by to learn more about our work.
It was a fabulous success and a powerful day of standing strong in solidarity with our LGBTQ+ neighbors. We also honored the memory of Laura Ann “Lorie” Carlton, the local store owner tragically killed in 2023 following a dispute over a rainbow Pride flag displayed at her shop. Her story reminds us why visibility, acceptance, and standing together matter.
We will continue to emphasize unity, safety, visibility, and love through our annual mountain celebrations. Our community is strongest when we stand together and make sure everyone knows they belong.
Love Is Love. We Stand Together. We Are the Mountain Community.
