SaMo Pride’s 5 Most Memorable Moments

July 10, 2019 1:59 PM
by Christopher J. Smith

Our first-ever Pride Month was a true success!  

SaMo Pride was a celebration of the LGBTQIA community, individuality, inclusivity, and love, with colorful light displays and art installations across town serving as a backdrop for a full calendar of events for all ages.  

The inaugural event was even more significant this year as it marks the 50th Anniversary of Stonewall–the uprising that launched the modern LGBTQIA rights movement and the reason we celebrate Pride every June. Santa Monica has long been a community that embraces diversity and an extensive network of LGBTQIA community members and leaders continue to play a key role in making Santa Monica thrive.

SaMo Pride would not have happened without the support and hard work of our large and diverse group of community partners: the Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica Place and Downtown Santa Monica, as well as residents, businesses, and City staff.   

In case you missed SaMo Pride this year, or just want to revisit all the fun, here are our five most memorable moments!  

  1. City Hall Pride Lights 


    City Hall shone brightly with Pride lights all month long.

  2. Events for Kids and Families


    Miss Barbie Q led a Drag Queen story time for children–a program designed to challenge restrictive gender stereotypes, encourage self expression, and promote diversity and inclusion. 


    A special rainbow-themed Kidical Mass bike ride for families brought together riders of all ages. Photo: SM Spoke.

  3. Pride Proclamation & Reception


    City Council recognized Pride Month with a Proclamation performed by D’LocoKid. Students from Santa Monica High’s Gender and Sexuality Alliance received the Proclamation.

  4. Miles of Pride Light Features


    Third Street Promenade, Santa Monica Place and Santa Monica Pier were lit up with all the colors of the rainbow for the "Miles of Pride" installation. Photo: Downtown Santa Monica.

  5. Pride on the Promenade


     A celebration on 3rd Street Promenade which featured live theatre and musical performances; an epic DJ dance party under the rainbow lights; kids crafts; games, and LGBTQ+ organizations and resources. Photo: Downtown Santa Monica.


While we can’t wait to see everyone at next year’s SaMo Pride events, let’s remember and challenge ourselves to celebrate Pride all year long! 

Christopher J. Smith is the Assistant to the City Manager/LGBTQIA+ Liaison.

Authored By

Christopher J. Smith
Assistant to the City Manager