Davis Pride Run for Equality held to support LGBTQ+ community

PHOTO: Runners at Sudwerk Brewing Company in support of the LGBTQ+ community.

By Mikayla Aguirre,

BlueDevilHUB.com Staff-

The sixth annual Davis Pride Run for Equality was held on Oct. 10 to highlight continual efforts to combat hate crimes against the LGBTQ+ community. It was organized by the Davis Phoenix Coalition.

Gloria Partida, mayor of Davis and director of the coalition, founded the non-profit after her son was the victim of a hate crime because of his sexuality. DPC holds outreach events and poster campaigns in an effort to eliminate hate in the Davis community.

 Partida’s son, Lawrence Partida, was in his early 30s when the incident occurred and was unable to walk after. His love of running helped him as he made his way through rehabilitation and physical therapy. This experience inspired the annual Davis Pride Run.

“I think it’s important for everyone to be a part of the solution,” Gloria Partida said.

Ellen Coatney runs in support of her family, including her non-gender-conforming children. Coatney believes that this event is a great way to spread awareness while bringing people together through exercise.

“I believe inclusion is the new normal,” Coatney said.

Mental health professional Megan West ran in support of her 18-year-old niece who identifies as non-binary. West believes it is important to support struggling LGBTQ+ youth, who may be at a higher risk for suicide and other mental health issues.

“It’s good to show love and support in the community,” West said.