9 years ago, my husband, Andrew & I were looking for a place in the San Francisco Bay area to call home. Having gotten married in the Midwest in 2014, marriage was not yet recognized. Finding Alameda was a diamond in the ruff. It’s quaintness, supportive community, inclusivity, safeness, great schools, and kind people is what attracted us. It was as if we moved it from the Midwest ourselves. We are so Alameda proud.

Having said that, it was surprising to me that Alameda did not have its own Pride celebration. I thought to myself, “I am so proud of Alameda, and I am so proud to be a gay man, so why not celebrate this?” I created Alameda Pride for this reason. However, I know that it will be much bigger than this; a place where all LGBTQ+ Alamedans and their allies, can feel safe, included, supported, and meet your fellow neighbors, creating new families, & continue the fight for equality. This is so exciting!

5 years ago, I had approached some city officials about mentoring me in carrying out these Pride ideas that I had, but then the pandemic happened. Circle back to June 2021, I called my first Pride meeting to present it to Downtown Alameda and Alameda Recreation & Parks Department. It was a big hit. Following this, many sponsors and city officials have jumped on board. You should be so proud of your community, Alameda. I hope that this celebration will carry on for years to come.

Also, I have decided to start an Alameda Pride 501(c)(3) Foundation. Support from our donors & sponsors will be also helping in inclusivity & diversity for our community. This will include amazing things such as: anti-bullying programs & GSAs in schools, LGBTQ+ scholarships, Pride floats in our 4th of July Parade, local LGBTQ+ businesses/organizations/programs, and much more. Once again, how exciting, and thank you, Alameda!

Happy Alameda Pride 2023!

Much LOVE,

Jeramie Andehueson

Alameda Pride Founder