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RIVERSIDE, CA— Coinciding with Pride Month, Assemblymember Sabrina Cervantes (D – Riverside) joined with federal, state, and local community leaders in celebrating the grand opening of the Inland Empire LGBTQ+ Resource Center (the Center), held at TruEvolution’s Project Legacy campus in Riverside.
“The Inland Empire LGBTQ+ Center is what we can accomplish when we meet the moment with bold ideas and when we dream big for the next generation,” said Assemblymember Cervantes, who is one of three co-founders of the Center. “I am proud to have secured $3.063 million in the 2023-24 state budget for this transformational center, and kickstart future investments directly to organizations that serve our LGBTQ+ community. Our collective work exemplifies the spirit of Pride in our fight for justice and equity!”
Powered by TruEvolution, the IE LGBTQ+ Resource Center will serve as a space for LGBTQ+ people and their allies to access community resources and establish networks of support and mentorship. A second location is anticipated to open in Southwest Riverside County in the future.
“At TruEvolution, we have always championed the health and human rights of LGBTQ+ individuals,” stated co-founder Gabriel Maldonado, CEO of TruEvolution. “This Center is a significant step forward in our ongoing mission to ensure that every person has access to the care, support, and opportunities they deserve. It stands as a testament to our resilience and our resolve to build a more inclusive community in the Inland Empire.”
Additionally, the funding secured by Assemblymember Cervantes will also support the creation of the Legacy Fund, which will invest in local LGBTQ+-serving organizations and expand access to resources in Southern California.
“This Center represents a commitment to our future, ensuring that the progress we make today will continue to uplift and empower LGBTQ+ residents in our region for generations to come,” said co-founder Jesse Melgar, advisory board member for Equality California. “It is an investment in our collective strength, resilience, and will serve as an important gathering space for members of the community.”
“Every person deserves to be seen and to live as their true, authentic selves,” added Assemblymember Cervantes, who is also the first LGBTQ+ Latina to serve as Chair of the California Latino Legislative Caucus. “I am happy to have delivered results for communities who have been marginalized and long left behind.”
More information about the Inland Empire LGBTQ+ Resource Center can be found at TruEvolution’s website.
