The Parade - Long Beach Lesbian and Gay Pride Celebration 2009

2009 Parade Grand Marshals

Robin Tyler and Diane Olson – Grand Marshal
Robin and Diane Olson became heroes to many when, in February, 2004, they turned their personal fight to marry into a public case for the world to in the California Supreme Court Same-Sex Marriage lawsuit challenging the ban on Same-Sex marriage. In May, 2008 the Supreme Court decision granted for the first time in American history, the right for gay men and lesbians total equal protection under the law. The day after Proposition 8 was passed, Robin and Diane filed a brief asking for the Supreme Court to overturn Proposition 8, arguing it is not legal in the State of California. Their lawsuit has become the face of the new civil rights movement of this century; the starting point of what now has become the Second Stonewall. Read More

Gavin Newsom – Political Grand Marshal
After only 36 days as mayor of San Francisco, Newsom gained worldwide attention when he granted marriage licenses to same-sex couples. Additionally, Newsom has been committed to combating homelessness. As mayor, he has moved 7,000 homeless individuals off the street, and his volunteer initiative, Project Homeless Connect – now imitated in over 130 cities – has attracted over 20,000 San Franciscans who give their time to help the homeless.Read More

John Morris – Bridge Builder Grand Marshal
Morris known for assisting with the Long Beach redevelopment efforts and establishing Mum’s as the first fine dining restaurant on Pine Avenue sits on the board of the Downtown Long Beach Associates, Convention and Visitors Bureau, and the Long Beach Boys & Girls Club. Bringing together the ideas of a sports establishment and fine dining restaurant, Morris founded Smooth’s Sports Grille in July of 2004. Morris is also a member of numerous community groups including For the Child, Rotary and the Belmont Rugby Club to name a few. Read More

Rev. Sunshine Daye – Female Community Grand Marshal
Rev. Sunshine speaks in communities throughout the world and is an active member with the Season for Non-Violence and Mentoring Youth Through Empowerment program at The Center Long Beach. She makes a difference in the lives of those she meets by valuing people & sharing the message that diversity and inclusion are the gifts we give to one another. Read More

Todd Turley – Male Community Grand Marshal
For the past twenty years, Todd has worked as realtor in the Long Beach community. His passion for his work has allowed him to succeed in a variety of political and economic climates. Todd lives his life both personal and professional with the standard of “share what you have, give everything you can, and do your part to make the world a better place.” Read More