Stockton Pride Committee

Biography:

Embracing the mantle of leadership with the same vibrancy she brings to the stage, Sondra St. James is the esteemed Chair of Stockton Pride. Her journey is a tapestry of advocacy, artistry, and unyielding dedication to the LGBTQ+ community.

A trailblazer from the outset, Sondra broke boundaries as one of the first openly drag queens in her educational journey, championing the message of living authentically. Her activism led to the creation of Modesto's first gay community center, laying a foundation for support and unity that has stood the test of time.

As the youngest elected empress, Sondra took on the mantle of leadership with grace, spearheading initiatives to uplift the youth gay community and serving as a nurturing drag mother to countless individuals across the nation. Her commitment to fostering safe spaces for expression and growth has been a hallmark of her tenure.

Beyond her role as an emcee and performer, Sondra's heart for service shines brightly. She has organized significant toy drives, launched initiatives like the Christmas coat and toy rack, and led community service efforts with a decade-long cemetery cleanup project.

In her role as Chair, Sondra continues to advocate for educational, social justice, and community service initiatives. Her leadership at Stockton Pride is characterized by her innate ability to galvanize action, her passion for mentorship, and her visionary approach to inclusivity.

As we celebrate our diverse spectrum of identities, we do so under the guidance of Sondra St. James, whose legacy of activism and compassion inspires us to build a future where every individual is celebrated for who they are.

Biography:

Marcus Mac stands as a pillar of resilience and unwavering support within the Stockton Pride community. As one of the original founders, his visionary foresight has been instrumental in shaping the landscape of LGBTQ+ advocacy in Stockton.

His journey with Stockton Pride began at its inception, actively contributing to the committee's efforts for the first five years. After a brief hiatus, Marcus's devotion to the cause reignited, leading him to rejoin the team in year nine with renewed vigor and commitment.

A staunch advocate for community solidarity, Marcus's tenure has been marked by a hands-on approach. His readiness to lend support, coupled with his warm yet forthright demeanor, makes him a respected and endearing figure to all who work alongside him.

Marcus's advocacy extends beyond organizational roles. He is known for being a community champion, often the first to extend help where it's needed most. His kind-heartedness, balanced with an ability to make tough decisions, encapsulates his role as Co-Chair—guiding Stockton Pride with compassion and decisive leadership.

As we continue to navigate the path towards greater inclusivity and equality, Marcus Mac's leadership serves as a beacon of hope and strength, reminding us that community thrives when we come together with shared purpose and determination.

Biography:

Teddy Lewis stands as a pivotal member of the Stockton Pride committee, having joined the team in its fifth year and quickly becoming the operational backbone of the organization. His logistical acumen and all-hands-on-deck approach have been invaluable in steering Stockton Pride events toward success year after year.

A witness to history, Teddy's advocacy roots trace back to his teenage years, when he stood amidst the groundswell of the Stonewall riots—a moment that would forever shape the course of LGBTQ+ rights. This profound experience has instilled in him a deep understanding of the significance of Pride and the critical need to foster safe, celebratory spaces for the community.

Teddy's behind-the-scenes wizardry ensures that every detail, from parade routes to vendor coordination, is executed with precision. Yet, his contributions transcend the tangible; his presence is a living bridge connecting the courageous spirit of Stonewall to the contemporary movement, reminding us of the long journey toward equality and the vigilance required to safeguard our gains.

At Stockton Pride, Teddy is more than a committee member; he is a guardian of legacy and an architect of the future, crafting spaces where every cheer, every march, and every celebration echoes the resilience of those who stood before us.