Local Organizations Join Forces to Host First-Ever Sexuality & Gender Identity Healthcare Symposium in Kern County

Bakersfield, CA - The Center for Sexuality & Gender Diversity, in collaboration with the Bakersfield American Indian Health Project, Bakersfield College and other local organizations, proudly announces the inaugural Sexuality & Gender Identity Healthcare Symposium, set to take place on June 14th, 2024, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM at Bakersfield College. This groundbreaking event is the first of its kind in Kern County and aims to advance health equity and cultural competence in 2SLGBTQIA+ healthcare.
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The Pride Health Symposium will feature educational workshops, keynote speakers, panel discussions, and a Health & Wellness Fair, providing a comprehensive platform for healthcare providers, community partners, and the 2SLGBTQIA+ community to engage in meaningful dialogue and share best practices. This event will offer Continuing Education Units (CEUs) for participating professionals, further emphasizing the importance of culturally appropriate care for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.

Event Date: June 14th, 2024
Time: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Location: Bakersfield College, 1801 Panorama Dr, Bakersfield, CA 93305

Participating Organizations:

• Bakersfield American Indian Health Project
• Bakersfield College
• Kern County Public Health
• Kern Health Systems
• Cal State University Bakersfield
• Kern Behavioral Health and Recovery Services

Event Objectives:

1. Enhance cultural competency and congruence among healthcare providers.
2. Foster community and provider dialogue on 2SLGBTQIA+ healthcare needs.
3. Lay the foundation for sustainable 2SLGBTQIA+ healthcare infrastructure in Kern County.

This symposium is designed to create a safe, inclusive, and empowering environment for all attendees, facilitating the development of specialized programs that address the unique challenges faced by the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.

How to Register:
To sign up for the Pride Health Symposium and view the full agenda, please click on the button below.

​For more information on sponsorship opportunities and event details, contact [email protected] 

Quote from Executive Director, Jesus Martell Gonzalez:
"The significance of local organizations coming together to advance health equity for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community cannot be overstated. Our community often faces formidable challenges in accessing affirming care, frequently necessitating travel to distant cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco for basic healthcare services that could be provided locally. This symposium is a crucial step in changing that narrative. There's no reason we cannot offer the same high-quality care tailored to the 2SLGBTQIA+ community right here in Kern County. As Kern County grows, so does the need for culturally affirming primary and mental healthcare. I am immensely proud that so many organizations have chosen to join forces to pave the way forward."

Join us in making a difference and be part of this historic event that champion's health equity and inclusivity for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community in Kern County.

Media Contact:
Jesus Martell Gonzalez
Executive Director
[email protected]

About The Center for Sexuality & Gender Diversity:
The Center for Sexuality & Gender Diversity is dedicated to providing resources, support, and advocacy for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community in Kern County. Our mission is to create an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.

Register To Attend

Download Event Flyer