"Ginger Rogers" beach honored with LGBTQ-themed lifeguard towers to celebrate Pride Month

Monday, June 19, 2023
SANTA MONICA, Calif. (KABC) -- A special Pride Month celebration was held in Santa Monica Saturday, remembering the history of "Ginger Rogers" Beach.

The Los Angeles County Third District and ONE Archives Foundation honored LGBTQ+ advocates and leaders by painting Lifeguard Towers 17 and 18 with the colors of the Progress Pride Flag.
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There's also new signage educating the public about "Ginger Rogers" Beach. For decades, the beach area has been a refuge and safe haven for members of the LGBTQ+ community.

Beginning in the 1940s, young gay men began coming to this part of Will Rogers State Park, and it became known as "Ginger Rogers," named for the glamorous Hollywood actress.
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Over the years the beach has evolved to become a place of culture, politics, and celebration, and continues to serve as a sanctuary for the LGBTQ+ community.

Check out abc7.com/pride for stories about the LGBTQIA+ community and their allies, and share your Pride with #abc7eyewitness.
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