The 21st Anniversary of Marriage Equality: Now What Comes Next?

It is hard to believe that February 12, 2025, marks the 21-year anniversary of when then-San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom sparked a ground-breaking civil rights movement by legalizing same-sex marriage. In doing so, he not only changed our nation’s views on life, love and marriage, but demonstrated the power of how a community can change discriminatory laws in its pursuit for equality.

Join is for a timely anniversary celebration and special screening of the award-winning film "Pursuit of Equality." We will take a look back at the pivotal case as many members of the LGBTQ community enter 2025 questioning if their rights are protected under a new administration. Some are asking what it will take for to continue the fight for equality.

SPEAKERS

Mabel Tang, Former San Francisco Assessor-Recorder

Geoff Callan, Filmmaker, "Pursuit of Equality"

Mike Shaw, Filmmaker, "Pursuit of Equality"

Mark Leno, Former California State Assemblymember; Former California State Senator

Kate Kendell, Former Executive Director, NCLR

Jeanne Rizzo, Featured in "Pursuit of Equality"

Pali Cooper, Featured in "Pursuit of Equality"

Michelle Meow, Producer and Host, "The Michelle Meow Show," KPIX+; Member, Commonwealth Club World Affairs of California Board of Governors—Moderator

5:30 p.m. doors open & check-in
6–7:30 p.m. program, including short film screening
7:30–8:30 p.m. reception
(all times PST)

Host or Publisher The Commonwealth Club