SGI-USA Santa Barbara, California, Participates in Pride Festival

On July 11, 2009, SGI-USA members participated in the Pacific Pride Festival at Chase Palm Park in Santa Barbara, California, marking the first time that the local SGI-USA organization took part in the event. Organized to celebrate the diversity of Santa Barbara's lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community, the daylong event featured live entertainment, food and numerous booths from local community groups and businesses. Approximately 3,500 people attended the day's festivities. SGI-USA members sponsored an information booth on the SGI and Nichiren Buddhism and shared their personal experiences in faith with many festival participants.

[Adapted from an article in the July 31, 2009 issue of the World Tribune, SGI-USA; photo courtesy of David Nipper]