Long Beach Celebrates Women's Rights at 5th Annual Dyke March and Rally

Head to Long Beach, California on Friday, May 19 when the women come out for their 5th Annual Dyke March and Rally. This year's event features chanting, marching, drumming, speakers, and an after party featuring music by the band Doll Parts.

"Bring your banners and signs and continue to make herstory!" said organizers.

The Rally begins at 6:30 p.m. at the Bixby Park Bandshell, with music that brings people together by DJ Kat Woman and the fire energy of Dragon Rising. Speakers include Denise Penn, Mayor Robert Garcia, Lynn H. Ballen, Claudia Rodriquez and Jeannette Bronson.

The Jeanne Cordova Honorees for this year's event include Reba Birmingham, and Stephanie Loftin, with an introduction by Pat Crosby.

"We pay tribute to two Long Beach women who have done a lot for the Long Beach LGBT community; Reba Birmingham and Audrey Stephanie Loftin," write organizers. "Jeanne Cordova would be proud and we are grateful to have Lynn H. Ballen in attendance to present the Jeanne Cordova award and Pat Crosby to introduce the happy couple. Please join us in saying thanks to these two wonderful women."

The March steps off at 7:30 p.m. led by Chant Chant Goddess Marie Cartier along with the Womyn's Empowerment Drum Circle.

Following the March, Artful Thinking invites all participants to The After Party Breast Cancer Benefit at Paradise Bar & Restaurant, at 1800 E. Broadway. The event starts at 8 p.m., and there is no cover.

Enjoy live music by the band Doll Parts, with all proceeds benefiting the LA Pink Dragons.

For more information, visit www.facebook.com/LongBeachDykeMarch/