Brothers of the Desert will ring in the new year with its signature Carnival in Palm Springs celebration, held at the Riviera Resort and Spa. More than just a festive evening of music, dancing, and dining, the event will spotlight four inspirational figures whose work has uplifted the LGBTQ+ community locally and nationally.
This year’s honorees include:
- Gil Gerald (top row, left photo) – A pioneering LGBTQ+ activist of Afro-Caribbean heritage, Gerald co-founded the National Coalition of Black Lesbians and Gays and served on the founding boards of the Human Rights Campaign Fund and National Minority AIDS Council. He is a longtime member of Brothers of the Desert and is currently writing his memoir.
- Grace Garner (top row, right) – The first Latina elected to the Palm Springs City Council, Garner is serving her second term representing District One. Her leadership has focused on affordable housing, youth programs, and community development.
- Joe Hawkins (second row, right) – A veteran community organizer from Oakland, Hawkins co-founded Oakland Pride and the Oakland LGBTQ Community Center. His decades of service have earned him national recognition, including the Visionary Award from Horizons Foundation.
- Lauren Joichin Nile (second row, left) – A retired attorney, author, and diversity trainer, Nile has worked with the U.S. State Department, the White House, and numerous advocacy organizations. She was honored with the Spirit of Stonewall Advocate of the Year Award in 2019.
“Each year during our New Year’s Eve party, there is a beautiful moment when we lift up people who have inspired us or been incredibly supportive of us, or both,” said Tim Vincent, Board President of Brothers of the Desert. “This year we are proud to express our gratitude to one of our many dedicated members and three amazing allies.”
Carnival in Palm Springs is the organization’s primary fundraiser, supporting scholarships and year-round programming. Guests can enjoy a sumptuous meal, live entertainment, and community fellowship. A 15% discount is available for tickets or tables purchased by November 30 using the code BOD2025.