Los Angeles County leaders commemorated the painting of two lifeguard towers in a remarkable way. They adorned the towers with the vibrant colors of the Progress Pride Flag, symbolizing inclusivity and progress. These towers stand proudly on Ginger Rogers Beach, a coastal haven that holds great historical significance for the LGBTQ+ community.
Specifically, these colorful towers, numbered 17 and 18, are situated on Ginger Rogers Beach, which forms part of the renowned Will Rogers State Beach. Located in Santa Monica, this stretch of sand has been a beloved destination for gay men since as early as the 1940s. It became affectionately known as Ginger Rogers Beach in honor of the iconic film legend herself.
Supervisor Lindsey Horvath, a champion of this cause, spearheaded the celebratory event held on Saturday at 10 a.m. Horvath’s office shared that the aim of this celebration was to declare Ginger Rogers Beach as a place where love and community triumph. A place that embraces everyone without exception.
Over the years, this location has evolved into a significant hub for political activism. It has hosted various initiatives, from fundraisers for AIDS victims to petition drives advocating against the Vietnam War.
Joining Supervisor Horvath were representatives from the ONE Archives Foundation, county departments, and local activists. Together, they unveiled the stunningly painted towers created by the talented graphic designer, illustrator, and muralist, Kat Bing. In addition to the towers, educational signage was installed, providing visitors with insights into the rich history of this beach.
Before the Ginger Rogers program and celebration commenced, an environmental initiative took place. In partnership with Heal the Bay, a beach cleanup was organized at 8:30 a.m. This reflected the commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the beach, which has long been cherished by the LGBTQ+ community.
Horvath’s office acknowledged that Ginger Rogers Beach has remained somewhat hidden from the rest of Los Angeles, with its unique story and name known primarily within the LGBTQ+ community. Supervisor Horvath emphasized that during the “post-war era,” this beach offered a sanctuary for LGBTQ+ individuals as they sought refuge from discrimination. It was at this very beach that signatures were gathered to stand against McCarthyism, leading to the formation of the Mattachine Society, one of the pioneering gay rights organizations.
In the 1980s and 1990s, as the AIDS crisis unfolded, Ginger Rogers Beach became a prominent venue for social gatherings and fundraising events aimed at supporting those affected by the epidemic. In 1995, San Diego’s Gay and Lesbian Times aptly described it as the “West Coast’s answer to the Statue of Liberty.”
Ginger Rogers, an iconic actress of Hollywood’s “Golden Age,” graced the silver screen in more than 70 films. She starred alongside Fred Astaire in 10 classic musical comedies. Rogers passed away in 1995 at the age of 83, leaving behind a timeless legacy.
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