RON HENGGELER

June 22, 2023
Fleurs de Villes Pride at the Old Mint 

A floral celebration of local LGBTQIA+ icons and trailblazer

I recently attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony to a show at the historic Old Mint in San Francsico. Here are some of the photos from my visit to the show.

WELCOME
Welcome to the U.S. premiere of Fleurs de Villes PRIDE - a floral celebration of joy and inclusivity, created by San Francisco's talented floral artists.
Admire the historical grandeur of The San Francisco Mint as you visit stunning salons and regal ballrooms filled with incredible floral installations and 18 mannequins honoring local LGBTQIA+ icons and trailblazers.
Enjoy refreshments in the beautiful courtyard, toast to 53 years of San Francisco Pride with a floral cocktail from the Hendrick's Gin bar, and vote for your favorite mannequin for a chance to win a month of fresh flowers!
@fleursdevilles
fleursdevilles.com/sf-pride

Sylvester

Disco Queen and icon of queer liberation, Sylvester captivated audiences with his powerful voice and flamboyant style. As an openly gay black artist in the 1970s, he broke barriers and became a beacon of joy for the LGBTO+ community. His anthems like, You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real)" celebrated self-expression and love, inspiring resilience in a time of limited acceptance. His impact extended beyond music as he advocated for
LGBTQ+ rights and raised HIV/AIDS awareness. Despite his own battle with the disease, he continued to perform and support safe sex practices. Tragically, Sylvester passed away in 1988, leaving a legacy of love, acceptance, and resilience. His artistry and advocacy solidified his position as a queer liberation icon, inspiring generations to embrace their authentic selves and fight for equality.

Floral created by Bellevue Floral Co.

Gilbert Baker

Gilbert Baker, an visionary artist and activist, is renowned as the creator of the iconic rainbow flag, a powerful symbol of LGBTO+ pride and unity. Designed and hand-stitched in 1978, the flag became an emblem of diversity and inclusivity, representing the community's struggle for equality. Beyond the flag, Baker's activism and artistry made a lasting impact, advocating for equal rights and HIV/AIDS awareness. His installations, such as the Mile-Long Rainbow Flag, showcased his commitment to using art as a catalyst for change. Baker's legacy as an advocate and artist resonates, as the rainbow flag continues to symbolize acceptance and the celebration of LGBTO+ identities. His visionary work gave voice to a marginalized community, fostering a sense of belonging and inspiring hope for a better future.

Floral created by Orange Moon Floral

Detail of the Gilbert Baker floral display

Bayard Rustin

Bayard Rustin was Martin Luther King Jr's mentor, chief organizer, pioneer of the movement's nonviolent resistance, and the man behind the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, during which Dr. King delivered his iconic "I have a Dream" speech. However, Rustin's impact extended beyond his involvement in the civil rights movement. As an openly gay man at a time when homosexuality was widely stigmatized, he became an influential voice in the emerging gay rights movement, lending his support to organizations such as the National Gay Task Force and advocating for the repeal of discriminatory laws. He was instrumental in organizing the the groundbreaking
1987 March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights.

Floral created by

Greg Lum
Lily Chan
Vic Castillo
Trish Nishikawa

Marsha P Johnson

Transgender activist and icon Marsha P Johnson was a pivotal figure in the LGBTQ+ rights movement. Known for her vibrant personality and colorful outfits, Johnson played a significant role in the Stonewall uprising of 1969, sparking days of protests and resistance. Co-founding the Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries (STAR) with Sylvia Rivera, she advocated for the rights of transgender and gender non-conforming individuals, particularly marginalized youth. Johnson fought for equal treatment, an end to police harassment, and access to healthcare and social services. Tragically, her life was cut short in 1992, and her death brought attention to violence against transgender individuals. Johnson's legacy as a trailblazer continues to inspire activists, serving as a symbol of resilience and an icon of the transgender rights movement.

Ken Jones

Ken Jones, the first black president of San Francisco Pride, was a dedicated LGBTO+ activist and advocate for equality. During his tenure, Jones made it a priority to amplify the voices and experiences of marginalized communities within the LGBTO+ movement. Beyond Pride events, he actively campaigned against discriminatory legislation and fought for the rights of people living with HIV/AIDS. His dedication to addressing the intersecting issues faced by the LGBTO+ community, particularly communities of color, made him a respected and influential figure within the movement, receiving several prestigious awards that honored his tireless efforts and unwavering commitment to justice and advancing LGBTQ+ rights.

Floral arrangement created by Dasluz

Dr. Nas Mohamed

Dr. Nas Mohamed is a Qatari physician and an LGBT rights activist. In 2022, he became the very first LGBT Qatari to publicly come out on BBC news. During his international petition campaign "Love is not a crime"- which more people signed than the total number of those that attended the last game of the 2022 FIFA Soccer World Cup in Qatar - he got the stories of LGBT Qataris to be covered in all continents and in most languages. He also connected LGBT victims of physical torture from Qatar to the human rights watch and published the very first country conditions report for LGBT individuals in Qatar. He is also the founder of Osra Medical in San Francisco and the Alwan Foundation, the first LGBT organization with a focus on advancing LGBT rights in the Gulf region in the Middle East. In 2023, Dr. Nas won the public vote to be the Community Grand Marshal of the San Francisco Pride celebration.

Floral created by Flybunker

Dr. Nas Mohamed

Nguyen Pham

As the first Vietnamese president of San Francisco Pride, Nguyen Pham works to uplift, center, and protect marginalized queer lives. He is also Director of Philanthropy at Frameline, the world's first and largest LGBTO+ media arts organization aimed at changing the world through the power of cinema, and performs with CHEER San Francisco, an all-volunteer nonprofit stunt and acrobatics group that raises charitable funds globally for community members facing life-challenging conditions. As the first openly-LGBTQ+ member of the Mensa Foundation Board of Trustees, he has established the Progress Pride Scholarship and the Progress Pride Fund to support marginalized BIPOC and LGBTQ individuals. He is the recipient of multiple pageant titles, including Mr. Gay San Francisco 2015.

Floral created by Noovo Bloom

Aria Said

Transgender advocate and political strategist Aria Said is the Executive Director of The Transgender District, the world's first cultural district celebrating transgender people in San Francisco's Tenderloin neighborhood. She also founded the Kween Culture Initiative, empowering Black transgender women. She has led and supported numerous public policy efforts, including co-creating the first US sex worker protection law and legislation protecting incarcerated transgender individuals. Said has provided strategy for legislation on cultural districts, gender-neutral restrooms, and transgender violence prevention. Her work encompasses community development, policy advocacy, and creating a more inclusive society for transgender and non-binary individuals.

Floral created by Diosa Blooms

Aria Said

Transgender advocate and political strategist Aria Said is the Executive Director of The Transgender District, the world's first cultural district celebrating transgender people in San Francisco's Tenderloin neighborhood. She also founded the Kween Culture Initiative, empowering Black transgender women. She has led and supported numerous public policy efforts, including co-creating the first US sex worker protection law and legislation protecting incarcerated transgender individuals. Said has provided strategy for legislation on cultural districts, gender-neutral restrooms, and transgender violence prevention. Her work encompasses community development, policy advocacy, and creating a more inclusive society for transgender and non-binary individuals.

Floral created by Diosa Blooms

Mia Satar

Community organizer and activist Mia Satya has dedicated herself to empowering marginalized communities. As a transgender woman, Satya has been a vocal advocate for transgender rights, playing a pivotal role in campaigns and initiatives that combat discrimination and advance inclusivity. She has organized Pride events, fostered dialogue to challenge stereotypes and promote acceptance, and actively campaigned for laws that protect the rights of transgender individuals, including access to healthcare, employment, and education. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by LGBTO+ youth, she has also been involved in mentoring programs and initiatives focused on mental health and well-being. Her dedication to uplifting and empowering the next generation of LGBTQ+ leaders has made her a respected voice and role model.

Floral arrangement created by Sharia Flock Designs

Margaret Cho

Renowned comedian and actor Margaret Cho has fearlessly used her platform to address social issues and promote LGBTO+ rights. As an openly bisexual artist, she has challenged stereotypes and fostered understanding through her comedy shows and performances. Cho has actively supported LGBTQ+ organizations and served as a spokesperson for the National LGBTQ+ Task Force, and has made significant contributions in the fight against HIV/AIDS by participating in fundraising events and advocating for comprehensive healthcare and support services. Cho's success has shattered stereotypes as an Asian American woman in the entertainment industry, opening doors for other LGBTQ+ performers and artists. Her unique blend of humor, activism, and talent has made her an influential figure, inspiring fans worldwide to embrace their true selves and celebrate diversity.

Floral arrangement created by Floral Luxe

Nancy Pelosi

Speaker Emirata Nancy Pelosi has represented San Francisco in Congress for more than 36 years and has been a staunch advocate for the LGBTO+ community. She played a vital role in passing key legislation, including the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act and the repeal of the Defense of Marriage Act. Pelosi has consistently supported marriage equality, promoted comprehensive LGBTQ+ nondiscrimination protections, and actively participated in Pride events. Her influential position and unwavering commitment to equality and social justice have made her a respected ally in the fight for LGBT rights, solidifying her reputation as a dedicated champion for all individuals' rights and well-being.

Floral arrangement created by Celestial Petals

Marsha P Johnson
Transgender activist and icon Marsha P Johnson was a pivotal figure in the LGBTQ+ rights movement. Known for her vibrant personality and colorful outfits, Johnson played a significant role in the Stonewall uprising of 1969, sparking days of protests and resistance. Co-founding the Street Transvestite Action Revolutionaries (STAR) with Sylvia Rivera, she advocated for the rights of transgender and gender non-conforming individuals, particularly marginalized youth. Johnson fought for equal treatment, an end to police harassment, and access to healthcare and social services. Tragically, her life was cut short in 1992, and her death brought attention to violence against transgender individuals. Johnson's legacy as a trailblazer continues to inspire activists, serving as a symbol of resilience and an icon of the transgender rights movement.

Floral arrangement by Bloom Generation

Harvey Milk

Harvey Milk, a trailblazing figure in LGBTQ+ history, was the first openly gay elected official in California and one of the earliest in the United States. As a charismatic and passionate leader, he dedicated his life to fighting for equality and advocating for LGBTQ+ rights. Serving as a member of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, Milk fearlessly challenged discrimination and championed progressive policies. He became a symbol of hope and empowerment for the LGBTQ+ community, rallying support and mobilizing grassroots activism. Tragically, Milk's life was cut short when he was assassinated in 1978, but his legacy lives on as a symbol of resilience and a catalyst for change. Milk's accomplishments paved the way for greater LGBTQ+ representation in politics and ignited a movement that continues to strive for equality and social justice.

Floral arrangement created by U & I Event Design

Del Martin and Phyllis Lyon

Del Martin and Phyllis Lyon met in the early 1950s and quickly became partners in both life and queer activism. In 1955, they co-founded the Daughters of Bilitis (DOB), a groundbreaking organization that aimed to provide support and a sense of community for lesbian women. Through the DOB, Martin and Lyon published The Ladder, the first nationally distributed lesbian publication, providing a platform for the voices and experiences of lesbian women across the country. Beyond the DOB, they advocated for the decriminalization of homosexuality in California and organized the 1961 Council on Religion and the Homosexual, engaging in groundbreaking dialogues with religious leaders to foster understanding and challenge discriminatory beliefs. In 2008, they became the first same-sex couple to legally marry in California after being together for over fifty years.

Floral arrangement reated by Green Petal Designs

Floral Heart created by Obsessed With Flowers

Floral Heart created by Obsessed With Flowers

The Jardin
Together, Alone
This overgrown garden that made itself indoors is a reflection of finding yourself within as an individual, but also realizing that we are not alone. We are all searching for that pathway in life, be it alone or together as a community.

Created by Mister Lee Designs & Floral

José Julio Sarria

José Julio Sarria, a trailblazing figure in LGBTQ+ history, made history in 1961 as the first openly gay candidate to run for public office in the United States. Sarria's bid for political office inspired a sense of empowerment within the LGBTQ+ community, igniting the fight for equality. He also fought against police harassment and discriminatory laws, and his"drag queen riots" at the Black Cat Tavern in 1967 became a pivotal moment in LGBTQ+ history, as the community united against oppression and discrimination. As the founder of San Francisco's Imperial Court System, Sarria established a network of drag performers dedicated to fundraising for HIV/AIDS research, LGBTO+ youth support programs, and other vital community initiatives. His legacy as a trailblazer and advocate continues to inspire generations in activism.

Created by McCalls

Honey Mahogany

Honey Mahogany, a prominent figure in the San Francisco drag scene, has established herself as a multifaceted artist and advocate. As an acclaimed drag queen, singer, and songwriter, she gained national recognition as a contestant on RuPaul's Drag Race. Beyond her captivating performances, Honey is a dedicated activist, focusing on issues of racial and gender justice, as well as LGBTO+ rights. She co-founded Compton's Transgender Cultural District, a groundbreaking initiative in San Francisco's Tenderloin neighborhood, aimed at preserving and promoting transgender history and culture. In 2021, she was elected as the first Black and transgender chair of the San Francisco Democratic Party, and continues to use her platform to uplift and empower marginalized voices and promote inclusivity.

Created by McCalls

Peaches Christ
Renowned San Francisco drag queen Peaches Christ is best known for her captivating performances and unique blend of horror, comedy, and camp. Through her creation of the "Midnight Mass" series, she has brought together drag and cult movie screenings, creating immersive experiences that have become a staple of San Francisco's nightlife. She is a strong advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and visibility, inspiring emerging drag artists through mentorship and touring globally, sharing her mesmerizing talent with audiences worldwide. Her creativity, authenticity, and boundary-breaking approach have redefined the art of drag and continue to captivate audiences, reminding us of the transformative power of self-expression.

Floral arrangement created by:
Nigella SF

Heklina

Heklina, the renowned drag queen known for her larger-than-life persona and captivating stage presence, was a prominent figure in the drag scene for decades. As the founder of the iconic Trannyshack, a long-running drag club night, she provided a platform for emerging performers and helped shape the city's drag culture. Her boundary-pushing performances challenged societal norms and shattered stereotypes, helping to pave the way for greater acceptance and understanding of the art of drag. An outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, she used her platform to raise awareness and funds for HIV/AIDS research, transgender rights, and queer youth support programs. Through her artistry, activism, and dedication to the drag community, she solidified her place as a trailblazer and a beloved icon of San Francisco's vibrant LGBTQ+ scene.

Floral arrangement created by: Garden Party

For the history of the Old Mint, visit my photo newsletter from 2015.

The Old Mint . . . San Francisco's Granite Lady