One Step A La Vez in Fillmore is a teen drop in center that provides multiple services for teens ages 13-19 years old. Part of their mission is to provide a safe space for all our youth, especially our most vulnerable.
The Center held a Pride resource fair this past June. A three minute performance by a drag queen at the event raised such an uproar that a group of individuals went to their local city council and school board meeting to have them removed as a resource for Fillmore teens.
“They stated that we were grooming their children and sexualizing them by having a grown man dress provocatively around them. This was not that case at all!” says interim director Jazmin Gavilanes in an interview with THE FIGHT.
“This is absolutely heartbreaking because I wish these individuals actually knew the history as to why drag queens even exist and the heroic stories behind them!”
“This group of individuals are still working hard to get us defunded and it’s sad to say but they are winning,” reveals Gavilanes.
“We have received emails stating that people are not donating to us because of the event and the lies that have been spread. We are currently experiencing a financial crisis and at this rate we might have to shut our doors as early as next week.”
One Step A La Vez has launched an emergency fundraising campaign and need our support!
For more info go to onestepalavez.org
