By Eric Gonzales, Executive Vice President, LAVO

This is surreal.

You know that feeling when you know something’s true but you still can’t really believe it? Never in my wildest dreams would I have thought I’d be one of the community leaders working on a bid for Los Angeles to become host of the 2022 Gay Games.

Now is the time and Los Angeles is the place. I know we are the perfect host city. Just some of the LA advantages include our diversity, the existing infrastructure, world class venues, perfect climate, all the entertainment and media in our backyard, plus various transportation options, lots of history and endless activities for people participate.

Personally, I want the Gay Games to come to LA because they have never been here before. Surprisingly the city has never hosted the games since they were conceived in 1982 and I think it’s about time! Why not? We have a lot to offer athletes, the LGBT community and international guests. We are creating an environment where LGBT athletes can be themselves and come together in a safe space as they strive to achieve their personal best as set forth in the Federation of Gay Games’ founding principles.

I came to Los Angeles more than a decade ago and shortly after found family in the sports community. After launching LAVO, I wanted to continue promoting inclusion and equality within the sports community and with the help of a huge support network created the West Hollywood Sports Festival. The bid to bring the Gay Games to Los Angeles, working alongside passionate and committed supporters, is the next chapter in my continuing quest to support inclusion and empower individuals.

This is amazing and exciting and exactly what I should be doing.

This is happening! Join me and be part of history!

Eric