Upcoming Events
Members Monthly Meeting
Brothers of the Desert members meet monthly to discuss recent and upcoming events, share updates on the organization, celebrate our accomplishments, and have an opportunity to connect with new and existing members.
Zoom Link | HERE
Members & Allies Lunch
Join us after the Members’ Meeting at Peruvian Fuego for lunch!
Both members and allies are welcome to attend (Cash and Carry).
Make your reservation with David before Friday, January 10th, as we want to let the restaurant know how many will be having lunch. DavidMaurice.Jones@gmail.com
Barbershop Discussion Group
Building upon the tradition of barbershops in Black communities, the discussion group is designed to encourage open and honest conversation. The meetings will be inclusive, welcoming the full spectrum of Black men each month: gay, bisexual, transgender, nonbinary, and straight allies. The wellness topics will be equally diverse, ranging from dating and intimacy to aging with HIV, how we get and offer support, and exploring our identities as Black men.
To RSVP, email Info_Barbershop@LKAPS.org
The Patty Cakes Show | “I SURVIVED CONVERSION THERAPY!”
The Patty Cakes Show: “I SURVIVED CONVERSION THERAPY!” A late-night talk show on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, starting at 7 pm. Look forward to first a monologue, guest interview and audience questions.
In-person at The Center For Spiritual Living, Palm Springs, located at 2100 East Racquet Club Road, PS CA 92262.
Doors open 6:30 pm., tickets $25 and $30 at the door. Get your tickets today!
“Most gay/queer individuals experience some amount of pushback from family members during the coming out process. I, Patty Cakes, certainly did. But what if this pushback is a coordinated declaration of war from all sides initiated by family and recruited licensed “professionals” designed to annihilate one’s sexual/gender identity? The analogy, I imagine, compares to a lobotomy, just without the scalpel. Well, please attend as one of our audience members. Bring your empathy and your questions. Come hear firsthand about Mr. Curtis Galloway’s experience with conversion therapy. And his founding of www.conrsionsurvivor.org and, how you can help.
DISCLAIMER: Show topics may change based on guest appearances. Tickets, however, are only refundable if Patty Cakes is unable to host.
Members Monthly Meeting
Brothers of the Desert members meet monthly to discuss recent and upcoming events, share updates on the organization, celebrate our accomplishments, and have an opportunity to connect with new and existing members.
Zoom Link | HERE
Members & Allies Lunch
Join us after the Members’ Meeting at Billy Reeds for lunch!
Both members and allies are welcome to attend (Cash and Carry).
Make your reservation with David before Friday, February 7th, as we want to let the restaurant know how many will be having lunch. DavidMaurice.Jones@gmail.com
Barbershop Discussion Group
Building upon the tradition of barbershops in Black communities, the discussion group is designed to encourage open and honest conversation. The meetings will be inclusive, welcoming the full spectrum of Black men each month: gay, bisexual, transgender, nonbinary, and straight allies. The wellness topics will be equally diverse, ranging from dating and intimacy to aging with HIV, how we get and offer support, and exploring our identities as Black men.
To RSVP, email Info_Barbershop@LKAPS.org
38th Annual City of Palm Springs Black History Month Parade and Town Fair
Brothers of the Desert Board and Members celebrate Black History Month!
The Palm Springs Black History Committee, the City of Palm Springs, and the James O. Jessie Desert Highland Unity Center host the "38th Annual City of Palm Springs Black History Month Parade and Town Fair."
Let us know if you would like to walk in the parade by emailing vicepresident@brothersofthedesert.org
The Parade starts at 11:00 AM on Saturday, February 22, 2025, on Palm Canyon Drive in Downtown Palm Springs.
Immediately following the Parade, the Town Fair is held at the New Downtown Park in Palm Springs across the street from the Palm Springs Art Museum.
Barbershop Discussion Group
Building upon the tradition of barbershops in Black communities, the discussion group is designed to encourage open and honest conversation. The meetings will be inclusive, welcoming the full spectrum of Black men each month: gay, bisexual, transgender, nonbinary, and straight allies. The wellness topics will be equally diverse, ranging from dating and intimacy to aging with HIV, how we get and offer support, and exploring our identities as Black men.
To RSVP, email Info_Barbershop@LKAPS.org
6th Annual Wellness Summit | The Power of Authenticity
Brothers of the Desert is conducting our 6th Annual Wellness Summit— in-person on Saturday, March 22nd, 2025, at the new Riviera Resort Hotel and Spa in Palm Springs from 8:30 AM-4:30 PM.
The summit will focus on Black gay men and our allies in the Coachella Valley and beyond.
Living authentically and being confident in expressing yourself is tied to overall health and well-being and can be challenged and supported by several factors. It is important for us in this moment to reflect on how we best find and live in our truth. “The Power of Authenticity” is the theme of our summit.
Join us as we offer the opportunity to learn from a diverse group of health and wellness experts. The one-day event will feature inspiring keynote presentations and innovative workshops on various topics, such as spirituality, relationships, mental health, aging considerations, racism, physical health, communication, healthy sex, and creative expression as a means of healing. Everyone is welcome to attend.
The summit begins with a meet-and-greet at 8:30 AM, and the program will start promptly at 9:00 AM. Participants can choose to attend concurrent workshops at three different times during the day and meet and connect with new people. Lunch will be provided, along with raffle prizes and entertainment. Space is limited, and registration is required.
A donation of $25 is suggested, and any amount given will be appreciated. The entire speaker line-up for 2025 will be revealed in the coming months.
We are proud to announce that our Keynote Speaker will be New York Times best-selling author of All Boys Aren’t Blue, George M. Johnson, and returning as host, film director Nathan Hale-Williams. Past speakers have included Representative Malcolm Kenyatta, public health expert Greg Millett, Bishop Yvette Flunder, Dr. Leo Moore, psychiatrist Dr. Curley Bonds, and creative artists including Alton Fitzgerald White, Nhojj, and Lorenzo Taylor.
Get Tickets: https://BODWellnessSummit2025.eventbrite.com
Go to https://www.brothersofthedesert.org/wellness-summit to see videos and photos from our previous summit.
The Patty Cakes Show | “MY DADDY IS NOT MY FATHER!”
Let's join and support our friend and member of Brothers of the Desert for her late-night talk show: PATTY CAKES SHOW, “MY DADDY IS NOT MY FATHER!” on December 25, 2024, at 7 pm!
Look forward to an opening monologue, guest interview, audience questions, and more!
In-person at The Center For Spiritual Living, Palm Springs, at 2100 East Racquet Club Road, PS CA 92262.
Doors open at 6:30 pm.; tickets are $25 online and $30 at the door. Get your tickets today HERE.
Imagine being well into your 50s when your mother approaches you with some BREAKING NEWS. “Your daddy is not your father.” What do you do?
Bring your empathy and your questions. Come find out exactly what our guest, Randi Hoffman, did to discover and find peace with her new reality. Dr Krista Driver will also join us via Zoom and share her own experience as a non-parent NPE individual. Learn all about her nonprofit, www.mariposacenter.org, and how you can help support her work serving newly identified NPE.
DISCLAIMER: Show topics may change based on guest appearances. Tickets, however, are only refundable if Patty Cakes cannot host. For more info, showmepattycakes.com.
Benefiting: Brothers of the Desert's Membership Emergency Fund.
Members & Allies Lunch
Join us after the Members’ Meeting at Blackbook Bar and Kitchen for lunch!
Both members and allies are welcome to attend (Cash and Carry).
Make your reservation with David before Friday, December 13th, as we want to let Blackbook Bar know how many will be having lunch. DavidMaurice.Jones@gmail.com
Members Monthly Meeting
Brothers of the Desert members meet monthly to discuss recent and upcoming events, share updates on the organization, celebrate our accomplishments, and have an opportunity to connect with new and existing members.
Zoom Link | HERE
Brothers Do Drag: A Drag Tribute to Female R&B and Hip-Hop Legends
Brothers Got Talent Returns to Boozehounds Palm Springs on Friday December 13th at 6pm PST (Doors at 5:30pm)
Brothers of the Desert is hosting another spectacular talent night called "Brothers Do Drag: A Drag Tribute to Female R&B and Hip Hop Legends”
Come see us "Lip Sync" and entertain you all night long!
Purchase your tickets HERE
Barbershop Discussion Group
Building upon the tradition of barbershops in Black communities, the discussion group is designed to encourage open and honest conversation. The meetings will be inclusive, welcoming the full spectrum of Black men each month: gay, bisexual, transgender, nonbinary, and straight allies. The wellness topics will be equally diverse, ranging from dating and intimacy to aging with HIV, how we get and offer support, and exploring our identities as Black men.
To RSVP, email Info_Barbershop@LKAPS.org
Wreath Auction
Brothers of the Desert is supporting the Roost Lounge in Cathedral City with their annual "Wreath Auction" which benefits the Cathedral City Boys and Girls Club. The Roost Lounge every year has hosted this amazing and creative wreath auction event, here is your chance to create a wreath and let your arts and craft side shine.
The auction will be on Sunday, December 8, drop off your decorated or store bought wreath prior to December 8th at the Roost Lounge Cathedral City. T
his has been the 3rd year that Brothers of the Desert has supported the cause with the Roost Lounge, we appreciate your engagement.
Dessert Auction
Brothers of the Desert is supporting the Roost Lounge in Cathedral City with their annual "Dessert Auction" which benefits the Cathedral City Boys and Girls Club. The Roost Lounge every year has hosted this amazing and delicious sweet tooth auction and event, here is your chance to create a delicious dessert.
The auction will be on Sunday, December 8, drop off your dessert or store bought dessert the day of the event Sunday, December 8th at the Roost Lounge Cathedral City.
Holiday Party!
Come celebrate with us at Holiday Party for Members of Brothers of the Desert!
Please RSVP by Friday, November 29th to DavidMaurice.Jones@gmail.com Please indicate what category of your dish. Please also bring your favorite drink / beverage to share.
Home of Michael Hardwick | 6171 Del Rio Way Yucca Valley, CA. 92284
Directions: https://maps.app.goo.gl/bQ8FYRCb3NJE4AcRA
Note: Please park at the bottom of the driveway in the cul-de-sac and surrounding areas. Please do not park in the driveway.
Barbershop Discussion Group
Building upon the tradition of barbershops in Black communities, the discussion group is designed to encourage open and honest conversation. The meetings will be inclusive, welcoming the full spectrum of Black men each month: gay, bisexual, transgender, nonbinary, and straight allies. The wellness topics will be equally diverse, ranging from dating and intimacy to aging with HIV, how we get and offer support, and exploring our identities as Black men.
To RSVP, email Info_Barbershop@LKAPS.org
Members & Allies Lunch | Post Speaker Series
Join us after the Speaker Series at Escena Grill for lunch!
Both members and allies are welcome to attend (Cash and Carry).
Make your reservation with David before Friday, November 8th, as we want to let Escena know how many will be having lunch. DavidMaurice.Jones@gmail.com
Members Monthly Meeting
Brothers of the Desert members meet monthly to discuss recent and upcoming events, share updates on the organization, celebrate our accomplishments, and have an opportunity to connect with new and existing members.
Zoom Link | HERE
REAL Talk, REAL Health: A Wellness Summit Preview
Saturday, November 9, 2024 | 9:00 am-12 pm at the Mizell Center.
Brothers of the Desert is excited to present a Speaker Series on November 9th with Keynote Speaker Dr. Leo Moore.
REAL Talk, REAL Health, A Wellness Summit Preview.
The speaker series begins with a meet-and-greet at 9:00 AM, and the program starts promptly at 9:30 AM. Guests will be able to hear an open discussion and participate in a question-and-answer session hosted by Icon City/Anye Elite. The session will feature speaker Private Chef Betty Berrysmith on how to have a healthier food lifestyle and exercise expert Chad String on how exercise relates to a healthy lifestyle. You will have an opportunity to ask questions related to creating a healthier lifestyle.
This will be followed by a special presentation from Dr. Leo Moore (MD, MSHPM, AAHIVE), an Internal, HIV & Lifestyle Medicine Physician.
Connect with new people and old friends. In the morning, coffee, juice, and pastries will be provided.
This is a free event, but registration is required. A donation to Brothers of the Desert is encouraged, and any amount given will be accepted and appreciated.
Please join us by RSVPing at the Eventbrite link HERE.
Please follow the link for Real Talk, Real Health Broadcast HERE.
Toy Drive
Brothers of the Desert is supporting the Roost Lounge in Cathedral City with their annual "Toy Drive" which benefits the Cathedral City Boys and Girls Club. The Roost Lounge every year has hosted this amazing toy drive event, that benefits the Cathedral City Boys and Girls Club. Here is your chance to make a kid "SMILE" for the holidays.
The toy drive collection of an unwrapped toy is now until December 18th at the Roost Lounge Cathedral City.
Board Game Drive
Brothers of the Desert is in support of assisting the Roost Lounge in Cathedral City with collecting as many game boards for children in need as possible.
This 4th Annual event hosted by the Roost Lounge is in benefit of the Cathedral City Boys and Girls Club.
Drop your board game off at the Roost Lounge now through Sunday, December 15th-2024!
Food Drive
Brothers of the Desert has partnered with the Roost Lounge in Cathedral City for their annual "Food Drive" which benefits the Cathedral City Senior Center.
The Roost Lounge has placed a large box at the rear door in bar, which will be in place until Saturday, November 30th-2024. You may drop off and kind of canned goods, dry goods and non-perishable items.
This has been the 3rd year that Brothers of the Desert has supported the cause with the Roost Lounge, we appreciate your engagement.
3rd Wednesday Speaker Series | Protecting, Preserving & Promoting the Erotic Arts with Durk Dehner
3rd Wednesday Speaker Series
Wednesday, June 19, 2024
5:30PM Reception
6:00PM Program
Juneteenth: Food for the Soul
Food plays an essential role in many national holidays. Juneteenth is no exception. Soul food has become synonymous with Juneteenth and boasts a rich history that tells the story of an enslaved people. Please join Chefs Betty Berry Smith and Michael Taylor as they examine the sociological and historical context of “soul food”.
Darlyne Johnson will moderate the conversation. We will honor local restaurateur Charles Brown, chef and owner of Brown’s BBQ. For more than a dozen years, Chef Brown has been serving “soul food” to Palm Springs residents and visitors. Immediately preceding the conversation, we invite you to enjoy a tasting of celebratory foods associated with Juneteenth.
Members Monthly Meeting
Brothers of the Desert members meet monthly to discuss recent and upcoming events, share updates on the organization, celebrate our accomplishments, and have an opportunity to connect with new and existing members.
Zoom Link | HERE
Marcus Ruthering’s “Wildthots” (Sneak Peek & Reception)
Brothers of the Desert would like you to join us and Jason Howard from Rubine Red Gallery & MODERNIST Frame & Design for a Sneak Peek & Reception for Marcus Ruthering’s “Wildthots.”
Friday, October 11th from 5-7 pm (Sneak Peak & Reception)
Location: 668 N Palm Canyon Drive, Suite 102, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Up-and-coming artist Marcus Rothering will be introduced and shown from October 12 through November 5th, 2024.
For more information: www.rubineredgallery.com
Barbershop Discussion Group
Building upon the tradition of barbershops in Black communities, the discussion group is designed to encourage open and honest conversation. The meetings will be inclusive, welcoming the full spectrum of Black men each month: gay, bisexual, transgender, nonbinary, and straight allies. The wellness topics will be equally diverse, ranging from dating and intimacy to aging with HIV, how we get and offer support, and exploring our identities as Black men.
To RSVP, email Info_Barbershop@LKAPS.org
State of the Black I.E.
Brothers of the Desert members are invited to attend “State of the Black I.E.”
Saturday, October 5, 2024 from 10:00am-3:00pm in Moreno Valley, CA.
*Event address will be sent via email after RSVPing*
Hosted by Assemblymember Dr. Corey Jackson, 60th District & Keynote Speaker, Reverend Al Sharpton
For more details and tickets, please visit www.stateofblackcalifornia.org
James Baldwin Legacy Awards
Since 2003, The National Black Justice Collective, NBJC, has been America’s leading national civil rights organization dedicated to the empowerment of Black lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer+, and same-gender loving (LGBTQ+/SGL) people, including people living with HIV/AIDS through coalition building, federal policy change, research, and education.
On October 1st at 1:00 PM (EST), the National Black Justice Coalition will present the 4th Annual James Baldwin Legacy Awards to honor the invaluable contributions of Black men within the Black LGBTQ+/same gender loving (SGL) movement and community.
The awards show is an opportunity to honor iconic Black LGBTQ+/SGL men who have blazed trails across many fields and careers, and the ceremony will premiere live on NBJC’s website.
Seven leaders will be honored and include Tim Vincent, president and co-founder of Brothers of the Desert. Two other Coachella Valley based leaders and members of Brothers of the Desert are also among the honorees, activist Gilberto Gerald and former Mayor of Palm Springs, Ron Oden.
To view the Awards Ceremony, please follow the link HERE.
Dignity, Opportunity, & Equal Justice Under Law: Where We’ve Been and Where We’re Going in the Work for LGBTQ+ Rights
Brothers of the Desert is a community partner with Mizell Center of Palm Springs and a community partner and supporter of GLBT Legal Advocates & Defenders (GLAD).
Save the Date and join us! (Tickets are $5)
Monday, September 30, 2024 Reception: 5:30 pm, Program: 6-7:30 pm
Dignity, Opportunity, & Equal Justice Under Law: Where We’ve Been and Where We’re Going in the Work for LGBTQ+ Rights
GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders (GLAD) and Mizell Center will host a community conversation focused on the current state of the LGBTQ+ movement around the country, including updates on legislation and litigation that have national implications for LGBTQ+ rights, GLAD’s involvement in this work, and ways that we can all get involved.
Please join Chris Erchull, Senior Attorney at GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders (GLAD), and moderator Mike Thompson, CEO of LGBTQ+ Center of the Desert.
Registration can be found HERE.
Positively Aging Project HIV+Aging Conference "Legacy Stories of Inspiration"
Positively Aging Project HIV+Aging Conference "Legacy Stories of Inspiration"
Saturday, September 21, 2024 | Mizell Center
9:00am-3:00pm
Visit HARP-PS.org for more details.
Join Brothers of the Desert for this free event from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. to connect, share, and engage in a workshop that will provide tools to help you thrive as you continue to grow older with HIV.
Proactive Prostate Health: Empowering Men for a Brighter Future
Brothers of the Desert has partnered with Mizell Center
Proactive Prostate Health: Empowering Men for a Brighter Future
Wednesday, September 18, 2024 at 6pm.
Mizell Members $5 | Non Members $10
Brothers of the Desert and Non-members $10
September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. This program aims to educate and empower men with knowledge about their prostate health, emphasizing the importance of early detection and proactive management of prostate cancer. Our goal is to inspire men to take charge of their health and make informed decisions, ensuring a brighter, healthier future.
Proceeds from this event will enable Mizell Center to launch a prostate cancer support group.
Register Here
Members Monthly Meeting (No Meeting This Month)
Dark/ Summer Vacation / No Member Meeting
Barbershop Discussion Group
Building upon the tradition of barbershops in Black communities, the discussion group is designed to encourage open and honest conversation. The meetings will be inclusive, welcoming the full spectrum of Black men each month: gay, bisexual, transgender, nonbinary, and straight allies. The wellness topics will be equally diverse, ranging from dating and intimacy to aging with HIV, how we get and offer support, and exploring our identities as Black men.
To RSVP, email Info_Barbershop@LKAPS.org
PSUSD’s 3rd Annual Diversity & Racial Equity Conference
Join us at PS Convention Center for the 3rd Annual Diversity & Racial Equity Conference, titled “Allyship & Beyond”.
Brothers of the Desert will have a table alongside numerous other local organizations.
Hunters Nightclub Presents: Being Black & Gay
Members & Allies are invited to an intimate journey of music to amplify the Black LGBTQ+ voice through love, resiliency, and hope.
Featuring Terry Dyer, vocals. Accompanied by Brian Alec Thom. A portion of the proceeds will benefit The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert.
FREE General Admission (standing room)
VIP Seating is $25 and can be purchased HERE.
Doors Open: 5:30 pm | Concert: 6:00 pm.
Barbershop Discussion Group
Building upon the tradition of barbershops in Black communities, the discussion group is designed to encourage open and honest conversation. The meetings will be inclusive, welcoming the full spectrum of Black men each month: gay, bisexual, transgender, nonbinary, and straight allies. The wellness topics will be equally diverse, ranging from dating and intimacy to aging with HIV, how we get and offer support, and exploring our identities as Black men.
To RSVP, email Info_Barbershop@LKAPS.org
Members & Allies Lunch
Following our monthly members meeting, please join us for lunch!
Please RSVP before August 9th to Eric Davis at vicepresident@brothersofthedesert.org