Impact of Los Angeles Fires on LGBTQ+ Community and Athletes

How Los Angeles wildfires are affecting LGBTQ+ residents and athletes

The wildfires tearing through Los Angeles have been nothing short a disaster. If you live here, you know it feels like you're living a nightmare. Among those feeling it hardest are LGBTQ+ folks, including many athletes, who call this area home. As someone who's lived in LA long enough, I've seen my share scary moments. But nothing prepares you when a wildfire's at your doorstep. When that fire sparked up in Nichols Canyon, my partner and I went through our home, grabbing documents and precious memories, wondering if we'd be seeing our place again. It was a chaotic, terrifying time. The emotional weight was crushing, and when we finally made it back safely, our relief was immense. We're forever grateful — firefighters are true heroes, stopping what they now call "The Sunset Fire" from swallowing our homes whole. Sadly, not everyone was as lucky. Robbie Rogers, known from Olympic soccer fame, tragically lost his sister's home in Altadena in another blaze, The Eaton Fire. But he's not letting it bring him down. He and his family are rallying support, showing just how strong and supportive our community can be. Robbie, along with his husband Greg Berlanti and their kids, are still at risk from another fire tearing through Palisades. It must be terrifying not knowing what'll come. We're all sending them our thoughts and hoping they stay safe. Then there's Jason Collins, once an NBA star. He's had not one but two evacuations, both in Santa Monica Mountains and West Hollywood. Smoke and ash — that stuff gets everywhere — forced him out. It just shows how widespread and relentless these fires are. Olympic medalist Adam Rippon gave us a peek at his experience. Living in Pasadena near these flames, he called it “totally unreal.” I think many would agree; when fires rage close by, everything feels surreal. Even personal milestones didn't escape unscathed. Kirk Walker, who coached at Oregon State and UCLA, never saw his surprise birthday party coming. Evacuation notices hijacked it at Gym Bar WeHo. That bar in West Hollywood, a favorite spot in our community, became more than a hangout. Erik Braverman, one co-owner, said it turned sanctuary, helping folks bond and stay strong even with evacuation orders looming. Although those orders lifted, our community's spirit didn't waver. The strength and togetherness shown here in Southern California? It inspires me every day. If you're looking do some good, consider donating or helping one our local organizations dedicated relief efforts. We need each other right now more than ever.

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Want more stories like these? We've got a newsletter packed with LGBTQ+ athlete news and uplifting stories from around sports. Amidst all this chaos, tales courage and resilience come through strong. Even as fires test physical limits and nerves, hope and community spirit shine. Let's keep that flame alive.