Editor’s Note: Former Congresswoman Lynn Schenk (D-San Diego) has released her correspondence with the San Diego County Bar Association prompted by that organization’s continued support of the Pride Festival even after San Diego Pride refused a request to disinvite Kehlani, a public antisemite.
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An open letter to Michelle Gastil, president of the San Diego County Bar Association.
July 4, 2025
Hello Ms. Gastil
I have been thinking a lot about your response. Today seems a fitting day to react. It is a day when we reflect on all the positive ideals and aspirations of our great nation. Despite the flaws in its government leaders, our “ideals and values” are what gives us strength.
That is why I found your response so profoundly sad and personally hurtful. It communicated to me that as a Jew, my status to the SD BAR is less than, less than LGBTQ+, less than a parade, less than a virulent, hate spewing Antisemite Jew hater.
You wrote that the SDCBA stands against hate speech and Antisemitism. But how is that “stand” manifested? In words only, certainly not in action.
Upon learning that this year’s Pride festival featured and promoted a headliner who has publicly made virulently antisemitic statements, remarks and lyrics, the Bar proceeded not only to actively participate, but recruited others to do so. Moreover, the Bar has made not a single public word about denouncing the decision of the Pride organizers or the words of that “guest celebrity.”
Pride should never allow itself to be used as a cover for bigotry. It must remain a space where everyone—EVERYONE-can feel safe, valued and guarded.
As lawyers, the ultimate guardians of those values, we have an obligation to act to protect. To lead. Ignoring the blatant misguided choice of Pride organizers by participating in their activities gives acceptance to the hate, gives normalcy to the hate, gives cover to the hate.
Uttering a few pacifying words about standing against hate and antisemitism is not STANDING, it is pablum, without meaning, if not accompanied by action.
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An earlier correspondence from Michelle Gastil:
July 1, 2025
I wanted to personally address your message to the SDCBA about the SDCBA’s upcoming participation in the Pride Parade. Apologies for my delay as I was recently out of town.The SDCBA stands against hate speech and Antisemitism. Our support for the Jewish community is unwavering. We condemn Antisemitism in all forms, and will continue to promote inclusivity and respect for all individuals, including our Jewish members and partner organizations.
This commitment also extends to our local LGBTQ+ community. For many years, the SDCBA has organized a marching contingent for members to be able to walk in the Pride Parade. Our multi-year participation in this family-friendly parade is meant to support and celebrate our members who identify as LGBTQ+. Our dedication to supporting the community, particularly through our DEI Division, has never been stronger.
Ms. Schenk, you are a legend, and I truly value your thoughts. Thank you again for your note, and I welcome further thoughts and input. Feel free to call or email me.
Thank you for all you do.
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Editor’s Note: The San Diego Pride Festival will be staged at Balboa Park’s Marston Point on July 19 and 20. Jewish community organizations, which normally support the Pride Festival, have withdrawn in protest of San Diego Pride’s decision to include Kehlani despite requests that she be dropped from the lineup. The Jewish community will counter-program with JPride events July 18 through 20.
Kaiser Permanente should be called out along with Dan Diego’s CBS 8 for sponsoring and televising the parade! It’s scary, shameful and ludicrous that San Diego couldn’t follow New York City and Dan Francisco by canceling this antisemitic performer.
Moral clarity.
Thank you!