Today on the anniversary of her birth, we celebrate the life and legacy of Rainbow Honor Walk honoree Marie Equi (April 7, 1872 – July 13, 1952). A pioneering physician, labor activist, suffragist, and outspoken advocate for women’s rights and LGBTQ+ equality, Dr. Equi was one of the most fearless progressive voices of her era. Her courage in championing justice, reproductive rights, and the dignity of marginalized communities helped pave the way for generations to come.
Today on the anniversary of his birth, we celebrate the life and legacy of Rainbow Honor Walk honoree Harry Hay (April 7, 1912 – October 24, 2002). Widely recognized as one of the founders of the modern gay rights movement, Hay co-founded the Mattachine Society, one of the earliest and most influential gay rights organizations in the United States. His lifelong commitment to visibility, liberation, and community helped transform the fight for LGBTQ+ civil rights and inspired countless activists around the world.
Today on the anniversary of her birth, we celebrate the life and legacy of Rainbow Honor Walk honoree Billie Holiday (April 7, 1915 – July 17, 1959). One of the greatest jazz vocalists of all time, Billie Holiday transformed American music with her haunting voice, emotional depth, and unforgettable artistry. Her courage in performing Strange Fruit, a searing protest against racial violence, cemented her legacy not only as an artist but as a voice for justice and truth.
Today on the anniversary of his birth, we celebrate the life and legacy of Rainbow Honor Walk honoree Bob Ross (April 2, 1934 – December 13, 2003).
Co-founder and longtime publisher of the Bay Area Reporter, Ross was a pioneering voice in LGBTQ+ journalism and a steadfast activist whose work helped shape San Francisco’s queer community and preserve its history. Through decades of fearless publishing, advocacy during the AIDS crisis, and support for LGBTQ+ organizations, his legacy continues to inform and inspire generations.
David Perry & Associates, Inc. is honored to represent the esteemed San Francisco nonprofit First Graduate: transforming lives by helping students become the first in their families to graduate from college and into the workforce.
For more than two decades, First Graduate has been dedicated to breaking the cycle of poverty through education by supporting underserved students from middle school through college graduation. Based in San Francisco, the organization provides year-round academic support, mentoring, family engagement, college counseling, career exploration, and scholarship assistance to ensure that students not only reach college, but thrive once they get there.
First Graduate’s mission is rooted in the belief that a college education changes not only one life, but entire families and communities for generations to come. Its comprehensive long-term model supports students through every stage of their educational journey — from early academic preparation to college persistence and career readiness.
The organization’s impact is both profound and measurable. Every First Graduate success story represents a milestone for families who may never before have seen a child earn a college degree. By investing in opportunity, access, and achievement, First Graduate is helping build a stronger, more equitable future for San Francisco and beyond.
Education remains one of the most powerful pathways to economic mobility and lasting change. For first-generation students, the road to college can be filled with financial, academic, and social barriers. First Graduate is there every step of the way — providing guidance, resources, encouragement, and the belief that every student deserves the chance to succeed.
