LGBTQIA+ LEGACY VIDEOS

Sandra Marilyn was born in a small town in Texas in February 1946. She grew up in a fundamentalist Christian church that was deeply rooted in classism and racism and was intolerant of those who were different. She has dedicated her life to unlearning those beliefs. Sandra moved around Texas for several years and explored her sexuality throughout. However, it wasn't until 1969, when the Stonewall Riots began, that she celebrated being out among a group of radical lesbians. 

In 1980, Sandra moved to San Francisco and started her life as a cabinet maker. She was the first woman in Northern California to reach "Journey" status in this trade. And it was through this work that she met Joss Eldredge (see videos). After her as a tradeswoman, she managed a non-profit organization that helped train homeless and previously homeless individuals in the culinary arts. Throughout both careers, Sandra and Joss dedicated their time to volunteer work, which they have continued to do even to this day. Now that she is retired, Sandra can be found writing short stories or novels, exploring the Asian Art Museum, and gardening with Joss. 

"I believe it is my responsibility to continue to reeducate myself for as long as I live. I spend my days trying to pry open the doors and windows and searching for the words to describe the enlightenment that comes through the openings." - Sandra Marilyn