At Sawbones, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for our LGBTQIA+ community members. We believe in the importance of celebrating diversity, promoting equality, and showing allyship every day. This June, we invite everyone to join us in honoring Pride Month by participating in a variety of events that celebrate and support our LGBTQIA+ community.

How We Support Our LGBTQIA+ Community

We take pride in our ongoing efforts to support our LGBTQIA+ employees, customers, and community members.

Here’s how we are making a difference:

Inclusive Workplace Policies: We ensure our workplace policies promote equality and inclusion, providing a safe and welcoming environment for everyone.

Community Partnerships: We partner with local LGBTQIA+ ally organizations to support their initiatives and amplify their voices.

Diversity Training: Regular training sessions help educate our team about LGBTQIA+ issues, fostering a culture of understanding and respect.


"I first moved to Vashon twenty-two years ago and fell in love with its strong sense of community and acceptance for all who live here. We are fortunate to call this Island home and this company, Sawbones, a place that embraces diversity, equality, accessibility, and genuine care and compassion for each person who walks through our doors. This month, we celebrate Pride, our LGBTQIA+ community, and everything they contribute to our culture and to our company.

Thank you for enriching our lived experience." - Norine Martinsen, CEO


Celebrate Pride on Vashon Island

Vashon has long been known as a safe place. To show your support and celebrate Pride, consider attending some of the fantastic events happening on Vashon this June. Here are a few suggestions:

Saturday, June 1
Accessorize for Pride: Make a variety of pride-themed accessories, including bow ties, sunglasses, bracelets, and more, at Vashon Library from 12:30-3 p.m.


Rainbow Blingo: This annual fundraiser, held at Camp Burton, benefits Vashon Senior Center. Doors open at 6 p.m. Find out more and get tickets by calling 206-463-5173 or stopping by the Senior Center at 10004 Bank Rd SW.

Tuesday, June 4
Voice of Vashon: Join the hosts of VoV’s Brown Briefly show, as they interview a special guest, Jennifer Hawke of The Bearded Lady Road Report. Hawke will discuss her art, Vashon as a “safe place,” and gender nonconformity in the 21st century. Listen in from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. at 101.9 FM and online at voiceofvashon.org.

Friday, June 7
Pride Street Dance: All are invited to join the DOVE Project and community partners for dancing, music, and celebration at Vashon Theatre’s Backlot from 5 to 8 p.m.

Saturday, June 8
Family Storytime Rainbows: Read stories, sing songs, learn about rainbows, and make rainbow rafts at the Vashon Library from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. 

Tuesday, June 18
Orbit Planet Gala: Celebrate the last day of school, the start of summer, and Pride, with dancing, DJs, activities, and more, at Open Space for Arts & Community from 12-3 p.m. Open to middle and high school-aged LGBTQIA+ youth and allies.

Friday, June 28
Art Session: Get artsy and enjoy festive mocktails at the Senior Center from 1 to 3 p.m., at a pride-themed painting session guided by Collin V.


These events are a fantastic way to show your allyship, celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community, and have a great time with friends and family. For more details on these events, visit the Vashon Beachcomber.

At Sawbones, we are proud to support our LGBTQIA+ community and encourage everyone to get involved, celebrate diversity, and stand up for equality. Happy Pride Month!