08/24/2023
The Desert Business Association, the Desert’s LGBTQ and Ally Chamber of Commerce, is shocked and saddened by the recent shooting and death of a shop owner in the Lake Arrowhead area this past week. Laura Ann Carleton, known as Lauri, owned Mag.Pi, a clothing store in Cedar Glen. This long-time staunch ally of the LGBTQ community continuously flew a rainbow Pride flag at her store, and replaced it numerous times due to vandalism -- and each time, she put up a bigger flag. She was shot and died last Friday, August 19th, by a man who made disparaging remarks to her about the shop’s Pride flag. He was subsequently killed in an encounter by Sheriff’s deputies.
Our business community, both LGBTQ and Ally, should obviously be cautious of egregious acts like this, but these should not deter us from displaying our Pride for our LGBTQ and other diverse communities. There should be no room nor tolerance for hate in any of our communities, and we must ensure that we continue to move forward in our efforts of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for all.
As we are the only LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce in both Riverside and San Bernardino counties, we will work to include their businesses in our efforts of promoting Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in their communities, as well as continue to support the phrase that “You Are Welcome Here” to all who patronize and respect our small and diverse business communities.
While there are no plans yet for services for Ms. Carleton, the family is asking for support through the Lauri Carleton Memorial Fund, Honoring Love, Unity and Equality. This fund will work closely with Lauri’s family in partnership with Lake Arrowhead LGBTQ+ and broader ally community to develop and amplify resources that promote LGBTQ+ awareness, equality, and inclusion. Donations will support Mountain Provisions Cooperative and other local initiatives that further promote the growth, diversity, and sustainability in those mountain communities to foster a greater sense of belonging, connection, and unity for all.
To learn more or to contribute, you can go to https://lakearrowheadlgbtq.org/lauri-carleton-memorial-fund/
