Newsletter: Come party with us tonight! 🥳
Plus, how to celebrate San Diego’s AANHPI communities this month.
Hello everyone!
Today is the day! Daylight is celebrating its one year birthday — one year of local news created hand-in-hand with communities who don’t always feel seen by local media.
In our first year, we published nearly 300 articles, reached more than 77,000 readers and racked up more than 1.4 million views on Instagram. We launched two series of ways to connect in-person through our “A Light on” community conversations and the Daylight Culture Club. We also received an award from the San Diego Immigrant Rights Consortium for our immigration coverage, and two awards from the San Diego Press Club for education and multicultural reporting.
And now we’re ready to party. If you haven’t gotten your ticket yet, join us for a celebration tonight at the Global Village Event Hall (run by the Partnership for the Advancement of New Americans) at 6 p.m. Tickets are available at a sliding-scale here.
We’ll be serving pizza from The Friendly donated by San Diego Music Room, lumpia, non-alcoholic drinks and cake. The night will also include an opportunity drawing and silent auction featuring donations from Blick Art Materials, Brittany Cruz-Fejeran, Gossip, Illfunction, Museum of Contemporary Arts San Diego, New Style Hustle San Diego, New Village Arts, Off the Mapp Cards + Gifts, Pacific Arts Movement, Soul Side Vinyl, The Old Globe Theater, Tutor Doctor SD and a chance to grab lunch with the Daylight team.
Plus, our birthday party will feature local DJs and performers that you won’t want to miss.
ka/tanyag x Ian Curtis are a DJ duo rooted in the traditions of progressive music, Filipino house parties, and youthful rebellion. Ian Curtis is a local DJ and indie rock musician from the South Bay Area. He specializes in a variety of genres, including 60s, 70s, Soul, Punk, Folk, and Jazz. ka/tanyag is a Filipino visual artist, writer, documentarian, musician, and activist. They scheme and dream to cultivate revolutionary optimism, collective kinship, and spirited action.
Krysada “Binly” Panusith Phounsiri is an award-winning Lao American artist working across dance, poetry, and photography. As a professional dancer with international accolades, a published poet (author of "Dance Among Elephants" and "Every Passing Minute," and recipient of the 2016 Rhysling Award), and a photographer whose "Secret No More" exhibition, supported by the Critical Refugee Studies Artist Grant, highlights the Lao American experience, Krysada's work powerfully explores and integrates Lao/Southeast Asian American identity into the broader cultural narrative.
Kumeyaay Boogie is a Kumeyaay bird singing group dedicated to preserving and sharing traditional bird songs, known in the Kumeyaay language as “takook,” which carry the tribe’s creation stories and teachings. Led by performers and cultural educators like Blue Eagle Vigil, the group performs across San Diego County to honor past generations, teach younger community members and ensure Kumeyaay traditions continue to thrive. Through public performances and storytelling, Kumeyaay Boogie shares the message that Kumeyaay people and culture are not only still here, but continuing to grow and evolve for future generations.
Get ready to dance and celebrate in community with Daylight. We can’t wait to see you!
— Maya Srikrishnan
This weekend, you can gather for a beach yoga class to benefit the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights, celebrate Mother’s Day, participate in a bike safety audit in downtown San Diego or go to sketch night at Good News Bar.
— Lauren J. Mapp and Maya Srikrishnan
A San Diego woman returning from a Disney cruise saw Customs and Border Protection officers detain several members of the ship's staff in late April. Activists are investigating what happened to the 10 workers as well as another four workers from a Holland America ship days later. Many of the workers are believed to be from the Philippines.
— Kate Morrissey
Conditions at Otay Mesa Detention Center
As San Diego County sued to gain access to Otay Mesa Detention Center for its health inspectors and county supervisors, a woman recently released from custody there recalled the medical emergencies she saw and the low food quality and retaliation she experienced. A judge heard arguments in the case on Wednesday morning.
— Kate Morrissey
Reflections on the war in Vietnam
Viet Voices commemorated the 51st anniversary of the end of the war in Vietnam through a community event reflecting on the past, listening to stories of resilience in Southeast Asian communities and discussing how a broadened view of the war can inform future actions for San Diego communities.
— Sam Barney-Gibbs
Hundreds gather in Chicano Park on May Day
Hundreds of union members and demonstrators gathered at Chicano Park on Friday, calling for stronger immigrant protections, workers’ rights, environmental justice and renewed momentum behind democratic socialism. After speeches in the park, the crowd marched through Barrio Logan, filling the streets with chants, colorful banners and signs during one of more than a dozen marches planned across San Diego County to commemorate May Day.
— Lauren J. Mapp
From festivals to K-Pop dance workshops and crafting opportunities, there are countless ways to celebrate Asian American Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander Heritage Month in San Diego.
— Maya Srikrishnan
California to share data on immigrant drivers nationally
California is preparing to share detailed information about driver’s license holders to a national database, including immigrants who do not have legal authorization to live in the U.S. The move may put more than 1 million people may face higher risk of deportation, but if state officials don’t turn over the data, the Department of Homeland Security may refuse to accept California licenses and IDs at airports.
— Story by Khari Johnson and Wendy Fry, CalMatters
Meet the candidates for California lieutenant governor
Five major candidates, including state Treasurer Fiona Ma and former Stockton Mayor Michael Tubbs, are running for the lieutenant governor — a largely symbolic position.
— Story by Nadia Lathan, CalMatters
A guide to California’s insurance commissioner candidates
Picking the next insurance commissioner could be one of the most important decisions Californians make for their wallets this election year. The insurance commissioner regulates the state’s property and casualty insurance market, which includes policies for homeowners, businesses, landlords, renters and drivers; leads the Insurance Department, which reviews and approves premium rate increases; and regulates life, health and workers’ compensation insurance.
— Story by Levi Sumagaysay, CalMatters
Getting more California students into top UCs carries a big cost to taxpayers
At UC Berkeley, UCLA and UC San Diego, the University of California agreed to admit more in-state students and reduce the number of out-of-state students in 2022. The loss of revenue from non-resident students, who pay three times what in-state students pay, has cost taxpayers $276 million.
— Story by Mikhail Zinshteyn, CalMatters
Other news
Street homelessness fell 11% across the county, according to the region’s latest annual census, Voice of San Diego reported.
The San Diego Humane Society is leading one of the largest animal rescue operations in its history, after more than 500 animals were found in unsafe and neglected conditions at a sanctuary in Julian, CBS8 reported.
The San Diego Community College District is continuing to battle a major cyberattack that began on Saturday, The San Diego Union-Tribune reported.
The Office of the Independent Budget Analyst, tasked with reviewing budget proposals and advising the San Diego City Council, released a 312-page report that found that some of the mayor’s proposed budget cuts could especially impact largely lower-income, racially diverse areas such as Southeast San Diego, San Ysidro and Barrio Logan, inewsource reported.
Upcoming Events
May 8
Lesbian Cafe: The San Diego LGBT Community Center invites queer folks to gather for a welcoming, inclusive and light-hearted discussion group tailored for women of all ages. 10:30 a.m. - Noon., 3909 Centre St., San Diego, CA 92103
Community Yoga: Alchemystic Studio hosts a gentle community yoga session at The Brown Building every Friday. Reserve space online on a pay-what-you-can basis. 6 - 7 p.m., The Brown Building, 4133 Poplar St., San Diego, CA 92105
Black Trans & Nonbinary Community Group: The San Diego LGBT Community Center hosts a space for Black trans, gender nonbinary and gender non-conforming folks to get and provide peer support through discussion. The group meets in person the first and third Fridays of each month. 6:15 - 7:45 p.m., 3909 Centre St., San Diego, CA 92103
Rocky Horror Picture Show: Crazed Imaginations hosts a screening and shadowcast performance of "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" at the La Paloma Theatre in Encinitas on the second, fourth and fifth Fridays of each month. The second Friday performance is lingerie night, and fifth Friday shows have a special mashup theme. Tickets can be reserved online and prop bags can be purchased at the theater for $5. 10:30 p.m., La Paloma Theatre, 471 S Coast Hwy. 101, Encinitas, CA 92024
May 9
City Heights Cleanup: City Heights CDC is leading a community beautification effort at the 50th Street and University Avenue gathering space. Materials will be provided. Register online. A second cleanup date is scheduled for June 27. 9 a.m. - noon, 50th St. and University Ave., San Diego, CA 92105
People's Corps Dialogue: The People's Corps is hosting a Black Panther Political Activism Dialogue followed by an organizational meeting. Dialogue at noon, meeting 1:15 - 2 p.m., Black Panther Headquarters, 6 Hensley St., San Diego, CA 92102
Beach Yoga for a Cause: Yoga for Immigrant Justice and Commonplace SD are hosting a beach yoga session benefiting CHIRLA (Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights). Only 30 spots are available. To RSVP, donate any amount to CHIRLA online and email proof of donation to yogaforimmigrantjustice@gmail.com with the subject "Beach Yoga." 9 a.m., Mission Bay, San Diego, CA 92109
Water and Kindness Free Store: Every Saturday, Water and Kindness hosts a free store at Popup Winona where visitors can donate items or get needed supplies. The group is seeking donations of baby formula, bags, blankets, diapers, first aid items, harm reduction supplies, hats, gloves, hygiene products, mobility aids, rolling carts or wagons, shoes, sleeping bags, socks, tarps, tents, undergarments and water. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., 4951 El Cajon Blvd., San Diego, California, 92115
Peace Vigil for Palestine: CODEPINK San Diego, Palestine Pals and other local activism groups host a weekly peace vigil to advocate for peace in Gaza and beyond every Saturday in Ocean Beach. The group invites attendees to wear pink and bring peace-themed posters. For more information, email sandiego@codepink.org. 10 a.m. - 12 p.m., Sunset Cliffs Blvd. and W Point Loma Blvd., San Diego, CA 92107
Chollas Creek Bike Audit: Circulate SD and Groundwork San Diego lead a 5.5-mile bike ride from Groundwork San Diego's office to Cesar Chavez Park to assess existing cycling conditions and identify opportunities to improve bike safety and access along the route. Email questions to mwalker@circulatesd.org. 10 a.m., Groundwork San Diego Office, 5106 Federal Blvd., San Diego, CA 92105
Mamiii Linda on Logan Avenue: Logan Avenue Cultural Corridor is celebrating Mother's Day with live DJs, local vendors, food, art, handcrafted gifts and unique experiences. Receive a free limited-edition tote with a $25 or more purchase at any participating Logan Avenue business. 12 p.m. Logan Avenue Cultural Corridor, Barrio Logan, San Diego, CA, 92113Mothers Day Sip & Paint: The gARTen Network and Cousinfolk Productions are hosting a Mother's Day celebration featuring live entertainment, food and wine, vendors and an art exhibit. Proceeds benefit the African Diaspora Caribbean Carnaval. Reserve tickets online or call 646.305.0239. One ticket costs $45, and two tickets cost $80. 1 - 5 p.m., The Block Club, 6403 Imperial Ave., San Diego, CA 92114
Party on Park: The University Heights Community Association is hosting its annual block party under the iconic University Heights sign, featuring more than 45 vendors, live DJ and music from Appian Way Band, as well as food and tastings from local restaurants and bars. Early bird tickets, which include an optional limited-edition T-shirt, are available online. 2 - 7 p.m., University Heights, San Diego, CA 92116
Sustainable 'Hood San Diego Community Leadership Pop-Up: The Uplift Institute, In Good Company, and the San Diego Urban Sustainability Coalition present a free community leadership event featuring climate education, panels on pathways forward, plant-based bites, a recognition ceremony and networking. Register online. 9 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., San Diego Made Factory, 2031 Commercial St., San Diego, CA 92113
May 10
The Big Gay Picnic: The Queer Sol Collective and The Big Gay Picnic are hosting an event at Balboa Park with art, music, games and a potluck, presented in partnership with Presbyterian Foundation and Great Outdoors SD. 11 a.m. - 3 p.m., Balboa Park, San Diego, CA 92101
Farm Animal Refuge Mother's Day Experience: Farm Animal Refuge is hosting a Mother's Day sanctuary tour with rescued animals, plant-based pastries, champagne or cider, and a food station and bar. Every animal resident has a volunteer ambassador on hand. Limited tickets available online. 11 a.m. - 1 p.m., Farm Animal Refuge, 33233 Shockey Truck Trail, Campo, CA 91906
Momma, I Love You Brunch: Chef Lay Alston and Yaya's Crib present an intimate three-course Mother's Day brunch experience including a beverage pour, soft conversation prompts and an intentional gift to take home. Limited seating; reserve online. Noon - 2 p.m., San Diego, CA (location via reservation)
Occupy Otay Demonstration: Demonstrators gather every Sunday on the sidewalk outside Otay Mesa Detention Center to protest the Trump administration's increase in arrests and detentions related to immigration enforcement. 2 - 4 p.m., 7488 Calzada de la Fuente, San Diego, CA, 92154
