Julie Hoffman and Summer White are being honored for their exceptional relationship at this year’s San Diego Pride festivities, marking 40 years since they first met on June 8, 1985.
The couple has lived together in University Heights for over three decades, embodying the quirk often associated with U-Haul stereotypes among lesbian couples—each having their own organized space, yet sharing a bed.
The couple’s journey began at Calamities, a lesbian bar, following a Pride Parade when Hoffman locked eyes with White. Despite a jealous acquaintance’s attempts to dissuade her with negative remarks about White, Hoffman decided to pursue her instinct, leading to a pivotal moment where White approached her with confidence, ultimately sealing the connection with a kiss.
Moving in together three weeks later, they have since celebrated their love and partnership through various life experiences.
Hoffman expresses that White is the light of her life, while White admires Hoffman’s ability to complete every part of her being. This mutual recognition of love and support has enabled them to build a successful partnership despite their differences in organizing styles around the house.
Beyond their relationship, both women foster a strong commitment to community service, having engaged in extensive volunteering throughout their time together. Their journey through the AIDS crisis drastically shaped their dedication, compelling them to lend support to their community in its time of need.
White began volunteering because her lupus condition has often rendered her unable to work a conventional job, thus allowing her the flexibility she requires. Meanwhile, Hoffman, a registered nurse with a specialization in HIV care for three decades, finds fulfillment in her ongoing efforts to help those affected by the epidemic.
At Ivy Pharmacy, where Hoffman now volunteers, she occasionally encounters old patients, providing a unique opportunity to witness survival and resilience in the wake of a devastating epidemic that often led to the loss of friends and community members.
Looking back, Hoffman recalls a period where attending five funerals a week became a grim reality for them. The couple has leveraged their experiences, advocating for safer practices in social venues; over the years, they faced backlash for their efforts to distribute condoms in bar bathrooms, but they persevered in the face of criticism.
“Our goal was never to take away from the enjoyment of others,” White stated passionately. “I’m here to save lives.” This mission has evolved over the decades, as both now carry Narcan to combat drug overdoses and provide extra food to those in need.
Their efforts have not gone unnoticed; White is proud of the changes in societal attitudes toward health and safety in bars today. Condom distribution, Narcan availability, and drink safety measures are now widely accepted practices in the community.
Moreover, their approach to life extends beyond mere volunteering. They have dedicated themselves to helping anyone in need by donating extra resources to friends or charitable causes. This philosophy reinforces their belief in communal support and the interconnectedness of human experience.
Receiving the Inspirational Relationship Award from San Diego Pride serves as a tremendous encouragement for both women, motivating them to continue their service to the community while nurturing their dedication to one another.
“This recognition inspires us to keep going,” White shared. “It reflects the journey we’ve shared and continues to fuel our passion for aiding others.”
Their story is a testament to love and resilience, showcasing how commitment to each other and their community can lead to impactful change and foster lasting relationships, setting an example for future generations.
image source from：timesofsandiego
