Blog
Cesar M. Campa
Community Relations Director, Center Against Sexual and Family Violence
How would you describe the LGBTQ community in EP?
We are more visible, active and engaged in creating than I have seen in the last ten years. From the Borderland Rainbow Center to Gay Kickball and Sun City Pride our community is stepping up and really coming into its own.
Describe EP and what it means to you.
El Paso is a fun-loving and kind spirit that we all carry with us. We are this unassuming city you never knew you wanted but once you got here you cannot imagine ever being without. Even for those of us who have left or may leave, that spirit becomes a beacon to find one another. Once we do, we create these mini versions of home, everywhere we go.
Best place for a margarita?
Carlos & Mickeys, the original on Magruder.
Favorite restaurant?
Jalisco Café in Segundo Barrio holds a special place in my heart, the best menudo until this day.
Best place/thing to see and do in EP with friends and/or family when they visit?
A night out downtown is a must. Dinner and drinks at any one of the great restaurants and bars, but the night will always end at The Briar
Cynthia R. Lopez
Attorney
How would you describe the LGBTQ community in EP?
It is such a dynamic and growing community. I have never seen such a welcoming community. Not only the LGBTQ community, but the community of allies as well.
Describe EP and what it means to you.
EP is such an interesting melting pot of cultures. It’s ironic that we are a border city, yet any El Pasoan will tell you – the border is such a fluid concept for us who live here. I truly believe El Paso could serve as a guide for cities striving to achieve integration and acceptance of different lifestyles and cultures. I believe it is this integration of cultures and peoples that has led to such a large acceptance of the LGBT community.
Best place for a margarita?
Carlos and Mickey’s
Favorite restaurant?
Café Italia
Best place/thing to see and do in EP with friends and/or family when they visit?
I’m a foodie so, L&J’s café and insist they have the green enchiladas! I also love our hiking trails.
Jessica Ramos
Bilingual speech language pathologist
How would you describe the LGBTQ community in EP?
The LGBTQ community in El Paso is constantly evolving. Each year our LGBT community becomes stronger, more involved, and increasingly diverse. Our community is unique because many of us come from a traditional Mexican or Hispanic culture. The blending of these communities makes us unique and strong; embodying true American diversity.
Describe EP and what it means to you.
El Paso in one word is - home. El Paso is a place where people from all over can feel welcomed. The feeling of being part of a community is largely due to the people of El Paso who make this town such a great place to live.
Best place for a margarita?
The best place for a margarita would have to definitely be Carlos n’ Mikeys. The margaritas are so big you could essentially swim in it!
Favorite restaurant?
My favorite restaurant that I feel is a wonderful representation of El Paso’s culture and tradition is Julio’s Mexican Food. It is simple, authentic and delicious Mexican food.
Best place/thing to see and do in EP with friends and/or family when they visit?
When visiting El Paso or if you are from El Paso some wonderful places to go with family and friends are the downtown sites and attractions. Recently, our downtown has undergone some major revitalization and this area is definitely a must see with sites like The Plaza Theatre, San Jacinto Plaza, Chihuahua Baseball Stadium, El Paso Museum of Art and so many others. For shopping, the Fountains at Farah are a great place to shop and grab a bite to eat. And for those seeking to take in some culture, the El Paso Mission Trail is a great place to learn about the history of El Paso and our heritage.
Dr. Travis Cosban
Emergency Medicine Physician
How would you describe the LGBTQ community in El Paso?
The community here is extremely diverse just like in any other city. The LGBTQ community is interwoven through all parts of this city: healthcare, education, government, art and nightlife. We are integral to making El Paso the accepting, beautiful and fun place it is.
Describe EP and what it means to you.
El Paso is diversity. We are a balanced international mix of people from diverse backgrounds. These constant encounters with diversity have taught us tolerance have taught us how to manage difference in a compassionate way that most other cities only dream of. El Paso is love and acceptance in its truest form.
Best Place for a Margarita?
I am a strong supporter of the drink menu at Mamacitas.
Favorite Restaurant?:
Ardeo in Ciudad Juarez and Tabla in El Paso.
Best thing to do with friends and family when they visit?
There is a long list: A show at the Plaza Theatre, A bar crawl using the downtown trolley, or a drag show at El Palacio de las Estrellas.
Czarina Quiambao-Flores
NICU RN @ The Hospitals of Providence Children’s Hospital
How would you describe the LGBTQ community in EP?
Our community here is loving, supportive, diverse and proud. I feel like our LGBTQ+ community is always looking for a good time, ways to liven up the party, and shows the true meaning of community and love.
Describe EP and what it means to you.
El Paso is and always will be HOME, I was born and raised here. I love the culture, the food, and the people. El Pasoans love their city and we are El Paso Strong!!
Best place for a margarita?
Carlos & Mickeys
Favorite restaurant?
Kiki’s Mexican restaurant
Best place/thing to see and do in EP with friends and/or family when they visit?
View the city from Transmountain and scenic drive, go to a chihuahuas game, and of course just hang out at home with family and friends
Gustavo Reveles
Spokesperson El Paso Independent School District
How would you describe the LGBTQ community in EP?
El Paso’s LGBTQ community is diverse, resilient and welcoming. Being a member of this family is a privilege.
Describe EP and what it means to you.
El Paso is the coolest city in Texas because it refuses to be anything other than what it is: a city of opportunity for everyone. El Paso is more than a city, it is home.
Best place for a margarita?
The Kentucky Bar, of course!
Favorite restaurant?
This is a difficult choice, but I’d have to say L&J for some awesome green enchiladas.
Best place/thing to see and do in EP with friends and/or family when they visit?
The perfect evening would start at an El Paso Rhinos hockey game followed drinks at Pride Square
Sofia Reyes
International Sales Coordinator at Visit Juarez
How would you describe the LGBTQ community in EP?
A a small, loving, friendly, supportive and diverse community.
Describe EP and what it means to you.
I don’t know if I should use the word Love or home. I was born and raised in Juárez, Mx, but ever since I can remember all my life I spent the weekends, Halloweens, 4th of Julys, thanksgivings, and even some Christmas with my family in El Paso. But also every person I’ve met in El Paso, besides my family, is always such a loving and caring human, that I’m happy to call a lot of El Pasoans as friends. Everytime I land in El Paso I cant help to feel in my home.
Best place for a margarita?
Kentucky Bar! They serve THE margarita.
Favorite restaurant?
Taft-diaz!
Best place/thing to see and do in EP with friends and/or family when they visit?
I love the malls! Montecillo and take a drink in Malolam. Walking at Fountains at Farrah and have lunch at Craves. Also El Paso downtown is a must!
Ernie Hernandez
National Sales Manager, Destination El Paso
How would you describe the LGBTQ community in EP?
While we have a small LGTBQ community – it is diverse and progressive.
Describe EP and what it means to you.
El Paso is home – always welcoming, rich in history and full of culture.
Best place for a margarita?
My house! My husband and I love to entertain and enjoy mixing up a few Marg’s with Corralejo Reposasdo Tequila, fresh pressed lime and grapefruit juices and a splash of squirt.
Favorite restaurant/s?
Elemi Restaurant
Best place/thing to see and do in EP with friends and/or family when they visit?
Nothing beats some Nacho’s from the Tap and a couple of cold beers.