Brave Trails Stands With Pattie Gonia
Brave Trails stands in solidarity with our honorary board member, drag artist, environmental advocate, and longtime community partner, Pattie Gonia (they/he/she), and calls on Patagonia to withdraw its trademark infringement lawsuit.
The lawsuit stems from a dispute over Pattie Gonia's name and trademark applications. While the legal arguments will be decided through the appropriate process, we believe this conflict is at odds with the values of collaboration, community, and collective action that so many of us share.
For more than seven years, Pattie has been a steadfast champion for LGBTQ+ communities, using their platform to inspire action, build community, and create meaningful change. Through storytelling, advocacy, fundraising, and direct service, Pattie has helped strengthen organizations like Brave Trails and expand opportunities for LGBTQ+ young people to connect with themselves, each other, and the outdoors.
Their impact on our community has been profound. Pattie has helped raise more than $1 million in support of Brave Trails' mission and has spent multiple summers volunteering alongside our staff, mentors, and campers. They have shown up not only as an advocate but as a trusted role model and community member.
During moments of heightened political attacks on LGBTQ+ people—and especially on queer and trans youth—Pattie has consistently led with courage, visibility, generosity, and care. Their commitment to creating a more inclusive and sustainable future has helped countless young people feel seen, valued, and empowered.
At Brave Trails, we have witnessed firsthand the difference Pattie has made in the lives of our campers, families, staff, and broader community. Their leadership reflects the very values we seek to cultivate in young people: authenticity, compassion, resilience, and a deep commitment to collective liberation.
We are deeply grateful for Pattie's partnership and unwavering dedication to LGBTQ+ youth.
We stand with Pattie Gonia and urge Patagonia to drop the lawsuit.