Kitana, a transgender Latina and long-standing advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights in the Coastal Bend, has tirelessly worked to uplift the voices of marginalized communities. Her dedication to advancing visibility for transgender Latinas, combined with her leadership and involvement in the community, makes her an exemplary choice to lead this year’s parade.

Kitana Sánchez is a 38-year-old transgender Latina currently residing in Corpus Christi, Texas. Born and raised in Del Rio, Texas, she moved to Corpus Christi to continue her education at Texas A&M Corpus Christi, where she graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in English in 2010. During her time in college, she became a transgender advocate, recognizing the need for visibility and representation for transgender Latinas in the Coastal Bend area.

With a passion for performing, Kitana embraced belly dancing with the Middle Eastern Dance Club at Texas A&M Corpus Christi and incorporated the skills she learned into her performances as an entertainer and showgirl. Over the years, she has competed in various contests and pageants, earning several titles, including Miss Corpus Christi Newcomer USofA 2010, 1st Alternate to Miss Texas Continental 2012, Miss Gay Corpus Christi 2014, Queen of Fantasia 2016, Miss Gay Texas Universe 2021, Miss Gay Universe 2022, and currently, Miss Trans Oklahoma USA 2024.

Kitana’s advocacy work has been widely recognized—among her honors are Corpus Christi Advocate of the Year with the #BeHuman Campaign (2016), the Award for Outstanding Service to the Community (2017), a Certificate of Courage (2018), and the Key to the City of Del Rio (2019). Most recently, she received the Karina Samala Trans America Award (2024) and was named Activist of the Year at the 2024 Glammy Awards.

She serves as Vice President for Corpus Christi LGBT, co-facilitator of the Coastal Bend Trans Alliance (founded in 2016), an ambassador for the #BeHuman Campaign, a frequent speaker at TAMU-CC, and previously wrote the column “Viva La Trans” for Hard Candy magazine.

“The intentions you put into your work can either nourish or repress the fruits of your labor, choose wisely.”

Parents with Pride was created as a direct response to harmful rhetoric and policies in 2023, particularly targeting parents who support their transgender children. In a time when some lawmakers suggested parents could be liable for affirming their LGBTQIA+ children, these parents united to send a powerful message of love and solidarity—marching proudly with their children and one another. Recognizing this collective courage, Pride Corpus Christi honored this group rather than a single individual, celebrating their unwavering commitment to their children’s rights and well-being.

Pride Corpus Christi proudly recognizes Dr. Jack McIntyre as the 2022 Parade Grand Marshal. A dedicated local business owner, passionate ally, and role model for parents everywhere, Dr. McIntyre has shown unwavering support for LGBTQIA+ youth in the Coastal Bend. Through advocacy and involvement with organizations such as the Coastal Bend Trans Alliance, the Coastal Bend Pride Center, and YNOT, he has uplifted the rights and well-being of our community.

Pride Corpus Christi proudly recognizes Judge Barbara Canales as the 2019 Parade Grand Marshal. A trailblazing Coastal Bend leader, Judge Canales has long advocated for justice, equality, and the rights of all people—regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. In 2019 she faced public attacks from a local priest for marching as Grand Marshal, yet remained steadfast, making a powerful statement against intolerance and bigotry and demonstrating the courage and inclusivity that continue to inspire our community.