Pride month subdued after Sinlaku, but Mama Rio's continues to serve as inclusive gathering place

As one of the CNMI's best-known LGBTQ-owned establishments has brought both opportunities and occasional challenges for Mama Rio's Café, but its owners say community support has far outweighed any negatives as the business marks another Pride Month amid the island's ongoing recovery from Super Typhoon Sinlaku.

"Being one of the best-known LGBTQ-owned business on island, it has given us connection to LGBTQ community," said co-owner Maria Teresa "Mama Rio" Rio. She added that LGBTQ visitors and tourists often seek out the café because of its welcoming atmosphere.

According to Rio and co-owner Jhie Vallo, the café has become a regular gathering place for members of the LGBTQ community while remaining open to everyone.

"We're open to all, not just LGBTQ," Vallo said. "We're just LGBTQ-friendly café."

The owners said they have occasionally encountered misconceptions from some people who assumed the business catered exclusively to LGBTQ customers.

"We have some families here with their kids also," Rio said. "Everyone."

While Pride Month is celebrated worldwide throughout June, this year's observances in the CNMI have been significantly reduced as businesses and organizations continue recovering from Sinlaku.

"We're supposed to have this year," Rio said of planned Pride Month activities. "But after the Sinlaku... all our schedule and events [were] changed."

The café previously hosted multiple Pride-related events during June and often served as a venue for LGBTQ community gatherings.

"Last year, we had three events for the month of June," Vallo said.

Asked whether most Pride Month activities were effectively canceled this year, the owners replied: "Yes, sadly."

The subdued celebration reflects broader challenges facing the island following the devastating typhoon.

Mama Rio's Café was forced to close for about a month after Sinlaku damaged the business and left the area without power.

"You see that window there? It was cracked," Rio said.

The owners also reported flooding in some portions of the property, though the dining room and kitchen escaped major damage.

"We were closed for a month," Vallo said. "We didn't have power also."

The shutdown resulted in thousands of dollars in losses from spoiled inventory and cleanup expenses.

"It's like $4,000 or $5,000," Rio said when asked about losses from food stored in freezers.

The owners said finding workers for repairs and cleanup proved difficult because many residents were focused on repairing their own homes.

"Luckily, we have family here to help us," Rio said.

Since reopening, the café has seen strong support from customers, including first responders involved in the recovery effort. The business is also preparing to introduce new menu offerings in July.

Beyond daily operations, Mama Rio's will soon host a fundraising event to help one of its own.

Musician Matthew Vallo announced an upcoming Lounge Music Night fundraiser to assist with medical expenses for his mother's scheduled operation in July.

"It is a fundraising event," he said. "So a medical fundraiser."

The event will feature performers from across the island, including CNMI Got Talent winners, members of Sesionistas, Voices of Marianas, Local Buskers, and the Gigolos.

Tickets cost $35 and include one complimentary drink. Those unable to attend may still support the cause through donations or ticket purchases.

Tickets are currently available at Mama Rio's Café, Green Meadows School, and through organizers. Additional information is available by calling (670) 789-8119.

As Pride Month continues, the owners encouraged young LGBTQ entrepreneurs to pursue their goals despite challenges.

"Don't be afraid," Valio said. "You'll be surprised with the acceptance that you're gonna get from people."

Rio's message for Pride Month was simple: "Spread the love."

Mama Rio's Café is located at the corner of Coral Tree Avenue and Orchid Street in Garapan, across from Crowne Plaza Resort Saipan.