Dozens of LGBTQ+ Ohioans receive awards for activism and advocacy

Monika Veliz

ARTS & CULTURE AWARD

“Monika Veliz moved to Euclid, Ohio, in 1991 and began her transition at 16. A graduate of Virginia Marti College of Fashion and Art, she spent 15 years as an entertainer before retiring in 2007 to start her clothing line, Jai Girl Inc. This path led her to the nonprofit sector, where she joined the board of Margie’s Hope in 2021.”

Kevin Jones

Public service award

“Officer Kevin Jones has served with the Cleveland Division of Police for the past decade, dedicated to promoting equality for LGBTQ+ individuals through community outreach and service.

A Cleveland native, he holds a certificate in Public Health & Safety from Cuyahoga Valley Center and has earned numerous certifications in LGBTQ+ training, including Safe Zone and Crisis Intervention. His work reflects a commitment to helping everyone succeed, regardless of sexual orientation.”

Avery Ware

ADVOCACY & ACTIVISM AWARD

“Avery Ware is a writer, educator, curator, and higher education professional. They currently serve as the LGBT Center Director at Case Western Reserve University and are the founder and project director of Mx. Juneteenth: A Black & Queer Liberation Celebration. Their work is available at averyware.org.“

James Schaffer

RISING LEADER AWARD

“James Schaffer is a fourth-year Drawing and Painting student at the Cleveland Institute of Art. His work focuses on reclaiming body and identity through a queer, transgender perspective.

Recently, he curated Everywhere, All at Once at the LGBT Community Center of Greater Cleveland, showcasing 28 transgender artists. James is committed to creating spaces where trans experiences are heard, advocated for, and celebrated, with a focus on fostering trans joy in the arts.”

Jonathan Gray

PUBLIC SERVICE AWARD

“Jonathan Gray has been an LGBTQ advocate for over 56 years, witnessing significant progress in self-expression and health support. In 2010, he founded a nonprofit to assist individuals facing economic hardships.

Under his leadership, the organization now serves over 3,500 guests monthly through four programs: a food pantry, community meals, outreach to unhoused individuals, and services for homebound seniors. Jonathan’s dedication continues to strengthen his community.”

Jessica Davis

WORKPLACE INCLUSION AWARD

“Jessica (Jess) Davis, originally from Stone Mountain, Georgia, now resides in Cleveland. She is the Director of Youth Basketball Operations for the Cleveland Cavaliers. A graduate of Florida State University with a degree in English and a minor in Business, Jess discovered her passion for impacting lives through basketball.

She has coached at Emory University, high school boys and girls teams, and AAU. Before joining the Cavs, she served as Assistant Coach and Director of Basketball Operations at Tennessee State University.”

Ginger Marshall

HEALTH AND WELLNESS AWARD

“A Northeast Ohio native, Ginger Marshall has been the Administrative Coordinator of the Pride Network at the MetroHealth System since early 2021. She advocates for LGBTQ+ care across the system, solving problems and easing access for patients and doctors.

A teacher by nature, Ginger educates in classes, workshops, interviews, and written articles for healthcare professionals and students, and the public. A High Priestess, she’s visible as an LGBT leader, teacher, and resource in the Pagan community. She is supported by her wife Catherine and a sassy chihuahua named Chai.”

Steve Arrington

LGBTQ+ LEGACY AWARD

“Stanford ‘Steve’ Arrington has been a community health advocate since 1990, co-founding Blacks, Gays, and Lesbians United Against AIDS in Denver. His work focuses on combating stigma and inequalities affecting African Americans and people of color with HIV/AIDS.

Steve is the Executive Director of the Akron AIDS Collaborative and Chief Administrator of the Bayard Rustin LGBTQ+ Resource Center, offering vital outreach services including mental health support, housing, and a safe space for marginalized individuals.”

Louanda James

Owner of Poquets Disability Social Services

“Louanda has been the heart of providing services for the disability community for well over 10 years. A persevering breast cancer survivor, Louanda has successfully opened up one of the first homes for the disabled LGBTQ+ community. Thru hard work and determination, she has helped countless disabled individuals seek jobs, learn basic learning skills while promoting the importance of self-awareness and value.

Currently living in Dayton Ohio, Luanda started the U-Fight We Worry Foundation to ensure that people living with breast cancer have needed resources while they endure their treatments and regimens. She has also created the Pocquets Disability Social Services to help disabled individuals make their own life choices. Louanda is so deserving of these accolades and more.”

Brandon Brown

PrEP Navigator at Caracole

“Brandon Brown has done outstanding work in the community surrounding the awareness of PrEP and HIV-preventive education. Brandon is an invaluable employee at Caracole and a pillar in the Cincinnati LGBTQ community as well as an important player of serving people of color, making PrEP accessible for over 100+ plus clients who need it since his start with the organization in 2021.”

Jamie Tolbert aka Dj Trub

Disc Jockey Extraordinaire and MC

“Jamie Tolbert (aka Dj Trub) has been a pillar of the community for many years, providing safe spaces and parties for all the community to attend and participate. From supporting and standing up for issues, to helping businesses with marketing and event planning, she’s made her mark in this world. She deserves her flowers and to be recognized to the fullest extent!”

Melachi Carroll

Program Manager for Gender Affirming Care Health Navigation

“Melachi Carroll has been blazing the trail for Black Trans Men for quite a few years. He has served on numerous boards, traveling to different states to make sure laws and regulations are put in place for trans men that ensure the safety and care they deserve. He has made resources and safe spaces available for Trans Men while working as a Program Manager for Gender Affirming Care Health Navigation, providing health services and support trans and NB Patients and Clients throughout Ohio.

Mel has also worked for Equitas Health for 7 years, sits on several boards including the Black Trans Men of Ohio as well as being a founding member of Dayton Black Pride. More recently Mel is part of The Monica Roberts Freedom Black Trans Leadership Cohort, and the hosting committee of The National Black Trans Advocacy Conference & Awards Gala.  While he’s not out advocating for others, Mel enjoys dancing and spending time with family.”

Derek Guy

Program Manager, LGBTQ+ Center at University of Cincinnati

“Derek Guy has dedicated his entire life to serving his community in any way he can, working at the LGBTQ+ Center at UC where he organizes events and programs such as World AIDS Day, UC Drag, Queer Prom, Lavender Celebration, and many more.

Derek has devoted his personal and professional life to increase the quality of life for queer and trans folx, specifically students and youth. During his free time Derek has run a mentorship program for trans youth and also serves as a mentor himself. He is an example of what it means to be a thriving, successful, and generous human being.”

Jisenia Black

Certified Public Accountant and Vice President at her company

“Jisenia is known not only for her professional acumen but also for her personal integrity and character. From Deloitte to Xavier University, her colleagues and peers speak highly of her authenticity, compassion, and unwavering commitment to doing what is right. These qualities make her not only a respected leader but also a role model for all who aspire to make a positive impact in their careers and communities.

Jisenia’s career as a Certified Public Accountant is marked by her exceptional skill and unwavering commitment to her profession. Her journey began at Xavier University, where she not only excelled (with honors) academically but also demonstrated a deep commitment to the principles of integrity and ethical practice.

Her certification as a public accountant further solidified her expertise and positioned her as a trusted professional in her field. Jisenia embodies the spirit of the Vizazi Award through her professional excellence, leadership, LGBTQ community involvement, and personal integrity.”

Meeka Owens

Cincinnati City Councilwoman

“Councilmember Meeka D. Owens, whose personal mantra is ‘to continue to make the Cincinnati community a better place to live, work, and play,’ was elected to City Council in 2021 and is currently the Chair of the Climate, Environment, and Infrastructure Committee, one of the first local government committees in the nation to prioritize climate change.

Meeka sits on the Budget and Finance Committee and serves as Vice Chair of the Equitable Growth and Housing Committee. She has been a fierce advocate and dedicated public servant for the last ten years. Councilwoman Owens goes out of her way to fight for the most marginal groups in our city, and we know that often means black LGBTQ+ people.

Through her work on city council, she has advanced the Green Cincinnati Plan and passed the Cincinnati Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights, ensuring that our city is sustainable and prepared to tackle the effects of climate change for every Cincinnatian. She recently passed a Resolution recognizing Melanin Magic, the only all black drag show in Cincinnati, for their work in highlighting black artists and the black queer community.

Everyday Meeka is fights for more affordable housing and for the rights of tenants to be recognized and expanded to prevent evictions and create a healthier housing ecosystem. Meeka is now working to organize black women to vote and volunteer for the Harris-Walz campaign and has also served on the boards of Women Helping Women, Urban Minority Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Outreach Programs (UMADAOP) of Ohio, the YWCA, the Make-a-Wish Foundation, and MUSE Women’s Choir.”

Shane Brouman aka Dj Boywife

Cincinnati Celebrity Disc Jockey and Host

“You venture into any major club in Cincinnati these days and it highly likely that Dj Boywife has either left his indelible musical mark or is still there continuing to swirl the kids with high energy tunes! Voted Best in Cincinnati by City Beat magazine, DJ Boywife is a one of a kind nightlife fixture that can’t be replicated.

From his mixes and his fashion, to the intimate connection he forges with his audiences, Boywife is the complete package. Want to know more? Check out Dj Boywife’s regular residencies at Alice or Bloom or Birdcage and so many more!”

Bruce Preston

Board President, Cincinnati Men’s Chorus

“Bruce Preston is the President of the board for The Cincinnati Men’s Chorus. He has been active with the chorus for over 30 years and has even invited Cincinnati Black Pride to speak and table at their concerts on multiple occasions.

Bruce is a consistent supporter of the organization and checks in with board members on how either he or CMC can support Cincinnati Black Pride. His history of being an ally to the Black LGBQ+ community goes all the way back to his days of bartending at The Pipeline.”

Jayy Rogerz

Drag Entertainer for Cincinnati and beyond

“Jayy Rogerz is a local drag performer, choreographer, producer and foodie. Jayy loves his work and has fun when he performs which can be seen by the smile that is always displayed on his face during performances. He is creative with his costumes, music choices and even the shows he helps produce like The Main Attraction Season 1 & Season 2 and The Main Baddie.

A member of the cast at The Main Event, Jayy is always the life of any celebration, even dressing as SpongeBob Squarepants to celebrate the birthday of show director Rahanna Mitchell-St. James.”

Linda Seiter

Executive Director Caracole

“Linda Seiter has served as Caracole’s Executive Director for almost 17 years. She holds a BA from the University of Cincinnati and, prior to Caracole, worked in the fields of domestic violence, mental health and substance abuse.

In the early days of Caracole, Linda served on the board and as president and was the first Executive Director of AIDS Volunteers of Cincinnati (AVOC). Linda has a deep passion for nonprofit work, human rights and social justice. Under her leadership at Caracole, the agency has grown from a small, grass-roots organization to a regional non-profit providing comprehensive housing, prevention and care for those impacted by HIV/AIDS.”

Marcia Clark

Ballroom Performer & Entertainer

“Marcia Clark was a member of our community. She was a Black woman of trans experience who excelled as a member of the ballroom community. She was beloved by friends and family, and would encourage others in the community. She was known for her kindness, a sweet smile and her infectous laughter. Marcia passed away on September 8, 2024. She will truly be missed.”

Evan Millward

Anchor, WCPO 9 News

“Evan Millward spent the past 10 years as an anchor and reporter at WCPO 9 News. In that time, he helped launch the nationwide Scripps Pride employee resource group and led station-level Pride efforts each year, highlighting and platforming diverse LGBTQ+ community leaders and stories. He is currently the president of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences – Ohio Valley (EMMY) board, recognizing excellence in video content and supporting upcoming visual storytellers.”

David Copeland

Founder, Live Without Regrets

“David Copeland is a certified and trained death doula, LGBTQIA+ advocate, and missionary on a purpose to empower families by ensuring that their loved ones receive the best possible care in the final moments of their lives and ensuring that the dying person’s wishes are fulfilled within the resources available.

David actively campaigns to make our society a better place for everyone, regardless of gender, ethnicity, and religion and leads an effort to stop trans mis-gendering deaths. David is also a board member of the TreeHouse Cincinnati, a writer and member of The Rapha Center, a Black affirming LGBTQ organization based in Miami, Florida, serves at the Hospice of Cincinnati and volunteers in Madison nursing homes, hospitals, and other hospices.”

Dalicious Milian

Drag Performer & Entertainer

“Dalicious Milian is an amazing drag performer and seamstress with a long history in Cincinnati. Dalicious is known for their extravagant performances which include innovative costumes, and is an accomplished pageant performer with numerous wins, using their talent to also help Cincinnati Black Pride with fundraising. Along with being a seasoned entertainer, Dalicious is an amazing cook with their own catering business highlighting their culinary skills.”

Brandy Adams

Vice President, Cincinnati Black Pride

“Brandy Adams is the Vice President of Cincinnati Black Pride. She has a love for her community which can be seen in the work she has done. Recently Brandy sat on the Cincinnati Pride Board as one of the festival chairs and that is no small feat. She did this while being the VP for Cincinnati Black Pride and working in leadership in other various organizations.

She headed along with Cincinnati Black pride organized its first Healthfair for the LGBTQ community. She has collected and donated over 100 duffle bags of foster kids coming into the system. She is a dedicated mother, mentor to LGBTQ teenagers. an obedient student, a trusted leader and a loyal friend.”

Jen Scott

Field Manager, Equality Ohio & Board, Cincinnati Pride

“Jen Scott does amazing work throughout Greater Cincinnati. From her work with Cincinnati Pride to her work with Equality Ohio, Jen Scott is an individual deserving of high recognition. Jen is dedicated to her work with the LGBTQ+ community, as shown by her diligence in looking out for marginalized members of the community. If we  had more people like Jen Scott, we would be able to accomplish so much more within our community.”

DeAndre True-Perry aka Crystal Cavali

Drag Performer & Entertainer

“While the community at large may not recognize the name DeAndre True-Perry, they will surely know his alter ego Crystal Cavali. Crystal is a accomplished drag performer and spectacular seamstress. A true talent with the needle and thread, Crystal has created costumes for many of the drag performers in Cincinnati as well as across the country.

Known for amazing dance moves, Crystal strives to be the show stopper on the floor. Crystal offers mentoring and guidance with the newer group of drag performers. Like a true artist, Crystal is working to motivate others with their work.”

Manuka Honey Stix-Chimera

Drag Performer & Entertainer

“Manuka Honey Stix-Chimera is a local drag performer and an outspoken activist. Affectionately known as Honey, they are a talented performer who has done work all over the city. They are dedicated to their craft with imaginative makeup and innovative costumes.

As a budding activist Honey has stood up for those who need to be heard. They are dedicated to being the change they want to see in the world. This can be seen by how they and Vanta Black worked together on Melanin Magic to recognize drag performers of color. Honey deserves this recognition.”

Vanta Black

Drag Performer & Entertainer

“Vanta Black is a local drag performer and activist. Vanta is a talented drag performer and I love seeing the content they come up with but I am most impressed with their work as an activist for accessibility. I applaud the work that I’ve seen them do in this community. I’m even prouder of how they and Manuka Honey Stix-Chimera have put together Melanin Magic highlighting the work of drag performers of color.”

Randy True-Perry aka Ravyn Valentino

Drag Performer & Entertainer

“Ravyn Valentino is a local drag performer and the ‘mother’ of the house of Valentino. As a ‘mother’ Ravyn is building a house of drag performers. Performing all around the city as well as the surround areas even for big events like Pride Night at Kings Island. Ravyn has been a mentor, pageant contestant, choreographer, show director and competition judge. Ravyn is out here inspiring others through their work and performances.”

Mike Maly

2024 Founders Award

Not only did Mike play a major part in developing KYC over the years, but Mike and his husband Greg started something amazing in 2010. They watched the Columbus Pride parade from Hyde Park’s empty patio and thought, “Why not use this space to help others?” That’s how PRIDE ON HIGH was born!

Now, PRIDE ON HIGH supports several local nonprofits, with a focus on LGBTQ+ youth programming – bringing together thousands of community members and raising tens of thousands for charity annually. Plus, it’s the best place to watch the parade, with shade, bathrooms, food, drinks, and even celebrity judges! Mike’s big heart and hard work have made a real difference for the LGBTQ+ community and LGBTQ+ youth.

Black TransMen of Ohio (BTMO)

Community Freedom Fighter Award

“Founded in 2020, Black TransMen of Ohio (BTMO) emerged from a critical need for support and community for Black transmasculine folks in Ohio. What began as a small group has blossomed into a powerful force for change, offering resources, mentorship, and a strong voice for a part of our community often overlooked.

This award recognizes their tireless efforts in fighting for equality, visibility, and justice. Their work embodies the spirit of community and resilience that KYC has championed for 30 years.”

Chris Sutton

Andrew Levitt Spirit of Kindness Honor

“Chris has been a beacon of compassion in our community for several years, dedicating countless hours to supporting our LGBTQ+ youth. His impact goes beyond just volunteering – he truly embodies the spirit of kindness we cherish at KYC.

In the words of our staff: “Chris readily connects and communicates with every individual youth he encounters. He cultivates a culture of welcoming and belonging that reflects our values, and embodies compassion and patience that both youth and staff greatly appreciate. He’s reliable, optimistic, and incredibly humorous. He is a great asset to KYC.”

Dara Adkison

STATEHOUSE ADVOCATE AWARD

“Dara Adkison (they/them) is the first paid Executive Director of TransOhio, a parent and a nonbinary genderqueer trans-masculine person. They previously served on the TransOhio Board of Directors for two years, where they helped grow and develop the programs TransOhio offers to the community. Their advocacy saw them testifying at the Ohio statehouse so frequently that many thought they lived in Columbus, rather than their home in Cleveland.

Before joining TransOhio, they were President of the Cleveland Stonewall Democrats, founder of the Rural Lorain Precinct Association, and a former candidate for the Ohio House of Representatives, running in 2020 as the first out LGBTQIA+ candidate at any level in Huron and Lorain counties. They have been involved with local, state, and national organizations through their legislative advocacy, public speaking, testimony, and educational efforts, helping provide community resources for the past decade.”

ACLU of Ohio

LEGAL ADVOCATE OF THE YEAR AWARD

“The ACLU of Ohio works to safeguard civil liberties, advance civil rights, and promote fundamental fairness, freedom, and justice for all Ohioans. With 32,000 members in all 88 counties and a staff of 32 working across the state, the ACLU of Ohio advocates, agitates, and litigates on multiple fronts, especially for bodily autonomy and LGBTQ+ rights.

Leading with integrity, the ACLU of Ohio utilizes integrated advocacy to build people power and promote change, approaching its mission holistically through litigation, organizing, lobbying, policy advocacy, and public education.”

Briden Schueren

QUEER JOY AWARD

“Briden Cole Schueren is an award-winning, published queer trans artist, activist, and business owner. In 2013, they founded BrickBox Studios to create an inclusive workspace for artists. Briden has organized art exhibits and fundraisers supporting organizations like Trans Lifeline and the Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation, and is deeply involved in the You Will Rise Program, empowering bullied youth through art.

They co-created Queertopia, an art experience celebrating queer joy through paintings, workshops, and the Redrawing Masculinity class, which challenges traditional masculinity.

As a former Stonewall Columbus board member, Briden started the city’s first Trans Pride March and organized Trans Day of Remembrance events honoring trans lives, especially trans women of color.

Briden has also advocated for trans visibility at the Ohio Statehouse and presented on trans healthcare at Ohio State Medical Center. Their purpose is to build the inclusive spaces they lacked in their youth.”

Julie Posey

ALLY OF THE YEAR AWARD

“Julie Posey has a master’s degree in pharmacology, is an Associate Professor of Human Anatomy and Physiology and a Diversity Equity Inclusion Faculty Fellow at CSCC.

Julie has been an educator for 28 years both at Columbus State Community College and at Columbus College of Art and Design. She is a co-author on two web textbooks/iBooks for Anatomy and Physiology and is a co author on a series of custom course manuals in Physiology and Human Biology. 

Julie was the 2013 recipient of Columbus State’s Distinguished Teaching Award and the 2023 Faculty Excellence Award. She is a passionate DEI advocate with initiatives including a transgender/nonbinary support group, Cougar Closet, a transgender/nonbinary free shopping experience, hosting panels for learning about this special community and drag shows to share the art and history with the CSCC community. 

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, Julie is a mom of the most beautiful transgender senior at Ohio University.”

Bryan C. Jones

LOCAL CHAMPION AWARD

“Mr. Jones has been thriving with AIDS for over 42 years and has been an Advocate/Activist for half that time. He is a Founding Steering Committee member of the international Undetectable = Untransmittable campaign (U=U). For over 10 years he has been a voting member of The Cleveland Planning Council.  He advocates and presents both nationally and internationally.

Mr. Jones was very instrumental in the forming of the Ohio Health Modernization Movement whose mission is to modernize the HIV non-disclosure laws in Ohio, and he is responsible for initiating the mobilization of Ohio around these laws. 

Mr. Jones is the founder of The ‘DIRT’ Advocacy Movement, which is a prevention model, and he is the founder of the Sankofa HIV Initiative. This initiative gives healing weekends, webinars and training for organizations as well as PLWHA’s. Bryan is a proud Rattler and graduate of Florida A&M University with a B.S. in Broadcast Journalism.”

TransOhio

ORGANIZATION OF THE YEAR AWARD

“TransOhio is dedicated to protecting and advancing the rights of trans, nonbinary, intersex, and gender nonconforming people in Ohio. 

What began as a small group of strangers seeking a shared community, first became a quarterly newsletter in 2005, before growing into the Midwest’s first (and only) statewide trans-led trans equity organization. Today, TransOhio is completely run by a few transgender individuals (the majority of whom are volunteers), serving the community with both lived experience and highly skilled expertise. 

TransOhio programs and initiatives offer trans Ohioans opportunities for education, advocacy, support, and community.”

Dion Manley

EQUALITY AWARD

“Dion is the first openly trans elected official in the State of Ohio, having won election to the Gahanna-Jefferson School Board and taking office in 2022. He earned a full athletic scholarship to California State University Northridge and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in humanities from New College of California.

Dion earned three certificates from the Gemological Institute of America before owning a small jewelry business for 17 years in San Francisco. Dion currently works as a healthcare worker in the optometry field. He has over ten years of experience in public service with the Franklin County Board of Elections and six years of nonprofit experience as acting Executive Director, volunteer coordinator, outreach specialist and board officer.”

Jacob Yandura

VISIBILITY AWARD

“An Ohio native and Kenyon College graduate, Jacob is a New York City-based composer best known for his musical How to Dance in Ohio, a musical adaptation of the 2015 Peabody Award-winning documentary (directed by Sammi Cannold and supported by the Prince Fellowship and the Shubert Organization’s Artistic Circle).

How to Dance in Ohio first premiered at Syracuse Stage in Fall 2022 and opened on Broadway at the Belasco Theatre in Fall 2023. He is currently nominated for a GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding Broadway Production. 

Jacob has received numerous recognitions for his writing and contributions to the theater and holds a B.A. in Music Composition from Kenyon College and an M.F.A from New York University’s Graduate Musical Theatre Writing Program.”

Dr. Tyffani Monford

COMMUNITY AWARD

“Dr. Tyffani Monford is a social justice advocate who unapologetically centers the needs of Black girls, Black women, and Black nonbinary youth in her work. She has insisted that the needs of Black girls and women must include those who live at the intersections of multiple oppressed identities, including her trans and non-hetero sisters.

She understands the importance of affirming spaces and resources for LGBTQ+ youth and emerging adults. From providing crisis support at the Cleveland LGBT Center after the Pulse Nightclub shooting to addressing the needs of Black trans girls in her training on gender-responsive treatment, Dr. Tyffani knows that we all must do better at meeting the mental health needs of LGBTQ+ youth.

When tapped to be the clinical team lead for MetroHealth’s newly formed Multicultural Centers of Excellence’s Behavioral Health Equity Initiative, one of Dr. Tyffani’s primary areas of focus is increasing access to affirming, culturally relevant mental health services for those within NE Ohio’s LGBTQ+ community.”

Kenyon Farrow

COMMUNITY AWARD

“Kenyon Farrow is a writer, educator, policy and communications strategist focused on progressive racial and economic justice issues related to the LGBTQ community. He is the communications director with AVAC, an organization that works to accelerate ethical development and equitable delivery of effective HIV prevention options with the goal of achieving global health equity.

A graduate of Hawken School and Ohio Wesleyan University, he returned to Northeast Ohio to live in 2020 after 21 years. He joined the board directors of the LGBT Center of Greater Cleveland in 2021 and became President in 2023. Kenyon is also a contributing editor to TheBody.com, and whose work has appeared in The Ohio Capitol Journal, Columbus Dispatch, The Buckeye Flame, BET.com, The Atlantic as well as over a dozen published books, anthologies and peer-reviewed journals.

Shamus Dickinson

LEADERSHIP AWARD

“Shamus Dickinson is a lifelong Cleveland native, deeply rooted in the local LGBT community and is passionate about making a difference. His commitment to both his professional endeavors as a REALTOR and small business owner, as well as his active involvement in various non-profits, showcases his dedication to improving the lives of those around him.

His 7 foot tall alter ego, Veranda L’Ni, adds another fascinating layer to his personality. Drag entertainment is such a powerful platform for expression, activism, and community building. Shamus uses this platform to raise awareness and vital funding for the LGBTQ+ community in and around greater Cleveland. With inclusive events like Drag Bingo, brunches, and Drag Story Hour, he continues to bring people together in meaningful Ways.”

Stina Aleah

2024 HRC DINNER ARTIST

“Cleveland artist and muralist, Stina Aleah, uses her life experiences to create breathtaking oil paintings that leave audiences motivated and inspired. The artist’s work has been collected both nationally and internationally, collaborating with major corporations, Emmy-nominated
television series, celebrities, galleries, and exhibitions.”

Mike Miller

CORNERSTONE AWARD

Maria Bruno, Esq.

2024 LEADER OF PRIDE

“As the Public Policy Director at Equality Ohio, Maria Bruno has been a stalwart advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. With a deep background in public policy and civic engagement, she has played a crucial role in advancing supportive legislation and initiatives focusing on civil rights, economic justice, and voting rights since joining Equality Ohio in 2021.”

Dr. Rhea Debussy

2024 LEADER OF PRIDE

“Dr. Rhea Debussy, serving as the Director of External Affairs for Equitas Health and founding Executive Director of the Ace and Aro Alliance of Central Ohio, is celebrated for her unwavering commitment to advocacy and community engagement. Her strategic efforts in communication and policy development are vital in the fight against anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and promoting inclusivity.”

Dara Adkison

2024 LEADER OF PRIDE

“Dara Adkison, the inaugural Executive Director of TransOhio and a trailblazer in legislative advocacy, has significantly impacted the LGBTQIA+ community at local, state, and national levels. Their roles in various organizations, including the Cleveland Stonewall Democrats and the Rural Lorain Precinct Association, underscore a decade of dedicated advocacy and community support.”

Siobhan Boyd Nelson

2024 LEADER OF PRIDE

“Siobhan Boyd Nelson has enriched the Ohio LGBTQ+ community through roles such as Deputy Director and Interim Executive Director at Equality Ohio. Her leadership extends through her work at Kaleidoscope Youth Center and Stonewall Columbus, where she has been instrumental in advancing the rights and visibility of LGBTQ+ individuals.”

Travis Shumake

2024 CHAMPION OF PRIDE

“Travis Shumake’s journey, from his impactful activism with the Human Rights Campaign to his notable achievements, including the establishment of the first openly gay professional touring race team, aligns seamlessly with our Pride celebration. Shumake has not only set records in speed but also in breaking barriers, fostering inclusivity, and promoting LGBTQ+ representation in a sport where such efforts are both crucial and challenging.”

Grange Insurance

2024 Central Ohio Business Ally of the Year

“Grange Insurance has demonstrated exemplary leadership and dedication to creating an inclusive environment both within their organization and in the broader community.”

Zhané Dawlingz

2024 patron of pride

“Zhané Dawlingz has recently claimed the prestigious title of Miss Continental 2024, becoming an iconic figure in the LGBTQ+ community. Her historic victory is a beacon of diversity, representation, and perseverance, aligning perfectly with the values of Stonewall Columbus and the broader movement towards equity and equality.

Following in the footsteps of past Patrons of Pride such as Caleb Mikayla Goins Robinson (2023), Carmen Carrera (2022), and Corey Williams/Anisa Love (2021), Zhané is recognized for her advocacy, visibility, and unwavering support of LGBTQ+ rights and representation. As an advocate and a trailblazer, she has made her mark not only through her triumphs in pageantry but also by championing the cause of inclusion in all spaces.

Stonewall Columbus’ Patron of Pride is more than a title — it is a celebration of individuals who, like Zhané Dawlingz, lead the way in making an impact within the community. It is for those who have worked tirelessly to ensure that our stories are heard and our rights are recognized, just as Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera did when they stood up against police brutality in 1969, symbolically launching the LGBTQ+ Pride movement.” 🔥