July 29, 2023
H R C W E S T E R N & C E N T R A L N E W Y O R K D I N N E R
Joseph A. Floreano Rochester Riverside Convention Center
WITHOUT EXCEPTION
*Updated as of 7/27/23
YOU TO OUR LOCAL SPONSORS GOLD SILVER BRONZE ONECAUSE AUCTION WINE WELCOME RECEPTION Hon. Harry B. Bronson & John White-Bronson Bachelor Forum Rochester Sexual Wellness Center Trillium Health WELCOME DESK CHECK IN PHOTOGRAPHY PATRON University of Rochester Planning & Project Management Eastman Kodak Turning Stone Resort | Casino
THANK
P L AT I NU M G O L D S I LV E R B R O N Z E L ist cur rent a s of 7/20/23 HRC NATIONAL CORPORATE PARTNERS *Updated as of 7/20/23
Welcome!
On behalf of the HRC Western and Central New York Steering Committee and our Dinner Committee, welcome to our 4th Annual Dinner and Auction. We are honored to be in the company of such an incredible group of activists, advocates, and allies dedicated to fighting for LGBTQ+ rights.
While tonight is about celebrating our community’s achievements over the last year, we also recognize the alarming rise of anti-LGBTQ+ sentiment and legislation. Many people in our community our family members, friends, and coworkers live in fear daily. Since our last gathering:
Over 525 legislative bills and laws across the country directly attack the lives and safety of the LGBTQ+ community; many specific bills target our trans family members by putting their access to critically needed medical care and protections at risk!
Drag Story Hours in our community came under attack.
Fifty years after Roe v. Wade, the Supreme Court reversed the landmark decision, stripping women of the right to reproductive choice and access to safe healthcare.
Regardless of how you identify, now is not the time for us to be complacent—even in New York state. We cannot allow the plethora of anti-trans legislation and random acts of criminality that threaten the rights and dignity of our trans community members to go unchallenged. This year, 11 members of the Western and Central New York Steering Committee lobbied on Capitol Hill, urging representatives from both sides of the aisle to vote against hateful legislation. Many members also turned out to protest with community partners and form a human wall to protect the many parents and children attending Drag Story Hour in Pittsford.
The backlash underway is a call to action for everyone here to come together to end discrimination against LGBTQ+ people and realize a world that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all. Tonight, we celebrate the power of our community to effect change, overcome any obstacle, and create a more just and equit able world.
Thank you for joining us in this critical, life-saving work. Your presence here tonight reaffirms our shared belief that we will make history by defeating all legislative and media attacks against our community. Together, we will achieve full equality for all LGBTQ+ people—Without Exception!
With gratitude and solidarity, the 2023 HRC Western and Central NY Dinner Tri-Chairs
Robert Neale
Dana Weiss
Lorraine Woerner
Equality Patrons
Barilla America
Alan E.
Curle, MD &
Chunkit Fung, MD &
Davie Kaplan
CPAs
Gallagher Benefit
Harris Beach
Thank You!*
Scholarship Ticket Donors
Kelly Bonanno
Andrew
S. London, PhD
Scott Hartman, MD
Services
PLLC
Highland Hospital
Howard Hanna Real Estate
L3Harris Technologies
Morgan
Bliss
Services
Stanley Wealth Management
Owen, CPA
ROAR
Rich Testa
William Valenti, MD &
James Wolk
FRIEND of HRC
The Bonadio
Group
Kelly Bonanno
Carol &
Dana Ebersole-Weiss
Deborah Hughes
Kathy Korol
Barbara Purvis
Richard
Ognibene
Wallace Johnson
Davie Kaplan
Kathy Korol
Lindsay Tarnof
Turning
Stone
Resort|Casino
Dinner Table Captains
Crosby Brownlie, Inc
Karla
Carey &
Marybeth
Paula
Alan
Cassandra Franco
Cerrone &
Michele
Cupertino, PhD
Curle, MD &
Justin Dollard
Carol &
Chin, MD
Andrew London, PhD
Dana Ebersole-Weiss
Chunkit Fung, MD &
Clifton Gibson
Deborah Hughes &
Pebble Kranz &
Scott Hartman, MD
Emily Jones
Dan Rosen
Supriya Mohile, MD &
Brian Mumey
Dr Karen Mustian &
Robert Neale
Austin Ponce
Jonathan Rosenfeld
Jacob
Jim
Nimish Mohile, MD
Miss Mary Jo Fichtner
Shea
Sheehan
Anne Tischer &
Bess Watts
Lorraine Woerner
*All lists as
of
7/26/23
Dinner & Steering Committee
Karla
Carey
Marybeth
Lauri
Cerrone
Champoux-Bilak
Carol Ebersole-Weiss
Cassandra Franco
Chunkit Fung, MD
Kathy Hart, RN
Scott Hartman, MD
Emily Jones
Robert Neale
Austin Ponce
Victor
Jacob
Jim
Sanchez
Shea
Sheehan
Dana Weiss
Lorraine Woerner
2023 Auction Donors
The Human Rights Campaign and the HRC Western and Central New York Dinner Committee gratefully acknowledge the organizations, businesses, and individuals that donated items and services to our auction.* Please patronize these businesses!
All Star Pizza Penfield
Aloft Syracuse Inner Harbor
B-Side
Bachelor Forum/Avenue Pub
Benucci’s Italian Ristorante
Bill Gray’s Bitter Honey
Black Button Distillery
Blackfriars Theatre
Book Culture|Pittsford
Buffalo David Bitton Clothing
Carnegie Cellars
Carol & Dana Ebersole-Weiss
Central Rock Gym
Colonial Belle
Comedy @ the Carlson
Corning Museum of Glass
Courtyard Rochester Downtown
Crisp Rochester
Cure Restaurant
Discover Cayuga Lake Public Cruise
Elmwood Dental Group
Equal Grounds
Fowler's Canaltown Wine & Spirits
Genesee Brew House
Genesee Country Village & Museum
George Eastman Museum
Geva Theatre
Human Rights Campaign
Image Out Film Festival
Iron Smoke Distillery
JCC CenterStage
K2 Brothers Brewing
Keepers' Coffee, Tea, Snacks, Etc
LaTourelle Hotel | Bistro | Spa
Laughing Gull Chocolates
Living Roots Wine & Company
Lorraine Woerner, Four Cats Creative
Moyalazyfactory Jina Park
National Susan B. Anthony Museum & House
Nocino Bar & Ristorante
OFC Creations Theatre Center
Perlo's Restaurant
Phoebe’s Restaurant & Coffee Lounge
Premier Pastry
Rhine House
Roar Night Club
Robert Neale
Rochester Broadway Theatre League
Rohrback Brewing Company
Seneca Park Zoo
Shadow Lake Golf & Racquet Club
Sorella’s & Co Salon (Toni Coleman)
Sutherland House Victorian Bed & Breakfast
Syracuse Stage
Tavos Antojitos y Tequila
The Little Theatre
The Revelry
The Strong National Museum of Play
tru on Park
Turning Stone Resort|Casino
Velvet Belly
Wickham Farms
Wilmorite
Wunderbar
WXXI Public Broadcasting
Special thanks to Auction Co-chair Lauri Champoux-Bilak and Honorary Auction Committee Member John Williams for their fruitful efforts!
*All lists as of 7/20/23
Thank You!
June 29, 2023
Dear Fellow Friends of the Human Rights Campaign:
On behalf of the citizens of Rochester, I am honored to welcome you to the 2023 Human Rights Campaign of Western and Central New York Dinner. I thank you for being here, and for celebrating HRC’s mission as well as its supporters, tonight’s distinguished honorees, and pride in our community’s diversity.
I am proud to serve as Mayor of this great city and look forward to raising the Progress Pride Flag on July 10th in front of City Hall The flag and its evolution remind us of the discrimination, unjust treatment, and violence directed at those in the LGBTQ+ community. We do not accept or tolerate this in our city. Equity, equality, and fairness are fundamental human rights that everyone deserves, no matter who they love.
The City of Rochester embraces our LGBTQ+ community with open arms and will continue to demonstrate our alliance. We are proud that for the last ten years, City of Rochester employees of the LGBTQ+ community and their families receive the fullest gender-affirming benefits that our insurer provides
We thank the Human Rights Campaign for continuing to champion the rights for the Rochester LGBTQ+ community, and for its work to impact health care, social policy, and workplace safety for LGBTQ+ community members.
On behalf of the citizens of Rochester and the LBGTQ+ community, thank you for supporting the Human Rights Campaign and its heart-centered and inclusive work. Please enjoy this inspirational occasion.
Sincerely,
Malik D Evans Mayor
Phone: (585) 428-7045 Fax: (585) 428-6059 TTY: (585) 428-6054 EEO/ADA Employer
Nik Harris
HRC DIRECTOR OF STRATEGIC OUTREACH AND ENGAGEMENT
Shenika “Nik” Harris (she/they), is a queer gender non-conforming attorney, activist, and speaker. She is a native of Tallahassee, Florida and obtained her undergraduate degree in Political Science from Florida A&M University and her law degree from Florida State University. She is licensed to practice law in Florida and Washington DC.
Nik currently serves as the Director of Strategic Outreach and Engagement for the Human Rights Campaign and previously served as the LGBTQ Consumer Advocate for the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. This position was appointed by Commissioner Nikki Fried and was the first LGBTQ position to a member of the Florida Cabinet. Prior to this appointment, Nik served as Senior Attorney at the Florida Department of Transportation and as a prosecutor at the Florida Department of Health. Nik conducts training on diversity, equity, and inclusion, and is certified by Cornell University in Diversity & Inclusion.
She was the first Black woman elected to serve as Vice-Chair of the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) National Board of Governors. She serves on the boards of Ruth’s List and IGNITE Women’s Services, is Vice-President of the Dolphin Democrats (Broward County’s LGBTQ Democratic Caucus), Vice-President of the Florida LGBTQ Democratic Caucus, serves on the Broward County Sheriff’s Social Justice Task Force, the Broward State Attorney’s Advisory Council and is a BIG in the Big Brothers Big Sisters Pride Program. In 2020 she was selected as a Victory Empowerment Fellow, one of eight people selected from across the country. She was elected as a Biden Presidential delegate in 2020 representing Florida’s 22nd Congressional District.
One of her proudest achievements is the founding of “Thou Art Woman”, a signature open mic event, with her friend and fellow attorney Ghenete “G” Wright. The event series celebrates LGBTQ women and their allies through performance and visual art. Attorney Harris has been the recipient of countless awards, including the 2019 Ruth’s List: Women Breaking the Glass Ceiling Award; and the 2020 recipient of the LGBTQ Leadership Award by the Florida Diversity Council. She is an awardwinning Toastmaster and speaks across the country in support of equality.
Equality Advocate Award
Anne Tischer & Bess Watts
Bess founded the Rochester-Finger Lakes Chapter of Pride at Work AFL-CIO and served in leadership at local and state levels As a champion of union rights, she not only stood up for LGBTQ+ rights but the rights of all workers In an era where LGBTQ+ strikers stood separately from the rest, Bess gradually gained the respect of her straight male allies over beers Eventually, they marched with her in the PRIDE parade
The moment an issue becomes personal, that’s the moment you transform into an activist. For Anne Tischer and Bess Watts, that moment came when the couple needed spousal health insurance and the same access to workplace benefits as Bess’ coworkers at Monroe Community College.
Self-proclaimed “accidental activists,” Anne and Bess’ work has impacted every aspect of LGBTQ+ life for our community and beyond, including most of us here tonight. Their tenacity to be visible and create change is why the Human Rights Campaign and the HRC Western and Central New York Steering Committee proudly present these deserving women with the Equality Advocate Award!
Anne l eft the corporate world to become a social worker. Her famous protest signs have been on the front lines of countless rallies and movements at home and abroad. She’s particularly proud of her Marriage Equality sign with the simple but powerful phrase, “It’s about love,” featured in at least 14 papers nationwide!
The activism of this tenacious duo has touched every corner of the progressive movement, from LGBTQ+ Rights and Civil Rights to Women’s Rights, Reproductive Rights, Environmental Advocacy, Occupy Rochester, Voter Registration, and more They never backed down when the answer was NO Instead, they fine-tuned their approach with the help of mentors and unexpected allies that magically showed up every step of the way
In the fight for Marriage Equality, Anne and Bess worked with the Human Rights Campaign long before the HRC Western and Central New York Steering Committee existed. Understanding the importance of fighting equality battles on many levels, they recognized when they needed help and support with the same voracity that they understood their strengths and privileges. They describe their 2004 marriage ceremony in Rochester’s Washington Square Park as a “public act of civil disobedience ”
“The fight is a gift, whether or not you live to see the fruits of your efforts. So, find a fight worth fighting. Never give up. Never give in. Never go away.”
—Anne & Bess
They continue to fight for the rights and needs of LGBTQ+ elders at Rainbow Seniors ROC, amongst other ongoing advocacy work.
“Fifteen years ago, if we knew all that we would end up doing, we never would have started,” Anne and Bess said
Together for 30 years or 29, depending on who you ask Anne and Bess show no signs of stopping!
We are grateful for their naivety because Anne and Bess are now the mentors and allies that
Let’s learn from their love and commitment to each other and our community. They are a living testament to how we are stronger together!
Beth Leavel
ALLY FOR EQUALITY AWARD
Tony winner Beth Leavel will next be seen starring as Miranda Priestley in the new Broadway musical, The Devil Wears Prada, music by Elton John. Most recently, Beth was nominated for a 2019 Tony, Drama Desk, Drama League, and Outer Critic’s Circle award for her performance as DeeDee Allen in the critically acclaimed Broadway show The Prom. She received Tony, Drama Desk, NY Outer Critics Circle and L.A. Drama Critics Awards for her performance as the title character in The Drowsy Chaperone; as well as Tony Drama Desk, and Outer Critics Circle nominations for her role as Florence Greenberg in Baby It’s You.
Other Broadway roles include Mrs. June Adams in Bandstand, Emily in Elf, Donna in Mamma Mia!, Frau Blucher in Young Frankenstein, Dorothy Brock in the revival of 42nd Street, Tess in the original company of Crazy For you, Mrs. Bixby in The Civil War, Ellie in Hal Prince’s Showboat, and Anytime (Broadway debut) in 42nd Street. Numerous TV, most recently The Walking Dead (AMC) and The Bite (Spectrum). Beth’s one-woman cabaret, It’s Not About Me, has played across the country to rave reviews and sold-out venues.
Along life’s journey let’s travel together.
American Airlines is a longstanding partner of the Human Rights Campaign. American is a proud advocate for LGBTQ rights in the Twin Cities and beyond.
COMEDIAN Dana Goldberg
As seen on TBS, ABC, LOGO, and Last Comic Standing, veteran comedian Dana Goldberg is a force of nature on stage. With performances at the San Francisco International Comedy Competition, The Comedy Festival produced by TBS and HBO, and the Fringe Festival in Edinburgh, Scotland; her quick wit and playful stage presence have her earning loyal fans across the country and abroad.
A crowd favorite, Goldberg has become a triple threat combining her comedy, hosting, and live auction talents to become one of the most sought after entertainers on the circuit. Voted one of the “Top Five Funniest Lesbians In America,” Curve magazine raves, “Goldberg is one of the brightest lights in a stellar comedy landscape.” Advocate.com named Goldberg one of the top three LGBT comedians in the nation.
In addition to headlining clubs, theaters and festivals around the country, Goldberg has performed at and emceed dozens of high pro fi le events and has shared the national stage with luminaries such as President Barack Obama, Vice President Joe Biden, former President Bill Clinton, Meryl Streep, Katy Perry, Kerry Washington, Jennifer Lopez, Carol Burnett, Sir Elton John, Mariah Carey, Shonda Rhimes, and many more.
Combining her gift of humor with humanitarian efforts, Goldberg has raised over 20 million dollars for non-pro fi ts around the country in the fi ght for marriage equality, LGBT rights, women’s health, and HIV and AIDS education and prevention. As the youngest child in a single parent household run by a Jewish mother in which two of three kids are gay, Goldberg helps keep most of the comedy venues and half of the psychotherapists in the country in business.
For more information on Dana Goldberg visit www.danagoldberg.com
At Amazon, we’re committed to upholding a culture of inclusion and equity for our employees, customers, and neighbors.
We're proud to support HRC's work building a future that is inclusive, diverse, and accessible to all.
The most impactful way to support H RC is through a monthly gift, because you will help fuel HRC’s fight for FULL equality all year long.
Your ongoing monthly support will provide critical resources to fight back against anti-LG BTQ+ bills, expand and protect our pro-equality Congress in 2022, invest more deeply in our grassroots efforts with strategic organizing in key districts, keep pressure to pass the Equality Act in the U.S. Senate and continue to show up and fight for the multiply marginalized in our community and country.
Thank you for supporting H RC and for staying with us in the fight. Together, we are an unstoppable force for change!
Now
Join
Google is proud to support The Human Rights Campaign in a shared pursuit to build a world where everyone belongs.
In a world where everyone belongs, what’s possible for everyone expands. That’s why Google is committed to building belonging at work, in our products and in society. Discover more at belonging.google
There’s a world where everyone belongs. It just has to be built.
We’ve committed $5B for a more equitable & sustainable future.
macysinc.com/purpose
Together, with incredible partners like HRC, we are committed to tackling the barriers of representation, and realize a world that achieves equality and inclusion for all. Because the history of progress shows that when people feel confident to own their story and stand in their truth, they change the narrative for everyone. At Macy’s, Inc., we’re on a mission to create a brighter future with bold representation. We call it Mission Every One.”
Jeff Gennette CHAIRMAN & CEO, MACY’S, INC.
“For more than 13 years, Macy’s has proudly supported the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) and its critical work to advance the rights of the LQBTQ+ community.
Transgender and non-binary people are your neighbors, co-workers, family members and friends. And when you or your friends and family are the targets of hate, violence and discrimination, you act.
The Human Rights Campaign is actively working to advocate for the rights and lives of the transgender and non-binary community–but we all must do more–can we count you in?
As LGBTQ+ people and allies, we have a responsibility to fight for EVERYONE in our movement. Now is the time to get loud, get visible, and spread awareness on behalf of transgender and non-binary people. So please take the actions below–but don’t stop there.
Sign the Pledge and Impact Change
The first step in voicing your support for the trans and non-binary community is to sign your name to the Count Me In pledge. By taking this action, you’re sending a message that you vow to go out of your way to raise awareness and uplift the lives of our trans and non-binary friends and family.
Provide Inclusive Books to an At-Need Library
Your contribution will provide a set of three books to a Title 1 school or community library serving multiply marginalized populations across the country.
Contact State Legislators
State legislatures are attacking LGBTQ+ folks, particularly trans people, left and right. Show antiequality legislators that we won’t tolerate any more bullying and discrimination.
Request and Show Off Your Sticker
Display your special edition HRC sticker on your car, laptop, water bottle — no matter where you put it, you’ll be saying you support our trans community.
Spread the Word On Social Media
Post these image shares on your social media channels and update your profile photos and let your networks know you believe in a more just and equitable world for trans folks — full stop.
Share a Voice Message of Support
State legislatures are targeting trans kids. Text HEART to 472-472 to share a public message of support for trans youth and show you’re fighting for them.
(Msg&dataratesmayapply. Recurring msgs. TxtSTOP2quit. HELP4info.)
Let Kids Play
Rebekah is a 14-year-old girl who loves school, reading, hanging out with her friends and playing field hockey. But lawmakers across the country are trying to pass laws that would prohibit Rebekah from playing sports with other girls.
Wear Your Support
From T-shirts to pins to socks to masks, you can show off your support for trans equality no matter where you are, who you’re with or what you’re doing.
The more people who show they care, including allies and trans and non-binary people who speak up for the most marginalized in our community, the more hearts and minds we will change. Can we count you in?
Transgender Justice eNewsletter
Stay up to date on our Transgender Justice Initiative and what we’re doing to dismantle stigma and end the epidemic of violence against trans and gender non-conforming people.
www.hrc.org/CountMeIn
Count Me In Speak Out Request A Sticker Download Now Donate Now Meet Rebekah Visit HRC.org/Shop Subscribe Now
Cocktails in every color for every identity. It’s time to COLOR THE FUTURE . PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY. SMIRNOFF NO. 21 VODKA. DISTILLED FROM GRAIN. 40% ALC/VOL. THE SMIRNOFF CO., NEW YORK, NY Join Smirnoff in support for the LGBTQIA+ community, and toast to a more colorful and inclusive future for all!
GIVE THE GIFT OF EQUALITY
This year, celebrate your loved ones, holidays or other special occasions by giving the gift of equality! Gift a membership to the nation’s largest LGBTQ+ civil rights organization, host a fundraiser to benefit our work, sign up for our wedding registry or donate in someone’s memory! Each donation includes an HRC membership and furthers the fight for full LGBTQ+ equality.
GOAL HRC MEMBER
HOST A FUNDRAISER FOR YOUR BIRTHDAY, GRADUATION, PRIDE OR MO RE
DONATE YOUR WEDDING REGISTRY
FLY A FLAG
GIV E TH E GIF T OF EQUALIT Y TODAY hrc.im/WaysToGive
GIVE A MEMBERSHIP
FOR HOLIDAYS & SPECIAL OCCASIO NS
DONATE IN HONOR OR ME MO RY O F SOMEONE
Celebrating a special occasion and looking to further LGBTQ+ equality? Join our over 3 million supporters today by giving the gift of membership, hosting a fundraiser, donating your wedding registry to HRC and more!
.. .
That’s
©2019 LYFT, INC. CPUC IC NO. TCP0032513-P
Lyft supports safer spaces, and all the humans who inhabit them.
TRANSGENDER INCLUSION
IN THE WORKPLACE
OF THOSE RATED ON HRC FOUNDATION’S 2021 CEI…
99%
of CEI-rated employers explicitly include gender identity as a part of their non-discrimination policy.
49% of CEI-rated employers allow employees the option to selfidentify as LGBTQ+ in anonymous employee engagement surveys or as part of data collection on confidential employee forms or in the HRIS system.
94 %
600+
OF FORTUNE 500 COMPANIES have non-discrimination protections that include gender identity, UP FROM 3% IN 2002.
major employers have adopted workplace gender transition guidelines.
Over its 19-year history, the Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s Corporate Equality Index has been the driving force for the adoption of equitable workplace policies, practices and benefits for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer people in the United States and beyond. Participating companies know that building an LGBTQ+-inclusive workplace is not just the right thing to do, it is also the best business decision and allows companies to attract, retain and engage top talent. Their commitment to building inclusion has only strengthened over the past year, with a record-breaking number of corporations achieving top marks
91%
of all CEI-rated businesses offer transgenderinclusive health insurance coverage, up from 0 in 2002 and 22 times as many businesses as 12 years ago.
87%
of all CEI-rated businesses offer transgender-inclusive health insurance coverage while also eliminating blanket exclusions for medically necessary care in all other employer-sponsored plans.
WHAT WE DO
The Human Rights Campaign is America’s largest civil rights organization working for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer equality. Since 1980, we have been fighting for a better future for LGBTQ+ Americans. We are now working tirelessly to pass the Equality Act, which will soon head to the U.S. Senate for consideration, fight back against a multitude of anti-LGBTQ+ legis-lation in states nationwide and ensure everyone in our community is treated with dignity and respect. While our opponents are emboldened and on the attack, the Human Rights Campaign and our grass-roots army of more than 3.2 million members and supporters are energetically defending the rights we’ve gained and ramping up our fight for full equality across the board.
ANTI-EQUALITY LEADERS AND LEGISLATION
The alarming spate of anti-LGBTQ+ bills introduced across the country in 2020 has continued to surge in 2021. These include bills that would prohibit transgender youth from receiving genderaffirming care and bills that would prohibit transgender youth from participating in sports. This wave of anti-transgender legislation harkens back to the surge of anti-transgender bathroom bills that hit state legislatures in 2016, including North Carolina’s HB2. We remain committed to aggressively fighting these threats to equality by those who seek to undermine our rights. HRC will do whatever it takes to protect the rights and fundamental equality of every LGBTQ+ person in this country.
B U IL DING A ND DEM ONS TR AT ING POLITICAL P OWER
HRC’s decades-long work to build political power has uniquely positioned us to reach LGBTQ+ and ally voters who prioritize equality on the ballot, also known as Equality Voters. HRC has identified 57 million Equality Voters nationwide who, if they turn out to vote, will support pro-equality candidates. HRC’s early and sustained year-round engagement in battleground states like Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin bolstered historic turnout in 2018 and 2020 producing pro-equality outcomes at every level of government. In 2019, HRC’s mobilization of Equality Voters in Virginia, where lawmakers had repeatedly blocked proequality bills over many years, produced groundbreaking progress for LGBTQ+ Americans in the South. These victories led to the Virginia Values Act becoming law, making Virginia the first state in the South to advance statewide nondiscrimination protections for LGBTQ+ people.
ADVANCING EQUALITY IN OUR DAILY LIVES
The HRC Foundation improves the lives LGBTQ+ people by building understanding and shaping the public debate of LGBTQ+ people and the challenges they face through innovative research and public education campaigns. We also change the policies and practices in the institutions that shape our everyday lives (hospitals, schools, workplaces, and more) and empower strategic partners, community advocates, and allies through convenings and capacity-building. Guided by these theories of change and seeking to prioritize work impacting those who are multiply marginalized, we have 11 cuttingedge programs advancing equality in the U.S. and beyond.
All Children - All Families is the only national program dedicated to LGBTQ+ inclusion in child welfare (foster care and adoption agencies) that provides resource development, technical assistance and training.
Public Education & Research produces written resources and conducts original quantitative and qualitative research exploring the lived experiences of LGBTQ+ people.
Global Partnerships provides capacity-building and leadership development opportunities to LGBTQ+ advocates from around the world to strengthen movements and advance global LGBTQ+ equality.
HBCU Program is the only national project that partners with Historically Black Colleges and Universities on establishing an LGBTQ+-inclusive campus climate.
Health & Aging provides resources and training to help thousands of healthcare facilities adopt inclusive policies and practices to better serve LGBTQ+ patients and employees.
HIV & Health Equity develops public education and capacitybuilding programs to address the disproportionate impact of HIV on Black and Latinx communities.
Religion & Faith provides faith leaders with opportunities and tools to stand up for equality even as opponents attempt to weaponize faith against LGBTQ+ people.
Transgender Justice Initiative leads economic empowerment programs, capacity-building initiatives, community engagement efforts, and public safety education campaigns that combat the discrimination faced by transgender people.
Welcoming Schools is the only bias-based bullying prevention program in the nation to provide LGBTQ+-specific training and resources with an intersectional lens, developed for use in elementary schools.
Workplace Equality advances equality for LGBTQ+ workers through the adoption and implementation of inclusive policies, practices, and benefits in the U.S. and beyond.
Youth Well-Being provides professional development to over 5,000 youth-serving professionals annually, through the annual Time to THRIVE conference, webinars, participation at major national convenings, and by amplifying the stories of HRC Youth Ambassadors. The program also convenes HRC’s Parents for Transgender Equality Council.
Updated 10-26-2021
THANK Y O U
ADM
with our heartfelt thanks.
ANONYMOUS
ASSURANT
AT&T
BANK OF AMERICA
BLACK TIE DINNER, INC.
BRIGHTHOUSE FINANCIAL
CARMAX
CARLSON FAMILY FOUNDATION
CENTENE CORPORATION
CERNER
CISCO SYSTEMS, INC
COCA-COLA FOUNDATION, THE COLLINGWOOD FOUNDATION
COMIC RELIEF
DANAHER FOUNDATION
DAVID BOHNETT FOUNDATION
E RHODES AND LEONA B
CARPENTER FOUNDATION
ELECTRONIC ARTS
EVERYTOWN FOR GUN SAFETY
FORTIVE FOUNDATION
GILEAD SCIENCES, INC.
GOOGLE
GUIDEWIRE
HEYDAY FOUNDATION
HOME DEPOT
IKEA
JPMORGAN CHASE
KORS LE PERE FOUNDATION, THE KROLL
LEGO
LEVI STRAUSS & CO
LYFT, INC
MARSH & MCLENNAN AGENCY
MATCH GROUP
METLIFE FOUNDATION
MORNINGSTAR FOUNDATION, THE NATIONAL EDUCATION ASSOCIATION NORTONLIFELOCK
OAK FOUNDATION
OPEN SOCIETY FOUNDATIONS
PEPSICO FOUNDATION, THE PFIZER
PhRMA PRONOUN PRETIUM
PVH
RAYTHEON
ROCKEFELLER FOUNDATION
RUSSELL GRINNELL MEMORIAL TRUST
SEMPRA
SIRIUS XM
S&P GLOBAL STATE FARM
T-MOBILE
TOYOTA
TWITTER
UNITED AIRLINES
UPS FOUNDATION
USAA
U.S. BANK
VANGUARD
VERIZON
VIIV HEALTHCARE
THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY/ ESPN
WARNERMEDIA
WORKDAY FOUNDATION
ZENDESK
The Human Rights Campaign Foundation works to ensure that all Americans have the opportunity to care for their families, earn a living and live open, honest and safe lives at home, at work and in the community. The HRC Foundation is a non-profit tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organization.
For more information about our work, visit www.hrc.org/Foundation
T H E HU MA N R I G H T S
CA M PA I G N F O UN DAT I ON salutes our Foundation Partners
Current as of January 30, 2023
Human
Campaign
At Morgan Stanley, a diverse, dynamic and inclusive culture underlies the success of our company. It widens our perspective, helps our employees achieve their professional objectives and allows us to better serve our clients. Our commitment to diversity and inclusion also garners accolades that consistently recognize Morgan Stanley amongst the top places to work for minorities, women, the LGBT community and diversity overall.
To learn about career opportunities and to apply visit morganstanley.com/people
© 2020 Morgan Stanley
Morgan Stanley is a Proud National Corporate Partner of the
Rights
next
NEW COURSE ON JOB READINESS, FINANCIAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS Build your future
ABOUT NEXT LEVEL COURSE:
Course is FREE
Participants are paid $500 stipend ($50/week)
For LGBTQ+ Black & Brown and trans & non-binary young adults ages 18-30
Meets weekly for 10 weeks via ZOOM
Includes resume writing and job application support
Covers computer skills and digital literacy
Helps you SET GOALS and go to the Next Level
SIGN UP TODAY TO SECURE YOUR SPOT!
THIS PROGRAM IS DELIVERED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH:
WITH ADDITIONAL SUPPORT FROM:
For real? You know I have job issues especially when I'm serving realness with my red bottoms... they are NOT ready. Nah, no cap. They will teach us about job readiness, financial health and wellness and help us use skills we already have to get jobs! Facts... What do I have to do to sign up? The MOCHA Center is getting us the bag. This new Next Level program will help us get jobs and give us $500 to participate. They're basically paying us to level up!
Inclusion is our culture and our commitment At Nationwide®, we are honored to partner with the Human Rights Campaign in support of their mission to advance LGBTQ+ equality. We share a commitment to inclusion and we’re passionate about a workplace of belonging that embraces the uniqueness of each of us. Learn more at Nationwide.com/diversity-equity-inclusion Nationwide, the Nationwide N and Eagle and Nationwide is on your side are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. © 2022 Nationwide CPO-1762AO (09/22)
As one of the few large corporations in the United States led by an openly gay CEO, Neiman Marcus Group is proud to be recognized as a Best Place to Work for LGBTQ+ Equality. We’re committed to our HRC Platinum-level partnership and to leading meaningful initiatives that benefit all.
neimanmarcusgroup . com
Diversity is a key component at Northrop Grumman - a proud Platinum sponsor of the Human Rights Campaign.
ngc.com/diversity
pfizer.com/about/responsibility/human-rights
Target is proud to sponsor HRC in continuing our shared mission of creating accessible and a rming spaces for the LGBTQIA+ community.
Together, we #takepride
Equity and Economic Empowerment Dismantling barriers to build a stronger, fairer and more inclusive world. about.ups.com © 2022 United Parcel Service of America, Inc. UPS, the UPS logo, and the color brown are trademarks of United Parcel Service of America, Inc. All rights reserved. jobs-ups.com
OUR PRIDE FLIES NONSTOP.
At Alaska, we are longtime supporters of the LGBTQ+ community and remain committed to a more equitable society.
Intel is proud to reflect the diverse voices it takes to push possible forward. Together, we are shaping the future of tech. To learn more, visit intel.com/diversity © 2020 Intel Corporation. Intel, the Intel logo, and other Intel marks are trademarks of Intel Corporation or its subsidiaries. Other names and brands may be claimed as the property of others. Innovation Begins with Inclusion
STAND OUT, STAND PROUD
Nordstrom is honored to partner with the Human Rights Campaign in our celebration of the LGBTQIA+ community and commitment to safeguarding equal rights for all.
Whoever you are, whomever you love—we see you, we hear you and we stand with you.
Make Possible® a Better Future
At Applied Materials, our innovations Make Possible a Better Future –a future that begins with equality.
We all have ambitions. And working together, valuing each other and respecting our uniqueness creates the best environment for us to achieve them.
Our ambition is bold, to help the world get to net zero by 2050 or sooner. That’s why we value diversity and put being inclusive at the heart of how we operate. It’s also why we’re recognized as a top employer by the Human Rights Campaign’s Corporate Equality Index.
If that sounds like a culture you would thrive in, explore bp.com/careers
Celebrating everyone’s unique magic.
At Cox, inclusion is much more than a word. It’s at the very core of our values. We thrive on what makes us different, empowering our people, clients and communities to build a better future for the next generation. No two employees look or think the same. And we prefer it that way!
Learn how we’re united by our uniqueness at coxenterprises.com/inclusion.
Make your mark PRIDE AT Ray Robinson, Cox Communications
©2022
Cox Enterprises
Opportunity for all.
When we work to facilitate a diverse, inclusive workforce, we unlock our creative spirit and create the tomorrow we wish to see. For everyone.
UNITED WITH PRIDE We live and celebrate PRIDE every day. Transform your career and join an agile, global leader in medical technology. jobs.medtronic.com © 2021 Medtronic. All rights reserved. Medtronic, Medtronic logo and Further, Together are trademarks of Medtronic. All other brands are trademarks of a Medtronic company. 08/2021
TOGETHER WE ARE MOVING TOWARD EQUALITY AND EXCELLENCE
From its inception, the Human Rights Campaign has been a fundamental, proactive force raising the standards of equality and opportunity for LGBTQ individuals. Shell has long recognized that a fully inclusive workplace allows our employees and our business to flourish. That’s why we’re a longtime National Corporate Partner of the HRC.
www.shell.us/getconnected
Maximizing the Potential of All of Our People
At Goldman Sachs, we know that diversity and inclusion are pivotal to our success and culture of excellence.
We proudly sponsor the Human Rights Campaign and support its mission to promote the equality of the LGBTQ+ community and achieve fairness for all.
© 2022 Goldman Sachs. All rights reserved.
We are devoted to being a good neighbor in every community we serve. That’s why we’re working with customers like you to help our communities thrive. Your support allows us to give more and do more to improve lives and make our neighborhoods stronger. Thank you for helping us make a difference.
BUILDING A STRONG TOMORROW.
AS PART OF CONSTELLATION BRANDS’ COMMITMENT TO ENHANCING SOCIAL EQUITY WITHIN OUR INDUSTRY AND COMMUNITIES, WE ARE PROUD TO JOIN THE HUMAN RIGHTS CAMPAIGN FOUNDATION IN THEIR LGBTQ+ EQUALITY EFFORTS.
Everyone deserves to be cared for and to live well. So at Excellus BlueCross BlueShield, we’re more focused than ever on making care more accessible in the communities we serve through affordable plan options, community investments, partnerships and education.
That’s why we’re proud to support the Human Rights Campaign
Learn more about our community investments and partnerships at ExcellusBCBS.com/Community
enjoy our products responsibly. © 2023
CBI-48722 CBI :: HUMAN RIGHTS :: 1/2 PG AD MR1 CBI48722_HumanRights_Campaign_Ad_MR1.indd 1 6/27/23 11:21 AM
Please
Constellation Brands Inc., Victor, NY.
When we make health equity a priority, EVERYBODY BENEFITS
Cocktails in every color for every identity. It’s time to COLOR THE FUTURE . PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY. SMIRNOFF NO. 21 VODKA. DISTILLED FROM GRAIN. 40% ALC/VOL. THE SMIRNOFF CO., NEW YORK, NY Join Smirnoff in support for the LGBTQIA+ community, and toast to a more colorful and inclusive future for all!
Rochester Buffalo Albany Corning New York City 585.232.6500 and fostering an inclusive workplace environment is more than a phrase at Harter Secrest & Emery—it’s our way of doing business. We are proud to sponsor the Human Rights Campaign Western and Central New York Dinner. Embracing diversity hselaw.com HSE_HRC Dinner 6.75x4.5.indd 1 5/17/23 9:16 PM
STAY AND PLAY WHEN YOU BOOK OUR CHAMPIONS PACKAGE.
Champion BE THE
PACKAGE INCLUDES:
• Two nights in one of our award-winning hotels
• One round each at Atunyote, Shenendoah & Kaluhyat
• Complimentary golf at Sandstone Hollow & Pleasant Knolls
BOOK YOUR GETAWAY TODAY
TURNINGSTONE.COM
Stay connected to Rochester’s trusted business news and information. Visit https://rbj.net/subscribe/ or call 877-615-9536 to subscribe today. The Power List showcases Rochester’s power players who are leading key organizations, creating change, impacting the community and engaging others to succeed. These are the business leaders, CEOs, lawyers, public servants and elected officials that others sten to and want to emulate. They make decisions that impact the economy and they inspire success and spark innovation. The Power List is selected by RBJ’s editorial team. The honorees will be featured at RBJ.net, in the RBJ newspaper and promoted on all of RBJ’s social media channels and through email marketing. The lists publish throughout the year, kicking off with the Power 100 list. The Power List celebrates the impact leaders across Rochester and beyond. Advertising Space Deadline * Power 100 February 10 February Accounting & Insurance March 31 March 23 Construction & Real Estate May 26 May 18 Health Care August 25 August 17 October 12 December 14 Power List Schedule: Recognize the Power List leaders through these multimedia marketing opportunities: Silver Package: Half-page Ad (9.5” x 6.75”) Quarter-page Ad (4.675” 6.75”) 300 x 250 Rectangle Digital Ad 300 250 Rectangle Digital Ad Power List Logo Usage $2,400 Your digital and print ad will run with the industry specific Power List. Ex. https://rbj.net/2021/12/17/rbjs-power-30-banking-finance/ Your package comes with the right to use the logo until 1/31/2024. ROCHESTER BUSINESS JOURNAL Subscribe to Rochester’s top business news source Insight. News. Analysis. Special Report Page 9 What businesses need to know about future litigation risks. Profile Page to maintaining culture of success at Barclay Damon. Sports Page 25 exalted status in Syracuse University basketball annals. VOLUME 38 NUMBER 40 MARCH 3, 2023 $2.00 Continued on page By KEVIN OKLOBZIJA “I was bad at bookwork,” he said, “but good at xing brakes.” He also was smart enough to know his auto acumen could provide future, although he didn’t have big dreams about where it could take “I thought it would be me, my wife and one technician running little repair shop,” Lynch said. at actually was the case for few years. Now, however, the backyard Photo provided Ryan Lynch poses for portrait at the Victor location of Redi Imports. Boatfield leaves legacy of care at Ability Partners Best Companies to Work for in New York announced By RBJ Staff Rochester Business Journal, Best Companies Group and New York State Society for Human Resource Management have announced the winners of the 2023 Best Companies to Work for in New York state awards. Best Companies to Work for in New York identi es, recognizes and honors the best places of employment in New York in three categories: small companies (15-99 Mary Walsh Boat eld knows about the power of partnerships. Her collaborative style, utilized over her career, has helped to improve the lives of hundreds of people with disabilities, providing better access to needed care “We are much stronger together,” said Boat eld, the president and CEO of Ability Partners Foundation. Boat eld spearheaded the formation of Ability Partners Inc., formally liating CP Rochester, Happiness House and Rochester Rehabilitation Center as three subsidiaries of Ability Partners. three agencies under the Ability Partners umbrella employ 700 people and serve 6,800 individuals and families in 15 locations in the Greater Rochester and Finger Lakes areas. Ability Partners ranked as the region’s 40th largest employer on the most recent RBJ list and have combined operating budget of some $36 million annually. Boat eld retires in March. Ability Partners Board of Directors has appointed Darrell Whitbeck as Boat eld’s successor. Boat eld has served in her current role for 13 years, with an additional 21 years as CEO and president of Happiness House and nine years as CEO and president of Ability Partners liates including CP Rochester and Rochester Rehabilitation. Over her career, Boat eld has led the way in developing collaborative Continued on page 28 Redi Imports even more ready to repair cars with third location Space Deadline: September 22 Materials Deadline: September 23 Online Summit: October 6 Publication Date: September 30 2022 Rochester Business Journal is to support the Human Rights Campaign
Thank you, HRC! Thank you, HRC!
Thank you for all of your work for the Rochester Community and congratulations to tonight's award winners!
"No matter who you are, where you come from, what you look like, what your abilities, who you love, or how you identify - we all have dignity and deserve equity, justice, and the opportunity to succeed."
-Assemblymember Harry Bronson District 138 Follow Harry! @HarryBBronson
extraordinary care for all. trilliumhealth.org | 585.545.7200 259 Monroe Avenue, Rochester Creativity doesn’t discriminate. If there’s one thing we’ve learned in our 130-year history, it’s that creativity doesn’t discriminate. From the scientists in our labs, to the technicians in our factories, to the photographers and filmmakers using our film and the businesses using our technologies — we believe that a culture of diversity and inclusion brings creativity to life. © 2023, Kodak. Kodak and the Kodak logo are trademarks of Kodak. kodak.com 2022
F e a t u r i n g t o d a y ’ s
A - l i s t c o m e d i a n s !
• C o r p o r a t e e v e n t s , h o l i d a y p a r t i e s & f u n d r a i s e r s
• T w o s p a c i o u s s h o w r o o m s
• S t a t e o f t h e a r t s o u n d a n d v i d e o s y s t e m
• O v e r 2 , 0 0 0 p a r k i n g s p a c e s
o c
P r e m i e r C o m e d
C l u b !
R
h e s t e r ’ s
y
C h e c k o u t o u r A - l i s t s h o w s a t : w w w . c a r l s o n c o m e d y . c o m Follow us at: 50 Carlson Rd. Rochester, NY 14610 (585) 4COMEDY
S t o r y t e l l i n g f o r P r i n t & D i g i t a l M e d i a 5 8 5 . 4 4 2 . 6 3 6 5 L o r r a i n e @ F o u r C a t s C r e a t i v e . c o m You have the power to change hearts and minds around the globe by sharing the positive impact diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) has on your company’s culture, employee recruitment and retention, and market share Claim it with the help of an experienced and professional storyteller Four Cats Creative, LGBTQ+ owned, and NYS MWBE Certified. Raise your tales
with pride!
H O N ORARYSEASON PRO D UCERDR . DAWN LIPS O N 23/24 GEVA THEATRE’S SEASON SPONSOR WE’RE WITH EXCITEMENT FOR THE OVER THE RAINBOW 23/24 SEASON! Sanctuar y city Get Tickets at GevaTheatre.org or 585-232-4382 Tickets are ON SALE NOW! Subscribe Today and Save! 08/30 - 10/01 03/0503/31 03/2004/07 04/1605/12 05/2806/23 11/0111/19 10/1711/12 01/1602/11
STARRING
as Glinda as Dorothy as The Wizard Rosé Savy Jackson Thomas Warfield From RuPaul’s Drag Race
IMAGEOUT.ORG
FILM FESTIVAL Check out our brand-new website & follow our social for more screenings, events, and announcements! JOIN US FOR OUR 31ST ANNUAL FALL FiLM FESTiVAL OCTOBER 5-15 11 DAYS OF FiLMS & EVENTS
THE ROCHESTER LGBTQ+
R O C H E S T E R R A I N B O W U N I O N O P E N S U N D A Y S 2 - 4 P M ( M O R E H O U R S C O M I N G S O O N ) 5 0 P R I N C E S T R E E T R O C H E S T E R , N Y 1 4 6 0 7 R O C H E S T E R R A I N B O W U N I O N . C O M N E W Y O R K ' S L A R G E S T C O L L E C T I O N O F L G B T Q I A + B O O K S H O M E O F T H E L I L A C L I B R A R Y
HCR HOME CARE is proud to support
HUMAN RIGHTS CAMPAIGN
Providing safe and competent care without prejudice or discrimination. Through the delivery of high quality, LGBTQ+ Affirming Home Health Care services, we are dedicated to providing safe and inclusive environments to help our patients thrive and meet their health care goals. Learn
More Today!
TMJ We can help. Consultations Clenching • Grinding • Earaches • Migraines • Neck Pain Summer Splash Special$500 off RI V O LI ORTHODONTICS Smile O O O O O 1983 Empire Blvd Webster, NY 14580 77 Nichols Street Spencerport, NY 14559 Full Treatment. Braces or Clear Aligners Thru 9-6-23 FOR A LIFETIME OF CONFIDENCE. Call (585 ) 278-1000 Today! www.rivoliortho.com @rivoliorthodontics Your Neighborhood Orthodontist
N e w b o o k s f o r a l l a g e s , g i f t s , d e c o r , s t a t i o n e r y , a n d a c c e s s o r i e s . C h i l d r e n ' s b o o k s , g a m e s , a n d t o y s .
2 8 S o u t h M a i n S t r e e t , P i t t s f o r d V i l l a g e b o o k c u l t u r e . c o m | 5 8 5 - 2 0 3 - 1 5 0 1
is
SEASON SPONSOR POPS SERIES SPONSORS RPYO SPONSOR ON THE ARTS WITH THE SUPPORT OF GOVERNOR KATHY HOCHUL AND THE NEW YORK STATE LEGISLATURE. TICKETS ON SALE AUGUST 7 STARTING AT $24! CENTENNIAL SEASON 23/24 RPO.ORG | 585.454.2100
Highland Hospital
proud to be a community sponsor
2023
Lobby Day on Capitol Hill
HRC Equality Convention
2023 PRIDE Season
Supporting Community Partners
wcny.hrc.org S t a y C o n n e c t e d ! linktr.ee/hrcwesterncentralny G e t i n v o l v e d l o c a l l y !
