2024 Task Force Gala Journal by National LGBTQ Task Force

From our President

I am thrilled to welcome you all to this year’s Gala, ﬁlled with a sense of excitement and urgency, as we near elections that will decide how our community and our nation moves forward. Tonight, we will celebrate, share space and express our joy in community. But we do that in the context of an election that holds our lives in its hands.

Tonight, we come together to celebrate, but we also know you are here because you care about and support our work for liberation. Let me tell you a bit about what we have been doing lately to Queer the Vote, our campaign that the proceeds from this event will support.

Sooo, how do we do Queer the Vote? By driving LGBTQ+ people and allies to the polls.

Our staff works on the ground and virtually to build grassroots people power and create the conditions to deliver concrete wins for LGBTQ+ people. The work is not simply around election time -- our programs are year-round and include skills-building trainings, partnerships with aligned organizations, and efforts to maximize visibility about the importance of voting and staying engaged in political work locally and nationally.

And no matter the outcome of the elections in November, there will still be much work to do to secure the progress we have made, stave off attacks on our rights, and continue to ﬁght the challenges we face.

It has been extraordinary to see the impact of the “boots on the ground” work of our team, signing up thousands of individuals –LGBTQ and allies – to register to vote, educate themselves, and exert their power at the ballot box. Choosing strategic states like Florida, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and more, the Task Force dispatches our staff to work with local partners and do outreach person-to-person: at Pride events, canvassing, and in collaboration with diverse organizations on the front lines. You will hear about that work tonight on the screens and on the stage, and I hope you will take that energy home with you and do all you can to get us across the ﬁnish line, so we can be proud knowing we did all we could to

We all know what is at stake. It could not be clearer that our existence, bodily autonomy, families, young people, stories, history, and the progress we have made are all under threat. The Task Force is at the forefront of raising the alarm, and this year’s Gala will support our ability to continue to do that until November 5th as well as to

the next Presidential administration and at the state level, where we know the struggle is real.

For tonight, let’s give ourselves permission to tap into our queer joy and wrap ourselves in love, so that we can remind ourselves what it is that we are ﬁghting for.

Lastly, I would like to acknowledge that this event would not have happened without the hard work of scores of volunteers and staff. For them, this is a yearlong effort. My heart belongs to our Gala cochairs, Jeff Oliverio and Craig Jarrett, and the committee that puts so much time, energy, love, and patience into the Gala planning. Of course, I want to express a huge thank you to the donors and sponsors who give us the resources we need to do the work. Thank you to our Board of Directors who offer support, vision, and resources for us to carry out our mission.

Let’s have an amazing evening. And tomorrow, let’s get back to work as we near an election that holds so much promise for our community and the country!

Kierra Johnson (she/they) President of National LGBTQ Task Force and National LGBTQ Task Force Action Fund

Making Great Strides Together

Akerman proudly congratulates Jim Tyrrell and Roger Thomson on receiving the National LGBTQ Task Force’s 2024 Eddy McIntrye Community Service Award. We also extend our congratulations to Karamo Brown for being honored with the 2024 National Leadership Award.

We thank them for their unwavering commitment to equality for LGBTQ+ individuals and their dedication to fair treatment for all in society.

Neisen O. Kasdin, Miami, FL neisen.kasdin@akerman.com

Luis A. Perez, Miami, FL luis.perez@akerman.com

700+ Lawyers, 25 Offices akerman.com

Richard C. Milstein, Miami, FL

richard.milstein@akerman.com

Dale Noll, Miami, FL dale.noll@akerman.com

Letter from our Event Co-Chairs

On behalf of our Gala committee, we want to welcome you to the 2024 National LGBTQ Task Force Gala. Over the last year our team of committed volunteers has worked tirelessly to create a truly exceptional evening while juggling their jobs, personal lives and many other volunteer activities. This year, with the 2024 election on the horizon, the work for our team was a little more challenging as our community stretched their funds to political candidates up and down the ballot. This is because we know that freedom and justice for LGBTQ people is at stake during this unprecedented election!

The theme for tonight’s celebration, “Roots of Progress, Blooms of Hope”, reflects the work the National LGBTQ Task Force has done over their 50+ year history with the goal to create a more inclusive and hopeful future for all. The organization continues to fight for freedom, equality, and justice for all, and we are reminded here in Florida and across the country that our rights and freedoms are under attack, which is why we must stay focused and motivated to continue the fight! The TaskForce’s field and advocacy teams have been on the ground in Florida, working with partner organizations, engaging at community events and promoting the “Queer the Vote” campaign.

We hope tonight’s Gala will unite and inspire our family, friends, and colleagues to recommit to supporting the work of the Task Force in working to propel our social justice movement forward.

This is our second year serving as Co-Chairs of the Gala, and we continue to grow and evolve as leaders (and friends) and build on the amazing momentum we have passionately given to improve and elevate this event! We are most proud of the team we have created, who amaze us with their dedication, creativity, and passion for giving back to our community. Our committee members are a group of truly amazing individuals who are leaders in their professional lives and leaders in the community. We hope you will show them some love and thank them for their work this evening, or by getting to know them throughout the year! We are fortunate to work with a group of people who are truly friends, and many have become chosen family in each other’s lives.

Task Force, and for supporting a future that is brighter and a world where everyone can thrive as their true self!

Just as the Task Force relies on the generosity and time from our committee, we all rely on the ﬁnancial sponsorships from the many individuals, corporations and organizations that support us year after year. So many have shown up to support our work, once again, by sponsoring this year’s Gala. We would be remiss if we didn’t personally thank our own employers, Truist and Royal Caribbean International, for standing with the LGBTQ+ community and the

Just as the Task Force relies on the generosity and time from our personally thank our own employers, Truist and Royal Caribbean

Our ﬁnal thank you is reserved for our families, who support us and pick up the slack in our lives when we are working evenings and weekends to make this event happen. JS, Tony and Michael, we are so fortunate to have your love and commitment and for providing us with the support that allows us to give back to our community. We could not do it without you. We are both honored to have been entrusted with leading this iconic event over the last few years and know that we have left a legacy that others will build upon and improve. The Gala team has strong roots that will continue to bloom for the future!

With gratitude,

Jeff Oliverio and Craig Jarrett 2024 Gala Co-Chairs

We stand proud

JPMorganChase works to advance equity and inclusion for the LGBTQ+ community globally through philanthropic engagements, public stances and actions on relevant policy issues, and local community support. We are proud to support National LGBTQ Task Force.

A

purpose for all

Truist proudly supports the National LGBTQ Task Force.

The Task Force’s vision of a world where LGBTQ+ people are affirmed and respected aligns with our commitment to care and living with purpose.

At the core of our purpose, we strive to build better lives and communities. On a personal level, we start by creating a financial plan uniquely suited to your needs and values. Everything is modeled to help you visualize the possibilities within your grasp—now, and for generations to come.

Let’s plan your financial future.

Truist.com/wealth

Eddy McIntyre

Sometimes awards are named after people who stand out in the community. The Eddy McIntyre Community Service Award is named for someone who stood out and stood up.

The breadth of Eddy’s interests and contributions across this community are legion. It was clear that Eddy understood the society we lived in was ours to create, even as it shaped us. Eddy understood that if he saw something needed, he could help make it happen. Eddy understood that community is a participatory and not a passive experience. And, of course, Eddy never sought any personal credit or acknowledgment.

But Eddy had no trouble giving recognition to others. As a founding board member of the Dade Human Rights Foundation, it was Eddy, along with his co-board member Rosemary Wilder, who envisioned an annual dinner to acknowledge and appreciate the service of some of the community’s leaders. Thus the Task Force Gala was born, a celebration to honor many who have made wonderful contributions to our community. And though each one likely made his or her contributions without thought of recognition or thanks, they nonetheless received both.

Eddy received neither recognition nor the award, no matter how well deserved it was. He probably would have been embarrassed to receive this honor while alive, seeming to him too unseemly to receive an award he had helped to establish.

But the fact remains that Eddy well belonged in that select group of honorees. So as we go forward, we want to be sure that each of the future’s honorees understands that he or she is in Eddy’s company.

The National LGBTQ Task Force therefore renamed the annual Community Service Award as the Eddy McIntyre Community Service Award. And so by saying “Thank You” to others, we keep alive the spirit, the passion, and the empowerment that Eddy so selﬂessly shared with us all.

Adapted by Jerry Chasen from his remarks announcing the naming of the Award.

Jim Tyrrell & Roger Thomson

2024 Eddy McIntyre Community Service Award

Jim Tyrrell and Roger Thomson are beloved ﬁxtures in the South Florida community. Coupled since 1999, the two have dedicated themselves to supporting the LGBTQ movement locally and nationally through their philanthropy and service. Roger sat on the National LGBTQ Task Force Board for nine years, with two years as Board Co-Chair. He has also served on the LGBTQIA+ Advisory Committee for the City of Miami Beach, the Board of Miami Pride, and the LGBTQ Community Fund Committee at The Miami Foundation. Jim and Roger are members of SAVE, SAGE, and Equality Florida, as well as supporters of Pridelines and myriad other South Florida LGBTQ community organizations. Their generosity has helped beat back discriminatory policies and legislative attacks on LGBTQ people and enabled the community to continue thriving and reaching for full liberation.

Prior to his retirement in 2016, Roger served as Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary of Brinker International Inc, which operates Chili’s and Maggiano’s restaurants. He has also served executive roles at Burger King Corporation and S&A Restaurant Corp. At 49 years old, Roger became one of the ﬁrst Fortune 500 executives to openly identify as gay.

Jim started his career as a disco instructor straight out of high school. He later pursued a degree in landscape architecture from Rutgers University, worked as an interior designer, and as a licensed massage therapist. In the early 2000’s, Jim battled three bouts of tongue cancer, which required multiple rounds of chemotherapy and radiation treatment. Jim is a cancer warrior and survivor.

Jim and Roger were married on January 1, 2016. The wedding was planned by Liebe and Seth Gadinsky and ofﬁciated by Richard Milstein – all of whom are prior recipients of the Eddy McIntyre Community Service Award.

THE OUR FUND FOUNDATION

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Stronger together

American Airlines proudly supports the National LGBTQ Task Force Gala 2024 on its journey towards equality for all the LGBTQ+ community.

Karamo Brown 2024 National Leadership Award

Karamo is the Emmy-winning host and culture expert on Netﬂix’s hit series Queer Eye. He has used his platform to combat HIV stigma and advocate for providing mental health support and HIV education to the Black queer community. His unwavering commitment to raising awareness and offering crucial support highlights his exceptional leadership and advocacy. As a supportive father and role model, Karamo’s personal and professional life embodies the values of empathy, resilience, and community spirit.

Karamo draws from his work in social services to show how he both discovered and learned to explore his many different “identities”.

Whether as a black man, openly gay man, a son of immigrant parents, a Christian or a single father, Karamo strategically utilizes the strength of his numerous identities to achieve success – and teaches others to do the same.

He launched his daytime talk show, The Karamo Show, in 2022; its third season premiered on September 16, 2024. His podcast, Karamo, is an in-depth look at life’s thorniest issues, where people from around the world can call in and chat with Karamo to receive direct advice or share their personal feelings on the everyday situations affecting their lives. His memoir, “Karamo: My Story of Embracing Purpose, Healing, and Hope,” explores how the challenges in his own life have allowed him to forever transform the lives of those in need.

About being honored at this year’s Gala, Karamo commented: “I am deeply honored to receive the 2024 National Leadership Award from the National LGBTQ Task Force. This recognition is not just a reflection of my work but a testament to the strength, resilience, and love that defines our entire community. Together, we have made incredible strides toward equality, and though there is still much work to be done, I remain committed to amplifying our voices, fighting for our rights, and supporting those who need it most. Let us continue to lead with compassion and conviction, ensuring that every individual can live openly and authentically.”

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Past Honorees

ROOTS OF PROGRESS BLOOMS OF HOPE

Greenberg Traurig congratulates the NATIONAL LGBTQ TASK FORCE as it celebrates and continues 50+ years of advancing freedom, justice, and equality.

YOSBEL IBARRA | CO-MANAGING SHAREHOLDER, MIAMI

RAFFAEL FIUMARA | SHAREHOLDER, CORPORATE

MICHAEL N. KREITZER | SHAREHOLDER & CO-CHAIR, MIAMI

JOSEPH MAMOUNAS | SHAREHOLDER, LITIGATION

THOMAS R. MARTIN |

Hosts and Entertainment

Jai Rodriguez - Host

Jai Rodriguez is a celebrated entertainment icon best known as the original “Culture Vulture” on the Emmy Award-winning show Queer Eye For The Straight Guy. With nearly two decades of experience, he has signiﬁcantly inﬂuenced American culture through his work in television and Broadway.

Jai’s career began at age 18 when he made history as the youngest actor cast in a leading role in the acclaimed musical RENT. Following this breakthrough, he starred in productions like The Producers, Spinning Into Butter, and the off-Broadway hit Zanna, Don’t. He has shared the stage with music legends such as Gladys Knight and Patti Labelle and recently completed a Las Vegas residency in Sex Tips For Straight Women From A Gay Man.

In television, Jai has enjoyed a diverse career, appearing in Malibu Country alongside Reba McEntire and Lily Tomlin, as well as shows like Bones, How I Met Your Mother, and Harry’s Law. He even had a cameo in Lady Gaga’s music video for “Telephone.” Internationally, Jai starred in the Australian series The Horizon, the most-watched LGBTQ web series.

Ginger Minj - Co-Host and Performer

Ginger Minj is a dynamic performer who first gained fame as a contestant on Season 7 of RuPaul’s Drag Race and later returned for Season 2 of Drag Race All Stars, where she was a finalist in Season 6. Following her appearances on the show, Ginger has toured internationally and starred in major films, including the Emmy-nominated Hocus Pocus 2

He stars in ABC’s High Potential and recently appeared in Netﬂix’s Uncoupled with Neil Patrick Harris, and the Universal ﬁlm BROS. Beyond his professional work, Jai is actively involved in charitable efforts, including the Drag is Not a Crime telethon. He resides in Los Angeles with his rescue dog, Rico, his cat Cookie, and several reptiles, continually making a positive impact in the LGBTQ community.

In addition to her acting, Ginger has made a mark on Broadway as both a star and director of original shows, while also releasing three studio albums and several singles and collaborations.

In November 2023, she launched her debut memoir-cookbook, Southern Fried Sass, which combines Southern-inspired recipes with personal stories that reﬂect her journey in drag. The book shares valuable lessons and wisdom drawn from her experiences and her grandmother’s resilience.

Ginger’s blend of humor, talent, and heart resonates with fans, making her a beloved ﬁgure in the drag community and beyond. To stay updated on her latest projects, follow her on social media @GingerMinj.

Frenchie Davis

Frenchie Davis, born in Los Angeles, began her career as a theater student at Howard University. Her ﬁrst acting job was in Germany, where she performed in Little Shop of Horrors, followed by Jesus Christ Superstar. Upon returning to the U.S., she auditioned for American Idol, quickly becoming a fan favorite.

Davis made a signiﬁcant impact on Broadway in RENT, where her six-month contract turned into nearly four years. She also played “Efﬁe White” in the West Coast tour of Dreamgirls and starred in the musical satire Monica. In August, she took on the role of Mahalia Jackson in Sing, Mahalia, Sing.

In 2008, she co-headlined the 30th-anniversary tour of Ain’t Misbehavin’, receiving rave reviews for her performance. Transitioning to dance music, her singles “Give Me Tonight” and “You Are” topped Billboard Dance charts.

Davis returned to television on NBC’s The Voice, where her rendition of “Single Ladies” debuted at #12 on iTunes. Currently, she is working on a new album that will blend classics, Broadway tunes, and original songs. With her powerful voice and dynamic presence, Frenchie Davis continues to shine in the entertainment industry.

Athena Dion

Miami’s very own Greek goddess, Athena Dion, returns to the Gala for a fourth consecutive year hosting our cocktail reception and dance party, the After Glow Ball. Elegant, sassy and beautiful – with a heart as big as her closet – Athena is a graduate of FIU’s School of Hospitality and Tourism and has put her degree to good use. She runs the most successful drag brunch in South Florida at R House Wynwood and spends her summers headlining the iconic Jackie O Resort on the island of Mykonos in Greece. You can spot her rubbing shoulders with the stars from the likes of Matt Damon, Gloria Estefan, and her buddy Ana Navarro!

Athena gives back to her community through her humanitarian organization, Dream Queens (mydreamqueens.com), which has organized makeover events, toy drives and drag performances for homeless shelters and hospitals. She has established her legacy in South Florida: the Dion Dynasty, made up of drag artists, performers, and professionals in the South Florida community and beyond.

Co m missione r s

Tanya K. Bhatt

Laura Dominguez

Alex J. Fernandez

Mayo r

Steven Meiner

Eric T. Carpenter

Ci t y Manage r Commissione r s

David Suarez proudly supports the National LGBTQ Task Force and joins them in honoring Karamo, Jim Tyrrell and Roger Thomson for their commitment to the LGBTQ community.

Joseph Magazine

Kristen Rosen Gonzalez

Congratulations to this year’s honorees for your outstanding contributions.

October 19, 2024

DANIELLA LEVINE CAVA MAYOR MIAMI-DADE COUNTY

Greetings!

As the proud Mayor of Miami-Dade County, a region of nearly 3 million residents and one of the world’s most vibrant and diverse communities, it is my pleasure to welcome you to the 202 4 National LGBTQ Task Force Gala.

Friends,

Welcome back to Miami Beach for the National LGBTQ Task Force Gala. The work that you do is so incredibly crucial to our society, and it is our privilege to host you in our community.

The work that the Task Force does to protect and advance the rights of LGBTQ+ people is critical to ensure inclusivity and progress. Miami-Dade County is so grateful for your relentless service and advocacy for 51 years Your activism continues to make a difference in the lives of countless members of our LGBTQ+ community.

The City of Miami Beach prides itself on standing out among the rest. We fly our Progress Pride Flag every day because the march toward equality requires an everyday commitment. Just outside this building is our beautiful, new “Pride Park” and Harvey Milk Way

For those of you visiting Miami -Dade County for this occasion, I encourage you to take advantage of all that South Florida has to offer, including our world -class beaches, fantastic restaurants, and historic neighborhoods.

I'm proud to continue working alongside all of you to build a more loving, diverse, and thriving Miami-Dade and world Together, we make our community stronger year after year.

Congratulations to Liebe, Seth, Naomi and Tashi Gadisnky on bein g honored with the 2022 Eddy McIntyre Community Service Award. I attended college with both Liebe and Seth and have watched them grow into true leaders and social justice warriors. The fact that their daughters have followed their example is simply inspiring. And I am likewise proud their award is named after my law school friend Eddy McIntyre. Eddy was never shy about speaking out, so I think he would love the idea that the Gadinsky clan is receiving an award in his name.

Sincerely,

Thank you to the many activists and community leaders who work tirelessly each year to put on this successful event. Please enjoy your time in our beautiful city.

Sincerely,

Daniella Levine Cava Mayor, Miami-Dade County

Dan Gelber

Congratulations to the 2024 honorees!

We’ll let the images above oﬀer the clues, but here’s what we can share: these remarkable individuals have devoted their lives to advancing equality. Their contributions have left an indelible mark, and tonight, we honor not only their achievements but also their unwavering dedication to justice.

At MM&H, we are grateful to stand alongside those who share our commitment to a more equitable world. Together, we continue the ﬁght for equality for all.

Don Hayden

September 18, 2024

Congratulations to the National LGBTQ Task Force!

I am writing this letter in my individual capacity as Mayor of Broward County, and I am pleased to welcome everyone to the National LGBTQ Task Force Gala in South Florida.

Friends,

Broward County has long been a community that prides itself on inclusiveness. Ours was one of the first counties in Florida to establish a Human Rights Ordinance protecting individuals from unlawful discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity or expression in housing, employment, and public accommodation.

Welcome back to Miami Beach for the National LGBTQ Task Force Gala. The work that you do is so incredibly crucial to our society, and it is our privilege to host you in our community.

At a time when some leaders in our state seek to turn back the clock on protections for the LGBTQ community, Broward County continues to genuinely welcome “Everyone Under the Sun” it’s literally the official slogan of our tourism bureau.

I applaud the National LGBTQ Task Force for its decades of advocacy for a society where we are all accepted for our full whole selves and where the pursuit of happiness is truly available to everyone regardless of their orientation or identity. It is an honor to be considered an ally of the LGBTQ community, and I look forward to continuing to be an advocate for freedom and equality in our community and state.

I also want to congratulate Karamo Brown as the recipient of the 2024 National Leadership Award; as well as Jim Tyrrell and Roger Thomson as the recipients of the 2024 Eddy McIntyre Community Service Award. I know that Jim and Roger have been longtime LGBTQ activists in Miami-Dade County, and I am so pleased that they are now Broward County residents.

Thank you to the many activists and community leaders who work tirelessly each year to put on this successful event. Please enjoy your time in our beautiful city.

Sincerely,

It is through the hard work of champions like you that South Florida continues to be a more just, equitable, and welcoming society for all.

Best wishes to you all for an outstanding LGBTQ Task Force Gala!

Dan Gelber

Sincerely,

Senator Nan Rich Broward County Mayor

Force Gala. It’s one of the ways we’re helping to make our community a better place to work and live. A better and brighter future starts with all of us. Visit ey.com

Auction Donors

The National LGBTQ Task Force thanks those individuals and businesses that generously donated to this year’s silent auction. The list is current as of the time the journal went to print.

1 Hotel South Beach

AKT London

American Airlines

Amrit Ocean Resort and Spa

Azamara

Blu Dot

Bravo Media LLC

Brian Sims & Alex Drakos

Caesars Entertainment

Capital Genealogy

Carnival Cruise Line

Casa De Campo

Citizen M Miami World Center

Club Med all-inclusive beach and mountain resorts

Dan Rios

Dr. Russell F. Sassani

Equinox

Fairmont El San Juan Hotel

Fogo de Chão

Flamingo Rampant

Frost Museum of Science

Gay Days, Inc

Groot Hospitality

Harvey Fienstein

Hilton Aventura

Hilton Grand Vacations

Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya

Initio Parfums

Jaffa Restaurant

Joe’s Stone Crab Restaurant

Kevin McHugh

Las Vegas Convention and

Visitors Authority

Life House - South of Fifth

Michael Caprio

NBC Universal

New World Symphony

Norwegian Cruise Line

Pair of Thieves

Palmer House, a Hilton Hotel

Park West Gallery

Patrick Groenendaal

Perx.com

Photo Innovations, Inc.

Pines Party

Purple Foundation

Royal Caribbean International - Corporate Group Dept

SAVE Foundation

SMR DAYS

Starboard Holdings Ltd.

Sugarboo and Co

Sushi Bichi

The Breakers

The drvn Team

The Henderson

The Ritz-Carlton

TOPEKA

TWIST

Waldorf Astoria

Beverly Hills

Wet Labatories

YAYA Coastal Cuisine

Zoo Miami

Event Committee & Other Angels

Co-Chairs

Craig Jarrett

Jeff Oliverio

Executive Committee

Zachary Barker, Assistant Marketing Director

Sebastian Blanco, Associated Events Director

Hector Castañeda, AfterGlow Ball Co-Director

Naomi Celaire-Hettema, Auction Director

Hannahbelle Cooke, Hospitality Director

Stephen Dominy, Director of Volunteer Relations

Raul Grifﬁth, Production Consultant

Chris Ladas, Marketing Director

Melissa Robles, Production Director

Eric Scheiner, Vice Chair & Fundraising Director

Luke Sorber, Executive Secretary

Jorge Zambrano, AfterGlow Ball Co-Director

Event Committee Members

Doug Ames

Beau Beasley

Kevin Better

Matt Dzwonkiewicz

Stephen Hilson

Jerard Kelley

Alex Kleppe

Kaily Lachapelle

Carina Segredo

Yahn Zika

Many thanks to the angels among us:

Vanessa Alenier

Owen Bale

John Beadel

Luis Block

Carolina Bonnelly

Rocco Carulli

Jerry Chasen

Carol Coombs

Athena Dion

Jeff Delmay

Alex Fernandez

James-Lee Ford

Scott Galvin

Eric Garcia

Victor Garcia

Liebe Gadinsky

Bruce Horwich

Maria Linkous

Lindsey Linzer

Crystal Marshal

Monica Matteo-Salinas

Tony Mendoza

Jay Needham

Pastor Kipp Nelson

Jerry Nieves

Joe Plana

Deborah Renner

Jai Rodriguez

Nathan Sabo

Juan Sanchez

Lindsey Shook

Dale Stine

Jacqueline Vargas

Hua Hui Vogel

Special Thanks to:

Alexander Diaz and the Town of Golden Beach for their exceptional generosity and for welcoming us to their beautiful beach pavilion.

David Sexton, for his passion, talent and creativity.

An extra special thanks to the entire Task Force Gala committee and all of the wonderful volunteers who contributed their time to make tonight’s event enjoyable.

Inﬂuencer Sponsors

Dennis Edwards & Mark Steinberg

Joan Schaeffer & Roberta Mandel

Stuart Weiss

The Wayne and Nicole Cypen Philanthropic Fund

Underwriters

Eric Scheiner & Kevin Hirsh

Media Sponsors

Table Captains

Gene Sulzberger

MDGLCC - Greater Miami

GEM Government Services

LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce

With special thanks to The Huizenga Family Foundation

SAVE LGBT/Equality

Florida

Molto Crescendo

Congratulations on this much deserved award. Thank you for your beyond generous support of this community, and of me personally.

With love, Matt

CONGRATULATIONS CONGRATULATIONS CONGRATULATIONS

Jim & Roger Jim & Roger Jim & Roger

You are so deserving of the Eddy McIntyre Community Service Award and to be celebrated for your years of generosityand for just being plain awesome!

We love you both, Victor & Kris

Thank you for your unwavering commitment to advancing our LGBTQ movement and supporting and mentoring organizations and individuals whose missions and visions are to do the same.

ISLAND FLAVOR ISLAND FLAVOR

About the Task Force

The National LGBTQ Task Force advances full freedom, justice and equality for LGBTQ people. We are building a future where everyone can be free to be their entire selves in every aspect of their lives. Today, despite all the progress we’ve made to end discrimination, millions of LGBTQ people face barriers in every aspect of their lives: in housing, employment, healthcare, retirement, and basic human rights. These barriers must go. That’s why the Task Force is training and mobilizing millions of activists across our nation to deliver a world where you can be you. For more information, go to thetaskforce.org.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Erik Richard Morin Co-Chair Miami, FL

Rodney McKenzie, Jr. Co-Chair Brooklyn, NY

Colgate Darden Treasurer Fort Lauderdale, FL

Dr. Jerry Abraham Los Angeles, CA

Peter Chandler

Washington, DC

Candy Cox Washington, DC

Vanessa Daniel Tacoma, WA

Alfredo Del Cid San Francisco, CA

Liebe Gadinsky Miami Beach, FL

Malcolm R. Gage, Jr. St. Louis, MO

T. Aaron Hans

Minneapolis, MN

Donald Hayden

Miami, FL

Sian Lewis

Washington, DC

David M. Pérez

Washington, DC

Jeremy Rye San Francisco, CA

Candelario Saldana Charlotte, NC

Almas Sayeed Los Angeles, CA

Dr. Anika Simpson Washington, DC

Kim Stone

Miami, FL

Kevin Wang Seattle, WA

STAFF EXECUTIVE

Kierra Johnson President

Alicia Boykins Vice President

Sayre Reece Vice President

Firat Demir

Executive Assistant to the Executive Director

PEOPLE AND CULTURE

Dana Riceel

People and Culture Manager

Tanya Kelly Blackford

Database Administrator

Rick Mohn

Senior Finance Manager

COMMUNICATIONS

Cathy Renna Director of Communications

Dee Tu-Monge

Sr. Communications Manager

Benjamin Simmons Communications Marketing Manager

DEVELOPMENT

Jacky Goh

Chief Development Ofﬁcer

Cary Web Development

Operations Coordinator

Ryan Hurst Director of Individual Giving

Jake Arnell Institutional and Corporate Giving Manager

Andy Durojaiye Membership Giving Manager

Taylor Brio Foundation Giving Ofﬁcer

Sala Dold

Individual Giving Ofﬁcer

ADVOCACY

AND ACTION

Kris Hayashi Director of Advocacy and Action

Rae Leiner Field Director

Allen Morris Policy Director

Kayla Rivera Action Fund Campaign Director

Wayne Rocque Civic Engagement Manager

* Serves only on National LGBTQ Task Force Action Fund board. ** Serves on both the National LGBTQ Task Force and National LGBTQ Task Force Action Fund boards

Andrea Montanez Field Organizer

Delilah Pierre Field Organizer

Meera Rajput State Policy Analyst

Kenya Whitaker Government Affairs Associate

Tahil Sharma

Faith Work Director

CONFERENCE

AND EVENTS

Andy Garcia Director of Conferences and Events

Fernando Lopez

Strategic ConsultantInterim Creating Change Director

Michael Bath

Events Director

Court Betro CC 365 Field Organizer

Brian Marone

Events Manager

Kimberly Otero

Events Coordinator

We are proud to support the National LGBTQ Task Force and their continued dedication toward advancing equality for all.

Micky Steinberg

FREEDOM

LIES

IN BEING BOLD

– Robert Frost

Ryder is proud to support the National LGBTQ Task Force, and applauds the work of this year’s honorees as together we boldly build a world where freedom rings for everyone.

Roger & Jim,

¡Felicidades!

Love you lots, Josue Santiago

Thank you for being a couple of our biggest champions, for building community, for the beautiful chosen family you’ve formed…and for the sheer fabulousness and ﬂare you’ve brought into our lives.

Miami-Dade County

Mayor Daniella Levine Cava congratulates the National LGBTQ Task Force on your 28th Annual Gala celebrating the roots of progress and the blooms of hope as you continue advancing equality for all LGBTQ+ people and their families.

@mayordlc @MayorDaniella @MayorDaniella

Council

We extend a heartfelt thanks to our Leadership Council members for their continued support of the Task Force and the Task Force Action Fund. Leadership Council members make an annual gift of $1,500 or more and give the Task Force the ﬂexibility to build grassroots LGBTQ political power across the nation. If we have inadvertently omitted or incorrectly listed your name, please contact Jacky Goh, Chief Development Ofﬁcer, at jgoh@thetaskforce.org.

Current Leadership Council donors and funders as of June 30, 2024.

Thank you to our Individual Donors

PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE

($50,000+)

James Berwind & Kevin Clark

Janet M. Edwards

Robert Holgate

Steven L. Holley

H. Scott Huizenga

Tess & Daniel

Klingessrow

H. Richard Quadracci

Elizabeth A. Scott & James Houston

Stupski Foundation at San Francisco Foundation

Anonymous

EXECUTIVE’S CIRCLE

($25,000 - $49,999)

Colgate W. Darden IV

Liebe & Seth Gadinsky

Weston F. Milliken

Stanley Newman & Brian Rosenthal

Holly Peterson

Bill & Alex Roedy

Jim Tyrrell & Roger Thomson

AMBASSADOR’S CIRCLE ($10,000$24,999)

Joseph Arena & homas D’Eletto

Rea Carey & Margaret Conway

Bradley Carlson & Troy Du Toit

Patricia Finegan

Jorge Luis Garcia

T. Aaron Hans & Tania Mitchell

Don J. Hayden & Brian Thompson

Tracy Hewat

Eugene Kapaloski

Richard Milstein & Eric Hankin

James Pepper

Barbara Roper

Edward Snowdon & Duffy Violante

DIRECTOR’S CIRCLE

($5,000 - $9,999)

Judith Bennett & Cynthia Herrup

Candy S. Cox & Debra L. Peevey

Alexander Diaz

Allison & Zachary

Julius

Mitchell Karp & Barry Katz

Jeremiah Kelly & Paul Oostenbrug

Mayor Daniella

Levine Cava

Kevin McCarty & Henri Vezie

Laurie Mirman

Anthony Montoya & David Holmes

Dr. Oxana

Ovakimyan

Alejandro Roark

Marianne Seggerman

Robert Seligsohn

Mark Sexton & Kirk Wallace

Commissioner

Micky Steinberg

Dr. Kevin Wang

Amelie Zurn-Galinsky

Tiger Baron Foundation

ADVOCATE’S CIRCLE

($2,500 - $4,999)

Ralph Alpert

Sara J. Anderson

Meg & Sarah Baesmith

Joseph Bartush

C. D. Bedford

Samantha Boardman

Charles Browning & Robert Elis

Diane Cary & Jim Parriott

Paul & Caroline Cronson

Nicole & Wayne Cypen

Pamela David

William Dollaway & Glenn Barcheski

Matt. Foreman & Francisco De Leon

Todd Goldstein

Dr. Erwin Gonzalez

Benjamin & William Hamilton

Commissioner Eileen Higgins

Steven Hill & Jonathan Herz

Molly Holmes

Harold L. Ivey

Matt Kaczmarek & Aaron Ordower

Sian Lewis

Richard Lynch & Frank Steil

Robert McCrae & William Newell

Barbara Meislin

Paulette Meyer & David Friedman

Jason Misleh

Erik R. Morin & Luis Calderon

Stephanie & Paul Morris

Alfreda Murck

Jack Bankowsky & Matthew Marks

Nancy D. Polikoff

Thomas Qafzezi & Juan Rodriguez

Daniel Rabinowitz & Ann Thomas

Leslie Seale & Frank

Ippolito

Sean Eldridge & Chris Hughes

Linton Stables, III & Gregory Brown

Deric Walters & Jesse Lehrhoff

Gerald Wentland & Jean-Paul Michaud

Beth Zemsky & Chris Heeter

DELEGATE’S CIRCLE

($1,500 - $2,499)

Juan Battle & Michael Bennett

Scott Bennett

David Berg & Laura Butzel

Robin Bergen & Janine Hackett

Susana Berger & Ashley Baia

Lewis Black

Edwin Blackman

Julie Callsen & Brad Pohlman

Peter Chandler

Timothy Convery

Dana Cowin

George DeBolt

Robert Denny

Michelle Dupre

Dennis Edward & Mark Steinberg

Dwight Foley

Malcolm Gage, Jr. & Brian Bristow

Ben Guess & Jim Therrien

Thomas Harshman & Stanley Gwyn

Jeff Hawkins & Janet Strauss

Norman Horowitz & Robert Tomasik

Cindy Houston & Rete Carie

Douglas Mateyaschuk, II & Evan Wolfe

Rev. Rodney McKenzie, Jr.

Albert McMeen, III & James Davis

Michael Miller

Hez Norton & Rev. Arrington Chambliss

Jeffrey Oliverio & Tony Mendoza

Joe Pallant

C. G. Pash, Jr.

Ralph Pellecchio & James Wernz

David Perez

John Peters

James Petrone

Michael Piore & Rodney Yoder

Marjorie Press

Col. Jennifer Pritzker

Marlys Rechkemmer

Erick Rivero

Gay Roane

Jeremy Rye

Joan Schaeffer & Roberta Mandel

Peter Shomer

Lisa & Brian Tannebaum

Stephen Thayer & Howard Terry

Albert Thompson & Kenneth Smith

Morgan Weinstein

William Wilson & Dr. Richard Wall

Rene Wolfensberger & David Chiu

Shannon Wu

Shannon Wu & Joseph Kahn

Institutional Leadership Council Members

PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE

($500,000+)

Ford Foundation

Robert Wood Johnson Foundation

EXECUTIVE’S CIRCLE

($100,000-$499,999)

The Arcus Foundation

The Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation

Wellspring Philanthropic Fund

AMBASSADOR’S CIRCLE

($50,00099,999)

Blue Cross Blue Shield Association

E. Rhodes and Leona B. Carpenter Foundation

Service Employees

International Union

DIRECTOR’S CIRCLE

($25,000-49,999)

CSAA Insurance Group

Fetzer Institute

Hilton Worldwide

Laughing Gull Foundation

Miami Beach Visitor & Convention Authority

St. John’s on the Lake United Methodist Church

Truist

ADVOCATE’S CIRCLE

($10,000-24,999)

AIDS United

Akerman LLP

Avita Pharmacy

BDO USA

Bilzin Sumberg Baena Price & Axelrod

Chicago Community Foundation

Comcast Corporation

Everytown for Gun Safety

Florida Blue

Fortune 500 Enterprises

Huizenga Family Foundation

Irving Harris Foundation

John S. and James L.

Knight Foundation

JPMorgan Chase Foundation

Leonard Litz Foundation

Mark Migdal & Hayden

The Miami Foundation

Miami-Dade Tourism Development Council

Mistr

Morgan Stanley

Planned Parenthood Federation of America

Royal Caribbean Cruises

Ryder Charitable

Foundation Starboard Cruises

Team SCG

Unite Here

United Church of Christ

West Monroe

Community Impact Fund

DELEGATE’S CIRCLE

($1,000-9,999)

The 22nd Century Initiative

A Great Idea Actblue Civics

Bercow Radell

Fernandez Larkin & Tapanes, P.A.

Brkthru

Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner

City of Miami Beach

/ Miami Beach

Convention Center

Club Med

Compassion & Choices

Credo Mobile

Daddy Ersin Productions

The Dunes Resort

Eagle Wilton Manors

Ernst & Young

First American Petroleum

Folx Health

Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau

Greenberg Traurig, P.A. Grindr

Henry Luce Foundation

Hilton Capital Management

Hustle Inc.

In Our Own Voice

The Johnson Family Foundation

Molson Coors

Movement

Advancement Project

National Black Trans

Advocacy Coalition

Our Fund Foundation

Palace Bar

Prevention 305

Raymond James

Charitable Endowment

Scale for Change

Snipes USA

Southern Glazer’s Wine and Spirits

Trigg Laboratories

ViiV Healthcare

Winston & Strawn

Legacy Circle

The Task Force thanks the following people for naming the Task Force as a beneﬁciary in their estate planning. If you would like information about naming the Task Force in your estate planning, please contact Jacky Goh, Chief Development Ofﬁcer, at jgoh@thetaskforce.org.

David I. Abramson

Pedro C. Acosta

Nicholas S. Albertson

Ponciano A. Allen

Jason Anderson

Ricardo Aragon

Judith A. & John R. Averill

Nicole R. Avila

Kevin R. Bannerman

Alexis J. Barbieri

John J. Bard

Stephanie M. BartonFarcas

Michael Bath

William M. Beachler

Sidney M. Becker

Milanie Bekker

Dolores D. Bell

Victor G. Benitez

Luna S. Bentley

Lauren M. Bertagnolli

Jillian K. S. Bishop

David A. Bjork & Jeff L. Bengtson

Thomas S. Black

Marsha C. Botzer &

Holly Bridwell

Jacob M. Brigham

Matthew Brown & Wayne Chang

Hannah G. Browning

Herman J. Brown-

Stepan

Jennifer M. Buchwald

P. Alan Bulliner

Margaret A. Burd & Dr.

Rebecca Brinkman

Susan Burnside

Howard R. Busby

Verlin D. Campbell

Kevin Carlin

Bradley R. Carlson

Kenneth R. Chambers

Elizabeth L. Chapman

Julie A. Childs & Sara

Speargas

Kristen E. Clark

Antonio U. Clavijo

Christopher B. Collis

Jennifer D. Coluccio

Yvonne County

Candy S. Cox & Debra L. Peevey

Perseus A. Crabtree

Barry McCloud

Laura A. E. Denmark

Craig M. Desoer

Skye Dicker

Sarah A. Douglas

Ross Draegert

Sabrina K. Duckett

Pamela A. Dukovac

Bert Easter & Dr. Ed Madden

Victoria K. Elliott York

Nina Feirer

Gregory T. Fields

Charles M. Fink &

Leonard Jones

Kingsley E. Floyd

Matthew F. & Kristine

Frazier

Madison K. Frazier

Adrienne D. Freed

Sally L. Freitas

Richard Fremont-Smith

Liebe & Seth Gadinsky

Stephen A. Glassman

Joe Goenaga

Rachel E. Gollay

Barbara M. Gosz

Sheila Healy & Liselle La France

Tracy Heinz

Brandy M. Hodges

Tee J. Holder

Lavenia N. Hood

John Hubschmitt

Shirley J. Hudson

Rachel Hurst

Stefanie A. Irmen

Kerry L. Jacobs

Kent J. Johnson & Cody Blomberg

Latoya L. Johnson

Alyson M. Judd

Steven D. Kaeser

Kerry J. & Richard J. Kelleher

Dr. Ronald Kendall & Harold Kendall

Linda Ketner

Cynthia L. Konrad

Harold D. Kooden, PhD & John Hunter, PhD

Michelle M. Lachance

Zach L. Lamb

Brianna J. M. Lambert

Alyxia D. Loney

Lisa E. Lynn

Matthew F. Lyons

Lindsey M. Lyons

Ed Madden & Bert Easter

Francis C. Madi Cerrada

Karma R. Maliar

Donna Marburger

Raymond C. Marlotte

Kimberly J. Marlotte

Barbara Brown & Sandy Delegal

Jewel M. Mason

Dana M. Mason

Joseph Maximilian

Angela D. N. MayGraham

Kriss A. McCarthy

Barry McCloud & Joseph D. Demarco

Ismael Melendez

Sean Melton

Naomi E. Metz & Jennifer Foley

Robert F. Miailovich

Michael E. Miller

Kimberly Harms

Kevin F. Moderski

Marissa K. L. Greer

Marilyn Lamkay

Jessica L. Custard

Thomas Boyd

Brian E. Grifﬁn

Sheila A. Leach Stubben

John H. Moe

Anthony O. Daniel

Laura M. Bradley

Patrick J. Brady

Desiree V. BrandonGouveia

Dr. David E. Dassey

Donald E. Davis

Kai A. Davison

Mary E. Harper & Marigene Arnold

Daniel A. Harris & Jane

Buttars

Joseph Lesko

Norma J. Lindsey

Peggy Lipschutz

Isabelle V. Moore

Erik R. Morin & Luis Calderon

David Morrissette

Richard D. Bray

James C. Bricker

George J. DeBolt

Joseph DeMarco &

Jeffery Haskins

Tiera D. Heady

David Littell & Edward Selekman

Lester H. London

Liisa H. Murray

Dr. James Nonnemaker

Legacy Circle

Leslie K. Norman

Lee Ormsbee

Austin L. Parrow

Martin C. Patterson

Loni L. Pendergrass

John Perez

Jason L. Perry

Amanda C. Perry

Danielle K. Peverelle

Staci L. Phillips

Jessica P. Pollard

Rhonda W. Potter

Richa Prabhakar

Addison T. Pressley

Jeffrey L. Proctor

Ken Ranftle & Craig Leiby

Jordan W. Redman

Sayre E. Reece & Rev.

Kathleen Campisano

Stephen M. Richards

Nathaniel J. Rickman

Robert G. Ritzenhein

Charles W. Robbins & Damon Romine

Francesca Roccaforte

Lauren E. Rodriguez

Anthony Rominske

Ian A. Roser

Russell D. Roybal

Isabella M. Sanchez

Robert T. Sanchez

Jennifer A. Santana

Heather C. Sargeant

Fred B. Schaefer

Kudra V. Schleder

J Schmidt Kevin Schmidt

Michael W. Schnabel

David E. Scott

Marianne G. Seggerman

Andrew Sendall

Elliott R. Sernel & Larry Falconio

Lorayne J. Shafer

Lee J. Sharp & Gary S. Hotchberg

Louise Sheppard

James B. Shipman

Dr. Larry Siegel

Whitney R. Sierra

Holly M. Solis

Michael Staeb

Alan V. Stageberg

Robert J. Starshak, M.D. & Ross Draegert

Sandra Stattion

Grant M. Steerzer

William J. Stein

Wade A. Strafford-Elkins

Steven M. Strafford-Elkins

Rachel E. Taylor

David J. Thomas

Clarice Thomas

Lauren M. Todd

Justin M. Trenz

Loet VanDerveen & George Burton

Marissa L. Watterson

Dr. Scott J. Weber

Wende L. Weber

Edward F. Weiss

Barbara D. Weiss

Miranda J. Whitehead

Jessika G. Whitehouse

Lauren Wiener

Harry K. Willwater & Hal L. Barker

Jazzmin T. Wilson

Edith S. Windsor

Douglas Wingo &

Timothy Legg

Benton Wong

David Wright

Miralba C. Yepez

Beth L. Zemsky & Chris Heeter

Daniel R. Zillmann

Harvey Zuckman & Phil E. Oxman

Estate of William A.K. Ryan

James W. Lundberg Philanthropic Trust

Beth Zemsky Family Foundation

Town Manager, Alexander Diaz + The Town of Golden Beach

Congratulate the LGBTQ Task Force for over 50 years of creating hope and implementing progress in our communities. Thank you for your dedication to fostering growth and inspiring future generations of leaders.

Through the publications they know and trust. How do you speak to the LGBT community?

How do you speak to the LGBT community?

Through the publications they know and trust.

Representing the “best of the best” in LGBT media, with over a million readers weekly in print and online.

212-242-6863

info@nationallgbtmediaassociation.com www.nationallgbtmediaassociation.com

212-242-6863

info@nationallgbtmediaassociation.com

www.nationallgbtmediaassociation.com