Welcome from the Executive Director
Welcome to Winter Party Festival 2023!
It’s good to be back!!! While our community faces challenges and opposition – very urgently here in Florida -- we also need to recognize and celebrate our resilience. And here, in the heart of so much opposition, our queer joy will offer a respite and recharge for the year ahead. I hope you are ready for a week of music, sun and love!
Winter Party was launched in 1994 as a single dance party on the beach to raise money to oppose an antigay ballot initiative. It was an immediate sensation and has continued to grow into the unique week-long festival that brings together an international LGBTQ crowd of thousands. And what happens when you bring together such extraordinary people, music, entertainment, and world-renowned DJ talent, all set in beautiful Miami Beach? Queer magic -- nothing less!
The National LGBTQ Task Force has the distinct honor of putting together this fabulous Festival, which is much, much more than a celebration: it is a unique and exceptional event that funds the Task Force’s activism and community work while also giving back a substantial amount of the proceeds to support local organizations in Florida.
Never underestimate the contribution you are making when you join us in Miami. It’s not just fun and DJs – you’re helping us battle against “don’t say gay” legislation, educate the public and elected officials on the need for nondiscrimination protections, and fighting attempts to harm and erase our community, our families, our youth, and our lives.
2023 is very special. We are celebrating the 30th anniversary of Winter Party and the 50th anniversary for the National
LGBTQ Task Force, an extraordinary testament to the countless individuals who have worked with and for this organization in the struggle for queer liberation and equality. All year long the Task Force will be celebrating our golden anniversary as the oldest LGBTQ organization in the country, and I hope you join us at events and celebrations throughout the year that will honor half a century of groundbreaking accomplishments – and prepare us for the next 50 years!
We live in a world that challenges us every day: telling us we’re different… less than… other. And while that may be changing, progress is slow, and inequality persists. It can wear on even the strongest among us. It makes us long for safe havens, places where we can be ourselves, surrounded by our chosen family and accepted and loved just the way we are. Winter Party is that place, a haven where we can LIVE FREE and BE YOU!
So…dance your ass off! We will be right there with you on the dance floor! As we experience the joy of being in community, I know that we are also there to learn what we can do when the house lights come up. I am so grateful that we will all return from this celebration and get back in the fight refreshed, renewed and confident in the love and support of every one of you that comes to Winter Party Festival.
Kierra Johnson Executive Director National LGBTQ Task Forcewelcome from our festival chairs
Welcome home! It’s time to reunite with old friends and make new ones that will last a lifetime at Winter Party Festival!
This Festival is all about having fun and creating unforgettable experiences for you, our guests, but it’s also a party with a purpose. Winter Party began 30 years ago when four community activists decided to throw a one-day beach party for South Floridians to raise money to fight a statewide anti-LGBTQ initiative. Thanks to you and under the stewardship of the National LGBTQ Task Force, Winter Party Festival has been transformed into one of the world’s largest nonprofit festivals. Proceeds from the Festival and its sister event, the Task Force Gala – Miami, have allowed the Task Force to donate over $3.3 million dollars to South Florida LGBTQ non-profit organizations.
René’s journey with Winter Party started in 2000 when he first attended as a guest; one year later, he had his first volunteer experience and has continued supporting the Festival for more than two decades, stepping into the Chair role in 2019. Sergio first joined the team in 2017 in the new position of Director of Committee Engagement, a role dedicated to building a program to support the volun-
teer leaders of the Festival, and two years later became Vice Chair and then Chair. About 100 talented committee members produce an event that attracts over 10,000 guests and raises close to $2 million a year, and we are so humbled to be leading this team.
We would like to thank Mayor Dan Gelber, the City of Miami Beach, all City Commissioners, and staff members that go to great lengths to support Winter Party Festival. We also want to thank our amazing sponsors for their contributions and ask you to please support them. Additionally, we would like to thank our volunteer Festival Committee members, our volunteer Executive Committee members, our Festival week volunteers, and the Task Force staff for devoting endless hours and unmeasurable energy to make Winter Party Festival a mind-blowing experience and a successful fundraiser. We are privileged to work alongside such amazing people, many who have become chosen family for us. The WPF Team is so excited to come back home and meet in person on the sands of Miami Beach after 3 years.
Thank you for supporting Winter Party Festival and welcome to Miami Beach!
live free. play hard. give back.
RENÉ A. WOLFENSBERGERSenior Winter Party Festival Chair 2023
SERGIO ORLANDO Winter Party Festival Chair 2023
The Founders of Winter Party
Winter Party Festival is something that thousands of people from around the world anticipate and celebrate each year, but few realize it all started with just four men. On the 20th anniversary of Winter Party Festival in 2013, we asked them to look back on a favorite Winter Party memory. Here’s what they had to say.
“One of my funniest memories was the custom-designed slipcovers done by Harry Bader, the set designer of the first two Winter Partys. In his consummate attention to detail, he had the port-o-lets slipcovered in the signature pink dayglow color of the event. What we hadn’t realized was that by slipcovering the port-o-lets we had also blocked the opening at the top that let the light in. Once the party began we found out the port-o-lets were pitch black inside and we had to run around cutting slits on the tops to let the light in.”
DENNIS LEYVA“The third Winter Party began with a cloudy and windy day. As the day progressed the wind, rain and gloom continued to get worse, Our DJ, Buc, was in a raised open-air DJ booth, and as the wind from the ocean picked up he began to have trouble controlling the needle on the turntable because the wind and the sand was covering everything. What to do? I started taking the tarps that covered the speakers and wrapped the hut. The more the wind picked up, the more tarps I took to the hut. By the end of the party, I had completely wrapped the hut and cut a three-inch square hole for Buc to use to see what was happening on the dance floor.”
CLARK REYNOLDS“I remember arriving at the site to start the setup of the dance floor and event perimeter with, among other things, a shovel to dig the holes for the wood stakes. What we didn’t know is that the sand near the dune is like concrete and the shovel wouldn’t even penetrate it. We then went and got a manual posthole digger and got nowhere with that either. We finally realized we needed something gas- powered. Of course, we had no idea where to find one or how to operate it, but eventually we figured it out and succeeded in creating the holes for the perimeter posts.”
STEWART STEIN
“Winter Party 1996 had an Ancient Egypt theme. The dance floor was presided over by an imposing, beautifully painted Sphinx our designer, Barton G, had constructed out of Styrofoam. The day started cold, gray and blustery, with off and on drizzle. By about two in the afternoon, undeterred, the crowd started coming in. Shortly thereafter a gust of wind toppled the Sphinx on its side. Thankfully, nobody was hurt. The “flying Sphinx” was actually a hit with the crowd and raised the energy on the dance floor to a new level of fun!”
IGNACIO MARTINEZ-YBORA Party With A Purpose for Three Decades
The story of Winter Party begins with the passage of a gay civil rights ordinance in the City of Miami Beach in 1992. The following year, the American Family Association (AFA) initiated a statewide referendum that would have prevented any municipality or county in Florida from legislating equal protection based on sexual orientation. Their goal was to get the referendum on the November 1994 ballot.
In August 1993, a group of Miami friends attended the Morning Party on Fire Island, a fundraiser for the Gay Men’s Health Crisis, and left with the idea of throwing a similar event in Miami Beach during the winter to raise money to fight the AFA-championed referendum. The first Winter Party was held on February 13, 1994. The event was staffed entirely by volunteers, and was underwritten by the founders, their friends and four sponsors. More than 1,600 people showed up -- many more than expected -- and $45,000 was raised.
Shortly after the event, the Supreme Court of Florida dismissed the referendum, so the $45,000 was donated to S.A.V.E., the non-profit organization created to fight the referendum. Realizing they had created a wonderful vehicle for raising funds for the LGBTQ community, the founders formed the Dade Human Rights Foundation (DHRF).
By mid-2002, all founders of the Winter Party had retired from the Foundation and the Party. In 2004, after raising over $1.2 million for South Florida LGBTQ organizations during its nine years of existence, DHRF closed its doors and the National LGBTQ Task Force (then known as the National Gay & Lesbian Task Force) took over the production responsibilities for Winter Party Festival and its sister event, the Miami Recognition Dinner (now renamed the National LGBTQ Task Force Gala). In assuming responsibilities for the two events, the Task Force pledged that a major portion of the proceeds would stay in South Florida to be administered as grants through the Dade Community Foundation, now known as The Miami Foundation. The remainder would go to support the Task Force's national efforts to build the grassroots power of the LGBT! community.
Over the past 18 years of producing the events, the Task Force has donated just more than $3.3 million to organizations in South Florida, first through The Miami Foundation and now through the LGBTQ+ Equity Fund, a joint venture of the Task Force, The Miami Foundation and Our Fund Foundation. More than 90 organizations have received funding. The Task Force is proud to continue the legacy begun by the founders of Winter Party: creating a spectacular celebration while raising funds to improve the lives of LGBTQ people.
Tickets, Passes and Wristbands
MULTI-EVENT PASSES
Winter Party Festival uses wristbands for multi-event passes. Online Pass purchasers will receive an email voucher and receipt, which should be printed and brought to the Welcome Center to exchange for a wristband. Wristbands are worn throughout the Festival and cannot be removed or shared. You cannot use the email voucher for admission to events.
All passes must be purchased online. They will notbe available in the Welcome Center.
PRINT-AT-HOME TICKETS
Winter Party Festival uses print-at-home tickets through ShowClix. You purchase tickets online and receive your tickets via email so you can print them and bring them with you to the venues. You also have the option to receive a mobile ticket version.
PLEASE NOTE: There will be no Will Call for ticket purchasers at each event. You MUST bring your ticket (printed or mobile version) with you for admission to the event.
WELCOME CENTER WILL CALL
All passes purchased require you to pick up your wristbands at the Winter Party Festival Welcome Center. The Welcome Center closes at the host hotel at 3 PM on Saturday and reopens at Oasis Wynwood from 4:30 PM to 8 PM. You
WELCOME CENTER LOCATIONS AND HOURS OF OPERATION ARE:
Palm Hotel , 1545 Collins Ave, Miami Beach
must exchange your pass voucher for a wristband by 8 PM on Saturday, March 4. The Welcome Center phone number is 305-390-8348.
Even if you received all your tickets via email, we still invite you to visit the Welcome Center and pick up a complimentary gift bag and meet other guests.
PASS PURCHASERS ARRIVING AFTER WELCOME CENTER HOURS
We realize that some of our out-of-town guests may arrive in Miami Beach after the Welcome Center closes. Pass purchasers can still gain admission to that night’s dance event. When you arrive at the dance venue, go to Will Call. You will need to show identification to receive admission to the event, and you will need to go to the Welcome Center the next day to pick up your wristband. Using your wristband provides express entry into the venue, so we encourage you to come to the Welcome Center prior to the event if at all possible.
REMINDER: There will be no Will Call for ticket purchasers at each event. You MUST bring your ticket (printed or mobile version) with you for admission to the event.
UPGRADES
Ticket or pass upgrades (if available) can only be purchased at the individual events.
• Passes are wristbands you wear all week.
• Wristbands must be picked up by Saturday, March 4. They will be available at the Welcome Center (located at the Royal Palm) through 3:00 PM.They will also be available from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the entrance to the Under One Party at Oasis Wynwood.
• Ticket purchasers must bring a printed or mobile ticket to the event.There is no Will Call for individual ticket purchasers.
WINTER PARTY CARES
Winter Party Festival is the most fun, sexy and friendly LGBTQ event in the world. In addition to coming together to celebrate as a community, we raise critical funds to continue the fight for full freedom, justice and equity for all. As producers of a world-renowned LGBTQ event, the National LGBTQ Task Force recognizes that we have a responsibility to help our community stay safe and healthy—not just at Winter Party, but in all aspects of life.
This year, like every year, we’re fortunate to partner with a number of health, education, social service, and harm-reduction organizations dedicated to the well-being of our community. They are listed at the bottom of the opposite page. We ask you to heed these important health and safety tips.
If you’re sexually active, protect yourself and your partner(s): Complimentary condoms, provided by Florida Health, and personal lube packets, sponsored by WET, will be distributed in your gift bags, at the Welcome Center, and throughout the Festival at various events.
Consider PrEP: Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) is for anyone who is sexually active and does not have HIV, taken as a preventive measure. Winter Party will have numerous partners on-site at various events that can
provide additional information and referrals to those interested.
Educate yourself about STI’s: While the advent of PrEP has significantly cut the rates of new HIV infection in communities where it is widely used, it has also led to an increase in unprotected sex. PrEP can prevent the spread of HIV, but it does not protect against other Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI’s), such as syphilis, gonorrhea and hepatitis A, B and C, which are on the rise, and some of which are becoming increasingly resistant to antibiotic treatment. Condoms will help reduce your risks. Please play safe, protect yourself, and be aware of and talk about these risks with your sexual partners.
Know your status: Get tested! Rapid HIV testing takes only a few minutes and will be made available through a number of our partners.
Know your limits: If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation. On hot, sunny days, don’t forget to alternate alcohol with water. If you consume drugs, know what you’re taking and what risks are associated. Illegal drug use is strictly prohibited at Winter Party, but we also know that we cannot control what people do in private. Educate yourself about the effects and unique risks associated with various drugs, as well as elevated risks of mixing substances. Be aware
that not all drugs are created equal; some carry much greater risks than others. Crystal meth is one of the most physically addictive and destructive drugs ever known. If you use meth, or are thinking about trying it, we urge you to reconsider. Visit MethProject.org for additional details and support.
Limit sun exposure: It might sound cliché, but don’t forget to pack your sunscreen, lip balm, hats and sunglasses.The Miami sun can be scorching! Wear sunscreen and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Look out for each other: If your friend appears to be excessively buzzed, don’t leave them alone. We have medical staff on call at every event. If you feel sick, dizzy, faint, or otherwise need help, or if you see someone who does, look for the nearest staffer on radio, who will help you find the professional assistance you need. Our medical services partners are here to help.
We love you—and we want you to stay happy and healthy!
WINTER PARTY FESTIVAL TEAM2023 Social Events
WELCOME RECEPTION
Wednesday, March 1, 6:00PM - 9:00PM Royal Palm South Beach Miami, 1545 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach FREE
Bienvenidos, bienvenue, Willkommen, bemvindos, benvenuti, أهلاً و سهلاً, 歡迎... no matter what language you speak or what corner of the world you come from, Winter Party welcomes you with open arms! Please join us as we celebrate the launch of the 2023 Winter Party Festival and the grand opening of our Welcome Center. Come and enjoy complimentary Bacardi cocktails and some great entertainment, and be sure to snag a free welcome bag! You’ll have an opportunity to pick up your festival passes, purchase individual event tickets, shop for Winter Party merchandise and visit our fabulous exhibitors.
VIP COCKTAIL RECEPTION
Thursday, March 2, 7:30PM - 10:00PM
Esmé Miami Beach, 1438 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach
Pass Access: VIP Pass
INVITATION ONLY
Join us as we celebrate the Task Force’s 50th anniversary with our annual Winter Party Festival VIP Cocktail Reception. Socialize with the crème de la crème of people in our community -- leaders, celebrities, influencers, and other VIPs -- while you discover more about the National LGBTQ Task Force’s work and impact. This event is an exclusive opportunity for us to gather and celebrate our victories in queer liberation, recognize the challenges we face, and invest in the future of LGBTQ+ freedom, justice and equity. This year we will be joined by special guests and Winter Party Festival Ambassadors Amrit Kapai and Nicholas Kouchoukos from Bravo’s Family Karma. This cocktail-style event will feature an open-bar sponsored by Bacardi, products from locally LBGTQ-owned businesses and remarks by Task Force Executive Director Kierra Johnson. The VIP Cocktail Reception raises much needed funds to support the work to protect and advance LGBTQ+ civil rights. A large portion of the proceeds from Winter Party Festival will be distributed to local LGBTQ+ organizations and programs servicing the South Florida LGBTQ+ community through the LGBTQ+ Equity Fund. festival passes, purchase individual event tickets, shop for Winter Party merchandise and visit our fabulous exhibitors. and visit our fabulous exhibitors.
LOCALIZE
Presented by Avita Pharmacy, Prevention 305, Q Care Plus
Friday, March 3, 7:00PM - 10:00PM
AxelBeach Miami, 1500 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach
FREE
Our friends at Avita Pharmacy, Prevention 305, and Q Care Plus present our popular community-building and networking event, LOCALIZE, where guests from around the world enjoy drink specials, raffle giveaways, beautiful people and the fabulous energy of our surprise hosts and DJs. This event also features an open conversation about sexual health and the pros and cons of PrEP as an effective way to prevent and stop the spread of HIV.
2023 dance Events
IGNITE ELEVATE POOL PARTY
THURSDAY, MARCH 2
10:00PM - 5:00AM
EXCHANGE, 1532 Washington Ave, Miami Beach
PASS ACCESS: VIP and Festival
You’ll get fired up for our 30th anniversary at Ignite at one of South Beach’s hottest venues, Exchange. DJ Jace M – known for his event productions under his Detroit brand Thots & Prayers and for his original music productions –will get the party going as he makes his Winter Party Festival debut. Winter Party veteran DJ J Warren will continue the journey with his signature sound, a blend of high-energy, uplifting vocals and transcending melodies.
FRIDAY, MARCH 3
1:00PM - 7:00PM
MOXY MIAMI SOUTH BEACH, 915 Washington Ave, Miami Beach
PASS ACCESS: VIP
Elevate Pool Party is the perfect way to spend your afternoon and gear up for an action-packed weekend. On Friday, March 3, we take over the pool at the popular new hot spot Moxy South Beach. You’ll dance all afternoon to the beats of DJ Cesar Hernandz and Winter Party veteran Danny Verde Dive in and get soaking wet!
HEAT
FRIDAY, MARCH 3
10:00PM – 6:00AM
STUDIO 60 NIGHTCLUB, 2300 NW 36th Street, Miami
PASS ACCESS: VIP, Festival and Weekend
Winter Party Festival and Hilton Wolman
Events spark off the weekend with Heat! DJ Marti Frieson, a rising star from Houston, will light up the dance floor with his energetic and versatile sound. Israeli DJ Orel Sabag will keep you moving all night long with his Brazilian-inspired beats and high-energy vocals. This event offers both GA and VIP ticketing options. VIP tickets include priority entry and complimentary vodka cocktails from 10PM - 2AM.
VIIV HEALTHCARE PRESENTS UNDER ONE SUN
SATURDAY, MARCH 4
12:00PM - 8:00PM
OASIS WYNWOOD, 2335 N. Miami Ave, Miami
PASS ACCESS: VIP, Festival and Weekend Pass
Viiv Healthcare presents our Saturday daytime signature event, Under One Sun, in an exciting new venue: Oasis Wynwood, a massive indoor/outdoor venue in the heart of Miami’s Wynwood Art District! Put your hands in the air as we mark our 30th anniversary with an additional two hours of music and a Brazilian Carnival-inspired journey. DJ Ana Flor makes her Winter Party debut using her powerful, high energy sound to lift our afternoon to new heights. DJ Erik Vilar, making his Winter Party Festival main lineup debut, will take us into the evening with his signature upbeat sound. Erik will be spinning in the U.S. for the first time in over 3 years, with beats sure to leave you smiling and keep your feet moving! This event offers both GA and VIP ticketing options. VIP tickets include priority entry, access to a private area and complimentary cocktails for the duration of the party.
2023 dance Events
WPF + MASTERBEAT PRESENT SATURDAY NIGHT FEVER
SATURDAY, MARCH 4
10:00PM - 7:00AM
M2 NIGHTCLUB, 1225 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach
PASS ACCESS: VIP, Festival and Weekend
You’ll be doing much more than just staying alive when we return to the newly upgraded, 35,000 square foot M2 (formerly the legendary club Mansion) for Winter Party & Masterbeat Present Saturday Night Fever. This iconic South Beach venue has been transformed with $10 million in upgrades to structure, sound and lighting. Throw on those flares and a sparkly accessory to complete your look for the night. Karsten Sollors, making his Winter Party Festival debut, draws his musical inspiration from the infamous Chicago house sound and will lead us into the night with his irresistible grooves and soulful vocals. Calagna makes their much-anticipated return to our prime time lineup with their driving, melodic sound that will keep you grooving on the dancefloor all night long. This event offers both GA and VIP ticketing options. VIP tickets include priority entry and complimentary vodka cocktails from 10PM - 2AM.
THE BEACH PARTY
SUNDAY, MARCH 5
1:00PM - 8:00PM
SANDS OF SOUTH BEACH
at Lummus Park, 12th Street and Ocean Drive, Miami Beach
PASS ACCESS: VIP, Festival, Weekend and Climax
Be there for the event that started it all three decades ago! The Beach Party is our largest, most-anticipated event every year, the crown jewel of Winter Party. In honor of our milestone anniversary, we’re turning over the DJ booth for the entire event to the legendary DJ Abel, who has brought us some of the most memorable dance floor moments over the past 30 years of Winter Party Festival. You don’t want to miss this very special edition of the world’s greatest dance party! This event offers GA, VIP, and Cabana Club ticketing options:
• VIP tickets include priority entry, open bar, access to an elevated VIP platform and separate restrooms.
• Cabana Club tickets include priority entry, open bar, access to an exclusive elevated Cabana Club platform behind the DJ, and private air-conditioned restrooms.
WINTER PARTY & MASTERBEAT PRESENT: HEROES & VILLAINS AFTERGLOW
SATURDAY, MARCH 5
10:00PM - 7:00AM
M2 NIGHTCLUB, 1225 Washington Ave, Miami Beach
PASS ACCESS: VIP, Festival and Weekend
Holy Climax, Batman! It’s time to put on your capes and lace up your boots for a second night at the spectacular M2 Nightclub as Winter Party & Masterbeat Present Heroes & Villains. You’ll soar onto the dance floor to experience the sounds of Forever Tel Aviv resident DJ Mor Avrahami, making his Winter Party debut. Feel the power build as DJ Yinon Yahel moves us with his iconic productions. Live out your fantasy as a hero or a villain… your choice! This event offers both GA and VIP ticketing options. VIP tickets include priority entry and complimentary vodka cocktails from 10PM - 2AM.
MONDAY, MARCH 6
5:00AM - 12:00PM
STUDIO 60 NIGHTCLUB, 2300 NW 36th St, Miami
PASS ACCESS: VIP, Festival and Climax
Bask in the light of an incredible week with your chosen family as Hilton Wolman Events brings you our legendary after-hours party, Afterglow. Join us for a one-of-a-kind morning party with DJ Tom Stephan. Tom’s iconic sound was born out of the NYC after-hours scene and now merged with his home in East London. Experience Tom’s perfect mix of after-hours sounds, with unrelenting beats that will pump your feet on the dance floor.
FINALE
MONDAY, MARCH 6
10:00PM - 5:00AM
LVL ONE, 30 NE 14th St, Miami
PASS ACCESS: VIP
FINALE will be the exclamation point to your Winter Party experience. On Monday, March 6, Finale moves to its new home: LVL One. Produced by Work Entertainment, this high-energy event welcomes back Winter Party veterans DJs Nina Flowers and Cindel. This event is not to be missed!
Sponsors & Partners
SPONSORS
MEDIA SPONSORS
Sponsors & Partners
CREATIVE & PRODUCTION PARTNERS
PROMOTIONAL PARTNERS
WEDNESDAY MARCH
WINTER PARTY WELCOME RECEPTION
Royal Palm South Beach Miami
1545 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach
6:00PM - 9:00PM
thursday MARCH
1 2 3
VIP COCKTAIL RECEPTION*
Esme Hotel
1438 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach
7:30PM - 10:00PM
* This event is for VIP pass purchasers and invited guests only
1532 Washington Avenue,
10:00PM - 5:00AM
friday MARCH
ELEVATE POOL PARTY Moxy
915 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach
1:00PM - 7:00PM
LOCALIZE
Presented by Avita Pharmacy
AxelBeach Hotel
1500 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach
7:00PM - 10:00PM
HEAT
Studio 60 Nightclub
2300 NW 36th Street, Miami
10:00PM - 6:00AM
4 5 6 saturday MARCH sunday MARCH monday MARCH
UNDER ONE SUN PARTY
Presented by Viiv Healthcare
Oasis Wynwood
2335 N. Miami Ave, Miami
12:00PM - 8:00PM
Winter Party & Masterbeat Present:
SATURDAY NIGHT FEVER
M2 Nightclub
1225 Washington Ave, Miami Beach
10:00PM - 7:00AM
THE BEACH PARTY
Sands of South Beach at 12th Street, Miami Beach
1:00PM - 8:00PM
Winter Party & Masterbeat Present:
HEROES & VILLAINS
M2 Nightclub
1225 Washington Ave, Miami Beach
10:00PM - 5:00AM
AFTERGLOW
Studio 60 Nightclub
2300 NW 36th St, Miami
5:00AM - 12:00PM
FINALE
LVL ONE 30 NE 14th Street, Miami
10:00PM - 5:00AM
* Schedule as of January 18, 2023. Subject to change.
about task force
The National LGBTQ Task Force advances full freedom, justice and equality for LGBTQ people. We’re building a future where everyone is free to be themselves 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.
NATIONAL LGBTQ TASK FORCE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
CO-CHAIR
Candy Cox
Washington, DC
CO-CHAIR
Dr. Anika Simpson
Washington, DC
SECRETARY
Rodney McKenzie, Jr.
Washington, DC
TREASURER
Colgate Darden
Miami, FL
Peter Chandler
Washington, DC
NATIONAL
LGBTQ TASK FORCE ACTION
FUND BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Liebe
Gadinsky
Miami Beach, FL
Vanessa Daniel
Tacoma, WA
T. Aaron Hans St. Paul, MN
Donald Hayden
Miami, FL
Rose Hayes San Francisco, CA
Monisha R. Harrell
Lynnwood, WA
CHAIR
Erik Morin
Miami, FL
SECRETARY/TREASURER
Juan G. Penalosa
Miami, FL
NATIONAL ACTION COUNCIL
Miles Hu
Chattanooga, TN
Hez Norton
Jamaica Plain, MA
Juan Peñalosa
Miami, FL
David Perez
Washington, DC
Jeremy Rye San Francisco Bay Area, CA
Candelario
Saldana Charlotte, NC
Peter H. Chandler, Jr.
Washington, DC
Colgate W. Darden, IV
Miami Beach, FL
Almas Sayeed
Los Angeles, CA
Stephen Seo
Los Angeles, CA
Andrew Solomon New York, NY
Kim Stone
Miami, FL
Jason Tester San Francisco, CA
Kevin Wang
Seattle, WA
Hez G. Norton
Jamaica Plain, MA
Jeremy M. Rye San Francisco, CA
Almas T. Sayeed
Los Angeles, CA
Over the years, the Task Force has had many incredible advocates and supporters who are committed to helping us achieve our mission of building grass-roots power for the LGBTQ community. Our National Action Council recognizes these individuals.
John M. Allen
Susan E. Anderson
Anthony Aragon
Alan Bernstein
Marsha C. Botzer
David Bowers
Margaret A. Burd
Yuval David
Donald E. Davis
Victor E.
Diaz-Herman
Ruth Eisenberg
Matt Foreman
William Forrest
Ruben J. Gonzales
Kevin D. Gonzalez
Mario Guerrero
Jon B. Hoadley
Jody Laine
Cordey R. Lash
Naomi E. Metz
Sandra Y. Nathan, PhD
Shilpen Patel, MD
Chad Richter
Lee Rubin
Mark M. Sexton
Je rey Z. Slavin
Michelle Stecker
Kenneth B. Thompson
Alfonso Wenker
Vince Wong
Beth L. Zemsky
Committee and Staff
The National LGBTQ Task Force advances full freedom, justice and equality for LGBTQ people. We’re building a future where everyone is free to be themselves 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.
2023 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Sergio Orlando, Festival Chair
René Wolfensberger, Senior Festival Chair
Doug Bermudez, Partnerships Director
Walter Castaneda, Fundraising Director
2023 FESTIVAL COMMITTEE
Doug Ames
Sasha Baranov
Joseph Bianco
Steven Boudreau
Amanda Cajano
Rene Carballo
Ariel Cerrud
Ashton Chandra
Dharmendra Choudhary, Committee Engagement Director
Ernesto Espejo, Social Programming Director
John Fogleman, Finance Director
Tim Dejsiriudom
Matt Dzwonkiewicz
Juan Carlos Farfan
Jairo Farinas
James Farris
Mario Guardado
Mauricio Hernandez
Omar Herrera
Jason Hellinger, Marketing Director
Jerard Kelley, Welcome Center Director
Richard King, Dance Programming Director
Xaria James
Victor Jolley
Nawaz Khan
John Labus
David Landau
Micheal Mulheron
James Nonnemaker
Anthony Novembre
Robert Masterson, Club Finance Director
Russell Roybal, Special Advisor
Tom Shepard, Volunteer Relations Director
Bill Platt
Francisco Ramirez
Jose Rodriguez
Ever Rucker
Cristian Sanchez
Pranshu Shivastra
Ivette Sierra
Matthew Tochtenhagen
Jake Arnell, Institutional & Corporate Development Director
Michael Bath, Events Director
Alicia S. Boykins, Director of HR and Administration
Andrea Durojaiye, Membership Manager
Jacky Goh, Chief Development Officer
Raul Gri th, Signature Events Producer
Ryan Hurst, Senior Major Gifts Officer
Kierra Johnson, Executive Director
Brian Marone, Events Manager
Rick Mohn, Senior Finance Manager
Chris Monge, Special Assistant to the Events Director
Kimberly Otero, Special Events Coordinator
Sayre E. Reece, Director of Executive Planning and Projects
Cathy Renna, Director of Communications
Dana Riceel, Executive Assistant to the Executive Director
Benjamin Simmons, Communications Marketing Campaign Manager
Samuel E. Thom Director of Operations
Dee Tum-Monge, Senior Communications Manager
Leadership 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 gi of $1,500 or more and give the Task Force the exibility 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 O cer, at jgoh@thetaskforce.org
THANK YOU TO OUR INDIVIDUAL DONORS!
President’s Circle - ($100,000+)
Elizabeth A. Scott & James
Houston
Andrew & John Habich Solomon
Sarah & Howard Solomon
Vice President’s Circle ($50,000-99,999)
Steven Holley
Weston F. Milliken
Emily Rosenberg & Darlene deManicor
Executive Circle ($25,000-49,999)
Liebe & Seth Gadinsky
Stanley Newman & Brian Rosenthal
Jeff Oliverio & Tony Mendoza
Anonymous
Ambassador’s Circle ($10,000-24,999)
Ralph Alpert
Jack Bankowsky & Matthew Marks
Candy S. Cox & Reverend Debra
L. Peevey
Kristin Ehrgood & Vadim Nikitine
Donald J. Hayden & Brian H.
Thompson
David A. Holmes & Anthony
Montoya
Eugene Kapaloski
Daniel Marinberg & Carlos Canasi
James G. Pepper
John Peters
Mark M. Sexton & W. Kirk Wallace
Sara M. Stone
Roger F. Thomson & Jim Tyrrell
Anonymous
Director’s Circle ($5,000-9,999)
John M. Allen & Stephen P. Orlando
Susan E. Anderson & Jo Zeimet
Joseph Arena & Thomas D’Eletto
Alberto A. Arias Jr. & David W. Kinnard
Rachel Beda & Joseph Beda
Scott Bennett
Gregory N. Brown & Linton D. Stables III
Bradley R. Carlson & Troy Du Toit
Colgate W. Darden IV
Matt Foreman & Francisco De
Leon
Jeff & Kate Haas
T. Aaron Hans & Tania Mitchell
Mary E. Harper & Marigene Arnold
H. S. Huizenga
Lawrence R. Hyer
Mitchell Karp & Barry Katz
McCall Langford
James D. Marks & Mark Scott
Kevin D. McCarty & Henri Vezie
Rodney W. McKenzie Jr.
Barbara J. Meislin
Raj Mirchandani & Dianne Palermo
Erik Morin & Luis Calderon
Jin Oh & Karl H. Smith
Stephen P. Orlando & John M.
Allen
Nancy D. Polikoff
Cindy T. Rizzo
Karl H. Smith & Jin Oh
Ronna Stamm & Paul Lehman
Robert & Anna Strawbridge
N. Michael Studds
Jason Tester
Kevin Wang
Gerald Wentland & Jean-Paul
Michaud
Anonymous
Advocate’s Circle
($2,500-4,999)
Meg & Sarah Baesmith
Glenn Barcheski & Bill Dollaway
C. David Bedford
David S. Berg & Laura Butzel
Robin M. Bergen & Janine Hackett
Benjamin Bowler & Thomas Firpo
Kathleen Campisano & Sayre E. Reece
Rea Carey & Margaret Conway
Diane Cary & James Parriott
Peter H. Chandler Jr.
Lisa Corrin
Nicole & Wayne Cypen
Pamela H. David
George J. DeBolt
Joseph DeSantis
Anne S. Drennan
Dennis Edwards & Mark Steinberg
Michael B. Feiler
Jennifer Foley & Naomi E. Metz
Jorge L. Garcia
Erwin G. Gonzalez
Janine Hackett & Robin M. Bergen
Benjamin & William Hamilton
Edgar Hernandez & Glenn E.
Petersen
Steven C. Hill & Jonathan A. Herz
Robert Holgate
Molly B. Holmes
Henry Hurd
Harold L. Ivey
Mark Jones & Andrew Tagliabue
Matt Kaczmarek & Aaron Ordower
Michael J. Kaplan
Justin Kitchens
Jody Laine & Shad Reinstein
Franklin Levine
Jeffrey Mandler
Edward & Marilyn McGovern
Naomi E. Metz & Jennifer Foley
Darlene Nipper
Paul F. Oostenbrug MD & Jeremiah
F. Kelly
David M. Perez
David J. Price & Juan C. Rodriguez
Daniel L. Rabinowitz & Ann F.
Thomas
Thomas A. Raffin & Martin Tian
Erick Rivero
Russell D. Roybal
Josue Santiago
Stephanie Sylvestre & Janice
Navatkoski
Andrew Tagliabue & Mark Jones
Stephen B. Thayer & Howard Terry
Deric Walters & Jesse Lehrhoff
William Wilson & Dr. Richard Wall
Beth L. Zemsky & Chris Heeter
Delegate’s Circle - ($1,500-2,499)
Alan T. Acosta & Thomas Gratz
Gary Bauer
Juan J. Battle & Michael D.
Bennett
Frank Benedetti & Gary Trowbridge
Michael D. Bennett & Juan J.
Battle
Alan Bernstein
Lewis Black
Leslie & Matt Bosson
Dennis Breen
Daniella Levine Cava
Arrington Chambliss & Hez G.
Norton
Jerry S. Chasen & Mark Kirby
Michael L. Curtis & Eric F. Thom
Daniel Da Silva & Vincent G.
Merceron
Robert P. Denny
Robert J. Dutton & Sunil Narayan
Ruth Eisenberg & Letitia A. Gomez
Klayton F. Fennell & Dr. Valentine
Vigil-Fennell
Dwight A. Foley
Julie N. Goodridge
J B. Guess & Jim R. Therrien
Ebonie M. Hall
Monisha R. Harrell & Tami L. Olson
Thomas W. Harshman & Stanley
D. Gwyn
Jeff Hawkins & Janet Strauss
Ernest C. Hopkins
Jason Jenkins
Lorraine Jones & Libby Halstead
Paul Kawata
Paul N. Kelly
Curtis A. Lipscomb
Richard Lynch & Frank Steil
Roberta Mandel & Joan L.
Schaeffer
Jan S. Marks
Gary Martin & Mr. Patrick J. Owens
Alan Mason
Douglas Mateyaschuk II & Evan
Wolfe
Robert R. McCrae & William
Newhall
Albert R. McMeen III & James Davis
Paulette J. Meyer & Davud
Fruedman
Robert F. Miailovich
Bonnie Michaels
Inca A. Mohamed
Sunil Narayan & Robert J. Dutton
Joseph Ogormon
Patrick J. Owens & Gary Martin
Joe L. Pallant
Shilpen Patel MD & Yuming Chiu
Donna M. & Michael Patrick
Michael J. Piore & Rodney Yoder
Marjorie Press
Samantha Randby & Fruzsina
Nyeso
Joan Schaeffer & Roberta Mandel
Elizabeth Schwartz & Lydia Martin
Michael Scigliano
Marianne G. Seggerman
Stephen L. Seo & Nicholas J.
Caldarera
Kathy Shamey
Peter J. Shomer
Lawrence J. Simpson
Geoffrey O. Swetz & Carlos Leo
Janice E. Thom
Albert V. Thompson & Kenneth Smith
Mary Webster
Rene Wolfsenberger
Scott A. Woodfill
THANK YOU TO OUR INSTITUTIONAL FUNDERS!
$500,000.00+
Robert Wood Johnson Foundation
$250,000-499,999
Evelyn & Walter Haas Jr Fund
Ford Foundation
Wellspring Philanthropic Fund
$100,000-249,999
Arcus Foundation
NoVo Foundation
$50,000-99,000
American Endowment Foundation
E Rhodes & Leona B Carpenter Foundation
Gilead Sciences, Inc.
The Tides Foundation
$25,000-49,000
Amalgamated Charitable Foundation
American Airlines
Amalgamated Charitable Foundation
Estee Lauder Companies / MAC
AIDS Fund
Fox Rothschild LLP
Freeman Foundation
Hilton Worldwide
Horizons Foundation
Justworks
Laughing Gull
Foundation
Newpol Foundation
Truist
$10,000-24,999
AIDS United
Akerman LLP
Bilzin Sumberg Baena Price & Axelrod LLP
Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner LLP
Collingwood Foundation
Comcast Corporation
CSAA Insurance Group, a AAA Insurer
Dona & Dwight Kendall Family Foundation
Everytown for Gun Safety
Florida Blue
Frosene Spirit of Hope Foundation, Inc
Greenberg Traurig, P.A.
Heritage Financial Consultants, LLC
Huizenga Family Foundation
Irving Harris Foundation
John S. and James L. Knight Foundation
Johnson Family Foundation
JP Morgan Chase Foundation
The Miami Foundation
MISTR
Morrison & Foerster LLP
NARAL Pro-Choice America
NEO Philanthropy
Our Fund Foundation
OutRight Action
International
POP Culture
Collaborative
Royal Caribbean Cruises LTD.
Ryder Charitable Foundation
St John’s on the Lake UMC
Starboard Cruise Services
Tzedek Social Justice Fund
Unite Here
The Vertical Bridge
Wild Geese Foundation
Worth Avenue Yachts
$1,500-9,999
Aetna
Bank United
BDO USA, LLP
Bercow Radell & Fernandez, P.A.
Big Johnson Group LLC
BNY Mellon Wealth
Management
City of Miami Beach
City of North Miami
Clear Health Alliance / Simply
Healthcare
Community Foundation Sonoma County
Ernst & Young LLP
Fetzer Institute
Flamboyan Foundation
The Foundation of the Greater Miami Jewish Federation
Give Lively Foundation
Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau
Greenspoon Marder
The Harrington Agency
Included Health
K&L Gates LLP
Mark Migdal & Hayden
Miami-Dade County Commissioners
Morgan Stanley
Neiman Marcus
New York Community Trust
Rennert Vogel Mandler & Rodriguez, P.A.
San Francisco AIDS Foundation
Stonewall Community Foundation
TD Bank
TGH Company LLC
Tiger Baron Foundation
United Church of Christ
Williamson Cadillac Buick GMC
Winston & Strawn
YourCause LLC
legacy circle
The Task Force thanks the following people for naming the Task Force as a beneciary in their estate planning. If you would like information about naming the Task Force in your estate planning, please contact Jacky Goh, Chief Development O cer, at jgoh@thetaskforce.org
David I. Abramson
Alan Ace*
Henry van Ameringen*
Clarence E Anderson Living Trust*
Jacob Arnell
Neil B.Pomerenke*
Barckley Family Trust*
Michael Bath
William Bebermeyer*
Bertram H. Behrens*
Em Olivia Bevis*
Jillian K. Bishop*
Bisordi-Schofield Revocable Trust*
LeClair Bissell*
David A. Bjork
Marsha C. Botzer
Thomas Boyd
Shirley Brodigan*
Matthew Brown
Herman J. Brown-Stepan*
Jennifer M. Buchwald
Phillip A. Bulliner*
Margaret A. Burd
Susan Burnside
Bradley R. Carlson
John L. Chamness, Jr.*
Julie A. Childs
Stephen D. Clover*
Gerald & Veronica Colfer*
Daniel Cook & Herbert I. Cohen*
Winifred Cottrel*
David E. Dassey
James A. Davidson*
Donald E. Davis
George J. DeBolt
Mark Deggendorf*
Craig M. Desoer
James N. Devillier*
Sarah A. Douglas
Ross Draegert
Sabrina K. Duckett*
Alice Dyer*
Bert Easter
Edith MacGuire Charitable Trust*
Orton L. Ehrlinger*
Jonathan Elwell*
Luke F. Farrell*
Nina Feirer
John P. Fludas*
Richard Fremont-Smith*
Liebe Gadinsky
Brook Glaefke*
Stephen A. Glassman
Joe Goenaga
Mary E. Harper
John R. Harper*
Daniel A. Harris
Finas Harris*
Sheila Healy*
John R. Hoffman*
Richard Homan*
Earle Raymond Hopkins*
Diane M. Hopsia*
John Hubschmitt
Darrill Hudson*
Rachel Hurst
Kent J. Johnson
Steven D. Kaeser*
Robert L. Kehoe*
Ronald Kendall
Kenneth E. Kesselring*
Linda Ketner
Harold D. Kooden
Kayeton J. Kurowski*
Brianna J. Lambert
Marilyn Lamkay
Craig H. Lindhurst*
Dr Norma Jack Lindsey*
Peggy Lipschultz
David Littell
Lester H. London
Alyxia D. Loney
James W. Lundberg Philanthropic Trust
Joseph J. Maio*
Donna Marburger
Ellen Martin
Wayne McCaughan*
Rita A. McGaughey*
Sean Melton
Lawrence J. Messenger
Lawrence J. Messenger*
Henry D. Messer*
Naomi E. Metz
Robert F. Miailovich
Erik Morin
James Morris*
George Nemeth*
James Nonnemaker
Fleet E. Nuttall*
John O’Leary*
Lee Ormsbee
Austin L. Parrow
Martin C. Patterson
Julia Lorillard Pell
Julia Lorillard Pell*
John Perez
David Lee Peterson*
Addison T. Pressley
Ken Ranftle
Sayre E. Reece
Roger A. Riege*
Charles W. Robbins
James E. Rolls*
Anthony Rominske
Lee S Ross*
Harry R. Rowe, M.D.*
Russell D. Roybal
William A.K. Ryan*
Kenneth Sancier*
Jennifer A. Santana
Heather C. Sargeant
J Schmidt
Harry Seagal*
Marianne G. Seggerman
Karl-Ludwig Selig*
Andrew Sendall
Elliott R. Sernel
Dale Norris Shaw*
Larry Siegel
Andrew W. Solomon
Robert J. Starshak
Marc A. Triebwasser*
John Tynes*
Josef Van Der Kar*
Loet VanDerveen
Donald E. Watson*
Scott J. Weber
Ric Weiland*
Jeffrey E. White*
Robert S. White*
Harry K. Willwater
Douglas Wingo
Walt Witcover*
Jacob Lee Withers, Jr.*
Craig J. Witt*
Benton Wong
Roy Glenn Wood*
James B. Wozniak*
Victoria K. Elliott York
Morgan Young*
Beth L. Zemsky
William Zilko*
Daniel R. Zillmann
Jaroslav E. Zivney*
Harvey Zuckman
James W. Lundberg Philantropic
James W. Lundberg Philantropic Trust
Ed Madden
William J. Stein
James J. Stroumbos*
James L. Tanner*