2024 ALLY OF THE YEAR
STONEWALL COLUMBUS’ 2024
CENTRAL OHIO ALLY OF THE YEAR (BUSINESS)
GRANGE INSURANCE
Grange Insurance has demonstrated a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), making significant strides in supporting the LGBTQ+ community and promoting overall diversity within its workforce and the broader community. Here are some highlights of their DEI initiatives:
Workforce Diversity: Grange Insurance has focused on enhancing diversity among their staff. Over 50% of their new officer and manager hires have been diverse, reflecting their commitment to building an inclusive workforce. This initiative is backed by their broader DEI strategy which encompasses workforce, workplace, marketplace, and community engagements.
• Community Engagement and Support: The company actively engages in community support, contributing additional funds to advance racial equality and support various health and human services. Their community relations programs are geared towards making a positive impact on both local and broader scales.
• Associate Resource Groups (ARGs): Grange Insurance supports multiple associate resource groups, including a Pride Partnership and Allies group founded in 2016. This group is dedicated to creating a safe and rewarding work environment for all associates, with a particular focus on empowering the LGBTQ+ community.
• Training and Education: Grange offers extensive training and educational opportunities that include topics such as creating an inclusive culture, unconscious bias, and inclusive leadership. These initiatives are designed to foster an environment of understanding and acceptance.
• Inclusive Policies: The company has updated its Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and harassment policies to explicitly include sexual orientation and gender identity. They also provide inclusive benefits like domestic partner benefits and a gender transition resource guide.
These efforts have been recognized with awards such as the Outstanding Diversity Organization in 2022 and the naming of their Chief Operations Officer as an Outstanding Diversity Champion in 2023.
Grange Insurance's DEI efforts are comprehensive, addressing multiple aspects of inclusivity and diversity, and making them a deserving recipient of the Central Ohio Ally of the Year - Businesses award by Stonewall Columbus.
A LETTER TO THE COMMUNITY
DEAR FRIENDS,
THIS PRIDE MONTH WE ARE EXCITED TO EMBRACE THE THEME "LIVE OUT LOUD," A MANTRA THAT ENCAPSULATES OUR JOURNEY, OUR DREAMS, AND OUR UNWAVERING COMMITMENT TO THE LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY. THIS YEAR, AS WE GATHER TO CELEBRATE, WE ARE REMINDED OF THE POWER OF OUR COMBINED VOICES AND THE VIBRANCY OF OUR UNIQUE AND INTERSECTIONAL STORIES.
FIFTY-FIVE YEARS AGO, A BRAVE GROUP OF INDIVIDUALS AT THE STONEWALL INN DARED TO STAND UP AGAINST INJUSTICE, SPARKING A GLOBAL MOVEMENT. TODAY, WE CONTINUE THAT LEGACY BY LIVING OPENLY AND ADVOCATING FIERCELY. "LIVE OUT LOUD" IS MORE THAN A THEME; IT'S A CALL TO EVERY ONE OF US TO CELEBRATE OUR TRUTH, TO OWN OUR STORIES, AND TO SHARE OUR JOY.
AT STONEWALL COLUMBUS, WE BELIEVE IN THE STRENGTH OF VISIBILITY. WE KNOW THAT WHEN WE LIVE OUT LOUD, WE PAVE THE WAY FOR INCLUSIVITY, EQUALITY, AND UNDERSTANDING. THIS YEAR'S PRIDE FESTIVITIES ARE DESIGNED TO AMPLIFY VOICES THAT, FOR TOO LONG, HAVE BEEN SILENCED. WE ARE HERE TO SHOUT, TO SING, AND TO CELEBRATE THE INCREDIBLE DIVERSITY WITHIN OUR COMMUNITY.
THIS PRIDE, LET US HONOR THOSE WHO HAVE FOUGHT FOR OUR RIGHTS, REMEMBER THOSE WE HAVE LOST, AND CELEBRATE THE STRIDES WE HAVE MADE. LET'S COMMIT TO THE WORK THAT STILL LIES AHEAD, KNOWING THAT TOGETHER, WE CAN OVERCOME ANY OBSTACLE.
WE INVITE YOU TO JOIN US, TO LIVE OUT LOUD, AND TO TAKE PRIDE IN EVERYTHING THAT MAKES YOU UNIQUELY YOU. TOGETHER, WE WILL CONTINUE TO FIGHT FOR A FUTURE WHERE EVERYONE IN THE LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY CAN LIVE FREELY AND AUTHENTICALLY.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR COURAGE, YOUR SUPPORT, AND YOUR CONTINUED PASSION. HAPPY PRIDE, COLUMBUS!
2024 HONOREES
STONEWALL COLUMBUS’ 2024 CHAMPION OF PRIDE
TRAVIS SHUMAKE
AMPION OF PRIDE CH
Travis Shumake has made a significant impact in the world of motorsports, not only as a skilled driver but also as a trailblazer for LGBTQ+ representation in a traditionally conservative sport. He debuted as the first openly gay driver in a national event on the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) racing circuit and has continued to use his platform to promote inclusivity and equality within the motorsports community.
Shumake's involvement with LGBTQ+ activism, particularly with the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), has been a critical part of his journey in breaking down barriers. He proudly displays the HRC’s logo on his dragster, helmet, and tracksuit, which is symbolic of his commitment to the cause. He has also had sponsorship from organizations like Pride Kansas and support from other groups that serve LGBTQ+ youth, such as One-n-Ten and True Colors United.
Despite challenges, including difficulties in obtaining corporate sponsorships and facing protests from discriminatory groups, Shumake’s presence in the sport has been a beacon of hope and change. His efforts are slowly increasing LGBTQ+ visibility and representation in motorsports, which is evident from the spikes in television viewership and social media engagement when he races.
In an impressive move, Shumake has also become the first openly gay owner of a professional touring race team in major American motorsports leagues, further solidifying his role as a pioneer in the sport. His commitment extends beyond just racing; he aims to use his position to educate the 30 million American drag racing fans about LGBTQ+ issues and the work of HRC.
Shumake’s message is clear: the race car doesn't know the difference, and motorsports should be a welcoming space for all, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. He stands as a champion, driving the torch of equality across the finish line and into new territories of acceptance and recognition in the racing world (UPI) (Human Rights Campaign)
CORNERSTONEAWARD
STONEWALL COLUMBUS’ 2024 CORNERSTONE AWARDEE
MIKE MILLER
Mike has carried the Stonewall Columbus banner for over 10 years in the Pride March. His unwavering commitment has seen him work as a center greeter and front desk staffer, even during a portion of the challenging COVID-19 pandemic. Mike's dedication as a volunteer is truly inspiring. Mike’s contributions extend far beyond the walls of Stonewall Columbus. His commitment to the LGBTQ+ community has seen him travel across the state to be present at pride events, both small and large. He is a true cornerstone, not only for Stonewall Columbus but for the entire LGBTQ+ community in Ohio. We honor Mike Miller with the Stonewall Cornerstone Award, recognizing his incredible dedication and the positive impact he has had on so many lives.
LOVE ALWAYS BELONGS.
We’re working to create a true sense of belonging as we embrace and promote diversity, equity and inclusion.
In our organization, in the communities we serve, and in the world, our message is simple. All in, all included. That’s why DEIB is the heartbeat of our focus. It inspires us to do more and to do better.
So, no matter what, be you because you belong.
Learn more about Bread Financial and our DEIB initiatives at breadfinancial.com.
YOUR HEALTH, YOUR WAY.
Discover Comprehensive LGBTQ+ Care at Central Outreach Including Walk-In STI Services, PrEP, HIV(+) Treatment, Mpox, and More. No Insurance? No Problem!
HOUSING IS A HUMAN RIGHT.
For 90 years the Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority has provided affordable housing solutions that help turn houses into homes. As community is a core principle of our mission, we believe that no matter who you are, you deserve a safe place to live, work and grow! Only together can we hope to create an Ohio we all belong in. Learn
STONEWALL COLUMBUS’ 2024 PATRON OF PRIDE
ZHANÉ DAWLINGZ
The Stonewall Columbus Patron of Pride recognizes an individual who ensures the community is not only present but seen and does so by simply living their truth - out LOUD and PROUD!
Zhané Dawlingz is a celebrated Black trans woman who has achieved remarkable success in the world of pageantry. She is notably the winner of the Miss Continental 2024 title, which is a prestigious crown within the drag community and represents a significant accomplishment given the competition's high caliber. Her victory is a landmark moment, signaling progress and inclusivity in an arena that has often presented challenges for visibility and recognition for trans individuals.
Her win has been acknowledged and celebrated across the LGBTQ+ community and beyond, receiving praise from peers and icons within the drag world, including former contestants of RuPaul's Drag Race. This victory on her first attempt is not just a testament to her talent as a performer but also her determination and the support of a community rallying for wider representation.
Zhané Dawlingz’s triumph serves as an inspiring example of the power of resilience and representation, and her story is a beacon for aspiring performers in the LGBTQ+ community, advocating for the celebration of diversity and the embracing of authentic self-expression within the performing arts and pageantry (PinkNews) (Out Magazine) (Happening Out TV).
FRIDAY, JUNE 14
DJ BREEZYEZ
BIANCA DEBONAIR - HOST
HEAUX'TELL ONASSIS - CO HOST
2023 PATRON OF PRIDE - MIKAYLA
DENISE
BIANCA BOUVIER
FLEX ADONIS
OCTAVIUS RASHAD
HAPPY LYNX
AVA AURORA FOXX
THE UNIVERSE
TRACIE LORDS
CAMERON SMITH
KILYO
TRIVIA WITH JAKI & ZAC
DJ BREEZYEZ
SATURDAY, JUNE 15
BIANCA DEBONAIR - HOST
HEAUX'TELL ONASSIS - CO HOST
2023 PATRON OF PRIDE - MIKAYLA
DENISE
AJ QUIN
JASHA SANCELLY D'MONROE
ROBYN DACULTYRE
KEYUN STARR LAMONICO
FULANI FENIX
LATICE JOY JLOVE
ISAAC ISMAEL
MAJA JERA
222BREE
COLUMBUS GAY MEN’S CHORUS
AUGUSTUS SNATCH
GODIVA
EBONY DIAMOND FOXX
PANDORA FOXX
HUNTY D'MONROE
REESE S. PIECES
JAYSON KELLY
B. SUAVE
TEWINA MANUEL
DESTINY GISELLE FENIX
DESTINY DEVILE
DESIREE MONROE
FRIDAY, JUNE 14
AMBER KNICOLE - HOST
ANGELA PERLEY
WEEZEE
SYDNEY MCSWEENY
WALTER K
LISA G
ISIS YASMEEN
GABRIELLE SOLANGE
VESPERTEEN
SATURDAY, JUNE 15
MERCEDEZ & JOE
COLUMBUS PRIDE BAND FLAGGOTS
COLUMBUS WOMEN'S CHORUS
ANISA LOVE
LIPSTICK JODI
ETHAN SOZA
KEEZY THEE UNKIND
TREY PEARSON
BEANE
MADISON
FRIDAY, JUNE 14
DJIAMUNECC
WES OOOH
GOVAN
DJ CRYS CLASSIC
INDUSTRIAL BADGER
DJ UNICORN
SATURDAY, JUNE 15
DOUGGERT
WAVEY
MEGALOOP
MOJO
BEHOLD
TRUESKILLZ
JUZTJAKE
NISCHEL SONI
Pizzuti Collection of CMOA (AKA THE RAINBOW ROOM!)
JUNE 15
11AM – 3:30PM
Located at the corners of Park and Russell The Pizzuti Collection of Columbus Museum of Art's Pride Lounge offers an opportunity to take a break from the crowds, enjoy a beverage (or two) from our friends at Middle West Spirits, grab a snack, enjoy air conditioning, and enjoy indoor restroom facilities--all just adjacent Goodale Park.
This space is limited to sponsors, those who donated $600 via the Pride Champion process, and those who donate $150 at the door.
Event is 21 and over unless accompanied by a parent/guardian.
LOCATION
Pizzuti Collection of the Columbus Museum of Art 632 North Park Street Columbus, OH 43215
GET THE GEAR! ON SALE NOW!
YOU CAN PURCHASE PRIDE TAGS AT A VARIETY OF BUSINESSES IN IN COLUMBUS, AT THE STONEWALL COLUMBUS TENT INSIDE THE FESTIVAL, ONLINE AT COLUMBUSPRIDE.ORG/STORE OR AT THE STONEWALL CENTER! A LIMITED NUMBER OF PRIDE TAGS ARE AVAILABLE. GET 'EM BEFORE THEY'RE GONE!
LEARN ABOUT OUR PRIDE TAG PARTNERS AT: STONEWALLCOLUMBUS.ORG/PRIDETAGS
STOP BY THE STONEWALL TENT AND LEARN ALL ABOUT THE BENEFITS OF BECOMING A MEMBER OF STONEWALL COLUMBUS!
LOOKING FOR THE OFFICIAL COLUMBUS PRIDE APPAREL?
YOU CAN FIND OFFICIAL PRIDE APPAREL AT COLUMBUSPRIDE.ORG/STORE AFTER THE FESTIVAL + MARCH. GET YOUR OFFICIAL PRIDE MERCH NEXT TO THE STONEWALL TENT!
A strong community creates a bond between us all. It fosters friendship, respect, and well-being. And most importantly, we accomplish more together. That’s why we’re proud to support Stonewall Columbus.
DON’T MISS THIS UNIQUE AND WELCOMING MARKETPLACE! GET OUT THERE AND BUY SOME FANTASTIC PRODUCTS FROM LGBTQFRIENDLY COMPANIES AND ORGANIZATIONS!
VENDOR & FESTIVAL FUN
SHOP HUNDREDS OF VENDORS AND SPONSORS THAT SUPPORT THE COMMUNITYLGBTQ & GIVE BACK!
INCLUSIVE • KIND • THOUGHTFUL • RESPECTFUL • PROUD!
As we celebrate 42 YEARS of our community’s PRIDE, please remember to stay safe!
BE SAFE, BE NEIGHBORLY STAY SAFE
There will be over 400,000 people passing through the festival and march during the course of the weekend we implore our community to be:
INCLUSIVE • KIND • THOUGHTFUL • RESPECTFUL • PROUD!
The Stonewall Columbus Pride Festival does not tolerate any form of favoritism, hurtful language, discrimination, abuse, marginalization and insulting behavior on the grounds of gender, ethnicity, religion, background, skin color, religious belief, sexuality, gender identity, socio-economic status, caste, difference in ability or age. Stonewall Columbus does not accept sexism, racism, colorism, homophobia, biphobia, inter-phobia and transphobia or hostility, anti-Semitism, Islamophobia, fascism, age discrimination, ableism as well as other and/or intersectional forms of discrimination.
In addition, Stonewall Columbus does not tolerate any acts of violence, abuse or harassment of any verbal, physical, sexual or other kind towards our employees, visitors, guests and partners. Stonewall Columbus reserves the right to deny access to the festival, its facilities, events and venues without prior notice to anyone who violates these expectations of engagement.
Tips for an enjoyable experience:
• OUTSIDE ALCOHOL AND COOLERS ARE NOT PERMITTED
• PACE YOURSELF
• STAY HYDRATED
• DO NOT LEAVE YOUR DRINK UNATTENDED
• LEAVE YOUR PETS AT HOME
• KEEP THE PARK AND COMMUNITY CLEAN
• USE THE TRASH AND RECYCLING RECEPTACLES
• PARK LEGALLY
• B E AWARE OF YOUR SURROUNDINGS AT ALL TIMES
• TAG YOUR BAG WITH YOUR EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION (Bag Tags available at the Stonewall Tent)
• TAG YOUR CHILD WITH AN EMERGENCY CONTACT WRISTBAND ( Wristbands available at the Stonewall Tent)
• LISTEN TO PRIDE SECURITY – THEY ARE THERE TO KEEP US ALL SAFE
• VACATE THE PARKS WHEN THE FESTIVAL CLOSES (Friday @ 10pm and Saturday at 8pm)
Community: The True Return on Investment
Running a business takes more than access to the right tools – it takes knowledge, perseverance, and, sometimes, a helping hand. First Merchants’ attentive bankers have years of expertise and adaptive financial advice to help your business prosper – from concept to legacy. For more information, please call 1.800.205.3464 or check us out at firstmerchants.com.
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YOUR GUIDE TO PARKING FOR PRIDE IN THE SHORT NORTH ARTS DISTRICT
With over 8,900 parking spaces in the Short North Arts District, including 680 parking meters, 6,000 non-metered on-street parking spaces, 2,250 garage parking spaces, parking has never been easier in the Short North Arts District.
Visit shortnorth.org/parking to learn all about our on-street and garage parking, transit options, how you can save on parking and more!
GET A RIDE TO PRIDE
This Pride month, you can ride COTA to and from the Short North Arts District and everywhere in between - at no cost to you!
Our new Short North C-pass program gives you monthly access to COTA’s fixed-route services at no fare.
Getting started is simple. Visit www.cota.com/sna-c-pass to learn more
GARAGE PARKING
There are several public parking garages and surface lots in the Short North Arts District that are spread out and conveniently located throughout the District, o ering hourly, daily, or monthly payment options.
SAVE ON GARAGE PARKING
Park in one of four participating garages in the Short North Arts District and pay only $1 for the first hour if you enter the garage between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
ON-STREET + KIOSK PARKING
The Short North Arts District has hundreds of on-street parking and parking kiosks spots throughout the city, perfect for any short or long term parking plans!
Download the ParkColumbus App to your smartphone or mobile device before your visit to view available parking near you, as well as contactless parking payment for any kiosks and on-street parking spots.
SAVE ON KIOSK + ON-STREET PARKING
Get $1 o on-street and kiosk parking with the ParkColumbus App.
Scan the QR Code to access your unique validation code, parking + transit maps, and more OR visit shortnorth.org/parking
Photo: Bailey Lytle
SHORT NORTH ARTS DISTRICT
The Short North Arts District is the Art + Soul of Columbus. In our community, we believe that diversity represents the di erences among people, equity means fairness, regardless of di erences, and inclusion is achieved for all through intentional engagement and welcoming behavior.
Learn more at shortnorth.org/ideainthesnad.
Our vibrant and inclusive community is full of local art galleries, shopping, dining and more!
From new art exhibitions and performances to tastings and tours, there’s always something new and exciting happening in the Short North Arts District.
“Pride Circles” by Lisa McLymont *Located at Stonewall Columbus
Photo: Bailey Lytle
Photo: Bailey Lytle
Motivated to move forward
Your aspirations are our inspiration. Put U.S. Bank tools, services and guidance to work to help you reach your financial goals.
Visit usbank.com/lgbtq to learn more today.
U.S. Bank is proud to support Stonewall Columbus.
The strongest connection is the one among all of us.
Empowering Human Potential Through Sight™
1 Classification: Public Classification: Public
VSP serves customers with a spectrum of identities, experiences, abilities, and economic situations. It’s why we are actively committed to fostering an environment that embraces diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I). This commitment enables us to create solutions that support individual healthcare needs and empower human potential.
KEEP YOURSELF SAFE
TAG YOUR BAG
WE ARE ASKING FESTIVAL ATTENDEES TO EXTERNALLY TAG YOUR BAG IN AN EFFORT TO LESSEN THE NUMBER OF LOST OR UNATTENDED BELONGINGS AND TO KEEP THE FESTIVAL SAFE.
BAG IDENTIFICATION TAGS WILL BE AVAILABLE AT THE STONEWALL TENT. MAKE SURE THE TAG IS VISIBLE ON THE OUTSIDE OF YOUR BAG. THESE TAGS WILL HELP ENSURE THAT IF YOU FORGET YOUR BAG, IT WILL BE RETURNED SAFELY AND SWIFTLY TO YOU. IF YOU SEE AN UNATTENDED BAG, PLEASE NOTIFY THE CLOSEST VOLUNTEER OR SECURITY OFFICER.
TAG YOUR TOT
IN AN EFFORT TO KEEP OUR CHILDREN SAFE, TAGS WILL BE AVAILABLE TO PARENTS TO INDICATE EMERGENCY CONTACTS. PLEASE NOTE ALL EMERGENCY CONTACTS AND MEETING SPOTS ON IDENTIFICATION TAGS.
IDENTIFICATION TAGS WILL BE AVAILABLE AT THE STONEWALL TENT. MAKE SURE THE TAG IS SECURED TO YOUR CHILD OR PLACED IN A VISIBLE LOCATION ON THEIR CLOTHING. THESE LABELS WILL HELP ENSURE THE SWIFT RETURN OF YOUR CHILD SHOULD YOU BECOME SEPARATED.
The Stonewall Columbus Leader(s) of Pride recognizes individuals who use their voices boldly and loudly in support of the LGBTQ+ community in Columbus, Ohio, and beyond. Nominees are celebrated for inspiring collective action in or around the Central Ohio LGBTQ+ community.
Your significant contributions during 2023 in showing up for our community and combating the anti-LGBTQ+ legislation that was moving through the state of Ohio—alongside three other commendable community members. Your individual and combined efforts continue the proud tradition of advocacy and resilience that defines our community.
MARIA BRUNO, ESQ. (SHE/HER)
Maria Bruno is a committed advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and serves as the Public Policy Director at Equality Ohio. With a rich background in public policy and civic engagement, she has been instrumental in advancing legislation that supports the LGBTQ+ community. Her efforts include working on civil rights, economic justice, and voting rights. Maria joined Equality Ohio in 2021 and has been a pivotal figure in pushing for progressive changes at both state and local levels
RHEA DEBUSSY, PH.D. (SHE/HER)
Dr. Rhea Debussy is known for her dedication to advocacy and community engagement within the LGBTQ+ community. She currently serves as the Director of External Affairs for Equitas Health, and she was the founding Executive Director of the Ace and Aro Alliance of Central Ohio. Her work often focuses on strategic communication and policy development to combat anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and promote a more inclusive society.
DARA ADKISON (THEY/THEM)
Dara Adkison is the first Executive Director of TransOhio, former Vice Chair of TransOhio as of two months ago, a parent, and a non-binary genderqueer trans masculine person. They are the former President of the Cleveland Stonewall Democrats, founder of the Rural Lorain Precinct Association, former candidate for the Ohio House of Representatives, running in 2020 as the first LGBTQIA+ candidate at any level in either Huron or Lorain counties. They have been involved with local, state, and national organizations through their legislative advocacy, public speaking, testimony, educational efforts, and helping provide community resources for the past decade.
SIOBHAN BOYD-NELSON, JD (SHE/HER)
Siobhan Boyd-Nelson has significantly contributed to equality in Ohio serving as the Deputy Director and stepping into the role of Interim and Co-Interim Executive Director of Equality Ohio. Their leadership and dedication have been instrumental in advancing the rights and visibility of the LGBTQIA+ community in Ohio. Siobhan's time at Kaleidoscope Youth Center, Stonewall Columbus, and Equality Ohio highlights their commitment to fostering an inclusive environment through policy advocacy, community engagement, and strategic leadership. JD
At Westerwood, feeling younger never gets old, starting with the biggest backyard in Columbus, our 23-acre wildlife refuge Friendship Woods. Other year-round opportunities to learn, laugh and grow can be summed up this way: You’re going to need a bigger bucket list.
We also offer the only bona fide Life Care Community near Westerville. All of this is made even more exceptional because of our welcoming residents and staff. Together they’ve created a truly inspiring place of kinship, caring and discovery.
ABOUT STONEWALL COLUMBUS
STONEWALL COLUMBUS SERVES THE COMMUNITY YEAR ROUND, NOT JUST ON PRIDE WEEKEND! WE PROVIDE A COMMUNITY CENTER THAT OFFERS PROGRAMMING AND SERVICES TO ENHANCE THE WELL-BEING OF OUR DIVERSE COMMUNITY.
MISSION. VISION. VALUES. HISTORY.
MISSION: INCREASE VISIBILITY, INCLUSION, AND CONNECTION FOR THE LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY.
VISION: AN OHIO WHERE ALL OF US THRIVE.
VALUES: HISTORY. VISIBILITY. INCLUSION. CONNECTION. ACCOUNTABILITY.
STONEWALL COLUMBUS WAS FOUNDED IN 1981 WITH THE GOAL OF “INCREASING THE VISIBILITY AND ACCEPTANCE OF THE GAY, LESBIAN, BISEXUAL, AND TRANSGENDER (GLBT) COMMUNITY.” DURING STONEWALL’S 40-YEAR EXISTENCE, COLUMBUS, AND THE LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY HAS CHANGED. THE CITY OF COLUMBUS IS NOW THE 14TH LARGEST CITY IN THE COUNTRY AND RECOGNIZED AS ONE OF THE MOST LGBTQ+ FRIENDLY CITIES IN THE UNITED STATES.
IN ADDITION TO AN EVOLVING ARRAY OF PROGRAMS STONEWALL PRODUCES LAVENDER LISTINGS, A LISTING OF LOCAL PRODUCTS AND SERVICES FROM LGBTQ+ FRIENDLY BUSINESSES AND ORGANIZATIONS, AND COLUMBUS PRIDE; STARTED IN 1981 PRIDE NOW WELCOMES OVER 700,000 VISITORS TO THE COLUMBUS REGION.
AS THE COMMUNITY HAS CHANGED SO HAS STONEWALL’S MISSION AND VISION–NOW TO “INCREASE VISIBILITY, INCLUSION, AND CONNECTION FOR THE LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY SO WE SEE A COMMUNITY WHERE ALL OF US THRIVE.”
AS WE FORGE AHEAD, WE WILL…
• ALWAYS REMEMBER OUR HISTORY AS WE BUILD OUR FUTURE BRICK BY BRICK;
• BE VISIBLE, REMINDING THE WORLD THAT WE ARE STRONG, VITAL MEMBERS OF HUMANITY;
• BE INCLUSIVE, BECAUSE WE KNOW WHAT IT MEANS TO BE LEFT OUT;
• BE CONNECTED, LINKING NEEDS TO RESOURCES AND PEOPLE TO ONE ANOTHER; STAND UP FOR EVERYONE IN OUR COMMUNITY, REGARDLESS OF SEXUAL ORIENTATION, GENDER IDENTITY AND/OR EXPRESSION, SEX, AGE, RACE, COLOR, NATIONAL ORIGIN, RELIGION, MILITARY STATUS, FAMILIAL STATUS; OR DISABILITY.
PROGRAMS AND SERVICES
STONEWALL AIMS TO BE AN ORGANIZATION THAT SERVES THE FULL SPECTRUM OF OUR LGBTQ+ RAINBOW, STONEWALL IS A VITAL HUB FOR PROVIDING ACCESS TO INFORMATION AND RESOURCES THAT ADDRESS THE NEEDS OF THE LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY.
EACH YEAR, THE STONEWALL CENTER WELCOMES OVER 10,000 VISITORS AND PROVIDES CONNECTIONS TO SERVICES FOR NEARLY 40,000 PEOPLE, PRIORITIZING PROGRAMS FOR THE MOST VULNERABLE AMONG US. STONEWALL IS PROUD TO HAVE 500+ VOLUNTEERS AND PARTNER WITH NUMEROUS LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS. IN ADDITION TO PROGRAMS LIKE THE TRAILBLAZERS AND PRIDE OUR STRATEGY WILL ALWAYS BE TO WORK CLOSELY WITH EXISTING COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS TO IDENTIFY GAPS IN SERVICES THAT WE CAN FILL AND CREATE TIMELY INITIATIVES WHERE STONEWALL’S COMMUNITY-WIDE REACH BRINGS ADDED VALUE.
STONEWALL COLUMBUS
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
K TERRY SMITH (THEY/THEM) PRESIDENT
MISSY ANDERSON (SHE.HER.HERS) VICE-PRESIDENT
DR. TERRENCE BROOKS (HE.HIM.HIS) SECRETARY
JIAMEI (JZ) KNOX-ZHANG (SHE.HER.HERS) TREASURER
RONALD MURRAY (SHE.HER.HERS) COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT LIAISON
TRUSTEES
TYREESE BOWMAN (HE.HIM.HIS)
JEFFREY CARTER (HE.HIM.HIS)
CHRIS CHAVERS (HE.HIM.HIS)
STERLING CLEMMONS (SHE.THEY)
CRAIG DIAZ (HE.HIM.HIS)
ALLISON HARRISON, ESQ. (SHE.THEY)
GREGORY L. PRICE (HE.HIM.HIS)
GERRY RODRIGUEZ (HE.HIM.HIS)
MARSHALL TROXELL (HE.HIM.HIS)
EX OFFICIO MEMBERS
DENSIL R. PORTEOUS, MBA (HE.THEY) EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
STAFF
CASSEY HELM (SHE.HER.HERS) PRIDE EVENT COORDINATOR
SIERRA PRINCE (SHE.HER.HERS) PRIDE EVENT COORDINATOR
LEO RODRIGUEZ (HE.THEY)
MARKETING & BUSINESS COORDINATOR
RONALD G MURRAY (HE.HIM.HIS)
BOARD COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
LIAISON
ADDITIONAL SUPPORT
TY CRENSHAW
CHIEF OF SAFETY
EMMA PARKER
OFFICIAL PRIDE PHOTOGRAPHER
DENSIL R. PORTEOUS, MBA (HE.THEY) EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
ZAC BOYER, M.A.ED. (SHE.THEY) DIRECTOR, COMMUNITY PROGRAMS
JAKI BRAXTON (SHE.THEY)
SR. COORDINATOR, COMMUNITY PROGRAMS
KATHY CROWE (SHE.HER.HERS)
SR. COORDINATOR, COMMUNICATIONS & CREATIVE SERVICES
CJ MARTIN, MSW (HE.HIM.HIS) DIRECTOR, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
CASSEY HELM (SHE.HER.HERS)
SR. MANAGER, ADMINISTRATIVE OPERATIONS/ PRIDE EVENT COORDINATOR
SIERRA PRINCE (SHE.HER.HERS)
MANAGER, BUSINESS & INFRASTRUCTURE/ PRIDE EVENT COORDINATOR
LEO RODRIGUEZ (HE.THEY) COORDINATOR, MARKETING & BUSINESS
STEVEN NIKOLAKIS (HE.HIM.HIS) COORDINATOR, DEVELOPMENT
LOKI THROWE (IT.THEY) COORDINATOR, ADMINISTRATIVE OPERATIONS
STEERING COMMITTEE CHAIRS
MARCH COMMITTEE CHAIRS
CRAIG TURNER (HE.HIM.HIS)
ANNIE MACKOWICK (SHE.HER.HERS)
HEATHER PENNINGTON (SHE.HER.HERS)
VENDOR CHAIR
BRIAN RENDER (HE.HIM.HIS)
BRIAN ZUBER (HE.HIM.HIS)
BEVERAGE & ICE MANAGEMENT CHAIR
ALEX VAN GULIJK (SHE.HER.HERS)
NESIP DALMIS (HE.HIM.HIS)
LYN “BUDDY” CONDICT (HE.HIM.HIS)
OPERATIONS CHAIR
JOEY PLESCIA (SHE.HER.HERS)
VOLUNTEER MANAGEMENT CHAIR
JAMI PARKER (SHE.HER.HERS)
CATHI CASTRO (SHE.HER.HERS)
LEVI EVANS (HE.HIM.HIS)
ACCESSIBILITY & PARKING CHAIR
NATASHA TRINITY (SHE.HER.HERS)
ENTERTAINMENT CHAIR
LOKI THROWE (IT.THEY)
TYREESE BOWMAN (HE.HIM.HIS)
SYDNEY STAPLETON (SHE.HER.HERS)
KELLEY SKOVRON (SHE.HER.HERS)
365 CORPORATE SPONSORS
PRIDE 365–Stonewall Columbus’ work is propelled by a number of corporate partners who generously support our programs. We believe in long-term, win-win partnerships that help our corporate partners reach their goals while contributing to our mission and work. Through their gift of dollars and time these companies demonstrate a strong commitment to the LGBTQ+ community here in Central Ohio. Do consider supporting these companies that support our community.
DIAMOND