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GLAAD

COMMUNITIES OF COLOR

GLAAD, the world's largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) media advocacy organization, has hired Julian J. Walker as Associate Director, Communities of Color & Media.

He will work alongside DaShawn Usher, Director, Communities of Color & Media to create programming that shapes narratives and provokes dialogue that will lead to cultural change while identifying and meeting the needs of the community.

In his role, Walker will ensure GLAAD’s Communities of Color & Media department creates, reports, trains, and partners with locally based initiatives throughout the country with a focus on the South.

“Early into my career I realized the importance of community support,” says Walker. “Valuing the voices of those often forgotten or seen as unusable. If it wasn't for the love, encouragement, and support I've received across the world, I wouldn't have the hope, faith, and belief today that I too deserve to be here. Aside from my beautiful journey in television and film, working closely with community leaders has offered a level of peace that I can't explain. I'm looking forward to the spaces we'll continue to create, the voices we will continue to amplify, and the opportunities for community advancement on the horizon. Always remember: your individuality is your superpower; so continue to soar – trusting and believing you ARE deserving.”

Walker brings first-hand entertainment, media, and advocacy experience to the role, previously starring in the 2014 film Blackbird, directed by Patrik-Ian Polk, alongside Academy Award-winning actress Mo’Nique. He’s also the Deputy Director for Mobilizing Our Brothers Initiative (MOBI), a series of curated social connectivity events for queer people of color to see their holistic selves.

ABOUT JULIAN J. WALKER Julian J. Walker is an esteemed silver screen actor featured in “Blackbird,” Bounce TV’s “Saints & Sinners,” and BET’s hit series “Being Mary Jane.” This Jackson, MS native has trailblazed in the literary sector with his artistic work, “A Year Without You” featured on NBC News Best Black Queer Books list in 2020.

For the past eight years, Julian has partnered with leaders and organizations across the globe in hopes of creating safe spaces for LGBTQ+ POC. He’s currently the Deputy Director for Mobilizing Our Brothers Initiative (MOBI) and Communities of Color Ambassador for GLAAD, the world’s largest LGBTQ+ organization.

ABOUT GLAAD: GLAAD rewrites the script for LGBTQ acceptance. As a dynamic media force, GLAAD tackles tough issues to shape the narrative and provoke dialogue that leads to cultural change. GLAAD protects all that has been accomplished and creates a world where everyone can live the life they love.

For more information, please visit www.glaad.org or connect with GLAAD on Facebook and Twitter.