A New Era For Stonewall Columbus

A New Era For Stonewall Columbus

Central Ohio’s LGBTQ+ community center got a makeover! The new “Center On High” is slated to open to the public in Spring 2019.

By Kaylee Duff

The renovated community center.

Photo by Jeff Skinner.

Mid-November, Stonewall Columbus (SWC) invited several local LGBTQ+ community leaders, activists and organization members to attend a “first look” at their newly renovated community center. While there, the True Team got a chance to take a sneak peek at what is sure to become a hotspot for education, advocacy and creativity.

"First look" of the new building.

Photo by Mike Miller.

The “Center on High” has long been a symbol for queer Columbus, and is being expanded to reflect and accommodate our community’s growth and expansion. The City of Columbus is rapidly increasing in population size and activity; central Ohio’s diversity is growing equally as fast.

Floors under construction.

Photo by Jeff Skinner.

The new building coincides with a revamping of the overall aesthetic, as well. Last month, Stonewall Columbus revealed their new logo, which is the most significant change the company has seen to their branding in 11 years. The new branding system is part of an affirmation that SWC is “a safe and welcoming space for ALL of us,” according to a statement released in November.

Brandt-Roberts Galleries displaying queer art.

Photo by Jeff Skinner.

Then, on November 16, SWC announced the selection of their new Executive Director, AJ Casey. Casey had been a leader in the community for many years before applying for the new position; she assisted with Stonewall Builds, the official re-build capital campaign. Casey is the perfect fit for the inclusive, welcoming future of Stonewall Columbus.

Art depicting transgender issues with bathrooms.

Photo by Jeff Skinner.

Through their years of service for the LGBTQ+ community in central Ohio, SWC has always aimed to provide events, programming and space that are accessible and safe for all of us. The new building clocks in at 15,000 square feet total — 12,000 square feet for community program and event space, and 3,000 square feet for offices and conference rooms. You can find building renderings on the Stonewall Builds official website for depictions on what those spaces will look like.

View from the roof.

Photo by Jeff Skinner.

The Stonewall Builds site also includes breakdowns on the campaign’s origins, partners and progress. The site reads: “This is more than a building — it’s a symbol of our future.” Our community wants to ensure that everyone in our community has somewhere safe they can turn to. Our safe spaces should be as inclusive and affirming as possible, for everyone, from all walks of life.

Mural of LGBTQ+ icons.

Photo by Jeff Skinner.

For more information about the Stonewall Columbus renovation and expansion, check out stonewallbuilds.org.

Keeping track of time on the new SWC clock.

Photo by Mike Miller.