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In celebration of our 48th anniversary, Philadelphia Gay News (PGN) is excited to unveil the highly anticipated 48 Most Influential LGBTQ+ Leaders list for 2024, recognizing the most impactful LGBTQ+ individuals in the Philadelphia region. This annual event honors trailblazers, emerging leaders, advocates, artists and innovators across various fields who have made significant contributions to the LGBTQ+ community. The celebration will culminate in a grand event on Oct. 10 at the historic Arch Street Meeting House.
The 48 Most Influential LGBTQ+ Leaders list is a reflection of PGN’s longstanding commitment to elevating the voices and achievements of those who have left an indelible mark on the community. With each passing anniversary, the number of honorees grows, marking the milestone years of PGN’s influential presence. For 2024, we are thrilled to recognize 48 extraordinary individuals who have made lasting contributions across advocacy, politics, business, the arts, health and education. These honorees represent the rich diversity, strength, and vibrant culture of our LGBTQ+ community, and we are honored to celebrate their work.
In addition to the celebratory event, these honorees will also be profiled in a commemorative issue of Philadelphia Gay News, which will be published to coincide with OURFest and National Coming Out Day. This special issue will include detailed profiles of each individual, showcasing their professional achievements, activism and the impact they’ve had on the Philadelphia region and beyond.
Meet PGN’s 48 Most Influential LGBTQ+ Honorees of 2024:
Trailblazers
Recognizing pioneers who have broken barriers and paved the way for LGBTQ+ rights.
• Dan Anders — Administrative Judge for the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia County’s Trial Division
• Malcolm Kenyatta — State Rep. for Philadelphia’s 181st District, Candidate for Auditor General
• Sue Kerr — Founder of Pittsburgh Lesbian Correspondents
• Rue Landau — Philadelphia City Councilmember At-Large, first openly LGBTQ+ member of Philadelphia City Council
• Micah Mahjoubian — Chief of Staff at Office for Sen. Sharif Street, Chief of Staff at State Democratic Committee
• Alba Martinez — Director of Commerce for City of Philadelphia
These trailblazers have each made significant strides in public service, activism and policy, breaking barriers for the LGBTQ+ community and paving the way for future generations.
Emerging Leaders
Celebrating young activists and professionals making an early mark in their respective fields.
• Tariem Burroughs — Executive Director for External Partnerships at Drexel University Dornsife School of Public Health
• Andre Carroll — Candidate for Pennsylvania House of Representatives, District 201
• Jo Miller — Woodbury City Ward 1 Councilperson, first trans politician in South Jersey
• Sydni Perry-Anderson — TransWork Administrator at Independence Business Alliance (IBA)
• Raymond Smeriglio — Senior Manager of Lift Zones team at Comcast, Commissioner for Governor Shapiro’s LGBTQ+ Affairs Commission
• Ashleigh Strange — Executive Director of Gov. Josh Shapiro’s LGBTQ+ Affairs Commission
These emerging leaders are driving change at the local and state levels, bringing a fresh perspective to advocacy and community development while contributing to economic growth, health equity and political inclusion.
Community Advocates
Honoring those who have dedicated their lives to improving the LGBTQ+ community through service and advocacy.
• Jacen Bowman — Vice President of Philly Black Pride
• Tyrell Brown — Executive Director of Galaei
• Ricky Buttacavoli — Founder of Montgomery County LGBT Business Council and Ricky’s Pride PAC
• Michael DelBene — President and CEO of Welcome America, Inc.
• Breighton Golphin — Organizer of Philly Trans March (PTM)
• CC Tellez — Founder of Lez Run Philadelphia
From grassroots organizing to leading community initiatives, these advocates have devoted their careers to advancing LGBTQ+ rights, particularly for marginalized groups within the community.
Artists and Creatives
Highlighting influential LGBTQ+ individuals in the arts, including visual arts, theater, music and literature.
• David Acosta — Poet, writer, curator and cultural producer, co-founder and Artistic Director for Casa de Duende in Philadelphia, Founder of Galaei
• Sapphira Cristál — “RuPaul’s Drag Race” season 16 runner-up
• Kelli Dunham — Comedian, founder of Philly Dyke March
• TS Hawkins — Author, educator and playwright
• James Ijames — Pulitzer Prize-winning creator of “Fat Ham”
• Yoojin Park — Drag performer
These artists and creatives have used their platforms to express the unique experiences of LGBTQ+ people, creating spaces for dialogue and visibility through their performances, art and literature.
Health and Wellness Champions
Acknowledging those who have made significant contributions to LGBTQ+ health, mental health and overall well-being.
• Dr. Vicky Borgia — Family Medicine Physician at Radiance Medical Group
• Dr. BJ Howard — Board-certified Family Physician
• Sultan Shakir — President and Executive Officer at Mazzoni Center
• Sonalee Rashatwar — Therapist and body positivity/sex positivity advocate
• Javontae Williams — HIV Prevention Program Manager at Department of Public Health
• Baligh R. Yehia — President of Jefferson Health
These champions have prioritized LGBTQ+ health and wellness, driving progress in mental health services, HIV care and inclusive health practices.
Business and Innovation Leaders
Celebrating LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs and business leaders driving innovation and economic growth.
• Casey Cook — Executive Director of Bread & Roses Community Fund
• David M. Davis — Board Member at Penn State, Managing Director at Accenture Philadelphia
• Matthew Ray — Co-Owner of GroundFloor Studios, Chief Creative Officer at ChatterBlast
• Lorena Plaza — Vice President of Financial Planning and Analysis at Independence Blue Cross
• José Vélez-Silva — Vice President of Multicultural Strategy at Comcast
• Zach Wilcha — CEO of Independence Business Alliance
These business leaders have fostered innovation, building companies and platforms that are helping to shape Philadelphia’s economic landscape while advancing diversity and inclusion.
Educators and Scholars
Recognizing educators and academics who have advanced LGBTQ+ knowledge and inclusion in education.
• Tara Rose Brown — Organizing Director at Philly Children’s Movement
• Rebecca Fisher — Founder of Beyond the Bell Tours
• Scott Gratson — Director of Undergraduate Studies at Temple University
• Jonathan D. Katz — Associate Professor of Practice at University of Pennsylvania
• Ella Quimby — Camp Director at Appel Farm
• Nhakia Outland — Founder and Executive Director of Prevention Meets Fashion
These educators and scholars are reshaping the way LGBTQ+ history and inclusion are integrated into academic curricula, providing critical insights and knowledge that promote understanding and respect.
Media and Communications
Honoring journalists, writers and media personalities who have amplified LGBTQ+ voices and stories.
• Conrad Benner — Founder and Editor of Streets Dept., Host of WHYY’s Art Outside
• Victoria A. Brownworth — National journalist, winner of the Sarah Pettit Memorial Award
• Neil Frauenglass — Chief Marketing Officer at Visit Philly
• Kelly Frank — President and GM at CBS News Philadelphia
• Adam Joseph — Meteorologist at 6abc
• Miguel Martinez-Valle — Reporter at NBC 10 and Telemundo 62
These media professionals have brought LGBTQ+ stories to broader audiences, challenging stereotypes and creating opportunities for representation in mainstream media.
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The 48 Most Influential LGBTQ+ Leaders event is a testament to the rich diversity and contributions of the LGBTQ+ community in Philadelphia. It is a celebration of voices that continue to lead, inspire and create lasting change. By honoring these individuals, PGN reaffirms its commitment to supporting and uplifting the LGBTQ+ community.
As PGN marks this important milestone, we invite all members of the LGBTQ+ community, allies, and partners to join us at the Arch Street Meetinghouse on Oct. 10, 2024. Limited tickets are available to purchase on Eventbrite.
Together, we can celebrate the achievements of our most influential leaders and build a future filled with even more possibilities.
For sponsorship opportunities, event details, or to learn more about the honorees, please contact PGN Associate Publisher Martin Alfaro at [email protected].
Let’s come together and celebrate the change-makers shaping the future of LGBTQ+ Philadelphia!