2024 LGBTQ+ Power Players

Jon R. Del Giorno is a founding member of Pitta Bishop & Del Giorno LLC and manages the firm’s NYC consulting and government relations practice which features a long roster of union, not-for-profit, public affairs, political, and Fortune 500 clients. Del Giorno has also been an activist in the LGBTQI community for more than 40 years. He has hosted numerous fundraisers for LGBTQ candidates and is an advisory member of the Stonewall Community Development Corporation. 

If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?
Always go to work with a smile on your face, so choose something you love. And if you do not, you have plenty of time to make a switch. Do not be afraid about joining things, in fact, join more, be more involved, and more active. Never worry about what other people think or say and let nothing hold you back from living life to the fullest. 

Is there an LGBTQ+ icon or member of the community that you look up to?
Representative Ritchie Torres, because he and I share very similar backgrounds – born in the Bronx and raised by a single mom. Tim Gill because he invested in state legislative races across the country to elect LGBTQ and LGBTQ-friendly candidates, which led to the approval of same-sex marriage. Clara Hale of Hale House who took in homeless babies with AIDS, which is why the Hale House was the first cause to which I donated money.  

What can New York policymakers do to support members of the LGBTQ+ community?
Be more open and stop being silent about discriminating acts of hate. Encourage the educational system at all ages to teach tolerance and acceptance. Work to have a better understanding of the trans community – NYC is better than most, but the support and assistance is nowhere near where it needs to be for the trans community. 

Is there anything you are working on that you wish more people knew about?
The American LGBTQ+ Museum, the nation’s first museum dedicated to the history and culture of the LGBTQ+ community. The museum represents the shared expressions of 6 regions around the country and will be a vital center of research for the current and future accomplishments of the LGBTQ community. It will offer civics education to students and teachers and serve as an archive of millions of books, newspapers, maps, manuscripts, and other material. 

Ceyenne Doroshow (pronounced Kai-Ann) is a compassionate powerhouse performer, activist, organizer, community-based researcher and public figure in the trans and sex worker rights’ movements. As an international public speaker, her presentations include The Desiree Alliance, Creating Change, SisterSong, Harm Reduction Coalition and the International AIDS Conferences and now PRIDE on FX. At present, Ceyenne is building her leadership academy and envisioning a medical center and combined housing unit in Queens, NY

If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?
What I would say to my younger self is to slow down, not everything was solvable so let that pain go. Learn how to forgive people, holding hate and pain can ruin your life. I feel as if, if I heard those words, some of the things I went through, I would not have been in positions that were bad for me.

Is there an LGBTQ+ icon or member of the community that you look up to?
The person I look up to in the community is Ms. Major and Sharyn Grayson, as they have been phenomenal mentors in my life. I have learned so much navigation from these two ladies, personally and even running a not-for-profit. I will always pick up my phone no matter what for them!

What can New York policymakers do to support members of the LGBTQ+ community?
Start by supporting Grassroot LGBTQIA who are focused on housing. We as a community find it very hard to find stable, safe housing due to discrimination and end up sacrificing either the stable or safe part of finding a home and often winding up back to square one. We need to fix this problem in NY even in other states ASAP. This situation has gone on far too long without anyone addressing it properly.

Is there anything you are working on that you wish more people knew about?
I would love to announce that GLITS is campaigning to turn Pier 1 & 2 (Jacob Riis Beach) into an LGBTQIA landmark/land trust. We are envisioning keeping this space for our community as it has been the LGBTQIA beach for decades and we need to ensure its place in this world. After that, we plan on building a health and wellness center near the beach and solely employ community members to work there.

Mike Doyle leads one of the world’s top communications consultancies, with offices and affiliates in more than 70 countries. He is the executive sponsor for Omnicom’s global OPEN Pride employee resource group and serves on the global board of directors for GLAAD, the world’s leading organization dedicated to accelerating acceptance for the LGBTQ+ community. Mike is also a member of the Arthur W. Page Society, the foremost professional association for senior communications executives and educators.

If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?
Be kind, be generous, be grateful, be yourself, be intentional and be ready to take on any challenge you identify or that finds you. Every “yes” or “I’ll give it a try” is a step toward realizing what you love or love a bit less, and you’ll be better and stronger for trying.

Is there an LGBTQ+ icon or member of the community that you look up to?
First, it’s the countless LGBTQ+ professionals, advocates and elected officials who’ve gone before me, before all of us – who’ve lived and led in this great city, sacrificing over decades in pursuit of freedom and inclusion for our community. We stand and serve because they once did. Second, it’s Sarah Kate Ellis, CEO of GLAAD. She’s undeniably the right and necessary voice in the right and necessary time and the unparalleled icon of the movement. 

What can New York policymakers do to support members of the LGBTQ+ community?
New York policymakers have a disproportionate ability to lead and govern here at home, but to command a greater, more broadly visible platform given how vital New York is to the national dialogue. I’d welcome their voices in support of our community, raised as loudly and intentionally for the people of New York as they are for the countless around the U.S. who need to be seen and championed.

Is there anything you are working on that you wish more people knew about?
Our team was profoundly honored to partner with our clients at Mastercard when they launched, and continue to support, the Mastercard True Name Card, a category first that allows cardholders with participating banks to use their chosen name and identity on their credit card without requiring a legal name change. Its launch was a watershed moment for the transgender community and reinforces Mastercard’s unwavering commitment to inclusion in all its forms.

Sarah Kate Ellis was named president and CEO in 2014 after a successful career as a media executive. Ellis has used GLAAD’s position as the world’s leading media advocacy organization to demand fair and accurate coverage of the LGBTQ community. Ellis also commissioned GLAAD’s annual Accelerating Acceptance report, providing a window into national sentiment towards the LGBTQ community. In 2018, Ellis launched the GLAAD Media Institute, which focuses on research into LGBTQ representation and acceptance.

If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?
Focus on your beliefs and values and stay true to them. The current cultural and political environment is dark and tense, but that means we need to cultivate strong and visionary leaders in order to advance values of equality and acceptance, both today and in the future.

Is there an LGBTQ+ icon or member of the community that you look up to?
David Mixner and Urvashi Vaid: We lost two historic gamechangers very recently. David Mixner and Urvashi Vaid were longtime LGBTQ leaders who not only paved the way for many of the victories that our community achieved, but they made sure to teach and grow other leaders to create a stronger future for LGBTQ people.

What can New York policymakers do to support members of the LGBTQ+ community?
Educate yourself because when you fully understand LGBTQ people and LGBTQ issues, you will be better suited to defend our rights and represent LGBTQ New Yorkers. GLAAD recently started cultural briefings on Capitol Hill to create an open dialogue and discussion about LGBTQ issues – we have resources for elected officials, policymakers, business leaders, and your staff.

Is there anything you are working on that you wish more people knew about?
The largest LGBTQ get out the vote campaign. Too often LGBTQ issues during the election are either invisible or filled with misinformation, but our community members and allies need to know what’s at stake this year – from abortion access to threats against marriage equality and transgender Americans.

Ben Garcia (he/him) has worked for 20 years to help museums become places of welcome and belonging for all people. He has presented and published regularly on creating structural equity in museums through transparency, accountability, fair labor practices, and by adding missing voices and perspectives. Ben graduated from the University of Massachusetts at Boston with a B.A. in art and from Bank Street College of Education with an M.S. Ed. in museum leadership.

If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?
One, work for organizations that exist to repair or prevent harm and you will be fulfilled in your work; two, people who are uncomfortable with authority and power make the best leaders, so step up despite the discomfort; and three, kindness is the most important quality for a leader (and a life partner, too).

Is there an LGBTQ+ icon or member of the community that you look up to?
All our she-, he-, they-ros are human and so I try not to look up to them as that deprives them of their humanity. I try to simply admire the positive impact they have had (or are having). I could name individuals, but when it comes down to it, I admire every single queer person on this planet who takes a risk, no matter how small, to live their truth and support others.

What can New York policymakers do to support members of the LGBTQ+ community?
Strengthen health care and mental health services for all New Yorkers, and provide them at no cost where needed. Provide free, safe, and healthy housing to all unhoused New Yorkers, including the many queer youth who come to New York to find acceptance. Ensure that K-12 and secondary educational institutions include more and better LGBTQ+ content in their curricula.

Is there anything you are working on that you wish more people knew about?
We are building a national museum of LGBTQ+ history and culture in New York City. We are already partnering with history organizations, archives, and museums around the state and country to travel exhibitions and present important regional stories. In a few years, we will open our first home in a new wing of the New York Historical Society on Central Park West and a virtual museum with digital exhibitions. Visit americanlgbtqmuseum.org and join us!

Steven heads up the business development efforts for its LGBTQ initiatives in the U.S., with responsibilities not only for bringing the bank’s services to enterprises owned by members of the community but also working to ensure that TD is the top employer of LGBTQ industry professionals.  He works as an educator at various organizations. He works to drive positive change through working collaborations that enrich the lives of the community and its talented entrepreneurs.

If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?
Change can not happen overnight and remember to celebrate the small successes along the way.

Is there an LGBTQ+ icon or member of the community that you look up to?
Sean Coleman

Advancing LGBTQ+ rights since 1971, Ethan Geto led advocacy for GMHC in the darkest days of AIDS, played a central role in the passage of the NYC Gay Rights Bill, and raised tens of millions for the American LGBTQ+ Museum and NYC AIDS Memorial. Ethan helped start PFLAG, was a media strategist in the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,”  and worked to secure the headquarters for NYC LGBT Community Center, Callen-Lorde and Harvey Milk High School.

If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?
Growing up in the 1950s and ‘60s, I wish I would have had the courage and support to come out sooner instead of quaking in the closet. When I finally came out in the early 1970s, while it was still a largely hostile environment for openly LGBTQ people, a great weight was lifted off my shoulders — and psyche.  

Is there an LGBTQ+ icon or member of the community that you look up to?
The late pioneering gay activist Morty Manford and his Mom and Dad, Jeanne and Jules, who founded PFLAG along with the indomitable Amy and Dick Ashworth and their son Tucker. Aaron Belkin, the policy genius who convinced the Pentagon to support repeal of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell. Richard Burns, Jeff Soref, George Takei, Jean O’Leary, Urvashi Vaid, and my comrades-in-arms in NYC’s Gay Activist Alliance. 

What can New York policymakers do to support members of the LGBTQ+ community?
Provide greater support for LGBTQ+ health programs, particularly the Callen-Lorde Community Health Center and the Rainbow Heights Club, the only organization exclusively serving LGBTQ New Yorkers facing severe mental health challenges. Support SAGE and more affordable housing for LGBTQ elders. Support Housing Works, GMHC, the LGBTQ Community Center, the new American Museum of LGBTQ+ History & Culture, and the NYC AIDS Memorial. 

Is there anything you are working on that you wish more people knew about?
Building support in the community for the reelection of President Biden and Democratic majorities in the House and Senate. Otherwise, get ready for an apocalyptic battle to defend the rights we have gained over a half-century.

The first openly LGBTQ member of the State Legislature, Assembly Member Deborah Glick has long fought for civil rights, reproductive freedom, environmental preservation, the arts, and tenants’ rights. Glick helped lead the fight on many bills supporting the rights of LGBTQ New Yorkers. A long-standing advocate for the environment, Glick was appointed as chair of the Environmental Conservation Committee in 2023. She also serves on the Ways and Means, Rules, and Government Operations Committees.

If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?
I would advise my younger self to travel a great deal before settling into a career path. I also encourage young people to read widely, in a range of styles and topics – not just things you think you’re interested in. It’s important to reach out to people and develop enduring friendships. And always, be kind.

Is there an LGBTQ+ icon or member of the community that you look up to?
Jill Johnston, a writer and lesbian feminist, and longtime columnist for the Village Voice; Bayard Rustin, an essential organizer in the Civil Rights movement who helped coordinate the March on Washington; and Barbara Gittings, an early activist viewed by many as the mother of the modern LGBTQ movement. She worked to get the American Psychiatric Association to declassify homosexuality as a mental disorder and founded Daughters of Bilitis, an organization for advancing lesbian identity.

What can New York policymakers do to support members of the LGBTQ+ community?
Policymakers need to expand anti-discrimination measures. We can meet with community members to build relationships and establish communication. The LGBTQ community is expansive and racially and ethnically diverse, and we must ensure equitable access to targeted resources for specific groups within the community. We can enact measures that address past discrimination. For example, veterans who have lost benefits while being dishonorably discharged for being LGBTQ – we can help them to have those benefits reinstated.

Is there anything you are working on that you wish more people knew about?
I’m proud of my work to decriminalize abortion in NYS by passing the Reproductive Health Act, and it’s critical that we build on that work and expand access to reproductive health care. New York has a large number of limited-service pregnancy centers that are not necessarily staffed by medical professionals, and do not provide or refer people for abortions. I have a bill that would require such centers to disclose this fact to their clients.

Tabytha Gonzalez is celebrated for her advocacy and TGNB cultural competency education. Featured in HBO’s “The Stroll,” she’s a leader in the National Trans Visibility March and Trans Equity Coalition NYC. Recognized by the NY State Governor and Bronx Borough President, Tabytha’s leadership resulted in the historic raising of the Trans Flag in the Bronx. She is committed to ensuring resource access and health equity. Tabytha is a leader in the house and ballroom community. 

If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?
I would tell myself to not give up your hope for a brighter future. That the journey you will take will create change for others due to your experiences. You will meet someone who will love you and he will marry you. He will stand with you through your darkest time. His name will be Luis. You will help many and give hope to others. You are loved and valued and your life matters.

Is there an LGBTQ+ icon or member of the community that you look up to?
Sean Coleman’s leadership is the reason I started to do this work.  He not only employs trans people at Destination Tomorrow but he also ensures that we have opportunities for professional development, access to care, housing and education. Through his leadership, I have worked with some amazing trailblazers like my sisters, Dominique Jackson, Lala Zannell and recently departed Cecilia Gentili. Having the respect and trust of my peers in community organizations and government agencies.

What can New York policymakers do to support members of the LGBTQ+ community?
Too many laws have been enacted to criminalize trans bodies and disenfranchise the trans community. Trans voices and experiences must be centered in both policy creation and implementation. Policymakers should be in constant discussion with the trans community and must value their input and criticism. Valuing our narratives and perspectives is the only way to make meaningful change and foster equity in our community.

Is there anything you are working on that you wish more people knew about?
I’m currently working on my website which will be operational over the next few months. I’m working on a memoir of my journey. I have a podcast with two other amazing women. Join us for an inspiring discussion on various social, cultural, political and entertaining topics with three intergenerational trans women. As we take a deeper dive into the empowering world of ballroom culture and community, featuring insightful conversations with special guests every week.

NYS Assembly Member Jessica González-Rojas represents the 34th Assembly District, which includes the diverse communities of Astoria, Corona, East Elmhurst, Jackson Heights, and Woodside in Queens County. She has dedicated her life to fighting for immigrant rights, racial justice, LGBTQ liberation, health care access, labor power, and gender equity while forging connections between various progressive movements. Jessica is a progressive champion and brings her advocacy and organizing expertise to her work as an assembly member.

If you could give your younger self advice, what would it be?
I would tell myself never to dim my own light in order to make others feel comfortable. It is powerful to be different and unique, and being able to speak my truth with power and conviction is a gift.

Is there an LGBTQ+ icon or member of the community that you look up to?
I often use the words and wisdom of queer icon, Audre Lorde, as my ‘North Star.’ She articulated a vision for a more equitable and just society that I believe is attainable through advocacy and community. My favorite Audre Lorde quote is “When I dare to be powerful, to use my strength in the service of my vision, then it becomes less and less important whether I am afraid.”

What can New York policymakers do to support members of the LGBTQ+ community?
Listen to the community and follow the lead of LGBTQ and Gender Non-Binary (GNB) communities most impacted by the policies that we pass. It is so important for lawmakers to understand the diverse needs of the LGBTQ and GNB community and without taking time to listen, learn, and apply that information to policymaking, disparities will persist. It is my honor to work alongside our LGBTQ+ community to fight for a more equitable city and state.

Is there anything you are working on that you wish more people knew about?
Reproductive justice work is my background and abortion access IS an LGBTQIA issue. For several years, I have introduced and advocated for the Reproductive Freedom and Equity Fund Act to ensure that pregnant people who seek abortion care can access it and that the providers and clinics have the resources to provide it. I am so proud that the bill was included in the FY2025 budget and funded at $25 million.