Candidate for Pride Of The Movement

Member since 2024

Why are you running for this position? 

I am running for this Pride of the Movement chair  position within Thursday Network because I am deeply motivated by the opportunity to foster active engagement and collaboration within our community. 

My vision for our organization is to create a vibrant platform where all members, particularly members within the LGBT community,  feel valued and empowered to contribute. I believe in the power of authentic relationships, and I am committed to building connections with our members, community leaders, and within the organization. By doing so, we can identify common goals and develop initiatives that are responsive to the diverse needs of our community.

With my background in community engagement, I have developed a keen understanding of how to foster meaningful interactions and create a culture of collaboration. I have successfully planned events that bring people together and encourage dialogue, helping to cultivate long-term relationships that strengthen bonds. I am excited to bring this experience to our organization, focusing on programs that inspire participation and cultivate a sense of belonging.

If elected, my priority will be to create an environment where every member feels empowered to share their ideas and experiences, and where collective action can lead to meaningful change.

What qualifications do you possess that make you uniquely qualified for this position?

I believe I am uniquely qualified for this position due to my extensive experience working closely with the local community in Washington, DC. I understand the challenges that residents face daily, as I have actively engaged with various neighborhoods and heard firsthand how many feel overlooked by local leaders and newcomers to the city. 

My background includes building authentic relationships with both local leaders and organizations, which is essential for fostering collaboration and support in our initiatives. Additionally, I have a proven track record in event planning and community engagement, ensuring that new residents feel welcomed and included in our efforts. This focus on creating a strong sense of community not only enhances our programming but also lays the foundation for long-term relationships, both within our organization and with external partners. All of these experiences equip me to effectively contribute to our goals and make a meaningful impact.

What initiatives would you implement if selected for this position?

If selected for this position, I would like to implement the following key initiatives to enhance community engagement and inclusivity:

1. Collaborative Relationship with Civic Engagement: Establish a partnership with the Mayor’s Office of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Questioning Affairs. This will strengthen our advocacy efforts and ensure that the unique challenges faced by queer Black individuals are addressed.
   
2. Service Opportunities with Local LGBT Organizations: Collaborate with the Community Service Committee to create regular service projects with organizations like SMYAL. This will foster community ties and provide meaningful support to our local LGBT community.
   
3. Tailored Fundraising Campaign During Pride: Launch a fundraising campaign from Black Pride in May to Pride in June, with donations directed toward long-term LGBT-focused programs. Working with the Social & Cultural Committee, we can ensure these funds have a lasting impact on our community.
   

By implementing these initiatives, I aim to deepen our office's commitment to inclusivity and create lasting connections within the community.

If selected for this position, describe how you would use your role to impact on the Thursday Network, the Greater Washington Urban League, and the National Urban League Young Professionals?

If selected for this position, I would leverage my role as a hybrid connector between the LGBT community and various programs and committees to promote inclusivity and ensure long-term success. I would focus on advancing the core values of Thursday Network, the Greater Washington Urban League (GWUL), and the National Urban League Young Professionals (NULYP) by implementing inclusive programming that aligns with our five-point thrust: economic empowerment, education, health and quality of life, civic engagement, and civil rights. 

My goal would be to ensure that all members feel represented and empowered, contributing to a vibrant and inclusive environment for everyone involved.

How much time can you commit to this position per month? 

10-20 hours