Commentary

ED Reflections

Details: Published: Friday, July 28 2023; Written by Diversity Richmond

pink blue pride framed photography collage

Summer is a time of unity and solidarity within the LGBTQ+ community. It provides opportunities to come together at Pride events, community gatherings, and supportive spaces where we can connect and uplift one another. Every opportunity we have to meet up with each other provides chances of connection that form the foundation of care our network of family, friends, colleagues and allies so deserve in this time we are living through.

Our team at Diversity Richmond - board, staff, VA Pride planning committee - strive together to build a world where everyone feels seen, accepted, and loved. We hope that you know that and are experiencing that as we continue the Endless Summer of Pride. Each time we host an event or support events happening across our region we believe they all connect as expressions of universal love and acceptance.

“YOU put the you in THANK YOU!” ~ Anonymous

As we bask or bake (depending on your preference) in the heat of summer, let's celebrate the spirit of care and connection so visibly present in our greater Richmond community.

This is all possible because of YOU!

Thank you for supporting us, showing up with us and continuing to be a part of us as we live out our mission to be the hub for the LGBTQ+ community of Richmond as a catalyst, a voice, a place and a resource.

I especially want to THANK every person who gave generously throughout Pride month. As a result of your generosity we raised over $10,000 that will go to support improving our event space and providing the resources necessary to help individuals experiencing crisis.

We remain committed to serving our community and grateful for ALL the ways YOU show your pride and belief in the work we do at Diversity Richmond. Thank YOU!!

ED Reflections

Details: Published: Friday, June 23 2023; Written by Diversity Richmond

James and lacette pride 2023

Happy Pride y’all!!! Are you tired yet? Have you stopped waving your progress flags? Are your dancing shoes still in good condition? Do you have your $1s ready for the next drag show?

If you’re anything like me you’re an equal mix of I hope this never stops and when can I get a break…LOL.

Pride 2023 in the Richmond area has been one for the books! We have shown up, raised flags, illuminated buildings and brought our community together in meaningful ways!! Our Richmond city government has written a love letter to our city that is seen by literally hundreds of thousands of cars daily on 95. The billboard letter simply reads:

LGBTQ+ community,

We see you.

We celebrate you.

We champion justice together.

With Love,

The City of Richmond

What an awesome feeling it is to have our elected officials be out and proud in solidarity with our community.

I have to give a HUGE shout out to James Millner and the VA Pride Planning Committee for planning, coordinating and launching our Endless Summer of Pride activities.

And while we party with a purpose, continue to raise awareness about our awesome community and tip drag queens this pride month we do so in the midst of unprecedented times where our transgender and non-binary siblings are under siege.

Now more than ever Diversity Richmond remains committed to being the hub of the LGBTQ+ community in Central Virginia deepening our work as a catalyst, a place, a resource and a voice that supports, uplifts and advocates for LGBTQ+ people, their friends, families and allies. We have proven for the last 23 days that Pride indeed is our Power!!

Pride is Our Power because it is the fuel to our action.

Pride is Our Power because it is the force that brings everyone together.

Pride is Our Power because it is the fire that propels us forward in solidarity.

Pride is Our Power now and will continue to be the reason we paint the town progress colors in service of and commitment to LGBTQ+ individuals, families, allies, groups, nonprofits and businesses.

Check out James and Lacette in matching Pride is Our Power shirts. Be sure to come on in to Diversity Thrift to snag your very own shirt for $25! All proceeds support the work of Diversity Richmond.

ED Reflections

Details: Published: Thursday, May 25 2023; Written by Diversity Richmond

May newsletter graphic

Spring is springing with sunshine, rain, and lots of moments to connect with friends, family and loved ones. May brings us so many opportunities to celebrate - mothering figures, grads and beautiful weather for rooftop happy hours. As spring continues blossoming new beginnings and heartfelt celebrations, it’s the connections we share as a LGBTQ+ community with a beautiful tapestry of diverse cultures, backgrounds, and identities that matter most. 

At Diversity Richmond we believe in the transformative power of connection. As we slide into the Memorial day weekend, the unofficial launch to summer and the readiness for Pride month I am inviting you to connect with us at Diversity. Now you might be asking, Lacette, how can I connect with y’all? I’m so glad you asked!! Here’s three ways to connect with us:

Visit Iridian Gallery. We have 2 exciting exhibits currently showing that you absolutely do not want to miss!! Bonus points if you haven’t had a chance to fully take in our newish mural by Nico Cathcart that graces the entrance to the gallery.

Shop 'til you drop at Diversity Thrift for our Clothing Happy Hour happening every Tuesday from 4pm - 5pm. Clothing items are only $1!!!!

Become a monthly donor of Diversity Richmond programs. We are looking for 25 people to become monthly donors at the $25, $50 and $100 level. Every dollar received supports programs that connect our community to emergency assistance, pride events and meeting/event space. From our largest program VA Pride to our Emergency Assistance Fund and cultural celebrations like Black and Bold and Viva RVA, your monthly financial support helps us to remain a catalyst, a voice, a place and a resource that enriches and champions our diverse community. 

As many of us are intimately familiar with Diversity Richmond continues to be a hub for the LGBTQ+ community. Our events, support groups, and social gatherings serve as opportunities to forge meaningful connections and create lifelong friendships. So be sure to stay connected to us and our many social media outlets for Diversity Richmond, Diversity Thrift and VA Pride because I do not want you to miss out on all of the upcoming ways we can continue to connect as a community.

In the words of the late, great, incomparable Tina Turner, YOU, our Diversity supporter are SIMPLY THE BEST!!

ED Reflections

Details: Published: Monday, April 24 2023; Written by Diversity Richmond

“As you start to walk on the way, the way appears.” ~ Rumi

Monday, April 17th marked 6 months of my being Diversity’s Executive Director. I am still amazed with how fast time flies when you are doing work that truly makes a difference with amazing people committed to the same mission and connected by a common purpose to continue the legacy of service to the LGBTQ+ community in Central Virginia.

I started walking on this path knowing I had to first talk with people. The more conversations I had with staff, board and Pride planning committee members the more I realized how amazingly fortunate our community is to have such dedicated people working together to support the work of Diversity Richmond. And as the conversations continue to expand to partners, donors, and allied supporters the more I am convinced that Diversity Richmond is a beloved institution with a bright future.

Marking this six month anniversary I turn my attention to three Cs

Connections

Culture

Care

Beginning my time with people, process and priorities, I continue my first year making connections to the people, partnerships and policies that are mission aligned and reflective of what our community needs most. We have plenty of ways to provide services to community members in need, advocate for protective policies, and create community events that bring people together.

This work happens when a committed group of individuals work together to deepen culture within the organization that is guided by collective values which support how we do the work for and with our community. I joined this team of people who are now becoming more like family and that is the kind of work culture we want to continue to foster.

Finally, I am committed to showing care in how we are blossoming into a fuller Diversity Richmond that is mission aligned and prepared to show up for our community through programs, resources and advocacy. I sincerely believe in the vital work we do through Diversity Thrift, Virginia Pride and our Event Space. The best way for us to continue to do this work with impact is to care for one another and for every person we have the privilege to serve through our store, event space and pride events.

Needless to say much has been accomplished in my first six months, but so much more is ahead of us on the way. I hope you will join me and the Diversity family on the path ahead as we live into being Central Virginia’s LGBTQ+ community hub that centers the LGBTQ+ community.

ED Reflections

Details: Published: Thursday, March 23 2023; Written by Diversity Richmond

It’s March y’all!! What I love most about this month are the Spring Equinox (aka official start to spring) and Women’s History Month. Both are times where we welcome the reflection of what has brought us together and what ways are we ready to grow. Plus we all know living in the Central Virginia region that March can hold all seasons in one week and sometimes even in one day.

Women’s History Month is a time we celebrate the amazing and impactful contributions of women to the ongoing work of making our communities and world a better place. As the first woman to lead Diversity Richmond we make history together. I am especially proud of the many women who have served on our board, been key community partners and long time donors to the work Diversity Richmond does for our community.

We are especially grateful to the many ways women make Diversity Thrift one of the top thrift stores in the Richmond area. And when I say women, I mean ALL women - trans, cis, queens, and femmes! Our thrift store continues to be a jewel in our community for the amazing finds, our clothing voucher program and newly introduced Tuesday Happy Hour (4pm - 5pm) where all clothing is just $1.00.

And while spring is beginning to spring we are collectively mourning the loss of our beloved friend John Jesse, known to many as Natasha Carrington. A queen who always uplifted her community, made us smile, sing, and dance and continuously found joyous ways to bring people together to make a difference. We will miss her dearly.

You are invited to attend the Celebration of Life for John Jesse being held here at Diversity Richmond on Thursday, April 13th, 7pm - 10pm. RSVP here .

Diversity is planting some seeds this spring to grow a fully redesigned website that unites all things Diversity Richmond - VA Pride, Diversity Thrift and Center. Will you help us water these seeds by participating in the survey in this newsletter? We value your feedback and want to hear your thoughts. Check it out below.

Quick Survey (we promise)

Your answers to these survey questions will be used to help our team organize and design our new website. This survey should take about 10 minutes or less to complete, and your responses will be completely anonymous. Complete the survey here.

ED Reflections

Details: Published: Wednesday, March 01 2023; Written by Diversity Richmond

100 day pic 800

“As you start to walk on the way, the way appears.” ~ Rumi

I started walking on the way as the Executive Director of Diversity Richmond on October 17th. From that day until now, I have remained committed to working with the board, staff and community stakeholders who are dedicated to the vision and mission of this organization. I am excited to share highlights from my first 100 days in the role!

In my first board meeting I laid out the top three goals for my first 100 days - People, Process, and Priorities.

People

The most common advice offered to new executive leaders is to listen, and that is exactly what I did. I met with..

16 board and staff
5 community stakeholders

Every conversation painted a picture of an organization beloved by board, staff and community stakeholders. I am energized by the deep commitment shared to move Diversity Richmond toward a bright future where all voices are heard and valued.

Process

My first 100 days afforded me plenty of opportunity to reflect and respond. It was clear to me that…

there is a strong foundation to build upon
there is a wellspring of ideas, excitement and support for Diversity Richmond

There is no doubt in my mind that the work started in my first 100 days will position us for an impactful future.

Priorities

I keep a (poorly drawn) graphical layout of the many parts of Diversity Richmond. Staring at it helps me set priorities to…

hire and onboard new staff
build impactful relationships with key stakeholders

As time moves us all forward, we will mark the passing time with successes, challenges and celebrations that affirm our commitment to making Diversity Richmond the LGBTQ+ community center that centers the community through programs, resources and advocacy.

I am particularly fortunate to lead such a dynamic, community treasure that will only continue to improve as we collectively build upon the strong foundation laid out in my first 100 days.

Please feel free to reach out to me at .

Hello and Happy New Year from Diversity Richmond!

Details: Published: Thursday, January 12 2023; Written by Diversity Richmond

lc headshot 1021 700

As I settle in to my duties as Diversity Richmond’s Executive Director, I’m still riding the wave of excitement and possibility entering a new year brings.

To some of you, I will be a familiar face, having worked for over a decade in service to Richmond’s LGBTQ+ community. And yet, as Diversity’s Executive Director, I will be introducing myself in new ways that reflect Diversity’s renewed energy around our commitment to live into our mission.

In the months to come, you’ll be hearing more from me about both familiar and new opportunities to engage us in service to our community. It’s still early in my tenure (only 87 days), but I’m already thinking about the five Ps:

Uplift and empower our People (staff, board, community)
Engage with intentional Purpose
Deliver Programs that are responsive and relevant
Offered in a Place that is welcoming and safe
Sustained by a diverse Portfolio of support

If that feels like a lot, it is! Our goals are ambitious because our community deserves the best partner and advocate possible. In my short time here, I am inspired by such an amazing staff and dedicated board committed to Diversity Richmond being a voice, a catalyst, a space and a resource for the LGBTQ+ community of greater Richmond.

I am proud to lead this organization, and I, we, all of us, are energized to answer this call.

So, I’ll say it again: Hello and Happy New Year from Diversity Richmond!

Please feel free to reach out to me at .

Diversity Richmond Hosts Latino Entrepreneurship Academy

Details: Published: Wednesday, October 13 2021

Fifteen-week course through a partnership with City of Richmond

Through a partnership with the city of Richmond, Diversity Richmond is hosting a 15-week course, helping local Hispanic people learn about business management from ideas to implementation. The academy classes will guide participants who are small business owners or who hope to open businesses.

Staff from the city’s Office of Immigrant and Refugee Engagement (OIRE) and the Office of Minority Business Development has been working for several months in planning the academy. “We are locating LGBTQ Latino business owners and financial experts to teach the classes,” shared Diversity Richmond board member, Fernando Rodriquez. “The courses filled quickly as there is such a need and we are very proud to lead these efforts.”

“This is just one more example of how Diversity Richmond has expanded our reach in the community,” stated Diversity Board Chair, Cheezi Farmer. “This is our first attempt at such a project, but we have full confidence that people will have a positive experience and gain new knowledge of how to build on their talents and make their dreams come true.”

“We are thrilled to receive the support from Diversity Richmond in the launch of the Academy and hope this is the beginning of a long-term partnership that will benefit both the Latino community and Diversity Richmond,” said, OIRE Manager Karla Almendarez-Ramos.

The academy is being funded through a grant from the Laughing Gull Foundation to support our outreach programs.

Thank you, AARP!

Details: Published: Wednesday, September 29 2021

AARP has been a longtime supporter of Diversity Richmond. Over the years, AARP has made numerous projects possible such as funding the cost of the huge tent we have used at PrideFest to sell Diversity Thrift treasures.

AARP has a vested interest in our community and we are proud to dedicate the edition of this newsletter to such an outstanding organization.

Aging can be problematic and quite often LGBTQ people face obstacles that others don’t. Reach out to your local AARP chapter for more information. No need to go this alone.

Make a Donation

Thank you, Virginia Pride

Details: Published: Friday, September 10 2021

We are most proud of Virginia Pride. Even with the unimaginable challenges that the pandemic produced, the Pride committee is implementing several exciting events. This newsletter features them.

It took our breath back in June when we watched the Dominion Energy headquarters be illuminated with our colors. Throughout the month, millions of interstate 95 travelers saw our colors, proudly welcoming them to our city. Our home.

This is but one example of the work of Virginia Pride. Having such a significant lighting installation was not done through a simple phone call. It required hours of work, brought about by a dedicated commitment to our community.

From coordinating the Pride flag being raised at city hall by our mayor, to gaining the attention of our governor, to developing media relationships, to recruiting drag queens to raise funds for our work, Virginia Pride sets a very high standard.

Sometimes words fail, but to you, we say, thank you.

Make a Donation

White People

Details: Published: Wednesday, August 11 2021

Over the last few years, Diversity Richmond has made transgender and racial issues our two top priorities. We have covered much ground, but almost daily we are reminded of the work we must do.

Beginning next week, our board begins their equity and inclusion work. These discussions will be the major portion of our meetings for several months. Then we will decide how to further proceed. Staff trainings will also begin soon.

My eyes have been opened to much and not through reading articles, but by listening to people who have shared their stories. I work with some of those folks, a few serve on our board while others are people I have met through their association with Diversity.

Do I know it all? No, and I never will as I am a white man. And I am committed to learning more and challenging myself each day.

If anyone knows the pain of discrimination, it is LGBTQ people. Couple that with America’s history of how we have treated people of color… white people can only imagine…we, in no way, can begin to fully understand what it is like to be Black or Brown LGBTQ in America.

Diversity Richmond is dedicated to having difficult conversations about the issues. Through this, we will create a better organization that, in every move we make, we will strive to ensure that it successfully passes through the equity lens.

Are we perfect? Far from it? Have we made mistakes? Sure have. Are we working to be better? Indeed.

Bill Harrison
President and Executive Director

Make a Donation

Black Pride RVA celebrates big time this weekend

Details: Published: Friday, July 16 2021; Written by Diversity Richmond

Us Giving Richmond Connections, the local nonprofit that encourages the well-being of Black LGBTQ people, is hosting an exciting weekend of educational seminars, entertainment and community building activities. Planners expect big crowds and have scheduled a variety of events that will offer a wide selection of activities for people to choose from.

The weekend begins tonight with the kick-off event, “Community Root Awards,” being held in the event hall of Diversity Richmond. Outstanding leaders in the Black LGBTQ community are being recognized. Tickets are $20.00 and can be purchased at blackpriderva.com

Saturday’s “Day of Purpose,” is a wellness event with health screenings, HIV/STI testing, and COVID-19 vaccinations, educational classes, entertainment, a variety of food trucks and over 100 vendors. The festival will take place at Trinity Family Life Center, 3601 Dill Road. Admission is free.

Saturday evening, the Black Pride Block Party will be held outside Richmond Triangle Players Theater, 1300 Altamont Avenue in Scott’s Addition from 7:30 till 11:00 P.M. The free event will include food, music and entertainment. A drag show will take place inside the theater. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door.

The weekend will conclude with a Pride in the Park community cookout in Bryan Park, 4308 Hermitage Road from 1:00 to 6:00 P.M. on Sunday.

For more information, visit blackpriderva.com/coming-soon

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