On March 14, 2022, Rodney Lofton departed this world after a courageous battle with cancer. For many of us, we are mourning the loss of a dear friend and someone who has been a tireless advocate for HIV/AIDS and social justice.
In his role as Vice President and Deputy Director, Rodney became the first Black person to hold a senior position in the history of our organization. He also worked as a Program Coordinator and served on the Board of Directors.
Rodney created one of our signature programs, the Black and Bold Awards, as a grassroots effort to offer the RVA community an opportunity to celebrate and commemorate everyday “out and bold” Black LGBTQIA+ individuals. This year we celebrated six years!
For Rodney, there was so much work to be done. So today, as a community, we should stand together in solidarity and tap into every ounce of resiliency.
Thank you, my Friend, for all your hard work in support of this community. Thank you for helping to foster a more inclusive Diversity Richmond. You will be missed but not forgotten.
Please join us to celebrate the life of our friend, Rodney Lofton, at a community memorial service on Saturday, March 26th at 11:00 am in the Diversity Richmond Event Hall, 1407 Sherwood Avenue, Richmond, VA 23220. Light refreshments will be served following the service. The memorial will also be streamed on Zoom.
Cheezi Farmer
Board Chair
Diversity Richmond