It’s been a whirlwind few weeks since stepping into the interim executive director role on June 15; I am deeply humbled by the trust placed in me to help the organization execute on several key deliverables that will aid in propelling the community and the organization forward. We find ourselves in an epoch moment in our shared experiences that handed us COVID-19 and the reawakening of a people to the injustice and inequalities of systemic racism still prevalent in our country and across the globe; compounded by the impact to the economy and health care system amid an election year.
LGBTQ+ community-serving organizations, like most of the country, are grappling with the inadequacies of our inaction for not always uplifting and making space for all the diverse members of our community – especially making space for and uplifting our Black, Brown, and Trans community members.
On June 24th the Stonewall Board approved an inclusion, diversity, equity, and accountability statement; this was essential as the organization moves forward to ensure the community understands we are reaffirming our commitment to uplifting all of our community and asking for the community to be a part of the process of accountability in those efforts. We understand that when we put the needs of others ahead of our own, we acknowledge their humanity through intentional actions of inclusion, diversity, equity, and accountability.
Like many organizations, we are working to navigate the impact of COVD-19 on our budget and program operations. Canceling the Columbus Pride Festival and Parade impacted our budget projections and we’ll work to navigate that impact. We know our reimagined virtual Pride Parade on October 3rd will allow for some celebration but nothing as compared to the opportunity of gathering together in celebration.
During these times we need the support of the community more than ever!
Consider a sustaining membership donation: https://stonewallcolumbus.org/membership
Consider a one–time gift: https://stonewallcolumbus.org/donate
I look forward to the continued partnership I’ve been so excited to experience thus far, and looking forward to the opportunity of meeting and connecting with more of you! Do check on our website as we are making updates to the organization and working to reflect many of those changes on our site as they come about!
Thoughtfully,
Densil P.
Interim Executive Director
