It can be easy to overlook our allies. At a time when the government is targeting LGBTQ from the petty (removing LGBTQ from the state’s tourism website) to the dangerous (invading the doctor/patient relationship), it’s our allies who stand with us, fight with us, and remind us we are not alone.
As a Your Choice Awards category, we have a chance to thank our allies. Two advocate for us in the political arena, two have worked with our communities, and another is new to the fight. All serve a vital role.
There are no wrong answers in this category. Each of the nominees supports us in their own way. Learn about them. Vote for them. And if you see them, thank them.
Terry Behal - The OG Ally
In the darkest days of the AIDS crisis, Terry Behal was a bright beacon of hope. She organized the first AIDS Walk in Texas at a time when no one would talk about AIDS or LGBTQ.
Her compassion and activism forced her to “come out” as an ally when her friends and family forced her to choose between them or the LGBTQ community. She chose us and never looked back.
She came to South Florida 20+ years ago and now, in addition to being a successful realtor, she serves on gala committees including SunServe’s annual Shine Gala and works with animal rescues. She did the South Florida AIDS Walk for 12 years, and her team once raised $100,000 in just 42 days.
Scott Newton - The Local Stalwart
When the Florida government was threatening to arrest drag queens and their supporters, Wilton Manors Mayor Scott Newton declared that Stonewall Pride would go on. It’s just one example of how he used his position to support and embolden the flourishing LGBTQ community.
A lifelong Wilton resident, he has seen the city grow into one of America’s most popular retirement and vacation destinations for LGBTQ. When Stonewall faced an existential financial crisis this year, he led the charge to have the city become the title sponsor.
He is always out and about at ribbon cuttings and events at LGBTQ businesses, but also on an average Wednesday night when he just wants a quick bite and a drink. His presence reminds every LGBTQ member that they are supported by their government.
Lisa Peters - The Senior Superwoman
If you need a hug, someone to listen to you, or share a drink, Lisa Peters is your person! As SunServe’s Director of Senior Services at the Noble A. McArtor Senior Day Center at Sunshine Cathedral, she works with LGBTQ seniors who have dementia or ADLs.
When you walk in, you can see the effect the center has on clients. Their art is on the walls and their snacks and drinks line the activity tables. In addition to helping seniors, the center gives caretakers a chance to run errands, work, or just take a little time for themselves.
Lisa also serves as Vice President of SAGE (Senior Action in a Gay Environment) in Wilton Manors. She is a passionate advocate for a group that is often overlooked, and her advocacy knows no bounds.
Diane Resnick - The Wilton Manors Mom
Tap That Ash is a relative newcomer to Wilton Manors, but it feels like it’s been around for years. That’s all thanks to Diane Resnick, who owns the cigar and wine lounge with her family.
If it’s your first visit, she learns your name and gets to know you, and then introduces you to just about everyone in the bar. Return visits are greeted with your name being shouted across the bar followed by a warm hug from Diane. Some staff, and even a few customers, call her “Mom.”
From the day she arrived in Wilton Manors, she has embraced the LGBTQ community. She makes sure the bar goes all out for big events (Pride, Wicked Manors) and hosts an ever-evolving Sunday Funday.
Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz - The Washington Warrior
When Democrats run the U.S. House of Representatives, she fights for us. When Republicans attack us, she fights back for us. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz walks the walk in D.C. and back in her home district.
The 10-term congresswoman walks in marches, rides in Pride parades, and cruises in the FLoatarama flotilla. Her visibility says our community is seen and heard in the corridors of power.
Her advocacy for marriage equality, trans rights, education and more are testaments that she stands with us in the fights and celebrates with us in our successes.
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