The LGBTQ community is found in all walks of life and Stonewall National Museum is reminding us of that as it announces its honorees at this year’s Standing on the Shoulders of Heroes gala. From music fans to political geeks, the party has something for everyone.
Musician Janis Ian, philanthropist Jon Stryker, and retired Rep. Barney Frank will be recognized for their accomplishments.
“Our three honorees continue to be transformative figures in all aspects of our society,” Stonewall CEO Robert Kesten said. “They uniquely represent what is best in us simply by being themselves. I am thankful that in the world as it is today, these three will be inducted into our exhibit and join us in repairing our world.”
Frank was the first openly gay congressman in U.S. history, serving as a Democrat from Massachusetts from 1981-2013. In 2012, he became the first sitting member of congress to marry a person of the same sex while in office.
Ian, a Grammy winner, sparked controversy in the 1960s and 70s with songs like Society’s Child (Baby I’ve Been Thinking), and was one of Saturday Night Live’s first musical guests.
Founder of Arcus Foundation, Stryker has contributed more than $700 million with a focus on environmental and social justice causes, as well as more than $300 million to LGBTQ organizations.
In addition to being the name of the gala, Standing On the Shoulders of Heroes is a traveling exhibit that has been shown through much of the eastern United States.
The gala is Saturday, Feb. 21, at The Venue in Wilton Manors. Tickets are available at Stonewall-Museum.org.
