FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 2/1/2024
The Louisville Pride Foundation has made history by appointing Ebony Cross as Executive Director and Victoria Syimone as Board Chair. This marks a groundbreaking moment as it’s the first instance, according to sources, where two black women of their respective identities have led an LGBTQ organization’s top roles simultaneously. Notably, Cross identifies as a masculine-presenting woman and Syimone as a trans woman, possibly setting a precedent for leadership diversity in any organization.
Having two black queer women in the top leadership positions of an LGBTQ organization is a notable achievement. It reflects LPF’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, not just in terms of sexual orientation and gender identity, but also race. This is particularly important in the context of the Louisville LGBTQ community, where there has been ongoing dialogue about the need for greater racial diversity and representation.
The fact that Cross identifies as a masculine-presenting woman and Syimone as a trans woman adds layers to the diversity they bring to their roles. Their leadership challenges traditional norms and stereotypes about gender expression and identity, showcasing the spectrum within the Louisville LGBTQ community itself. It sends a powerful message about the acceptance and celebration of diverse gender identities and expressions in leadership roles.
Their appointments will hopefully set a precedent for other organizations, both within and outside the LGBTQ community, to prioritize diversity in their leadership. It highlights the importance of having leaders who reflect the diversity of the communities they serve, which can lead to more inclusive and effective decision-making and policy development.
The leadership of Cross and Syimone can have a profound impact on the LGBTQ community, particularly young black queer individuals and trans women who may see them as role models. Their visibility and success can inspire others and demonstrate the possibilities of leadership roles for individuals who may face multiple layers of marginalization.
Their leadership opens up opportunities to address issues that are specific to the intersection of race, gender identity, and sexual orientation. They are positions to advocate for services and practices that are inclusive and equitable, not just within the LGBTQ community but in the broader societal context.
Ebony Cross, originally from Akron, Ohio, has been appointed as the interim Executive Director of the Louisville Pride Foundation. Embracing her identity as a black masculine-presenting woman, Cross aims to enhance the Louisville Pride Center’s accessibility for all community members. Her journey to Louisville was sparked by an online connection that blossomed into a lifelong commitment, both to her wife and the vibrant local community. Prior to her current role, Cross contributed to the foundation as an administrative coordinator, bringing a fresh perspective on accessibility, representation, and community support. Under her leadership, the foundation seeks to expand its programming and resources, emphasizing harm reduction, food security, and health education.
Victoria Syimone, a trailblazing performer from Louisville, Kentucky, stands as a beacon within the LGBTQ+ community. Her journey, marked by authenticity and resilience, defies the constraints of societal norms. Growing up in the shadow of Churchill Downs, Syimone embraced her identity amidst an environment unfamiliar with the nuances of being trans. Her evolution into a renowned DJ and performer is a testament to her defiance against marginalization, using her platform to advocate for the visibility and respect of trans women of color. Syimone’s confrontational spirit, coupled with her commitment to education and empowerment, underscores her role as an unwavering pillar in the fight for equality and understanding within and beyond the LGBTQ+ community.
The Louisville Pride Foundation is known for orchestrating the annual Pride Festival on Bardstown Road every September. This event brings together the community for a celebration of unity, diversity, and joy. Beyond the festival, the foundation hosts the Sunday Funday Derby Drag Show, a dazzling event that combines the thrill of the derby with the fun of drag culture, and the 5K in Iroquois Park, promoting health, wellness, and camaraderie among participants. In a significant expansion of their mission to serve and support the LGBTQ community, the Louisville Pride Foundation proudly opened its Community Center at 1244 S. 3rd Street in October 2022. The center stands committed to providing a safe, welcoming space for education, support, and celebration of LGBTQ identities and allies alike.
