“My journey to leadership in LGBT Community in Detroit began in my youth. I have been blessed to come out in 1980 when I was only 15. I was extremely blessed to be supported by a community made up of people who supported me in my truth. Humorously, I came out to my 9th grade English teacher at Cass Technical High School, through a journal entry. “

The 2023 cohort of the LGBT Detroit Leadership Academy reflects on the many identities and intersections they bring, in a 300-word response and answer to how they can address and neutralize HIV stigma in their individualized community.

Her loss saddened me and immediately compelled me to take a moment to salute a champion for so many. Through her talent Americans of all backgrounds developed a freedom of expression, a willingness to love, and we learn how to boogie in the process. Here in Detroit, I ask you to join me as I plan to take a moment at KICK's Tea Party this Saturday, May 19 to pause and honor her and acknowledge her legacy to the movement I love. Today, I pay tribute to her by playing her songs ... digitally and on vinyl.