LGBT Detroit | 30 Gala - Presentation by Nzere Kwabena

Saturday, October 12, 2024 - The Wright Museum

On October 5, 1994, LGBT Detroit began in the basement of a northwest Detroit home. By 2024, it had expanded to a multi-entity campus, spanning 8,349 square feet across three commercial properties. Now as the largest Black-founded and Black-led LGBT+ education and advocacy institution in North America, LGBT Detroit continues to be a leading force for change and movement empowerment.

I am deeply thankful and honored to stand before you today. As the rapper Biggie Smalls once said in a song, "It was all a dream. I used to read Word Up magazine." That line resonates with how I feel in this moment. This company truly embodies the spirit of "the little engine that could." In the midst of crisis, grief, and relived trauma, there came a moment to pause and ask: What can we do to stop the madness and despair? This organization, born out of a support group for LGBT+ men of color, gathered an incredible group of volunteers, dedicated to sharing the truths and stories of LGBT people.

For 30 years, a dream has been realized. Through the dedication of diverse teams—people of different races, genders, ages, regions, and religions—the company's founding mission has come to life: to elevate the voices of the people.

This unique assembly of an all-volunteer ensemble produced a monthly publication that celebrated the art of storytellers. Writers, poets, photographers, journalists, and private enterprises came together to elevate a community often overlooked. Detroit’s Kick Publishing Company—America’s third LGBT African-American publishing house—became a national sensation, reaching audiences from coast to coast, the Deep South, and the Midwest. Thanks to the vision of those who dared to dream and seize opportunities, we grew and flourished.

With growth comes conflict, and sometimes conflict brings opportunity. For us, that opportunity evolved into becoming a social service solution. In a bold new way, we created direct impact for individuals struggling with their identities. This second act of our organization was radical and incredibly daring. The Board of Directors embraced the challenge, saying yes to increasing visibility. In doing so, we expanded into spaces where anyone in need could find support.

Our locations on East Milwaukee and Burroughs Street proved the power of visibility, helping us forge key relationships. When another challenge arose, the Board of Directors embraced the opportunity to level up. This led to one of the most significant achievements in our company’s history: the acquisition of 20025 Greenfield. That milestone transformed everything, giving us control over our programming, services, and financial stability. It took only a few dedicated individuals to make something so significant. With that momentum, and thanks to our dear friend Marvin Lee, we acquired 20021 Greenfield Rd., further expanding our programming and presentation space.

The COVID-19 pandemic was a challenging time for us all, forcing the world to look inward and reconsider how to navigate this new crisis while preserving past achievements. Yet, the staff of LGBT Detroit pressed forward with creativity and courage, finding safe and innovative ways to continue our work. Thanks to their determination, we were able to host our annual summer event without incident. Remarkably, we celebrated life together without any known positive COVID-19 cases, a testament to their commitment and care.

And here we are. Once again, the Board looked inward and said yes to addressing health disparities. This led to our latest acquisition: 15944 West McNichols Rd. A space dedicated to addressing physical, mental, chronic, and nutritional health. Here, culturally competent experts provide safe, stigma-free services for individuals grappling with their identities, creating a vital resource for our community.

These achievements were made possible through integrity, trust, imagination, and strength. Without these qualities, none of our success would have been possible. Along the way, I've met many individuals who embody these traits, but one person stands out. This individual is taller in presence than Chris Sutton, kinder than Alicia Spencer, and more steadfast than Kelley Jackson—a true example of great leadership to all of us.

Antonio Johnson-Seals is LGBT Detroit's longest-serving board member, dedicating 20 years as our highest-level volunteer and an outstanding leader for our mission. Today’s special presentation is in his honor. During his decade-long tenure, we’ve achieved incredible milestones, thanks to his unwavering faith and trust, which have been invaluable. I’ve met many remarkable individuals in my life, but Antonio’s business acumen and friendship have profoundly impacted me and countless others. Today, we honor him. Please join me in a rousing round of applause for the president of LGBT Detroit, Mr. Antonio Johnson-Seals.

Presented by A. Nzere Kwabena, Executive Director of LGBT Detroit