In Our Own Voices Honor Community Leaders At Jazz in July Gala
Annual gala celebrates LGBTQIA+ BIPOC community champions in the Capital Region
ALBANY, N.Y. (July 10, 2024) — In Our Own Voices (IOOV) will host its annual Jazz in July fundraising gala on Saturday, July 20 at the Glen Sanders Mansion in Scotia. The event will honor community leaders who have made an impact in advancing the LGBTQIA+ BIPOC community.
The 2024 Jazz in July Award Recipients include:
·Jim Larson, senior legislative representative at New York State United Teachers (NYSUT), who will receive the Jasán M. Ward Community Advocacy Award for his dedication to LGBTQIA+ BIPOC advocacy. Larson has been instrumental in securing funding for LGBTQIA+ BIPOC educational programs and has worked to ensure that BIPOC voices are included in state-level policy discussions.
·Dr. Atsushi Akera, general manager of Cafe Euphoria, will be honored with the Ken Screven Trailblazer Award for pioneering efforts in the LGBTQIA+ BIPOC community. Dr. Akera has created a safe and inclusive space for LGBTQIA+ BIPOC individuals through Cafe Euphoria, hosting regular events that celebrate and uplift the community.
·Chiquita d’Arbeau, executive director of the Albany Housing Authority, will be presented with the Friend of the Family Award for her visible support of LGBTQIA+ BIPOC initiatives. D’Arbeau has launched several housing projects specifically aimed at supporting LGBTQIA+ BIPOC youth and families, ensuring they have access to safe and affordable housing.
·Ryan Ramdass, program health navigator at the Albany Damien Center, will be recognized with the Up and Coming Award for his promising leadership in the community. Ramdass has been a driving force in expanding healthcare services to LGBTQIA+ BIPOC individuals, providing crucial support and resources to those in need.
“We are thrilled to celebrate these outstanding individuals,” said Tandra LaGrone, CEO of IOOV. “Their dedication and impact are invaluable to our mission.”
These awards highlight the recipients’ efforts to advance IOOV’s mission of supporting and empowering LGBTQIA+ BIPOC individuals in the Capital Region. Each awardee has demonstrated a profound commitment to the community:
·Jim Larson has successfully advocated for inclusive curriculum policies that recognize and celebrate the contributions of LGBTQIA+ BIPOC individuals.
·Dr. Atsushi Akera’s Cafe Euphoria serves as a community hub, offering workshops, support groups, and cultural events that foster a sense of belonging.
·Chiquita d’Arbeau has overseen the development of LGBTQIA+ friendly housing units and has implemented programs to assist LGBTQIA+ BIPOC individuals facing homelessness.
·Ryan Ramdass has increased access to healthcare for LGBTQIA+ BIPOC individuals by coordinating services that address both physical and mental health needs.
The evening will feature a live and silent auction with LeGrande Serras third-generation owner of Reel Seafood Co. as the auctioneer, a performance by Grammy and Tony Award-winner Jennifer Holliday, and culinary delights.
Tickets are available on Eventbrite, and donations can be made via PayPal.
For 25 years, IOOV has served over 600,000 individuals, advocating for LGBTQIA+ BIPOC voices at local, state, and national levels. IOOV’s mission is to empower and amplify the perspectives of LGBTQIA+ BIPOC communities.
For more information, visit IOOV.org.
