People gathered at Jeffrey Pub Feb. 12 to show love for people committed to serving the same-gender loving community. Chicago Black Gay Men's Caucus sponsored the first annual fabulously festive "From The Heart."
Honorees included Dr. Mildred Williamson, Ben Montgomery and Ruff-N-Stuff.
"It just makes so much senseon Valentine's Dayto celebrate our love of the community," Erik Glenn, Chicago Black Gay Men's Caucus executive director, said.
Williamson served as Illinois Public Health Department's HIV/AIDS section chief. She now works with Cook County Health and Hospital system. Receiving the honor, she said, was a pleasant shock.
"It's very special," Williamson said. "I'm kind of speechless."
Marveling at the award didn't stop her from reminding people, during a Windy City Times interview, to keep their eyes on the prize. Williamson said more sophisticated level of coalition-building is necessary to "push the political wheel" and keep progress moving.
Williamson said making PrEPand educationavailable is a must and a goal.
"There remains a reality of marginalization in the face of intersectionality," she said.
Montgomery, a fellow honoree, has been a fierce advocate of the SGL ( samee gender-loving ) community as well. He served as U.S. Rep. Danny K. Davis ( D-7 )'s Constituent Services staffer. He also served as a Westside HIV/AIDS Regional Providers ( WHARP ) organizer.
Montgomery helped created the Illinois Lottery "Red Ribbon Quality of Life" game, which has generated millions. He was also instrumental in advancing marriage equality in Illinois and the passage of House Bill 1004, which has helped improve HIV screening and funding. He reflected on getting love from the community.
"It lets me know that I am on the right track," Montgomery said. "I finally get to use my years of political service to help the community."
Montgomery said he is using his relationships to influence policy at both city and state level. He's focused particularly on HIV/AIDS services. Monique Rucker, a newly appointed Chicago Black Gay Men's Caucus board member, stressed the importance of the event.
"It's important to recognize our community members," Rucker said. "It's good to do a public 'thank you.'"
Lora Branch, a founding board member, shared what inspired the event.
"We are at a transition point within the caucus," she said. "We wanted to do something very grassroots."
That's why they choose Jeffrey Pubthe state's oldest gay clubas the venue, according to Branch. Ruff N Stuff is no stranger to gay clubs. For instance, she opened for Blackish and Dreamgirls star Jenifer Lewis' one-woman show at the Baton Lounge. After all, she is one of the nation's top female impersonators.
Ruff N Stuff founded the House of Tut. She is also a top female impersonator. Ruff N Stuff produces and hosts various events in Chicago as well as across the nation. Those events include Love Fest, the caucus' annual health festival. Ruff N Stuff is also a member of Guardian Angels, volunteers who patrols the streets to alert people about crime.