WE RAISED OVER $20,000 FOR PRO-EQUALITY DEMOCRATS!
Dear Cleveland Stonewall Democrats,
For 25 years, the Cleveland Stonewall Democrats have been on the frontlines of the fight for equality. From electing pro-equality Democrats to advancing policies that protect and empower LGBTQIA+ people, we have never wavered in our belief that democracy works best when every voice is heard, valued, and defended.
This anniversary is not just a celebration; it is a call to action. We honor the leaders, organizers, and everyday people whose courage carried us here: the giants whose shoulders we stand on. From those who marched in the streets when it was dangerous to do so, to those who came out at a time when visibility carried real risk, to those who dared to run for office and demand a seat at the table—their bravery built the foundation on which we now stand.
Over the years, our influence has grown from local races in Cleveland, to county and statewide contests, and even into the national conversation. Our voice has helped shape policy, elect leaders, and send a clear message that equality is not optional but essential.
Yet we recognize that the struggle is far from over. We are facing scary times. Across Ohio and the country, our rights remain under attack. Extremists seek to roll back progress, silence LGBTQIA+ voices, demean and target our trans siblings, and attempt to divide our communities. But our history reminds us of a simple truth: when we stand together, we win. When we organize, when we show up at the ballot box, when we raise our voices in council chambers and at the Statehouse, we shape the future.
As we mark 25 years of impact, we recommit ourselves to carrying that legacy forward. We are building the next generation of leaders, defending hard-won rights, and expanding equality for all people. The challenges are real, but so is our power. And we are not done yet.
Thank you for standing with us, for celebrating this milestone, and for joining us in the fight for the next 25 years. Together, we will keep pushing forward—louder, stronger, and prouder than ever before.
In solidarity,
Brooks W. Boron (He/Him)
President, Cleveland Stonewall Democrats
THANK YOU TO OUR HOST COMMITTEE!
HEADLINERS: State Senator Nickie Antonio, Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb, Patrick Shepherd & Patrick Haverty, State Representative Bride Rose Sweeney
CHAMPIONS: Congresswoman Shontel Brown, Newburgh Heights Mayor Trevor Elkins, Judge Carl J. & Kimberly Mazzone, County Executive Chris Ronayne, Councilperson Davida Russell, Rob Rivera & Dan Seifried, State Senator Kent Smith, Cheryl Stephens, Councilperson Cindy Strebig & Kate Baney, Lakewood Democratic Club
ADVOCATES: Joe Bahhur, Brooks Boron & Jorge Ramos Pantoja, State Rep. Sean Brennan, Councilperson Tom Bullock, Alex Cruz, Cuyahoga County Democratic Party, Andrew DeFratis, Cindy Demsey, Councilperson Bryan Evans, Mohammed Faraj, John Forgetta, Judge Laura Gallagher, JaNae Hambrick, Phyllis Harris, Councilperson Anthony Harriston, Brett Horton, Judge Joy Kennedy, Councilperson Sarah Kepple, In Son Loving, Councilperson Cindy Marx, Councilperson Rebecca Maurer, Erik Meinhardt & Andre Ross, Councilperson Dale Miller, Lana Moresky, Councilperson Cassandra Nelson, Councilperson Jim Petras, State Rep. Tristan Rader, Councilperson Robert Schleper, Jane Buder Shapiro, Councilperson Richard Starr, Judge Sydney Strickland, Richard Trojanski, State Rep. Terrence Upchurch, Judge William Vodrey, Kyle Weigand & Steven Levak, Jack & Karen Weigand
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR AWARD RECIPIENTS!
The Stephanie Tubbs Jones Freedom Award - Named in honor of the late Congresswoman Stephanie Tubbs Jones, this award recognizes groups, organizations, and public officials who have advanced the cause of LGBTQIA+ equality through advocacy, policy, and action. Over the years, honorees have included city councils that passed nondiscrimination and domestic partner protections, state legislative caucuses who stood firm against anti-LGBTQIA+ ballot measures, governors and mayors who issued executive orders, and foundations and organizations that fought for LGBTQIA+ equality. This award honors those who have expanded freedom and equality at every level of government and civic life.
This year’s Stephanie Tubbs Jones Freedom Award is presented to:
County Executive: Chris Ronayne
Cuyahoga County Council: Dale Miller, Yvonne M. Conwell, Patrick Kelly, Martin J. Sweeney, Mark Casselberry, Michael Gallagher, Robert E. Schleper Jr., Pernel Jones Jr., Meredith M. Turner, Michael J. Howser Sr., Sunny M. Simon
The CSD Leadership Award - The Leadership Award celebrates individuals whose vision, voice, and perseverance have strengthened the fight for LGBTQIA+ equality. Honorees have included local elected officials, state legislators, grassroots organizers, educators, and community leaders who embody courage and resolve. This award recognizes those who lead not only by title, but by example — inspiring others to action and carrying forward the mission of Cleveland Stonewall Democrats.
This year’s CSD Leadership Award is presented to:
Brandon West (He/Him) & Sarah Kolick (She/Her)
The Dave Ream Standing OUT Award - This award honors the legacy of David Ream, a trailblazer for Cleveland’s LGBTQIA+ community and a dear friend of CSD. Presented exclusively to members of the LGBTQIA+ community, it recognizes individuals who stand out through their bold advocacy, visibility, and leadership. Past honorees have included activists, public servants, and cultural leaders whose courage and authenticity reflect Dave’s spirit. The Dave Rean Standing OUT Award celebrates those who show that by standing out, we pave the way for others to live freely and proudly.
This year’s Dave Ream Standing OUT Award is presented to:
Kyle Weigand (He/Him) & Joe Bahhur (He/Him)