Ahead of Global Black Pride in Atlanta this Labor Day weekend, the organization has announced this year’s Grand Marshals, Black LGBTQ people from around the world who are working to envision a world where Black LGBTQ folks can thrive without systemic barriers.
This year’s Global Black Pride Grand Marshals are:
Bishop O.C. Allen III – A renowned religious leader and advocate known for his seminal work in both religious and social justice spheres, Bishop Allen’s participation in this year’s Atlanta Black Pride celebrations underscores his unwavering commitment to the queer community and broader social equity.
His career spans several impactful roles, including serving on the Presidential Advisory Council on HIV/AIDS (PACHA) under President Obama and as Southeastern Chair of the DNC-LGBT Advisory Board. As the founder and presiding Bishop of the United Progressive Pentecostal Fellowship of Churches, he leads a network of faith-based organizations across the U.S. and Latin America. His leadership extends to The Vision Cathedral of Atlanta and The Vision Community Foundation, Inc., which supports thousands annually through initiatives like the “Community In Action” program and local shelters.
A dynamic orator and visionary, Bishop Allen is also noted for his advocacy in socioeconomic and health issues, including HIV/AIDS prevention and breast cancer awareness. His influence is evident in his various honors, including being named LGBT Business Champion of the Year by the U.S. Small Business Administration. As a Grand Marshal, Bishop Allen brings a legacy of revolution, compassion, and advocacy, highlighting his dedication to empowering marginalized communities.
Hope Giselle-Godsey – A Miami native and formidable advocate for trans and Black communities, Giselle’s impactful work as an activist and facilitator began at Alabama State University, where she was instrumental in establishing the school’s first LGBTQ organization. As the first openly trans woman to earn a BFA and master’s in fine arts from ASU, Giselle not only broke barriers but also set a precedent for future generations.
Her role as Grand Marshal for the 2024 Global Black Pride is an attestation to her dedication and influence in the fight for equality and representation. Giselle’s contemporary social perspectives on trans and Black identities have significantly influenced public discourse, emphasizing the importance of visibility, intersectionality, and inclusion.
In addition to her formative work in academia, Giselle is the founder of AllowMe, a nonprofit organization committed to amplifying disempowered voices. Her advocacy extends through collaborations with organizations such as the Human Rights Campaign, Freedom for All Americans, and LGBT University. Through these efforts, Giselle strives to create a more equitable society where every individual’s voice is heard and valued. Her ongoing work marks her as a vital force in the realm of social justice and activism.
Clare Byarugaba – An esteemed LGBTQ activist and feminist from Uganda, Clare has made monumental strides in advocating for LGBTQ rights amid immense challenges. With a background in International Business from Makerere University Business School and experience as Budget Officer in Uganda’s Parliament, Clare transitioned from traditional roles to become a pioneering voice for LGBTI rights.
Her activism began in earnest in 2011, leading the fight against Uganda’s harsh Anti-Homosexuality Bill through her role with the Civil Society Coalition on Human Rights and Constitutional Law (CSCHRCL). Notably, Clare was instrumental in organizing Uganda’s first gay pride event in 2012, a significant milestone in a region where such expressions of identity face severe risks.
In her current role with Chapter Four Uganda, Clare continues to champion LGBTI rights. She founded PFLAG-Uganda to bridge gaps between queer individuals and their families. She also co-founded the Uganda Kuchus Aquatic Team (UKAT) to use sports as a platform for advocacy. Her leadership in the Convening for Equality reflects her ongoing battle against repressive legislation in Uganda.
Clare’s accolades include the 2011 U.S. State Department Human Rights Defender Award and the 2023 Human Rights Tulip. Her role as Grand Marshal at Global Black Pride celebrates her resilience and impact, honoring her as a beacon of hope and courage for disenfranchised groups worldwide.
Kimahli Powell – As a distinguished leader in international non-governmental organizations whose work made significant contributions to global advocacy and community building in the last twenty years, Powell’s academic foundation in Political Science from the University of Ottawa and a Doctor of Laws from the University of Victoria support him as he works in international development, law and policy, HIV/AIDS advocacy, and support for internally displaced persons. His resume includes pivotal roles at Dignitas International, where he bolstered community-based health systems in Malawi, and the HIV Legal Network, where he played a crucial role in challenging Jamaica’s anti-sodomy law and developing a robust legal advocacy framework.
Under his leadership at Rainbow Railroad, the organization has expanded its reach to support thousands of individuals facing persecution and has executed successful crisis intervention in regions like Chechnya, Egypt, Uganda, Afghanistan, and Ukraine and forged historic partnerships with the Canadian government, U.S. government, and the UN Refugee Agency.
As a board member for ILGA, former Chair of the Dignity Network, and current member of the Foundation for Black Communities and Refugee Council USA, Powell’s impact extends across multiple spheres. His regular media appearances on CNN, MSCNBC, CBC, BBC, and 60 Minutes further amplify his advocacy work. Powell’s role as Grand Marshal is a celebration of his tireless efforts to advance human rights and support non-governmental advocacy.
Chris Muriithi – CEO and founder of Bold Network Africa, Muriithi is a trailblazer in LGBTQ advocacy and storytelling. Before fully dedicating themselves to activism, Muriithi built a notable career as a journalist, working with local media houses in Kenya and contributing to the BBC’s youth program, where they were nominated for an Emmy Award. Their transition from journalism to activism was driven by a deep, personal commitment to support the queer population in Africa.
In 2020, Muriithi founded Bold Network Africa to challenge stereotypes and provide a platform for authentic queer narratives. Their impactful projects include the “Human Enough” docuseries and podcast, which offer a platform for queer African individuals to share their stories and access mental health support. The podcast, in particular, has reached over 1,000 listeners, providing crucial advocacy and fostering dialogues on discrimination and resilience.
Muriithi’s work is a testament to their courage and dedication, aiming to inspire acceptance and drive legislative change across Africa. Their role as Grand Marshal at this year’s Atlanta Black Pride celebrates their significant contributions to fostering understanding and solidarity within the LGBTQ community.
Kelley Robinson – Robinson is the President of the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) and stands out as a formidable leader and advocate for LGBTQ rights. As the first Black, queer woman to lead HRC, Robinson has brought unprecedented energy and vision to the organization, which is the largest civil rights group in the United States.
With over 15 years of experience, Robinson has championed numerous initiatives for LGBTQ, racial, and gender equity. She guided HRC to declare a national State of Emergency in response to the surge in anti-LGBTQ legislation, mobilizing a network of over 3 million members and supporters to combat discrimination and advocate for inclusive policies. Her strategic efforts have achieved significant victories, including countering anti-trans rhetoric and securing wins for “Equality Voters” in key elections.
Robinson’s tenure also saw the passage of the Respect for Marriage Act and the defeat of anti-LGBTQ+ amendments in Congress. Beyond policy, she has highlighted LGBTQ culture, co-hosting the Las Vegas Equality Ball and speaking out on critical issues like the attacks on trans youth. Named to the 2024 TIME100, Robinson continues to shape the discourse in LGBTQ+rights through her influential media presence and roles as a Senior Fellow at the Ketting Foundation and former Executive Director of Planned Parenthood Action Fund.