Better Brothers Los Angeles (BBLA) is excited to announce that as part of this year’s celebration of PRIDE Month, they will highlight PRIDE HEROES whose lives and accomplishments are testaments to the many contributions made by the Black LGBTQ+ Community. This year’s celebration of PRIDE is especially important and necessary given the legislative assaults across the country on our rights and lives. As we attend PRIDE parades and celebrations, we must remember that many are working diligently to remove any trace of our humanity, our lives, and our love. “This series is a ‘Life Thread’ and celebration of the individuals who have dared to dream, who have faced adversity with unwavering courage, and who have left an indelible mark on the world. It is a reminder that every thread, no matter how small, contributes to the fabric of our collective community.” says Scott Hamilton, Co-founder of BBLA.
And so, each day of June, on all its social media platforms, BBLA will showcase a PRIDE HERO as a reminder that our collective and individual humanity cannot be dismissed or legislated away and that our collective and individual fight continues in the quest to make the world more inclusive and equitable. The list of PRIDE HEROES includes history makers, influencers, and trailblazers:
 courtesy Better Brothers LA Angelica Ross – Actress, writer, and trans rights advocate, Angelica Ross is also the founder of TransTech Social Enterprises, an organization that sources and supports trans employment in the tech industry. Known for her groundbreaking roles on “Pose” and “American Horror Story,” among others, Ross is a sought-after speaker and activist working with global leaders teaching, speaking, and consulting on organizational change that creates space for the rich experiences of trans people and people of color.
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 courtesy Better Brothers LA |
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Brian Henry – As one of the nation’s most sought-after celebrity DJ’s Brian Henry has made his mark as a recurring DJ on ABC’s Good Morning America, Cannes and Sundance Film Festivals, New York Fashion Week, and Coachella in addition to other major events. He leads the Beats to Beat Breast Cancer non-profit, a music-driven organization focused on eradicating the disease in African American communities. Additionally, Henry’s nationally recognized B-Hen Block Party provides safe, expressive spaces for all members of the community to celebrate the best versions of themselves with joy.
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 courtesy Better Brothers LA |
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Jewel Thais-Williams – Entrepreneur, activist, community leader, and film producer. Thais- Williams founded the iconic LA nightclub, The Catch One, one of the first black gay discos in the United States. She has contributed significantly to HIV/AIDS education and LGBTQ+ social justice movements over the decades, which were captured in the award-winning Netflix documentary Jewel’s Catch One.
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 courtesy Better Brothers LA |
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Tracey “Africa” Norman – Tracey “Africa” Norman made history in the 1970s as one of the first trans models to achieve mainstream success in the fashion industry and appeared on the iconic Clairol box no. 512, paving the way for generations of people of color. Norman has said, ”I want people to know that it’s okay to be who you are and to be proud of who you are and that it’s okay to go against the norm. You can still achieve your goals and still be successful, regardless of who you are or what you identify as.”
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 courtesy Better Brothers LA |
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Raven Symoné – Raven Symoné’s entertainment career has spanned three decades and has included starring roles and appearances across films, television, and music. Symoné believes living in her truth is “Not allowing other people’s thoughts and wants to change how she programs herself.” She encourages parents of Queer children to allow their kids to discover who they are.
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 courtesy Better Brothers LA |
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Sam Fine – Author and Makeup Artist to the stars, Sam Fine’s artistry is renowned for painting the faces of some of the industry’s biggest names, and his groundbreaking book “Fine Beauty,” which serves as a guide for women of color on makeup techniques and product selection. His work continues to inspire and influence aspiring makeup artists and beauty enthusiasts around the world.
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 courtesy Better Brothers LA |
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Ts Madison – Media personality, entertainer, executive producer, and LGBTQ+ advocate; Ts Madison is one of our community’s foremost voices for trans rights. As a public figure for Queer progress, Madison’s career encapsulates her highly successful digital platforms, series The Ts Madison Experience where she shares her personal journey in representation, iconic wit, and undeniable charm into global success.
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 courtesy Better Brothers LA |
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Dr. Darnell Hunt – Dr. Darnell Hunt’s expertise as a professor and scholar in race relations and sociology has led to countless contributions in our nation and communities’ quest for equality. As UCLA’s Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost, Dr. Hunt’s work charts how race and socioeconomics impact media and representation, particularly in entertainment. Dr. Hunt’s professional achievements elevate ideas in support of inclusivity and access. For Dr. Hunt, living his truth is, “Loving myself for who I am.”
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 courtesy Better Brothers LA |
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Tre’vell Anderson – Award-winning journalist, media fixture, social curator, and author, Tre’Vell Anderson currently co-hosts “We See Each Other: The Podcast,” discussing a range of significant cultural issues and topics. With the recent release of their book, “We See Each Other: A Black, Trans, Journey Through Film” Tre’Vell is furthering their impact into the expansion of narratives for trans identity in visual mediums.
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 courtesy Better Brothers LA |
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Kalen Allen – Famous for his singular comedic talents, and recognizable TV personality, Kalen Allen is known for features on The Ellen Degeneres Show and his viral videos across major social media platforms. Allen has lent his influence towards celebrating Pride Month across numerous brands, campaigns, and community amplification events, championing Queer visibility at all times.
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