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 an
 courtesy Better Brothers LA James Earl Hardy – Creator of the “B-Boys Blues”; series of novels, which inspired the 2021 feature adaptation of the same name, James Early Hardy’s raw depictions of Black, Queer love have captivated readers and audiences for decades. Sharing the truths of our communities’; stories with heart and humanity, Mr. Hardy’s voice and pen provide affirmation that our stories are based in undeniable Pride.
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 courtesy the Sibley Group |
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Byron Perkins – As a recent May 2023 graduate of Hampton University, Byron Perkins cemented his name in history in 2022 by living his truth and becoming the first openly gay football player at an HBCU. His announcement led to waves of public support and media appearances, actively celebrating his Pride – including the Courage Award from Better Brothers Los Angeles.
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 courtesy the Sibley Group |
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Judge Darrin P. Gayles – In 2014, Judge Darrin Gayles was nominated to the federal judiciary by President Obama and later confirmed, making him the first openly gay Black man to be appointed as a federal judge. Throughout his career, Judge Gayles has been recognized for his contributions to the legal profession and his commitment to justice. He has presided over several significant cases, including declaring unconstitutional a voter ID law disproportionately affecting African-Americans in Alabama.
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 courtesy the Sibley Group |
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Phill Wilson – Phill Wilson is an international leader in HIV/AIDS activism, and Founder, and former CEO of the Black AIDS Institute, whose work is entrenched in research, advocacy, organization, and education on HIV/AIDS in the African-American community. The recipient of numerous accolades and recognitions, including appointment on President Obama’s Advisory Council on HIV/AIDS during his tenure, Mr. Wilson’s tireless activism is a manifestation of his Pride and passion for the fight against stigmatization.
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 courtesy the Sibley Group |
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Dr. Shaun Harper – Dr. Shaun Harper’s academic, and socio-political contributions regarding race, gender, and sexual equality in higher education, government, and media spotlights him as one of the nation’s leading experts on diversity and inclusion. Dr. Harper currently holds a coveted Provost position at USC, and is the President Emeritus of the American Education Research Association, where he tackles issues affecting the education system, shining truth on the facts.
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 courtesy the Sibley Group |
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Anthony Hemingway – Golden Globe and Emmy Award-winning, director-producer Anthony Hemmingway has helmed stories investigating African American history and community since his entrance into entertainment. Known for his work on groundbreaking series like “Underground,” “Power,” “Genius: Aretha” to his film “Red Tails.” Hemmingway continues creating innovative stories for the silver screen, while living in his truth.
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 courtesy Better Brothers LA |
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Dr. David Malebranche – Researcher, sexual health advocate, and internal medical physician, Dr. David Malebranche is a visible presence and catalyst for progress in the medical field, where he specializes in HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment. As the Senior Director of Medical Affairs at Gilead Sciences, Dr. Malebranche is a global leader in the field, with fervent emphasis on support, access, and Pride for the Black, Same-Gender Loving community.
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 courtesy the Sibley Group |
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Derrick Rutledge – Nicknamed “The Makeup Maestro,” Derrick Rutledge has painted some of the world’s most famous women, including the former first lady of the United States Michelle Obama, Beyoncé, Chaka Khan, and media mogul Oprah Winfrey. In addition to working with celebrities, Rutledge has contributed to numerous editorial spreads, fashion shows, and special events. Rutledge’s work showcases the ability to enhance natural beauty while promoting self-confidence and individuality.
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 courtesy the Sibley Group |
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Marsha Warfield – Actress and Comedian Marsha Warfield has brought laughs and warmth to audiences in iconic films and TV programs for generations. Perhaps best known as Roz Russell from “Night Court”; Warfield’s stand-up is recently seen in the Netflix special “Stand Out: An LGBTQ+ Celebration” and her solo show “The Book of Marsha.” Publicly coming out in 2017 and stepping fully into her Pride, Warfield celebrates, “It’s a new environment that people are coming into, so coming out is not quite as traumatic…It’s a different world.”
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 courtesy the Sibley Group |
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Keith Boykin – Media correspondent, political commentator, author, and film & TV producer; Keith Boykin’s influence on the nation began as a White House Aide in the Clinton administration, where he passionately organized relations with LGBTQ+ leaders and organizations. Boykin has progressed over the past decades into one of the nation’s top representatives on Black, LGBTQ+ rights, and social justice reform. He has made significant media and publishing contributions across major national platforms advocating for equality, and acceptance, and always maintaining Pride.
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