The Leslie-Lohman Museum of Art is set to host its annual Fall Gala on October 6th, promising an extravagant evening of celebration and support for queer creativity and the LGBTQIA+ community. This year’s event will take place within the hallowed halls of the museum itself, creating an intimate and artistic atmosphere that perfectly complements the occasion. As the night unfolds, the museum will pay tribute to three remarkable individuals who have been instrumental in reshaping culture and advancing LGBTQIA+ rights: ANOHNI, Chanel Lopez, and Catherine Opie.
Chanel Lopez: A Trailblazer in Government and Advocacy
One of the honorees, Chanel Lopez, has made significant contributions to the LGBTQIA+ community in her role as the first Deputy Director of LGBTQ+ Affairs for Governor Kathy Hochul in the New York State Executive Chamber. Prior to this pivotal role, Lopez served as the Transgender Communities Liaison for the New York City Commission on Human Rights, where she tirelessly championed the rights of transgender individuals.
Chanel Lopez’s influence extends beyond her official roles, as she has been a driving force behind important initiatives. Her collaboration with the Leslie-Lohman Museum of Art began in Albany and has resulted in transformative conversations, including partnerships with organizations like Drag Out the Vote. Lopez’s work has had a profound impact on LGBTQIA+ futures, inspiring positive change and galvanizing the community.
In her own words, Chanel Lopez shared her connection to the Leslie-Lohman Museum of Art: “The Leslie-Lohman Museum of Art is a pivotal unique institution, it’s a place where the LGBTQ+ community and allies can come and learn a piece of such important history. Having the Leslie-Lohman Museum of Art gives past, current, and future queer artists the opportunity to showcase their talent. Being the recipient of such a prestigious award like the ‘Queer Visionary Award’ is such a blessing bestowed on me by the team and staff who represent the Leslie-Lohman Museum, and it sends a message to the trans community that we are seen, heard, and valued.”
Advocacy Beyond Borders
Chanel Lopez’s dedication to advocacy spans over two decades, during which she served as a Youth Counselor for the Ali Forney Center, creating safe spaces and providing crisis counseling and conflict resolution mediation for homeless LGBTQ+ youth. She also worked with the New York Anti-Violence Project, supporting LGBTQ+ survivors of sexual and domestic violence.
Lopez’s story has reached audiences beyond New York, as she has been featured in documentaries such as VICE’s docuseries “Balls Deep” and the documentary “The Death and Life of Marsha P. Johnson.” These documentaries shed light on her experiences as a transgender woman of color growing up and living in New York.
Her remarkable contributions have not gone unnoticed. Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. honored her with a Certificate of Merit and a Proclamation, recognizing her outstanding achievements. Additionally, she made history by becoming the first transgender woman to be honored by the Dominican Parade Association.
Join the Celebration
On October 6th, the Leslie-Lohman Museum invites everyone to join in celebrating Chanel Lopez’s achievements, the power of queer artistry, and the transformative work the museum undertakes. The gala promises an unforgettable evening filled with festivities and fine dining within the museum’s welcoming confines.
For those looking to invest in the only art museum in the world dedicated to the artistic exploration of queer perspectives, gala tickets can be purchased here.
If you’re unable to attend but still want to support the invaluable contributions of queer creativity, donations can be made here.
This Fall Gala promises to be a night of recognition, inspiration, and unity, as we come together to celebrate those who have paved the way for a brighter future for the LGBTQIA+ community.
