Celebrating Queer Excellence: LGBT History Month 2023 Icons in Spotlight!

Executive Director of PhillyGayCalendar

Illuminate 2023: An LGBT History Month Spectacular!



Hey fabulous folks! Our most awaited celebration of the year, The LGBT History Month, is right around the corner, promising to shine brighter than ever. This star-studded event is going to raise the roof with incredible personalities, mesmerizing performances, and most of all, a warm gathering of our amazing community.

Meet the Icons of the Show



  • Dr. Jake Kleinmahon, recipient of the prestigious International Role Model Award, will attend with his husband and their two children. His courageous decision to seek a safer, more inclusive environment for his family made headlines, showcasing his fight against structurally oppressive systems.
  • Rue Landau, an activist at heart and first out Philadelphia City Councilperson, will receive the Frank Kameny Award, presented by none other than the dynamic Democratic Mayoral Candidate Charelle Parker.
  • We’re honoring the trail-blazing works of Lesbian Gay Pioneer, Lilli Vincenz. A powerful figure in the LGBTQ community, her active advocacy and her place as an editor in renowned LGBTQ publications leave us an enduring legacy.
  • Joining us will also be the visionary Ben Garcia, at the helm of The American LGBTQ+ Museum, who has worked relentlessly to make museums welcoming spaces for all individuals.
  • The absolutely captivating Sapphira Cristal will be performing to blow your minds and move your hearts.


Event Highlights



Look forward to an awe-inspiring event starting off with the Launch of 2023 LGBT History Month on Sunday, October 1, at Independence Visitor Center, Liberty Ballroom, surrounded by your kindred spirits. Soak up the atmosphere, make connections, and enjoy the remarkable milestones that our community has achieved.

Reserve Your Seat



Tickets are available at $100 for the launch program and an additional $150 for the VIP Reception. Not only will you be a part of an inspiring day, but also your ticket purchase will support the ongoing advocacy work for our community. In case of inquiries or issues, drop an email to Malcolm Lazin at mlazin@equalityforum.com or give him a buzz at (215) 850-8751, and he’ll make sure to help you out.

Learn More About Our Guests



Interested to dig a little deeper about our guests’ journies and their invaluable contributions? Hop over to our guest page to know more about these inspirational figures.

Let’s gather to honor our icons, immerse ourselves in an enlightening atmosphere, and celebrate our vibrant community. We’ll be excitedly waiting for you at the Launch and the VIP Reception this October. Until then, stay fabulous and stand proud!

Read Related Posts...