In a landmark move for LGBTQ+ leadership in Philadelphia, Tyrell Brown has officially been named the new Executive Director of the Mayor’s Office of LGBTQ+ Affairs. This appointment places Brown at the forefront of citywide efforts to support and advocate for LGBTQ+ individuals across Philadelphia, particularly those from historically marginalized communities.
Brown is a respected advocate and organizer with an extensive history of work in LGBTQ+ spaces throughout the city. He previously served as Director of Programming at Galaei, a queer Latinx social justice organization based in North Philadelphia, and played a prominent leadership role with Philly Pride 365, the group that re-envisioned Philadelphia’s Pride celebrations to be more inclusive, equitable, and reflective of the city’s full LGBTQ+ spectrum.
In his new position with the City of Philadelphia, Brown will be tasked with advising the mayor and city departments on LGBTQ+ policy, supporting access to inclusive healthcare, housing, education, and employment resources, and collaborating with community-based organizations to promote equity and safety for LGBTQ+ residents. The Office of LGBTQ+ Affairs also plays a crucial role in coordinating visibility campaigns, city-sponsored events, and outreach to underrepresented populations within the LGBTQ+ community.
Brown’s appointment continues a legacy of community-centered leadership in the office, which was established in 2016 as part of Philadelphia’s efforts to become a national model for LGBTQ+ inclusion. His background in both grassroots activism and institutional organizing positions him as a bridge-builder between local government and the diverse communities it serves.
Notably, Brown’s leadership comes at a time when queer and trans communities—particularly Black and Brown LGBTQ+ individuals—face escalating social and political challenges across the country. His appointment sends a clear message that Philadelphia remains committed to affirming, protecting, and uplifting all members of the LGBTQ+ community.
With years of hands-on experience and a deep understanding of the city’s LGBTQ+ landscape, Brown is expected to bring a strong, community-rooted approach to the role. As Executive Director, he will guide initiatives aimed at reducing disparities, enhancing representation, and ensuring that Philadelphia’s LGBTQ+ residents have a seat at the table in shaping the city’s future.
This appointment is being celebrated by advocates across the city who recognize the importance of having leaders who not only represent the community but are also deeply embedded within it. Brown’s work moving forward will play a pivotal role in ensuring that Philadelphia remains a safe, inclusive, and vibrant place for LGBTQ+ people to live, work, and thrive.
Brown is a respected advocate and organizer with an extensive history of work in LGBTQ+ spaces throughout the city. He previously served as Director of Programming at Galaei, a queer Latinx social justice organization based in North Philadelphia, and played a prominent leadership role with Philly Pride 365, the group that re-envisioned Philadelphia’s Pride celebrations to be more inclusive, equitable, and reflective of the city’s full LGBTQ+ spectrum.
In his new position with the City of Philadelphia, Brown will be tasked with advising the mayor and city departments on LGBTQ+ policy, supporting access to inclusive healthcare, housing, education, and employment resources, and collaborating with community-based organizations to promote equity and safety for LGBTQ+ residents. The Office of LGBTQ+ Affairs also plays a crucial role in coordinating visibility campaigns, city-sponsored events, and outreach to underrepresented populations within the LGBTQ+ community.
Brown’s appointment continues a legacy of community-centered leadership in the office, which was established in 2016 as part of Philadelphia’s efforts to become a national model for LGBTQ+ inclusion. His background in both grassroots activism and institutional organizing positions him as a bridge-builder between local government and the diverse communities it serves.
Notably, Brown’s leadership comes at a time when queer and trans communities—particularly Black and Brown LGBTQ+ individuals—face escalating social and political challenges across the country. His appointment sends a clear message that Philadelphia remains committed to affirming, protecting, and uplifting all members of the LGBTQ+ community.
With years of hands-on experience and a deep understanding of the city’s LGBTQ+ landscape, Brown is expected to bring a strong, community-rooted approach to the role. As Executive Director, he will guide initiatives aimed at reducing disparities, enhancing representation, and ensuring that Philadelphia’s LGBTQ+ residents have a seat at the table in shaping the city’s future.
This appointment is being celebrated by advocates across the city who recognize the importance of having leaders who not only represent the community but are also deeply embedded within it. Brown’s work moving forward will play a pivotal role in ensuring that Philadelphia remains a safe, inclusive, and vibrant place for LGBTQ+ people to live, work, and thrive.