News

July 3, 2017

In Our Own Voices Announces 2017 Honorees

In Our Own Voices, Inc. is pleased to announce its 2017 Honorees that will be recognized at its annual fundraising event, Jazz in July, on Sunday July 16th at 90 State Events by Mazzone Catering.

The awards ceremony is a very special component of Jazz in July, as it is the organizations way of recognizing individuals and organizations dedicated to creating a safe and more inclusive environment for LGBT people of color.

This year’s honorees are:
Organization of the Year– Given to a Capital Region organization that has visible evidence of working with and supporting lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people of color communities.
·         Capital Area Against Mass Incarceration

Friends of the Family Award– Given to a straight ally who supports the mission of In Our Own Voices, Inc.
·         Cynthia Williams-Stephens & Sue Clark (Schenectady Domestic Violence Liaison Coordinator)

LGBT Community Advocacy Award -Given to an individual or organization that is committed to creating change in lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people of color communities.
·         Albany Law School LGBT Pro Bono/ Outlaw – Dena M. DeFazio, LMSW & Desiree Santos

LGBT POC Health & Human Service Award– Given to an individual or organization that has visible evidence and a direct impact on elimination of oppression and marginalization in LGBT POC communities.
·         Tommy Rosario, MPower Albany

Volunteer of the Year– Given to an individual who supports the mission of In Our Own Voices, Inc.
·         Philip Wentworth & Brittni Gulotty (The Legal Project)

Rising Star Award– Given to a lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender youth of color who is actively pursuing education at a college, university, or trade school. The recipient will be announced at Jazz in July.

This year’s Jazz in July will be hosted by Spectrum News9 anchor and reporter Tamani Wooley and will feature, in addition to the awards ceremony, a live auction and silent auction to raise funds to sustain In Our Own Voices ongoing programs.

For more information, go to www.inourownvoices.org or call (518) 432-4188.