The Hawai‘i LGBT Legacy Foundation Takes Bold Steps Forward
Amplified, empowered and reimagined, the Hawai‘i LGBT Legacy Foundation is creating greater avenues for impact and visibility.
Photo: Courtesy of Hawai‘i LGBT Legacy Foundation
The Hawai‘i LGBT Legacy Foundation has been dedicated to increasing its visibility through various initiatives, including expanding programming, reintroducing past events and implementing significant changes to beloved community experiences. With the recent appointment of Randy Soriano as the foundation’s inaugural Executive Director, along with a committed Board of Directors, led by Ha‘aheo Zablan, the very first Kānaka Board Chair, the Hawai‘i LGBT Legacy Foundation is strengthening its presence within Hawai‘i by hosting more community-focused events and significantly elevating cherished occasions like Honolulu Pride.
SEE ALSO: Meet Randy Soriano, First Executive Director of the Hawai‘i LGBT Legacy Foundation
In February, the Māhūi, a group within the Foundation focusing on kānaka stories, values and history, organized the inaugural Pride Pā‘ina Lā ‘Ohana. This event served as a night to celebrate MVPFAFF/LGBTQIA+ youth and provide a safe space for queer families. The Pā‘ina is part of the Pride365 initiative, which recognizes pride as a year-round endeavor.
Photo: Jon Fujiwara, Courtesy of Hawai‘i LGBT Legacy Foundation
Additionally, the Foundation reintroduced its Vision Without Limits Gala. This gala pays tribute to key individuals in the MVPFAFF/LGBTQIA+ community who have championed equality and equity for all. To commemorate the 30th anniversary of marriage equality in Hawai‘i, this year’s Visionary Legacy Award was presented to Judge Daniel R. Foley, Magistrate Judge Kevin S.C. Chang and Supreme Court Justice Steven H. Levinson. The Visionary Award was bestowed upon Hinaleimoana Wong Kalu, a highly respected māhū cultural leader and kumu who has been instrumental in reshaping education, understanding and appreciation of the historical and contemporary role of māhū in society.
SEE ALSO: Honolulu Pride: LGBTQIA+ Events in July 2023
As Honolulu Pride approaches in October, we are proud to reveal this year’s theme: “Rooted In Pride: Homecoming.” We will announce a robust schedule of events along with accepting registration for the 2023 Honolulu Pride Parade and Festival on Aug. 1.
LGBTQ+ Center Honolulu is moving to Waikīkī Business Plaza, 2270 Kalākaua Ave. hawaiilgbtlegacyfoundation.com, @honolulupride. To get updated on all of the Hawai‘i LGBT Legacy Foundation’s initiatives, subscribe to our newsletter.
