Garden State Equality’s “Equality in Motion” fundraiser will continue with an Oct. 11 event in Montclair after organizers canceled the planned Oct. 4 Camden gathering because of anticipated inclement weather.
The LGBTQ+ civil rights organization held its Asbury Park event on Oct. 1, bringing community members together for a gathering that featured remarks from Deputy Mayor Amy Quinn and recognition of local advocates and changemakers.
Artist Mac Allen and HIV advocate Sal Susino were among those celebrated. Both spoke about the importance of listening to the community and embracing change to advance equality, according to GSE acting Executive Director Brielle Winslow-Majette.
During the event, Winslow-Majette emphasized that one person’s voice can reach another and potentially save a life, a message she said captured the event’s spirit.
The remaining fundraiser event will take place in collaboration with Out Montclair, the organizer of Montclair Pride. Community members are invited to march to open the celebration, with a 10:45 a.m. step-off from the Montclair Public Library, 50 S. Fullerton Ave. on Oct 11.
GSE canceled the Camden event, originally scheduled for 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the multipurpose room of the Campus Center at 326 Penn St., following concerns about the weekend forecast after last week’s storm. The event has not been rescheduled.
D’s Cozy Kitchen, the recipient of the “Cooking Up Equality Award,” had been scheduled to receive the honor at the Camden gathering. The lesbian-owned business, run by a couple who use their shared love of food to bring people together, will receive the award later this month.
GSE plans to hold additional events in South Jersey in the coming months, including an LGBTQ+ summit with the New Jersey League of Municipalities in November and a roller-skating fundraiser, Winslow-Majette said.
Funds raised through “Equality in Motion” support the organization’s programs in three core areas: youth, justice and health.
As of approximately 3:30 p.m. on Oct. 2, GSE had raised $21,557 toward its $50,000 goal.
For more information about the fundraiser and upcoming events, visit GSE’s events page.
