Organizational Grand Marshal Nominees
Organizational Grand Marshal Nominees Organizational Grand Marshal Nominee Alpha Kappa Theta Alpha Kappa Theta Sorority, Inc. “Where Fire Meets Grace, and Sisterhood Becomes Legacy.” Alpha Kappa Theta Sorority, Inc. is a proudly feminine, lesbian-founded sisterhood rooted in authenticity, empowerment, and community impact. Known as The Twin Flames, our members embody the duality of womanhood… the balance of power and poise, softness and strength, individuality and unity.Founded to create a safe and affirming space for feminine lesbian women, Alpha Kappa Theta stands as a beacon of visibility, sisterhood, and service. We are leaders, healers, and nurturers dedicated to uplifting our community through advocacy, mentorship, and intentional service initiatives. From wellness and resource drives to LGBTQIA+ empowerment events and educational outreach, our mission is to ensure every woman feels seen, valued, and celebrated. Alpha Kappa Theta is more than a sorority, it’s a movement of women rewriting narratives, building legacies, and lighting the path for those who come next. Core Values: Sisterhood, Authenticity, Empowerment, Community, and Love CLICK TO VOTE Organizational Grand Marshal Nominee Heavy Hitters Pride The HH Movement, Inc., previously established and known as Heavy Hitters, Inc. created in 2013 to provide empowering and allowing spaces for an underserved marginalized community. These spaces allow the ability to freely discuss, the complexities of respect and inclusion in the LGBTQIA+ community, which can greatly affect the health and mental wellness of the Man of Size Community. In 2015, we introduced Heavy Hitters Pride, a 3 day event filled with empowerment sessions, themed parties, a pool party, an All White Brunch, and a fashion show. All of which was created to highlight the importance of recognition and inclusion in areas where Men of Size may be overlooked. We have now enhanced Heavy Hitters Pride into a 4-day weekend at the end of July and introduced Winter Explosion in 2025. Winter Explosion is a creative celebration of artistry. CLICK TO VOTE Organizational Grand Marshal Nominee FLAS FLAS Inc. (Fundación Latinoamericana de Acción Social) has spent over 30 years supporting Houston’s Latino and LGBTQ+ communities providing vital services including HIV education, mental health counseling, and free health testing. CLICK TO VOTE Organizational Grand Marshal Nominee TENT – Transgender Education Network of Texas Transgender Education Network of Texas (TENT) is the largest statewide, BIPOC trans-led, trans-focused policy, education, and advocacy organization in the state of Texas. We work to accomplish gender-diverse equality through education and networking in both public and private forums. Through our efforts, we strive to halt discrimination through social, legislative, and corporate education. In 2025, we defeated 94% of anti-trans bills introduced into legislation, and helped file over 100 bills benefitting all Texans. We organized with the community to advocate for trans rights at the Texas State Capitol, with Trans Texans and allies dropping nearly 7,000 cards in support of trans rights, testifying against anti-trans bills, and sharing their stories with legislators and community. CLICK TO VOTE Organizational Grand Marshal Nominee Trans Legal Aid Clinic Trans Legal Aid Clinic of Texas is a non-profit that connects transgender & non-binary Texans seeking to change their legal name with free help from volunteers in the legal community. CLICK TO VOTE
Gender Non-Conforming / Non-Binary Grand Marshal Nominees
Gender Non-Conforming / Non-Binary Grand Marshal Nominees Gender Non-Conforming / Non-Binary Grand Marshal Nominee Regi Stevenson I, Reginald “Regi” Stevenson, am excited to accept my candidacy for Gender Non-Binary/Gender Non-Conforming Grand Marshall for Pride Houston 365. With a proven track record of leadership, community engagement, and detail-driven project management, I am eager to bring both my discipline and compassion for community to a historic and notable year of queer celebration. As one of NASTAD’s Emerging Leaders of 2025, I have had the privilege of contributing to national strategies while creating Community Advisory Boards that ensured voices from diverse backgrounds were not only heard but meaningfully integrated into decision-making. These experiences strengthened my ability to bridge organizational goals with community needs, fostering trust and collaboration along the way. Outside of my professional work, I find connection through photography and the art of dance; practices that have taught me the power of listening, seeing beyond the surface, and sharing stories that might otherwise go unnoticed. This creative lens enhances my ability to engage communities, link individuals to vital services, and build relationships rooted in authenticity. I am confident that my blend of leadership, attention to detail, and human-centered approach would allow me to contribute meaningfully to the mission and vision of this legacy and this is also why I am super excited to accept this nomination. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to continuing the integrity and legacy of our community and Pride Houston 365! CLICK TO VOTE Gender Non-Conforming / Non-Binary Grand Marshal Nominee Flawless Oz Coming soon CLICK TO VOTE Gender Non-Conforming / Non-Binary Grand Marshal Nominee Dr. Bec Sokha Keo Dr. Bec Sokha Keo (pronouns-they/them; pronombres-elle/le) was born and raised in Houston, Texas by Khmer refugees who were forcefully displaced due to war and genocide. Now thriving, their family is a part of a larger Khmer community, where Dr. Keo learned the importance of finding your people, collective healing, chosen family, and giving back to the community. Their background led them to become first-generation college grad and now scholar activist committed to justice focused research, education, organizational change, and movements. They currently work at the SUSTAIN COMPASS Coordinating Center, which is situated at the University of Houston Graduate College of Social Work. Their focus areas are language justice, public impact scholarship, and community-based action research. Their team partners with organizations in the US South to enhance trauma-informed and health justice services for people living with and communities most systematically impacted by HIV. What brings Dr. Keo pride and joy is their community research partnership with a local collective of Black Transwomen scholars, known as TAC-SAGES. The women, now co-researchers, lead their own research and advocacy in the Greater Houston Area. Dr. Keo’s partner, two dogs, a cat, woodworking, and being in nature also bring them joy CLICK TO VOTE
Female-Identifying Grand Marshal Nominees
Female-Identifying Grand Marshal Nominees Female-Identifying Grand Marshal Nominee Ashley Barnes Ashley Barnes is a proud Houston native and a tireless advocate for community health, equity, and justice, with more than two decades of service dedicated to the fight against HIV. Her advocacy began in 2002 and has since grown into a lifelong commitment to uplifting underserved communities through education, awareness, and compassionate engagement. Ashley currently serves as Chair of the African American State of Emergency Task Force, where she leads statewide efforts to address HIV disparities impacting Black communities. Her leadership and expertise extend across numerous civic and public health spaces, including her involvement with the Texas Black Women’s Health Initiative, the Ryan White Planning Council, Project L.E.A.P., the National Forum of Black Public Administrators, the Fort Bend Black Heritage Society, the Community Planning Group Executive Board, the Greater Houston LGBT+ Chamber of Commerce, and BLACC Black Leadership AIDS Crisis Coalition. Professionally, Ashley serves as Associate Director of Public Health for Texas and Tennessee with AIDS Healthcare Foundation, while continuing her direct community impact. Her work is grounded in a deep love for people and a belief that access to care, culturally responsive education, and trusted relationships save lives. Ashley’s passion for advocacy is deeply personal. While attending Willowridge High School, she discovered her love for volunteering, a calling that later led her to earn a degree in Sign Language Interpreting. Her purpose became even clearer when her mother was diagnosed with HIV, a moment that profoundly shaped her life and inspired her to become a powerful voice for those impacted by the epidemic, particularly individuals who are often overlooked or underserved. One of Ashley’s greatest hopes is to expand outreach and prevention resources within the Deaf community, ensuring equitable access to education, testing, and care. With more than 20 years of advocacy experience, Ashley remains focused on community empowerment, reducing STI rates, and working toward zero new HIV cases in the City of Houston. Her work centers on health equity, education, and justice, driven by empathy, lived experience, and an unwavering belief in collective healing. A community-driven servant leader, Ashley Barnes is known for her ability to motivate, inspire, and build meaningful connections. Through decades of volunteering and leadership, she has implemented lasting, positive changes and continues to commit her life to service, guided by compassion, resilience, and a vision of a healthier, more just future for all. CLICK TO VOTE Female-Identifying Grand Marshal Nominee Brandi Lira While once hidden in a closet forced upon her by the unspoken rules of public education, Brandi Lira is now an out and proud polyamorous pansexual Latina educator with 19 years of experience. In addition to earning HISD East Area Principal of the Year twice, Brandi is the first Latina president to lead Out For Education, a Houston area non-profit scholarship program for LGBTQIA+ students. Through her leadership, OFE has reestablished partnerships with the Diana Foundation, private donors across the area, and local businesses within the LGBTQIA+ community. As President of Out For Education, Brandi has the unique ability to carry her school leadership skills over to the nonprofit sector. Since joining Out For Education, Brandi has consistently found ways to improve upon the work of the organization, increasing community visibility through intentional social media marketing, hosting annual flagship fundraising events, and collaborating with other LGBTQIA+ organizations in Houston and surrounding areas. OFE is a current member of the Greater Houston LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce and Brandi has been active in chamber events. Through the board’s leadership, OFE has reestablished partnerships with the Diana Foundation, private donors across the area, and local businesses Brandi has been an active participant in community events, advocating for a collaborative space between OFE and other organizations such as Tony’s Place, Houston Bar Association LGBTQ+ Committee, Houston Bears, The Wolff Family Fund of Fidelity Charitable, and The Frost Foundation, Woodlands Pride, The Hollyfield Foundation, Houston Tennis Club, and so many more! It is through this community outreach and collaboration that Brandi and her board have been able to reach so many more students to support their educational journeys. While previously labeled an unknown or inactive organization, the last four years of OFE’s work has demonstrated an intentional focus on building community, empowering volunteers, and inspiring the next generation of LGBTQIA+ leaders. Brandi completed her Bachelors, Masters, and Doctoral degree coursework at the University of Houston – Main Campus. She spent 15 years of service as an English teacher and high school principal in Houston ISD and now serves Cypress Fairbanks ISD as an English III teacher. Brandi currently lives in Houston, teaches full time, and has two human children as well as two canine children. CLICK TO VOTE Female-Identifying Grand Marshal Nominee Gianna Christina Ramirez Gianna Christina Ramirez is a lifelong Texan and a proud, outspoken transgender woman whose life and work are deeply rooted in service to the Houston LGBTQ+ community. A former nonprofit professional, Gianna has held leadership roles across development, volunteer coordination, community engagement, and communications, bringing strategic clarity, cultural fluency, and heart to every organization she has served. Beyond her professional career, Gianna is a highly engaged community volunteer and civic leader. She is an active member of FLUX AHF, The Diana Foundation, Bunnies on the Bayou, ERSICSS, and the Greater Houston LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce. Expanding her impact nationally, Gianna also serves on the National Advisory Board for Gay America Esquire, the male division of the Miss Gay America pageantry system. With years of sustained community service, Gianna’s leadership and impact have been widely recognized. She is the proud recipient of multiple OutSmart Magazine Gayest & Greatest Awards, including Most Valuable Female Trans Community Volunteer, Leading Trans Community Fundraiser, and Most Valuable Female Volunteer, as well as the 2025 Monica Roberts Resource Center Trans Visibility Award. A compelling public speaker, activist, and corporate presenter, Gianna has done extensive work advancing transgender visibility and representation within corporate, nonprofit, and civic institutions. Her advocacy isgrounded in lived experience and driven by a lifelong
2026 Male-Identifying Grand Marshal Nominees
Male-Identifying Grand Marshal Nominees Male-Identifying Grand Marshal Nominee Davis Mendoza Darusman Davis Mendoza Darusman is a nonprofit leader, community organizer, small business owner, and proud member of Houston’s LGBTQ+ community whose work centers dignity, access, and care for the city’s most vulnerable residents. He is currently a candidate for Harris County Justice of the Peace, Precinct 5, Place 2, and would be the first AAPI JP in the county’s 189-year history, as well as the youngest openly queer judge in Houston. Davis has been endorsed by the LGBTQ+ Victory Fund and the Houston LGBTQ+ Political Caucus for his commitment to fairness, accessibility, and dignity in public service. Davis serves as President of the University of Houston LGBTQ+ Alumni Association, leading alumni efforts to provide thousands of dollars in scholarships, emergency aid, and ongoing support to LGBTQ students. He is also a founding co-chair of QUEENs of Houston, a first-of-its-kind coalition bringing together 10+ LGBTQ-serving organizations to share resources, coordinate community events, and expand access to support for all queer and Trans Houstonians. Professionally, Davis leads Houston Unscripted Productions, recognized twice by OutSmart Magazine’s Gayest & Greatest Awards for event and commercial videography, and produced the pilot for Panning for Love, an LGBTQ+ reality dating show. In his activism, Davis fought against the removal of the Montrose rainbow crosswalk and led community art projects like Pride Chalk on the Sidewalk, a “Queer To Stay” banner drop over I-59, and a protest against Governor Greg Abbott at his re-election announcement event. In recognition of his service, Davis is the 2025 recipient of the University of Houston Young Alumni Network’s Distinguished Service Award and a 2019 recipient of the UH Campus Leaders Legacy Award. Across his activism, nonprofit leadership, and public life, Davis believes love, visibility, and compassion should guide our institutions. CLICK TO VOTE Male-Identifying Grand Marshal Nominee Dr. Roy Rivera, Jr., PT, PhD, DPT, MCHES (he/him) Dr. Roy Rivera, Jr., is a nationally recognized healthcare leader, social justice advocate, and proud Houstonian whose work has transformed access to inclusive, affirming care for LGBTQ+ communities across Texas and beyond. He is the Founder and CEO of Elation Physical Therapy, a Certified Minority and LGBT Business Enterprise®, known for setting the standard in culturally competent, patient- centered rehabilitation services. Born and raised in the Texas Rio Grande Valley, Dr. Rivera moved to Houston in 2003 to pursue his calling in healthcare. He earned his Master’s degree in Physical Therapy from the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, later completing a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree and a PhD in Health Studies. After nearly a decade of service within the Memorial Hermann Health Care System, he founded Elation Physical Therapy in 2014 with a mission to empower individuals to unlock their physical potential in an inclusive and affirming environment. Beyond clinical care, Dr. Rivera is a leading voice in LGBTQ+ health education and advocacy. He is the international best-selling author of Shantay You Stay: A Healthcare Provider’s Guide to LGBTQ+ Inclusive Practices, a widely used resource for advancing equity and cultural humility in healthcare systems nationwide. He is also the author of Lorenzo’s Big Dream, a children’s book that celebrates authenticity, self-expression, and belonging from an early age. Dr. Rivera is deeply committed to community service and economic empowerment. He very recently served on the Board of Directors for the Greater Houston LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce and Out for Education, one of the nation’s most successful LGBTQ+ scholarship foundations supporting LGBTQ+ youth. His work centers on increasing access to affirming healthcare, supporting LGBTQ+-owned businesses, and mentoring future leaders. In 2025, Elation Physical Therapy was awarded the Allstate Main Street Grant, providing $20,000 to expand LGBTQ+-affirming telehealth and virtual physical therapy services across Texas, with a special focus on rural and underserved communities where access to inclusive healthcare is limited. This investment reflects Dr. Rivera’s ongoing commitment to health equity, innovation, and meeting people where they are. Dr. Rivera’s leadership and impact have been recognized with numerous local and national honors, including the American Physical Therapy Association’s Community Impact Award, the U.S. Department of Commerce Minority Business Development Agency’s Minority Health Products and Services Firm of the Year, and the Small Business Administration Houston District’s Small Businessperson of the Year. He has also been recognized by the Houston Business Journal, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Outsmart Magazine, and Southwestern University for his contributions to healthcare, diversity, and community leadership. Through healthcare, advocacy, philanthropy, and education, Dr. Roy Rivera, Jr. continues to advance dignity, equity, and opportunity for LGBTQ+ people and all Houstonians. He would be deeply honored to serve as a Grand Marshal for the Houston Pride 365 Parade. CLICK TO VOTE Male-Identifying Grand Marshal Nominee Jevon Martin Jevon Martin is an educator, chaplain, counselor, mentor, activist, advocate, notary, grandfather, husband, friend, parent, and brother. Standing unapologetically as he speaks out on issues that affect the TLGBQI+ community with emphasis on the Transgender population. Jevon is the President of FLUX Houston, where he raises the profile of the trans* and gender-nonconforming community by leveraging social events, creating safe spaces, and innovative advocacy initiatives. Jevon is the founder of Princess Janae Place in New York and The Monica Roberts Resource Center in Houston TX. Jevon has received countless awards and citations for his activism and advocacy from homelessness to HIV and TLGBQIA+ awareness. His motto is, If not now then when, If not me then who? Jevon uses he, him, and KING pronouns. CLICK TO VOTE
Ally Grand Marshal Nominees
Ally Grand Marshal Nominees Ally Grand Marshal Nominee Judge Lina Hidalgo Judge Lina Hidalgo is a transformative public servant whose leadership has reshaped Harris County into one of the most inclusive and equity-driven counties in Texas. As the county’s first woman, first immigrant, and youngest elected County Judge, she leads with a governing philosophy rooted in dignity, justice, and belonging. A steadfast ally and advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community, Judge Hidalgo has moved inclusion from symbolism to structure. Under her leadership, Harris County established the first-ever Harris County LGBTQIA+ Commission, institutionalizing a permanent voice for LGBTQIA+ residents in policymaking. Her administration expanded countywide nondiscrimination protections to include sexual orientation and gender identity and advanced policies that make equity systemic, not symbolic. She has consistently used her platform to defend LGBTQIA+ dignity and visibility. Judge Hidalgo supported a county resolution defending transgender youth when the State of Texas sought to criminalize gender-affirming care, affirming Harris County as a refuge rooted in compassion. She has stood against efforts to erase queer visibility in public spaces, strengthened inclusive systems through Book Sanctuaries in county libraries, and advanced health equity through leadership and advocacy connected to the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program and targeted public health partnerships. During the 2025 Pride Month, Judge Hidalgo, alongside Precinct 1 Commissioner Rodney Ellis, made history by supporting the raising of the Pride flag over Harris County buildings for the first time—a powerful affirmation that LGBTQIA+ residents are seen, valued, and celebrated by county leadership. Through courage, authenticity, and unwavering solidarity, Judge Lina Hidalgo embodies the spirit of Pride Houston 365, proving that true allyship is built through policy, protection, visibility, and lasting systems of inclusion that empower LGBTQIA+ communities every day of the year. CLICK TO VOTE Ally Grand Marshal Nominee Perla Lugo Perla Lugo is a Houston-based advocate, model, and community leader dedicated to empowering women beyond their past while advancing visibility, inclusivity, and representation for marginalized communities, including the LGBTQ+ community. Born in Matamoros, Mexico, and raised in Houston, Perla’s journey has been shaped by resilience, healing, and a lifelong commitment to creating spaces where people feel safe to be seen, affirmed, and celebrated. As a survivor of childhood adversity, she transformed personal healing into purpose-driven advocacy rooted in compassion, access, and belonging. As a plus-size model and body-positive activist, Perla challenges traditional beauty standards by advocating for inclusive casting and authentic representation across fashion and media. She is especially passionate about ensuring LGBTQ+ and gender- diverse individuals feel welcome in creative spaces that have historically excluded them, reinforcing that everyone deserves visibility without compromise. Perla is the founder and organizer of Ready, Set, Runway!, an affordable workshop series designed to educate and empower aspiring models of all identities, backgrounds, and expressions. These workshops intentionally foster inclusive, judgment-free environments while providing runway training, casting preparation, and industry insight. She also created and produced a runway show for Katy Pride in collaboration with The Transparent Closet, showcasing LGBTQ+ community members alongside their allies. This event celebrated authentic self-expression and unity, using fashion as a platform for pride, visibility, and affirmation. Professionally, Perla brings experience in manufacturing, food science, quality assurance, and industrial safety—knowledge that reinforces her advocacy for safe, equitable, and inclusive environments. She applies these principles across her community work by promoting education, accountability, and dignity in every space she helps create. Through volunteerism, mentorship, and collaboration with LGBTQ+-inclusive designers, creatives, and organizations, Perla continues to invest in the Houston community by amplifying underrepresented voices and expanding access to opportunity. Her work is guided by the belief that no one should be defined by their past—or denied a future where they can live openly, confidently, and authentically. Perla is the reigning Mrs. Houston United World 2026, using her platform, Empowering Women Beyond Their Past, to champion survivorship, body inclusivity, and LGBTQ+ visibility. Her advocacy is deeply personal as a proud mother of a transgender child, fueling her dedication to creating affirming spaces where LGBTQ+ individuals and families feel supported, protected, and empowered. CLICK TO VOTE Ally Grand Marshal Nominee Mandy Giles Mandy Giles (she/her) is the parent of two transgender young adults and is a fierce advocate for transgender and gender-diverse youth. Leveraging more than two decades of serving children through educational nonprofits, Mandy founded Parents of Trans Youth, a social impact business providing learning, support, and community to parents and caregivers of transgender and gender- diverse kids and young adults. Parents of Trans Youth partners with the Montrose Center to provide a free monthly peer support group for parents of transgender youth and young adults in the Houston metropolitan area. Mandy is also on the facilitation team for the Montrose Center’s new weekly social support group for parents of LGBTQ+ youth. Beyond Houston, Mandy co-leads the parent support group for the Campaign for Southern Equality’s Trans Youth Emergency Project. Additionally, Parents of Trans Youth hosts the only national secure online community for parents of transgender children created and led by a fellow parent. Mandy is a voice for the voiceless. Many Texas parents of trans youth can’t advocate publicly for their children because of accessibility or safety reasons, so Mandy speaks up for those who can’t. She has been heavily involved in advocacy work since 2021 and has testified before the Texas Legislature dozens of times. Mandy has spoken out in support of trans kids at local school district board meetings, Harris County Commissioners’ Court, and the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services Council. A sought-after speaker, Mandy often serves as a parent voice in local, state, and national discussions, panels, and other events focused on issues affecting trans youth, including the national rally at the U.S. Supreme Court in January 2026 hosted by the ACLU and Lambda Legal. Mandy is a past president of PFLAG Houston and the recipient of the Equality Texas 2025 Business Champion Award; 2025 Ambies Best DIY Podcast Nominee; 2024 Apple Podcasts Pride month “For the Fight” featured podcast; and 2023 Outsmart Magazine Gayest and Greatest Awards Favorite
Ashley Barnes
PH365 UpcomingEvents 2026 GM/Logo Reveal 2.5.26 RSVP 48th Annual Festival + Parade Early Bird Tickets Attractive Smile Tickets
PH365 EVENTS
Events PRIDE HOUSTON 2026 EVENTS February 22, 2026 Pride Houston Presents: The DJ Showdown Finale at Bald Kitty This one is for YOU. Houston, you’ve been showing up all season — voting, cheering, arguing with your friends about who really had the best set. Now it’s time to settle it once and for all. TICKETS March 8, 2026 Women in Pride: Houston’s International Women’s Day Brunch & Networking Event Join us at The Houston Club for an elevated International Women’s Day brunch bringing together Houston’s most influential women in leadership, law, politics, and community impact. TICKETS June 6, 2026 48th Annual Houston Pride LGBTQ+ Celebration® The Official Houston Pride LGBT+ Celebration® Festival and Parade downtown at Houston City Hall on June 6, 2026. TICKETS