Bill > CER26-0061

This resolution recognizes Heidi Ellis, a policy strategist and public servant, during the 2025 DC Black Pride celebration. Ellis is highlighted as a former Obama Administration appointee at the Environmental Protection Agency who was a member of both the White House LGBTQ+ and African American kitchen cabinets. Currently leading HME Consulting and Advocacy, she focuses on advancing inclusive policies and stakeholder engagement strategies that center marginalized communities. The resolution emphasizes her contributions to equity at the intersection of race, gender, and sexuality, as well as her leadership in the DC LGBTQ+ Budget Coalition and her numerous awards from organizations like the Washington Blade and SMYAL. The context of the recognition is the 34th annual DC Black Pride celebration, which takes place from May 23-26, 2025, with the theme "BLACK PRIDE IS FREEDOM". DC Black Pride is noted as the world's first Black Pride festival, which has since inspired over 50 similar celebrations globally and serves as a platform for the Black LGBTQIA+ community to gather, celebrate their identity, raise awareness about HIV/AIDS prevention, and stand against homophobia and bigotry.

https://lims.dccouncil.gov/Legislation/CER26-0061