2023 HRC WCNY Dinner Program Book

WITHOUT EXCEPTION

HRC WESTERN & CENTRAL NEW YORK DINNER July 29, 2023 Joseph A. Floreano Rochester Riverside Convention Center

THANK YOU TO OUR LOCAL SPONSORS

GOLD

SILVER

BRONZE

WELCOME RECEPTION Hon. Harry B. Bronson & John White-Bronson Bachelor Forum Rochester Sexual Wellness Center Trillium Health

ONECAUSE AUCTION

WINE

WELCOME DESK CHECK IN

PHOTOGRAPHY PATRON Turning Stone Resort | Casino

University of Rochester Planning & Project Management Eastman Kodak *Updated as of 7/27/23

HRC NATIONAL CORPORATE PARTNERS

PLATINUM

GOLD

SILVER

BRONZE

*Updated as of 7/20/23

List current as of 7/20/23

Welcome!

On behalf of the HRC Western and Central New York Steering Committee and our Dinner Committee, welcome to our 4th Annual Dinner and Auction. We are honored to be in the company of such an incredible group of activists, advocates, and allies dedicated to fighting for LGBTQ+ rights.

While tonight is about celebrating our community’s achievements over the last year, we also recognize the alarming rise of anti-LGBTQ+ sentiment and legislation. Many people in our community—our family members, friends, and coworkers—live in fear daily. Since our last gathering: Over 525 legislative bills and laws across the country directly attack the lives and safety of the LGBTQ+ community; many specific bills target our trans family members by putting their access to critically needed medical care and protections at risk!

Drag Story Hours in our community came under attack.

Fifty years after Roe v. Wade, the Supreme Court reversed the landmark decision, stripping women of the right to reproductive choice and access to safe healthcare.

Regardless of how you identify, now is not the time for us to be complacent—even in New York state. We cannot allow the plethora of anti-trans legislation and random acts of criminality that threaten the rights and dignity of our trans community members to go unchallenged. This year, 11 members of the Western and Central New York Steering Committee lobbied on Capitol Hill, urging representatives from both sides of the aisle to vote against hateful legislation. Many members also turned out to protest with community partners and form a human wall to protect the many parents and children attending Drag Story Hour in Pittsford.

The backlash underway is a call to action for everyone here to come together to end discrimination against LGBTQ+ people and realize a world that achieves fundamental fairness and equality for all. Tonight, we celebrate the power of our community to effect change, overcome any obstacle, and create a more just and equitable world.

Thank you for joining us in this critical, life-saving work. Your presence here tonight reaffirms our shared belief that we will make history by defeating all legislative and media attacks against our community. Together, we will achieve full equality for all LGBTQ+ people—Without Exception!

With gratitude and solidarity, the 2023 HRC Western and Central NY Dinner Tri-Chairs.

Robert Neale

Dana Weiss

Lorraine Woerner

Thank You!* Equality Patrons

Barilla America Alan E. Curle, MD & Andrew S. London, PhD Chunkit Fung, MD & Scott Hartman, MD Davie Kaplan CPAs Gallagher Benefit Services Harris Beach PLLC Highland Hospital Howard Hanna Real Estate Services L3Harris Technologies Morgan Stanley Wealth Management Bliss Owen, CPA ROAR Rich Testa William Valenti, MD & James Wolk

FRIEND of HRC

The Bonadio Group Kelly Bonanno Carol & Dana Ebersole-Weiss Deborah Hughes Kathy Korol Barbara Purvis Richard Ognibene

Scholarship Ticket Donors Kelly Bonanno Wallace Johnson Davie Kaplan Kathy Korol Lindsay Tarnof Turning Stone Resort|Casino

Dinner Table Captains

Crosby Brownlie, Inc Karla Carey & Cassandra Franco Marybeth Cerrone & Michele Chin, MD Paula Cupertino, PhD Alan Curle, MD & Andrew London, PhD Justin Dollard Carol & Dana Ebersole-Weiss Chunkit Fung, MD & Scott Hartman, MD Clifton Gibson Deborah Hughes & Emily Jones Pebble Kranz & Dan Rosen Supriya Mohile, MD & Nimish Mohile, MD Brian Mumey Dr. Karen Mustian & Miss Mary Jo Fichtner Robert Neale Austin Ponce Jonathan Rosenfeld Jacob Shea Jim Sheehan Anne Tischer & Bess Watts Lorraine Woerner *All lists as of 7/26/23

Dinner & Steering Committee

Karla Carey Marybeth Cerrone Lauri Champoux-Bilak Carol Ebersole-Weiss Cassandra Franco Chunkit Fung, MD Kathy Hart, RN Scott Hartman, MD

Emily Jones Robert Neale Austin Ponce Victor Sanchez Jacob Shea Jim Sheehan Dana Weiss Lorraine Woerner

2023 Auction Donors

The Human Rights Campaign and the HRC Western and Central New York Dinner Committee gratefully acknowledge the organizations, businesses, and individuals that donated items and services to our auction.* Please patronize these businesses!

All Star Pizza—Penfield Aloft Syracuse Inner Harbor B-Side Bachelor Forum/Avenue Pub Benucci’s Italian Ristorante Bill Gray’s Bitter Honey Black Button Distillery Blackfriars Theatre Book Culture|Pittsford Buffalo David Bitton Clothing Carnegie Cellars Carol & Dana Ebersole-Weiss Central Rock Gym Colonial Belle Comedy @ the Carlson Corning Museum of Glass Courtyard Rochester Downtown Crisp Rochester Cure Restaurant Discover Cayuga Lake Public Cruise Elmwood Dental Group Equal Grounds Fowler's Canaltown Wine & Spirits Genesee Brew House Genesee Country Village & Museum George Eastman Museum Geva Theatre Human Rights Campaign Image Out Film Festival Iron Smoke Distillery JCC CenterStage K2 Brothers Brewing Keepers' Coffee, Tea, Snacks, Etc.

LaTourelle Hotel | Bistro | Spa Laughing Gull Chocolates Living Roots Wine & Company Lorraine Woerner, Four Cats Creative Moyalazyfactory Jina Park National Susan B. Anthony Museum & House Nocino Bar & Ristorante OFC Creations Theatre Center Perlo's Restaurant Phoebe’s Restaurant & Coffee Lounge Premier Pastry Rhine House Roar Night Club Robert Neale Rochester Broadway Theatre League Rohrback Brewing Company Seneca Park Zoo Shadow Lake Golf & Racquet Club Sorella’s & Co. Salon (Toni Coleman) Sutherland House Victorian Bed & Breakfast Syracuse Stage Tavos Antojitos y Tequila The Little Theatre The Revelry The Strong National Museum of Play tru on Park Turning Stone Resort|Casino Velvet Belly Wickham Farms Wilmorite Wunderbar WXXI Public Broadcasting

Thank You!

Special thanks to Auction Co-chair Lauri Champoux-Bilak and Honorary Auction Committee Member John Williams for their fruitful efforts!

*All lists as of 7/20/23

June 29, 2023 Dear Fellow Friends of the Human Rights Campaign: On behalf of the citizens of Rochester, I am honored to welcome you to the 2023 Human Rights Campaign of Western and Central New York Dinner. I thank you for being here, and for celebrating HRC’s mission as well as its supporters, tonight’s distinguished honorees, and pride in our community’s diversity.

I am proud to serve as Mayor of this great city and look forward to raising the Progress Pride Flag on July 10th in front of City Hall. The flag and its evolution remind us of the discrimination, unjust treatment, and violence directed at those in the LGBTQ+ community. We do not accept or tolerate this in our city. Equity, equality, and fairness are fundamental human rights that everyone deserves, no matter who they love.

The City of Rochester embraces our LGBTQ+ community with open arms and will continue to demonstrate our alliance. We are proud that for the last ten years, City of Rochester employees of the LGBTQ+ community and their families receive the fullest gender-affirming benefits that our insurer provides.

We thank the Human Rights Campaign for continuing to champion the rights for the Rochester LGBTQ+ community, and for its work to impact health care, social policy, and workplace safety for LGBTQ+ community members.

On behalf of the citizens of Rochester and the LBGTQ+ community, thank you for supporting the Human Rights Campaign and its heart-centered and inclusive work. Please enjoy this inspirational occasion.

Sincerely,

Malik D. Evans Mayor

Phone: (585) 428-7045

Fax: (585) 428-6059

TTY: (585) 428-6054

EEO/ADA Employer

Nik Harris HRC DIRECTOR OF STRATEGIC OUTREACH AND ENGAGEMENT Shenika “Nik” Harris (she/they), is a queer gender non-conforming attorney, activist, and speaker.

She is a native of Tallahassee, Florida and obtained her undergraduate degree in Political Science from Florida A&M University and her law degree from Florida State University. She is licensed to practice law in Florida and Washington DC. Nik currently serves as the Director of Strategic Outreach and Engagement for the Human Rights Campaign and previously served as the LGBTQ Consumer Advocate for the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. This position was appointed by Commissioner Nikki Fried and was the first LGBTQ position to a member of the Florida Cabinet. Prior to this appointment, Nik served as Senior Attorney at the Florida Department of Transportation and as a prosecutor at the Florida Department of Health. Nik conducts training on diversity, equity, and inclusion, and is certified by Cornell University in Diversity & Inclusion.

She was the first Black woman elected to serve as Vice-Chair of the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) National Board of Governors. She serves on the boards of Ruth’s List and IGNITE Women’s Services, is Vice-President of the Dolphin Democrats (Broward County’s LGBTQ Democratic Caucus), Vice-President of the Florida LGBTQ Democratic Caucus, serves on the Broward County Sheriff’s Social Justice Task Force, the Broward State Attorney’s Advisory Council and is a BIG in the Big Brothers Big Sisters Pride Program. In 2020 she was selected as a Victory Empowerment Fellow, one of eight people selected from across the country. She was elected as a Biden Presidential delegate in 2020 representing Florida’s 22nd Congressional District.

One of her proudest achievements is the founding of “Thou Art Woman”, a signature open mic event, with her friend and fellow attorney Ghenete “G” Wright. The event series celebrates LGBTQ women and their allies through performance and visual art. Attorney Harris has been the recipient of countless awards, including the 2019 Ruth’s List: Women Breaking the Glass Ceiling Award; and the 2020 recipient of the LGBTQ Leadership Award by the Florida Diversity Council. She is an awardwinning Toastmaster and speaks across the country in support of equality.

Equality Advocate Award Anne Tischer & Bess Watts

Bess founded the Rochester-Finger Lakes Chapter of Pride at Work AFL-CIO and served in leadership at local and state levels. As a champion of union rights, she not only stood up for LGBTQ+ rights but the rights of all workers. In an era where LGBTQ+ strikers stood separately from the rest, Bess gradually gained the respect of her straight male allies over beers. Eventually, they marched with her in the PRIDE parade.

The moment an issue becomes personal, that’s the moment you transform into an activist. For Anne Tischer and Bess Watts, that moment came when the couple needed spousal health insurance and the same access to workplace benefits as Bess’ coworkers at Monroe Community College.

Anne left the corporate world to become a social worker. Her famous protest signs have been on the front lines of countless rallies and movements at home and abroad. She’s particularly proud of her Marriage Equality sign with the simple but powerful phrase, “It’s about love,” featured in at least 14 papers nationwide!

Self-proclaimed “accidental activists,” Anne and Bess’ work has impacted every aspect of LGBTQ+ life for our community and beyond, including most of us here tonight. Their tenacity to be visible and create change is why the Human Rights Campaign and the HRC Western and Central New York Steering Committee proudly present these deserving women with the Equality Advocate Award!

The activism of this tenacious duo has touched every corner of the progressive movement, from LGBTQ+ Rights and Civil Rights to Women’s Rights, Reproductive Rights, Environmental Advocacy, Occupy Rochester, Voter Registration, and more. They never backed down when the answer was NO. Instead, they fine-tuned their approach with the help of mentors and unexpected allies that magically showed up every step of the way.

“The fight is a gift, whether or not you live to see the fruits of your efforts. So, find a fight worth fighting. Never give up. Never give in. Never go away.”

—Anne & Bess They continue to fight for the rights and needs of LGBTQ+ elders at Rainbow Seniors ROC, amongst other ongoing advocacy work.

In the fight for Marriage Equality, Anne and Bess worked with the Human Rights Campaign long before the HRC Western and Central New York Steering Committee existed. Understanding the importance of fighting equality battles on many levels, they recognized when they needed help and support with the same voracity that they understood their strengths and privileges.

They describe their 2004 marriage ceremony in Rochester’s Washington Square Park as a “public act of civil disobedience.”

“Fifteen years ago, if we knew all that we would end up doing, we never would have started,” Anne and Bess said.

We are grateful for their naivety because Anne and Bess are now the mentors and allies that we need as we defend progress and move equality forward for all—without exception!

Together for 30 years—or 29, depending on who you ask—Anne and Bess show no signs of stopping!

Let’s learn from their love and commitment to each other and our community. They are a living testament to how we are stronger together!

Beth Leavel ALLY FOR EQUALITY AWARD

Tony winner Beth Leavel will next be seen starring as Miranda Priestley in the new Broadway musical, The Devil Wears Prada, music by Elton John. Most recently, Beth was nominated for a 2019 Tony, Drama Desk, Drama League, and Outer Critic’s Circle award for her performance as DeeDee Allen in the critically acclaimed Broadway show The Prom. She received Tony, Drama Desk, NY Outer Critics Circle and L.A. Drama Critics Awards for her performance as the title character in The Drowsy Chaperone; as well as Tony Drama Desk, and Outer Critics Circle nominations for her role as Florence Greenberg in Baby It’s You. Other Broadway roles include Mrs. June Adams in Bandstand, Emily in Elf, Donna in Mamma Mia!, Frau Blucher in Young Frankenstein, Dorothy Brock in the revival of 42nd Street, Tess in the original company of Crazy For you, Mrs. Bixby in The Civil War, Ellie in Hal Prince’s Showboat, and Anytime (Broadway debut) in 42nd Street. Numerous TV, most recently The Walking Dead (AMC) and The Bite (Spectrum). Beth’s one-woman cabaret, It’s Not About Me, has played across the country to rave reviews and sold-out venues.

Along life’s journey let’s travel together.

American Airlines is a longstanding partner of the Human Rights Campaign. American is a proud advocate for LGBTQ rights in the Twin Cities and beyond.

Dana Goldberg COMEDIAN

As seen on TBS, ABC, LOGO, and Last Comic Standing, veteran comedian Dana Goldberg is a force of nature on stage. With performances at the San Francisco International Comedy Competition, The Comedy Festival produced by TBS and HBO, and the Fringe Festival in Edinburgh, Scotland; her quick wit and playful stage presence have her earning loyal fans across the country and abroad.

A crowd favorite, Goldberg has become a triple threat combining her comedy, hosting, and live auction talents to become one of the most sought after entertainers on the circuit. Voted one of the “Top Five Funniest Lesbians In America,” Curve magazine raves, “Goldberg is one of the brightest lights in a stellar comedy landscape.” Advocate.com named Goldberg one of the top three LGBT comedians in the nation.

In addition to headlining clubs, theaters and festivals around the country, Goldberg has performed at and emceed dozens of high profile events and has shared the national stage with luminaries such as President Barack Obama, Vice President Joe Biden, former President Bill Clinton, Meryl Streep, Katy Perry, Kerry Washington, Jennifer Lopez, Carol Burnett, Sir Elton John, Mariah Carey, Shonda Rhimes, and many more.

Combining her gift of humor with humanitarian efforts, Goldberg has raised over 20 million dollars for non-profits around the country in the fight for marriage equality, LGBT rights, women’s health, and HIV and AIDS education and prevention. As the youngest child in a single parent household run by a Jewish mother in which two of three kids are gay, Goldberg helps keep most of the comedy venues and half of the psychotherapists in the country in business.

For more information on Dana Goldberg visit www.danagoldberg.com

At Amazon, we’re committed to upholding a culture of inclusion and equity for our employees, customers, and neighbors.

We're proud to support HRC's work building a future that is inclusive, diverse, and accessible to all.

HRC in ACTION The most impactful way to support HRC is through a monthly gift, because you will help fuel HRC’s fight for FULL equality all year long.

Your ongoing monthly support will provide critical resources to fight back against anti-LGBTQ+ bills, expand and protect our pro-equality Congress in 2022, invest more deeply in our grassroots efforts with strategic organizing in key districts, keep pressure to pass the Equality Act in the U.S. Senate and continue to show up and fight for the multiply marginalized in our community and country.

Thank you for supporting HRC and for staying with us in the fight. Together, we are an unstoppable force for change!

Join Now

There’s a world where everyone belongs.

It just has to be built.

Google is proud to support The Human Rights Campaign in a shared pursuit to build a world where everyone belongs.

In a world where everyone belongs, what’s possible for everyone expands. That’s why Google is committed to building belonging at work, in our products and in society.

Discover more at belonging.google

“For more than 13 years, Macy’s has proudly supported the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) and its critical work to advance the rights of the LQBTQ+ community.

Together, with incredible partners like HRC, we are committed to tackling the barriers of representation, and realize a world that achieves equality and inclusion for all.

Because the history of progress shows that when people feel confident to own their story and stand in their truth, they change the narrative for everyone. At Macy’s, Inc., we’re on a mission to create a brighter future with bold representation. We call it Mission Every One.” Jeff Gennette

CHAIRMAN & CEO, MACY’S, INC.

We’ve committed $5B for a more equitable & sustainable future. macysinc.com/purpose

Transgender and non-binary people are your neighbors, co-workers, family members and friends. And when you or your friends and family are the targets of hate, violence and discrimination, you act.

The Human Rights Campaign is actively working to advocate for the rights and lives of the transgender and non-binary community–but we all must do more–can we count you in?

As LGBTQ+ people and allies, we have a responsibility to fight for EVERYONE in our movement. Now is the time to get loud, get visible, and spread awareness on behalf of transgender and non-binary people. So please take the actions below–but don’t stop there.

The more people who show they care, including allies and trans and non-binary people who speak up for the most marginalized in our community, the more hearts and minds we will change.

State legislatures are attacking LGBTQ+ folks, particularly trans people, left and right. Show antiequality legislators that we won’t tolerate any more bullying and discrimination.

Request and Show Off Your Sticker

Spread the Word On Social Media

Display your special edition HRC sticker on your car, laptop, water bottle — no matter where you put it, you’ll be saying you support our trans community.

Post these image shares on your social media channels and update your profile photos and let your networks know you believe in a more just and equitable world for trans folks — full stop.

Speak Out

Request A Sticker

Contact State Legislators

Sign the Pledge and Impact Change The first step in voicing your support for the trans and non-binary community is to sign your name to the Count Me In pledge. By taking this action, you’re sending a message that you vow to go out of your way to raise awareness and uplift the lives of our trans and non-binary friends and family.

Download Now

Count Me In

Provide Inclusive Books to an At-Need Library

Share a Voice Message of Support

Your contribution will provide a set of three books to a Title 1 school or community library serving multiply marginalized populations across the country.

State legislatures are targeting trans kids. Text HEART to 472-472 to share a public message of support for trans youth and show you’re fighting for them.

Donate Now

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Let Kids Play

Wear Your Support

Rebekah is a 14-year-old girl who loves school, reading, hanging out with her friends and playing field hockey.

But lawmakers across the country are trying to pass laws that would prohibit Rebekah from playing sports with other girls.

From T-shirts to pins to socks to masks, you can show off your support for trans equality no matter where you are, who you’re with or what you’re doing.

Meet Rebekah

Visit HRC.org/Shop

Transgender Justice eNewsletter Stay up to date on our Transgender Justice Initiative and what we’re doing to dismantle stigma and end the epidemic of violence against trans and gender non-conforming people.

Subscribe Now

Can we count you in? www.hrc.org/CountMeIn

Cocktails in every color for every identity.

It’s time to COLOR THE FUTURE.

Join Smirnoff in support for the LGBTQIA+ community, and toast to a more colorful and inclusive future for all!

PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY. SMIRNOFF NO. 21 VODKA. DISTILLED FROM GRAIN. 40% ALC/VOL. THE SMIRNOFF CO., NEW YORK, NY

GIVE THE GIFT OF EQUALITY This year, celebrate your loved ones, holidays or other special occasions by giving the gift of equality! Gift a membership to the nation’s largest LGBTQ+ civil rights organization, host a fundraiser to benefit our work, sign up for our wedding registry or donate in someone’s memory! Each donation includes an HRC membership and furthers the fight for full LGBTQ+ equality.

GOAL

HOST A FUNDRAISER

HRC MEMBER

FOR YOUR BIRTHDAY, GRADUATION, PRIDE OR MORE...

DONATE YOUR WEDDING REGISTRY

FLY A FLAG

GIVE THE GIFT OF EQUALITY TODAY hrc.im/WaysToGive

GIVE A MEMBERSHIP FOR HOLIDAYS & SPECIAL OCCASIONS

DONATE IN HONOR OR MEMORY OF SOMEONE

Celebrating a special occasion and looking to further LGBTQ+ equality?

Join our over 3 million supporters today by giving the gift of membership, hosting a fundraiser, donating your wedding registry to HRC and more!

©2019 LYFT, INC. CPUC IC NO. TCP0032513-P

Lyft supports safer spaces, and all the humans who inhabit them.

That’s

TRANSGENDER

INCLUSION IN THE WORKPLACE

OF THOSE RATED ON HRC FOUNDATION’S 2021 CEI…

99%

of CEI-rated employers explicitly include gender identity as a part of their non-discrimination policy.

49% of CEI-rated employers

allow employees the option to selfidentify as LGBTQ+ in anonymous employee engagement surveys or as part of data collection on confidential employee forms or in the HRIS system.

94 % 600+

OF FORTUNE 500 COMPANIES

have non-discrimination protections that include gender identity,

UP FROM 3% IN 2002.

major employers have adopted workplace gender transition guidelines.

Over its 19-year history, the Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s Corporate Equality Index has been the driving force for the adoption of equitable workplace policies, practices and benefits for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer people in the United States and beyond. Participating companies know that building an LGBTQ+-inclusive workplace is not just the right thing to do, it is also the best business decision and allows companies to attract, retain and engage top talent. Their commitment to building inclusion has only strengthened over the past year, with a record-breaking number of corporations achieving top marks.

91%

of all CEI-rated businesses offer transgenderinclusive health insurance coverage, up from 0 in 2002 and 22 times as many businesses as 12 years ago.

87%

of all CEI-rated businesses offer transgender-inclusive health insurance coverage while also eliminating blanket exclusions for medically necessary care in all other employer-sponsored plans.

Match Group believes that the freedom to marry the person you love is a fundamental

human right that must be federally protected for all adults, no matter their race, sexual

orientation or gender identity. We stand with our LGBTQIA+ employees and members,

and will continue to advocate for respect and positive change in our communities and our

laws alongside the Human Rights Campaign.

WHAT WE DO The Human Rights Campaign is America’s largest civil rights organization working for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer equality. Since 1980, we have been fighting for a better future for LGBTQ+ Americans. We are now working tirelessly to pass the Equality Act, which will soon head to the U.S. Senate for consideration, fight back against a multitude of anti-LGBTQ+ legis-lation in states nationwide and ensure everyone in our community is treated with dignity and respect. While our opponents are emboldened and on the attack, the Human Rights Campaign and our grass-roots army of more than 3.2 million members and supporters are energetically defending the rights we’ve gained and ramping up our fight for full equality across the board.

ANTI-EQUALITY LEADERS AND LEGISLATION

The alarming spate of anti-LGBTQ+ bills introduced across the country in 2020 has continued to surge in 2021. These include bills that would prohibit transgender youth from receiving genderaffirming care and bills that would prohibit transgender youth from participating in sports. This wave of anti-transgender legislation harkens back to the surge of anti-transgender bathroom bills that hit state legislatures in 2016, including North Carolina’s HB2. We remain committed to aggressively fighting these threats to equality by those who seek to undermine our rights. HRC will do whatever it takes to protect the rights and fundamental equality of every LGBTQ+ person in this country.

BUILDING AND DEMONSTRATING POLITICAL POWER

HRC’s decades-long work to build political power has uniquely positioned us to reach LGBTQ+ and ally voters who prioritize equality on the ballot, also known as Equality Voters. HRC has identified 57 million Equality Voters nationwide who, if they turn out to vote, will support pro-equality candidates. HRC’s early and sustained year-round engagement in battleground states like Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin bolstered historic turnout in 2018 and 2020 producing pro-equality outcomes at every level of government. In 2019, HRC’s mobilization of Equality Voters in Virginia, where lawmakers had repeatedly blocked proequality bills over many years, produced groundbreaking progress for LGBTQ+ Americans in the South. These victories led to the Virginia Values Act becoming law, making Virginia the first state in the South to advance statewide nondiscrimination protections for LGBTQ+ people.

ADVANCING EQUALITY IN OUR DAILY LIVES

The HRC Foundation improves the lives LGBTQ+ people by building understanding and shaping the public debate of LGBTQ+ people and the challenges they face through innovative research and public education campaigns. We also change the policies and practices in the institutions that shape our everyday lives (hospitals, schools, workplaces, and more) and empower strategic partners, community advocates, and allies through convenings and capacity-building.

Guided by these theories of change and seeking to prioritize work impacting those who are multiply marginalized, we have 11 cuttingedge programs advancing equality in the U.S. and beyond.

All Children - All Families is the only national program

dedicated to LGBTQ+ inclusion in child welfare (foster care and adoption agencies) that provides resource development, technical assistance and training.

Public Education & Research produces written resources and conducts original quantitative and qualitative research exploring the lived experiences of LGBTQ+ people.

Global Partnerships provides capacity-building and leadership development opportunities to LGBTQ+ advocates from around the world to strengthen movements and advance global LGBTQ+ equality.

HBCU Program is the only national project that partners with Historically Black Colleges and Universities on establishing an LGBTQ+-inclusive campus climate.

Health & Aging provides resources and training to help thousands of healthcare facilities adopt inclusive policies and practices to better serve LGBTQ+ patients and employees.

HIV & Health Equity develops public education and capacitybuilding programs to address the disproportionate impact of HIV on Black and Latinx communities.

Religion & Faith provides faith leaders with opportunities

and tools to stand up for equality even as opponents attempt to weaponize faith against LGBTQ+ people.

Transgender Justice Initiative leads economic empowerment programs, capacity-building initiatives, community engagement efforts, and public safety education campaigns that combat the discrimination faced by transgender people.

Welcoming Schools is the only bias-based bullying prevention program in the nation to provide LGBTQ+-specific training and resources with an intersectional lens, developed for use in elementary schools.

Workplace Equality advances equality for LGBTQ+ workers through the adoption and implementation of inclusive policies, practices, and benefits in the U.S. and beyond.

Youth Well-Being provides professional development to over 5,000 youth-serving professionals annually, through the annual Time to THRIVE conference, webinars, participation at major national convenings, and by amplifying the stories of HRC Youth Ambassadors. The program also convenes HRC’s Parents for Transgender Equality Council.

Updated 10-26-2021

We must do the work.

Real progress on diversity and inclusion doesn't happen without real work.

Our determination to drive sustainable change, grounds us in the ways we can make the systemic shifts necessary to create a more inclusive industry for all.

Microsoft continues to be a proud sponsor of the Human Rights Campaign.

THANK YOU

THE HUMAN RIGHTS CAMPAIGN FOUNDATION salutes our Foundation Partners with our heartfelt thanks.

ADM

GUIDEWIRE

PVH

ANONYMOUS

HEYDAY FOUNDATION

RAYTHEON

ASSURANT

HOME DEPOT

ROCKEFELLER FOUNDATION

AT & T

IKEA

RUSSELL GRINNELL MEMORIAL

JPMORGAN CHASE

TRUST

KORS LE PERE FOUNDATION, THE

SEMPRA

KROLL

SIRIUS XM

LEGO

S&P GLOBAL

LEVI STRAUSS & CO.

STATE FARM

LYFT, INC.

T-MOBILE

MARSH & MCLENNAN AGENCY

TOYOTA

MATCH GROUP

TWITTER

METLIFE FOUNDATION

UNITED AIRLINES

COMIC RELIEF

MORNINGSTAR FOUNDATION,

UPS FOUNDATION

DANAHER FOUNDATION

THE NATIONAL EDUCATION

USAA

DAVID BOHNETT FOUNDATION

ASSOCIATION NORTONLIFELOCK

U.S. BANK

E. RHODES AND LEONA B.

OAK FOUNDATION

VANGUARD

CARPENTER FOUNDATION

OPEN SOCIETY FOUNDATIONS

VERIZON

ELECTRONIC ARTS

PEPSICO FOUNDATION, THE

VIIV HEALTHCARE

EVERYTOWN FOR GUN SAFETY

PFIZER

THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY/

FORTIVE FOUNDATION

PhRMA

ESPN

GILEAD SCIENCES, INC.

PRONOUN

WARNERMEDIA

PRETIUM

WORKDAY FOUNDATION

BANK OF AMERICA BLACK TIE DINNER, INC. BRIGHTHOUSE FINANCIAL CARMAX CARLSON FAMILY FOUNDATION CENTENE CORPORATION CERNER CISCO SYSTEMS, INC. COCA-COLA FOUNDATION, THE COLLINGWOOD FOUNDATION

GOOGLE

ZENDESK

The Human Rights Campaign Foundation works to ensure that all Americans have the opportunity to care for their families, earn a living and live open, honest and safe lives at home, at work and in the community.

The HRC Foundation is a non-profit tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organization.

For more information about our work, visit www.hrc.org/Foundation Current as of January 30, 2023.

Morgan Stanley is a Proud National Corporate Partner of the

Human Rights Campaign At Morgan Stanley, a diverse, dynamic and inclusive culture underlies the success of our company. It widens our perspective, helps our employees achieve their professional objectives and allows us to better serve our clients. Our commitment to diversity and inclusion also garners accolades that consistently recognize Morgan Stanley amongst the top places to work for minorities, women, the LGBT community and diversity overall.

To learn about career opportunities and to apply visit morganstanley.com/people

© 2020 Morgan Stanley

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Learn more at Nationwide.com/diversity-equity-inclusion

Nationwide, the Nationwide N and Eagle and Nationwide is on your side are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. © 2022 Nationwide CPO-1762AO (09/22)

As one of the few large corporations in the United States led by an openly gay CEO, Neiman Marcus Group is proud to be recognized as a Best Place to Work for LGBTQ+ Equality. We’re committed to our HRC Platinum-level partnership and to leading meaningful initiatives that benefit all.

neimanmarcusgroup.com

Diversity is a key component at Northrop Grumman - a proud Platinum sponsor of the Human Rights Campaign.

ngc.com/diversity

pfizer.com/about/responsibility/human-rights

Target is proud to sponsor HRC in continuing our shared mission of creating accessible and affirming spaces for the LGBTQIA+ community.

Together, we #takepride

Equity and Economic Empowerment Dismantling barriers to build a stronger, fairer and more inclusive world. about.ups.com © 2022 United Parcel Service of America, Inc. UPS, the UPS logo, and the color brown are trademarks of United Parcel Service of America, Inc. All rights reserved.

jobs-ups.com

OUR PRIDE FLIES NONSTOP. At Alaska, we are longtime supporters of the LGBTQ+ community and remain committed to a more equitable society.

Innovation Begins with Inclusion Intel is proud to reflect the diverse voices it takes to push possible forward. Together, we are shaping the future of tech.

To learn more, visit intel.com/diversity

© 2020 Intel Corporation. Intel, the Intel logo, and other Intel marks are trademarks of Intel Corporation or its subsidiaries.

Other names and brands may be claimed as the property of others.

STAND OUT, STAND PROUD Nordstrom is honored to partner with the Human Rights Campaign in our celebration of the LGBTQIA+ community and commitment to safeguarding equal rights for all.

Whoever you are, whomever you love—we see you, we hear you and we stand with you.

Make Possible® a Better Future At Applied Materials, our innovations Make Possible a Better Future – a future that begins with equality.

We all have ambitions. And working together, valuing each other and respecting our uniqueness creates the best environment for us to achieve them.

Our ambition is bold, to help the world get to net zero by 2050 or sooner.

That’s why we value diversity and put being inclusive at the heart of how we operate. It’s also why we’re recognized as a top employer by the Human Rights Campaign’s Corporate Equality Index.

If that sounds like a culture you would thrive in, explore bp.com/careers

Celebrating everyone’s unique magic.

At Cox, inclusion is much more than a word. It’s at the very core of our values. We thrive on what makes us different, empowering our people, clients and communities to build a better future for the next generation. No two employees look or think the same. And we prefer it that way!

Ray Robinson, Cox Communications

PRIDE AT

Learn how we’re united by our uniqueness at coxenterprises.com/inclusion.

©2022 Cox Enterprises

Make your mark

Opportunity for all.

When we work to facilitate a diverse, inclusive workforce, we unlock our creative spirit and create the tomorrow we wish to see. For everyone.

UNITED WITH PRIDE We live and celebrate PRIDE every day.

Transform your career and join an agile, global leader in medical technology. jobs.medtronic.com © 2021 Medtronic. All rights reserved. Medtronic, Medtronic logo and Further, Together are trademarks of Medtronic. All other brands are trademarks of a Medtronic company. 08/2021

TOGETHER WE ARE MOVING TOWARD EQUALITY AND EXCELLENCE From its inception, the Human Rights Campaign has been a fundamental, proactive force raising the standards of equality and opportunity for LGBTQ individuals. Shell has long recognized that a fully inclusive workplace allows our employees and our business to flourish. That’s why we’re a longtime National Corporate Partner of the HRC.

www.shell.us/getconnected

Maximizing the Potential of All of Our People At Goldman Sachs, we know that diversity and inclusion are pivotal to our success and culture of excellence.

We proudly sponsor the Human Rights Campaign and support its mission to promote the equality of the LGBTQ+ community and achieve fairness for all.

© 2022 Goldman Sachs. All rights reserved.

We are devoted to being a good neighbor in every community we serve. That’s why we’re working with customers like you to help our communities thrive.

Your support allows us to give more and do more to improve lives and make our neighborhoods stronger.

Thank you for helping us make a difference.

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BUILDING A STRONG TOMORROW. A S PA R T O F C O N S T E L L AT I O N B R A N DS’ C O MM I TM E N T TO E N H A N C I N G S O C I A L E Q U I T Y W I T H I N O U R I N D U S T RY A N D C O MMU N I T I ES , W E A R E P RO U D TO J O I N T H E H U M A N R I G H T S C A M PA I G N F O U N DAT I O N I N T H E I R LG BTQ + E Q UA L I T Y E F F O R T S .

Please enjoy our products responsibly. © 2023 Constellation Brands Inc., Victor, NY.

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When we make health equity a priority,

EVERYBODY BENEFITS Everyone deserves to be cared for and to live well.

So at Excellus BlueCross BlueShield, we’re more focused than ever on making care more accessible in the communities we serve through affordable plan options, community investments, partnerships and education.

That’s why we’re proud to support the Human Rights Campaign.

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Cocktails in every color for every identity.

It’s time to COLOR THE FUTURE.

Join Smirnoff in support for the LGBTQIA+ community, and toast to a more colorful and inclusive future for all!

PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY. SMIRNOFF NO. 21 VODKA. DISTILLED FROM GRAIN. 40% ALC/VOL. THE SMIRNOFF CO., NEW YORK, NY

Embracing diversity and fostering an inclusive workplace environment is more than a phrase at Harter Secrest & Emery—it’s our way of doing business. We are proud to sponsor the Human Rights Campaign Western and Central New York Dinner.

Rochester Buffalo Albany Corning New York City

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Rochester Business Journal is to support the

Human Rights Campaign ROCHESTER BUSINESS JOURNAL The Power List showcases Rochester’s power players who are leading key organizations, creating change, impacting the community and engaging others to succeed. These are the business leaders, CEOs, lawyers, public servants and elected officials that others listen to and want to emulate. They make decisions that impact the economy and they inspire success and spark innovation.

The Power List is selected by RBJ’s editorial team. The honorees will be featured at RBJ.net, in the RBJ newspaper and promoted on all of RBJ’s social media channels and through email marketing. The lists publish throughout the year, kicking off with the Power 100 list.

The Power List celebrates the impact of leaders across Rochester and beyond.

Power List Schedule: Feature

Publishes

Advertising Space Deadline *

Power 100

February 10

February 2

Accounting & Insurance

March 31

March 23

Construction & Real Estate

May 26

May 18

LGBTQ Business Leaders

June 30

June 22

August 25

August 17

Banking & Finance

Health Care

October 20

October 12

Law

December 22 December 14

Sports Page 25 Hakim Warrick’s block has exalted status in Syracuse University basketball annals.

Profile Page 6 Mark Whitford is committed to maintaining culture of success at Barclay Damon.

Special Report

Page 9 What businesses need to know about future litigation risks.

*Materials deadline is the day after the sales deadline

Recognize the Power List leaders through these multimedia marketing opportunities: VOLUME 38 NUMBER 40  Platinum Package: • Full-page Ad (9.5” x 13.75”) • 728 x 90 and 320 x 100 Leaderboard Digital Ad • Power List Logo Usage $4,400

Part of the

network

MARCH 3, 2023  $2.00

Best Companies to Work for in New York announced

Gold Package: Silver Package: • Half-page Ad (9.5” x 6.75”) • Quarter-page Ad (4.675” x 6.75”) • 300 x 250 Rectangle Digital Ad • 300 x 250 Rectangle Digital Ad • Power List Logo Usage • Power List Logo Usage $3,100 $2,400

By RBJ Staff

Your digital and print ad will run with the industry specific Power List.

Ex. https://rbj.net/2021/12/17/rbjs-power-30-banking-finance/ Your package comes with the right to use the logo until 1/31/2024.

For more information, contact shuettner@bridgetowermedia or your account manager.

rbj.net ROCHESTER BUSINESS JOURNAL

2022

Redi Imports even more ready to repair cars with third location

Ryan Lynch poses for a portrait at the Victor location of Redi Imports.

By KEVIN OKLOBZIJA

Ryan Lynch wasn’t exactly captivated by algebraic equations or political science methodology while in high school, but he did love of automobiles.

“I was bad at bookwork,” he said, “but good at fi xing brakes.”

He also was smart enough to know his auto acumen could provide a future, although he didn’t have big dreams about where it could take him.

Photo provided

“I thought it would be me, my wife and one technician running a little repair shop,” Lynch said.

That actually was the case for a few years. Now, however, the backyard

Rochester Business Journal, Best Companies Group and New York State Society for Human Resource Management have announced the winners of the 2023 Best Companies to Work for in New York state awards.

Best Companies to Work for in New York identifies, recognizes and honors the best places of employment in New York in three categories: small companies (15-99 employees), medium companies (100-249 employees) and large companies (250 or more employees). To be considered, companies must have at least 15 full-time or part-time employees working in New York; be a for-profit or not-for-profit business or government entity; be a publicly or privately held business; have a facility in the state of New York; and be in business a minimum of one year.

Best Companies Group managed the Continued on page 2

Continued on page 28

FTC proposes ban Boatfield leaves legacy of care Supporting on non-compete at Ability Partners women in tech: agreements in 15 locations in the Greater Rochester A topic for

By ANDREA DECKERT and Finger Lakes areas.

Quick legal challenge Women’s Day Mary Walsh Boatfield knows about Ability Partners ranked as the region’s

By ANDREA DECKERT

The Rochester area is one that elevates women in technology and works to address gaps in equality, female leaders in the field say.

The efforts are timely, they added, given that International Women’s Day is March 8. This year’s theme is DigitALL: Innovation and technology for gender equality.

Sujatha Ramanujan is managing director of Rochester-based Luminate, a New York state funded accelerator program for optics, photonics and

RBJ.net

$2.00

Continued on page 7

Subscribe to Rochester’s top business news source

40>

Continued on page 5

Insight. News. Analysis.

6

40th largest employer on the most recent RBJ list and have a combined operating budget of some $36 million annually.

Boatfield retires in March. Ability Partners Board of Directors has appointed Darrell Whitbeck as Boatfield’s successor.

Boatfield has served in her current role for 13 years, with an additional 21 years as CEO and president of Happiness House and nine years as CEO and president of Ability Partners affiliates including CP Rochester and Rochester Rehabilitation.

Over her career, Boatfield has led the way in developing collaborative

74470 77330

Continued on page 29

the power of partnerships.

Her collaborative style, utilized over her career, has helped to improve the lives of hundreds of people with disabilities, providing better access to needed care and services.

“We are much stronger together,” said Boatfield, the president and CEO of Ability Partners Foundation.

Boatfield spearheaded the formation of Ability Partners Inc., formally affiliating CP Rochester, Happiness House and Rochester Rehabilitation Center as three subsidiaries of Ability Partners.

The three agencies under the Ability Partners umbrella employ 700 people and serve 6,800 individuals and families

0

By BENNETT LOUDON

WEEKLY

expected

Experts say businesses should start preparing for new federal rules that would put significant limits on employment contracts that limit what workers do when they leave a company.

The Rochester Business Journal recently hosted a virtual panel discussion on a proposed federal ban on non-compete agreements (NCA) and a new state pay transparency law. The discussion was sponsored

Space Deadl

ine: Septe mber 22 | Online Summ Materials it: Octob Deadline: er 6 | Public September ation Date: 23 September 30

Stay connected to Rochester’s trusted business news and information.

Visit https://rbj.net/subscribe/ or call 877-615-9536 to subscribe today.

Thank you, HRC! Thank you for all of your work for the Rochester Community and congratulations to tonight's award winners!

"No matter who you are, where you come from, what you look like, what your abilities, who you love, or how you identify - we all have dignity and deserve equity, justice, and the opportunity to succeed."

-Assemblymember Harry Bronson District 138

Follow Harry! @HarryBBronson

Creativity doesn’t discriminate.

If there’s one thing we’ve learned in our 130-year history, it’s that creativity doesn’t discriminate. From the scientists in our labs, to the technicians in our factories, to the photographers and filmmakers using our film and the businesses using our technologies — we believe that a culture of diversity and inclusion brings creativity to life.

2022

kodak.com © 2023, Kodak. Kodak and the Kodak logo are trademarks of Kodak.

extraordinary care for all. trilliumhealth.org | 585.545.7200 259 Monroe Avenue, Rochester

Rochester’s Premier Comedy Club!

Featuring today’s A-list comedians!

• Corporate events, holiday parties & fundraisers • Two spacious showrooms • State of the art sound and video system • Over 2,000 parking spaces Follow us at:

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Check out our A-list shows at:

www.carlsoncomedy.com

Raise your tales with pride!

You have the power to change hearts and minds around the globe by sharing the positive impact diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) has on your company’s culture, employee recruitment and retention, and market share. Claim it with the help of an experienced and professional storyteller—Four Cats Creative, LGBTQ+ owned, and NYS MWBE Certified.

Storytelling for Print & Digital Media 585.442.6365 Lorraine@FourCatsCreative.com

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THE ROCHESTER LGBTQ+ FILM FESTIVAL JOIN US FOR OUR 31ST ANNUAL

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Providing safe and competent care without prejudice or discrimination.

Through the delivery of high quality, LGBTQ+ Affirming Home Health Care services, we are dedicated to providing safe and inclusive environments to help our patients thrive and meet their health care goals.

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Highland Hospital is proud to be a community sponsor.

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RPO PERFORMANCES ARE MADE POSSIBLE BY NEW YORK STATE COUNCIL ON THE ARTS WITH THE SUPPORT OF GOVERNOR KATHY HOCHUL AND THE NEW YORK STATE LEGISLATURE.

2023 Lobby Day on Capitol Hill HRC Equality Convention

2023 PRIDE Season

Supporting Community Partners

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