Trailblazing Advocate Ushers In New Era of Leadership
NEW YORK, NY — Family Equality has named Stacey Stevenson (she/they) as its new Chief Executive Officer, making them the first Black person to hold the prominent position in the organization’s history. Stevenson brings over two decades of experience to the role, having previously served in senior leadership positions at major corporations across various industries.
However, their journey to leading one of the country’s foremost LGBTQ+ advocacy groups is a deeply personal one. Stevenson grew up in Robstown, Texas, where they were pulled out of the closet in high school and subjected to intense bullying from peers while facing isolation from family. Those painful early experiences lit a fire within them to create change so others wouldn’t have to endure the same suffering.
Charting A New Course With Compassion And Conviction
Since joining Family Equality in March 2021, Stevenson has ushered in a remarkable period of expansion and refocusing to better serve vulnerable LGBTQ+ families. From enhancing legal protections in schools to breaking down barriers to parenthood, they have prioritized advancing equality intersectionally across lines of race, class, and geography.
“Everyone deserves the opportunity to experience the unconditional joy and belonging of family — be it found, formed, or chosen,” said Stevenson passionately. “It is an honor to channel my experiences into creating real, lasting change for LGBTQ+ families like mine.”
Stevenson’s bold vision and strategic leadership during a time of unprecedented legislative attacks on LGBTQ+ rights earned them a spot on Out magazine’s prestigious Out100 list for 2022. The compilation features 100 of the year’s most impactful LGBTQ+ people from across industries.
Protecting Hard-Won Victories While Expanding Support
In September 2022, Stevenson penned a moving op-ed in USA Today sharing their family’s story of fleeing Texas for the safety of Washington D.C. They also made regular media appearances pushing back against discriminatory bills targeting LGBTQ+ youth and families. Over 300 such bills were introduced this past year alone.
Meanwhile, Family Equality has launched new digital resources like the Path2FamilyEquality crisis hub while expanding in-person community spaces. The organization hosts the largest gathering of LGBTQ+ parents and children worldwide each summer. Stevenson understands such solidarity and peer support represents a lifeline for many.
“So many people ask why I joined Family Equality and why now,” reflected Stevenson. “The truth is my soul carried me here. I traded fear for freedom and stopped running from my calling to serve.”
With resilience, vision, and love leading the way, the future looks bright for Family Equality under Stacey Stevenson’s trailblazing leadership.
