Project Pride SRQ presents 'Change is Gonna’ Come' discussion and fundraiser

Project Pride SRQ has announced a special event on October 16: the local LGBTQ+ advocacy organization will offer clarity on its new approach, introduce and hear from Tim McCarthy – who will author PPSRQ’s new strategic plan, an effort that will launch after this fundraiser – and offer ways that those who wish to see a more inclusive and resilient community can participate in making it happen.

McCarthy will be interviewed by PPSRQ Executive Director Tom Edwards about his experience at Harvard as the university was embattled by the federal government – with billions of dollars in federal grants at stake – over DEI programs, admissions policies, and allegations of inadequately addressing anti-Semitism on campus. The experience was a brutal one for McCarthy and, according to Edwards, highlights the importance of all populations targeted by the current administration to come together and work toward a better government for all.

The event takes place from 6-7:30 p.m. at Harvest Sarasota (3650 17th St., Sarasota). During the event, Edwards will present the new direction of the organization and then introduce and interview McCarthy, with a Q&A to follow. The Harvest Band will perform and light refreshments will be served.

“We are living in unprecedented times; to call them uncharted would be an understatement. Across the political spectrum, many of us are deeply concerned about the state of our country’s discourse and direction,” said Edwards. “It’s clear that we need a new approach to the situation we find ourselves in today. We are thrilled to have engaged Tim – who understands very well what is at stake for all marginalized and targeted populations – to help facilitate our strategic planning and guide our future direction—with the process set to begin after this important fundraiser.”

McCarthy, who is the Chair of LGBTQ+ Issues at the Harvard Kennedy School (HKS), is an award-winning scholar, educator, and human rights activist who has taught at Harvard since 1998. At HKS, where he was the first openly gay faculty member and still teaches the school’s only course on LGBTQ matters, he is Faculty Chair of the Global LGBTQI+ Human Rights Program at the Carr Center and Faculty Affiliate at the Center for Public Leadership.

McCarthy was the co-recipient of the 2015 National Humanities Medal from President Barack Obama. Inspired by the activism and organizing of his student years, McCarthy has devoted his life to public service and social justice.

Cost is $35/general admission, free/students. Advance registration is required; visit ppsrq.org to reserve your spot.

About Project Pride SRQ
Founded in 2019, Project Pride SRQ is a Sarasota-based nonprofit organization that has worked to bring visibility and elevate awareness of the LGBTQ+ community. By offering signature events, projects, and community-building partnerships, Project Pride has given many reasons to celebrate the LGTBQ+ community. While Project Pride's work remains joyful, the organization has refocused on programming that will strengthen community partnerships, build new and enhanced relationships with allies and businesses, and create safe spaces for ALL special interest communities by convening those with shared values. Project Pride is dedicated to bringing together all who value diversity, human and civil rights, and freedom to implement a vision for an all-inclusive community where everyone is equally united, supported, and celebrated in Sarasota and beyond. For more information, visit ppsrq.org.