Meet Your Atlanta Pride 2024 Grand Marshals

Every year, Atlanta Pride honors a handful of influential people and organizations who are making a difference for LGBTQ Atlantans with the title of Grand Marshals. These remarkable individuals and groups have made significant contributions to Georgia’s LGBTQ community and beyond, and this year’s lineup exemplifies the year’s theme of “United with Pride.”

“We are incredibly honored to have such an extraordinary group standing “United With Pride” this year,” said Chris McCain, Executive Director of Atlanta Pride. “Each Grand Marshal has made significant contributions to the LGBTQ community, and their dedication to equality and inclusion is truly inspiring. We look forward to celebrating their achievements and the vibrant diversity of our community at the 2024 Atlanta Pride Festival.”

(Southern Fried Queer Pride)

TAYLOR ALXNDR is an Atlanta-based social activist, community organizer, and drag performer. As the founder of House of ALXNDR and Southern Fried Queer Pride, a grassroots organization supporting LGBTQ arts and activism, they have championed black and brown trans youth since 2014. Their inspiring, committed work continually creates inclusive and creative spaces for queer and trans communities across the South.

Jorge Estevez is an Emmy Award-winning journalist and anchor for WSB-TV Channel 2, where he leads the 5pm and 11pm newscasts. With over 20 years of experience, Jorge has covered major events, including the Pulse nightclub shooting and Hurricane Maria. He is passionate about engaging with Atlanta’s diverse communities and enjoys staying active and exploring pop culture.

Lost-n-Found Youth is an Atlanta-based nonprofit dedicated to ending homelessness among LGBTQ+ youth. Founded in 2011 by local activists, the organization emerged in response to the lack of support for unhoused queer youth in existing shelters. Since its inception, Lost-n-Found Youth has provided emergency housing, support services, and resources to help LGBTQ youth transition off the streets and into safer, more stable environments, fostering hope and inclusion.

R. Darlene Hudson is an activist and co-founder of the Rustin Lorde Breakfast, known for her decades of advocacy for social justice, including HIV/AIDS awareness, homelessness, and racial inequity. As a leader of the Southern Unity Movement, she has worked to unify and uplift the Black LGBTQ  community through education, advocacy, and cultural activities. The Southern Unity Movement focuses on leadership development and promoting Black LGBTQ history and culture.

The Atlanta Freedom Marching Band has been a vibrant force in the LGBTQ community for nearly 30 years, spreading joy and pride through music. Founded in 1993, the band has performed at numerous Atlanta events, including Pride, the Dogwood Festival, and the Atlanta AIDS Walk. As part of the Atlanta Freedom Bands, their performances unite and uplift, embodying celebration and solidarity. They were the first LGBTQ group to march in Atlanta’s Saint Patrick’s Day parade in 2016.

Amber Moore is a passionate advocate and founder of Real Bois Talk, Inc., an organization dedicated to empowering queer and transmasculine individuals of color. Through her work, she addresses health disparities and promotes a positive representation of African American, masculine-identified gay women. Amber’s commitment to creating inclusive spaces for dialogue and support has significantly impacted the community, fostering awareness, education, and positive health outcomes for marginalized voices.

Dr. Elijah Nicholas is a visionary leader and global advocate for trans rights and equity. With over 20 years of leadership experience, he founded The Global Trans Equity Project (GTEP), which champions the dignity and well-being of transgender individuals worldwide. Dr. Nicholas combines his expertise in leadership, technology, and nonprofit management to drive impactful change, focusing on racial, health, and education equity, particularly within the Black community and for transgender and non-binary individuals.

Roger Rutkowski is a passionate community leader and founder of the Atlanta Socializers and Mountain Men of North Georgia LGBTQ social clubs, creating welcoming spaces for connection and support in metro Atlanta. As Manager of Legal Services at Mercedes-Benz, he also chairs the LGBTQ Unity Group, promoting visibility and inclusion. Roger’s vibrant personality and fidelity to fostering relationships make him a vital figure in Atlanta’s LGBTQ+ community, bridging corporate, nonprofit, and social circles.

Angeria Paris VanMichaels, Atlanta native and winner of “RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars” season nine, has become an international drag sensation. Known for her Southern charm, elegance, and captivating performances, she first won hearts on season 14 of “RuPaul’s Drag Race.” Currently based in Los Angeles, Angeria continues to shine on stage, screen, and beyond. As the 2024 Honorary Grand Marshal, she returns to inspire and uplift the Atlanta LGBTQ community at Pride.