For more than four decades, Washington D.C.'s Gay Men's Chorus (GMCW) has been a beacon celebrating love, unity, and pride, not just within D.C.'s LGBTQ community but also among its many allies. Since their first performance in 1981 at a National Gay Task Force event, now called The National LGBTQ Task Force, GMCW has become a cultural and political force in LGBTQ performing arts.
### The chorus's evolving mission and their annual gala
GMCW's mission keeps growing, with an ever-stronger focus on supporting LGBTQ individuals and their allies. Back in 2004, they kicked off their annual Spring Affair fundraiser gala. It's not just about raising funds; it's a celebration honoring those who embody unity, equity, and empowerment through music and arts.
Every year, they spotlight a standout community leader, an influential external organization, and a dedicated chorus member. Come 2025, they're rolling out accolades at their gala, honoring Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde, Atlas Performing Arts Center, and Keygan Miller, a devoted chorus member.
### Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde: A force in justice and unity
Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde, trailblazer as first female leader in Washington's Episcopal Diocese, will receive her well-deserved individual award at 2025's Spring Affair. Known far and wide, she made waves with her advocacy during Trump's Presidential Inaugural Prayer Service, passionately speaking up at Washington National Cathedral. Her call was a rallying cry, particularly uplifting marginalized groups, from LGBTQ folks and immigrants affected by his policies.
With a rock-solid commitment, Bishop Budde inspires many inside and outside her religious circles, perfectly embodying GMCW's values that they strive, through their gala, both honor and amplify.
### Atlas Performing Arts Center: Celebrating diversity and inclusion
This year's Harmony Award goes out with love and respect from GMCW, straight over H Street, N.E., where Atlas Performing Arts Center shines. Just last year, they hosted a massive 400-plus events, elevating diverse voices, and gave away more than $1.6 million in free and discounted programming.
The collaboration between Atlas and GMCW sparked countless community events—from open mics and cabarets featuring GenOUT Chorus, right on up through memorial services. Through projects like INTERSECTIONS Festival and City at Peace, Atlas spotlights storytelling, equity, and engagement, making them truly deserving recipients.
Jarrod Bennett, at Atlas's helm as Executive Director, received this honor with gratitude, reinforcing their promise towards inclusive creativity and community engagement.
### Keygan Miller: A guiding light in inclusivity
Keygan Miller, who's been with GMCW since 2017, stands out as an advocate par excellence. As Vice President, their leadership on diversity and inclusion has transformed GMCW, promoting trans inclusivity with initiatives such as “Day One” pledge.
Outside GMCW, Keygan's dedication continues as Director at The Trevor Project, focusing on crisis intervention and youth suicide prevention. Their previous role as Advocacy Manager there underscores their relentless commitment.
As GMCW marches forward on its enlightening path through music, they actively seek new voices. They embrace singers from all backgrounds, as long as they can hit those lower notes!
Save your date: May 17, 2025, at The Ritz-Carlton in D.C. marks their spectacular Spring Affair Gala. It's set not just as an evening out, but a rallying point supporting GMCW's invaluable artistic and educational pursuits. For tickets, auditions, or more about GMCW's mission, head over directly when you can.
