Point of Pride Introduces Inaugural Advisory Board

September 14, 2020

Point of Pride is excited to announce the formation of its inaugural Advisory Board, a volunteer group of activists and advocates who will provide critical guidance and input to ensure the organization continues to serve the needs of the global transgender community.

Comprised of leaders from diverse fields, the Advisory Board was created to support Point of Pride’s Board of Directors and volunteer network, offering insights that will help shape the organization’s programs and outreach.

“Representation and inclusive language are foundational to what we do, and we are honored to have this incredible group of activists and advocates offering their guidance,” said Aydian Dowling, Point of Pride's Board President and co-founder. “We’re committed to engaging perspectives that reflect the rich diversity of the communities we serve, and we know this Advisory Board will play a crucial role in ensuring our programs are both inclusive and impactful.”

Meet the Advisory Board:

• Blossom C. Brown (she/her) – Actress, producer, and activist from Greenwood, Mississippi. Blossom gained global attention through appearances on I Am Cait and The Ellen Show. She currently works as a Prep Retention Navigator and is working on her documentary, One Life to Blossom.

• Samantha Filoso (she/her) – Mother, transgender advocate, and creator of the live talk show Trans IRL. Samantha has shared her transition journey across media outlets and was the first transgender individual to appear on the cover of Curl Magazine.

• Hannah Graf (she/her) – Decorated Army veteran and equality advocate from the UK. Hannah’s public work promoting trans visibility has won her numerous accolades, including an MBE in the 2019 New Year Honours List.

• Queen Victoria Ortega (she/her) – President of FLUX and Queen of The Royal Court, dedicated to raising the profile of trans and gender non-conforming communities through transformational leadership and intersectional advocacy.

• Jodie Patterson (she/her) – Social activist, entrepreneur, and author of The Bold World: A Memoir of Family and Transformation. Jodie serves on several boards, including the Human Rights Campaign, and is a UN-appointed Champion of Change.

• Eric Edward Schell (they/them) – Founder and President of Pride Portraits, an activist and photographer whose work has been widely featured. Eric collaborates with Facebook to promote LGBTQIA+ visibility on global platforms.

• Brian Michael Smith (he/him) – Ground-breaking actor known for his role as the first out Black trans man in a series regular role on FOX's 9-1-1 Lone Star. Brian is also a vocal advocate for trans representation in media.

This diverse group of leaders will provide valuable guidance and oversight as Point of Pride continues to expand its programs and services.