We believe in intentional recognition of queer women, trans women and nonbinary leaders by naming those who carry our movements forward, who create space for others, and who remind us that progress is both generational and generative.
Across generations, queer women, trans women and nonbinary leaders continue to build institutions, open doors, protect our communities, and imagine new futures often without recognition and often in the face of resistance.
We exist to change that and believe recognition is powerful. Naming our leaders helps preserve the stories of how change happens and reminds our community that progress is both generational and collective.
We are led by community organizers, advocates, and cultural leaders who believe that when we celebrate our own, we strengthen the future of our movements.
Torchbearers is powered by community support. Your contribution helps ensure that the leadership of queer women, trans women and nonbinary changemakers is recognized, documented, and celebrated.
Donations support the annual Torchbearers Awards celebration, national recognition of our awardees, scholarship to LGBTQIA+ youth and the continued growth of this platform honoring LGBTQIA+ leadership.
Torchbearers celebrates 50 extraordinary leaders each year whose work reflects the strength, creativity, and resilience of queer women, trans women and nonbinary communities.
The Torchbearers honorees are divided into two categories:
Legends: Leaders whose decades of work have shaped institutions, protected our communities, and built the foundation for future generations.
Illuminators: Emerging and rising leaders whose ideas, courage, and innovation are creating new pathways for justice, visibility, and belonging.
Our sponsors and partners ensure that Torchbearers provides national recognition for our awardees and brings together leaders from across business, media, government, advocacy, and culture.
We are proud to partner with organizations that share a commitment to equity, visibility, and community celebration.
