Dallas Pride is proud to announce that acclaimed actor, singer and LGBTQ+ advocate Billy Porter has been named its first-ever Honorary Grand Marshal of the Dallas Pride Parade, set to step off in Fair Park on June 2. 

Porter, a trailblazer in the entertainment industry and an outspoken advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, has captivated audiences worldwide with his remarkable talent and unwavering commitment to inclusivity and equality. With a career spanning decades, Porter has earned critical acclaim and been awarded  for his roles on stage and screen including an EMMY®, GRAMMY® and two Tony Awards, winning his first Tony for Best Actor in a Musical for his performance as Lola in "Kinky Boots.” 

In addition to his contributions to the arts, Porter has used his platform to advocate for marginalized communities, championing LGBTQ+ rights, racial justice and gender equality. His unapologetic celebration of individuality has made him a beloved icon and an inspiration to millions around the globe. Porter will receive the Isabelle Stevenson Tony Award this year, his third, recognizing his dedication as an activist and spokesperson for the LGBTQ+ communities including his work for the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation and the Entertainment Community Fund, among others.

“We are thrilled to welcome Billy Porter to Dallas Pride,” said Sherrell Cross, executive director of Dallas Pride. “He symbolized the spirit of unity, pride and resilience within the LGBTQ+ community, and will undoubtedly electrify audiences with his spirit and sparkle.”

The Dallas Pride Parade, one of the largest LGBTQ+ pride events in Texas, attracts thousands of participants and spectators each year, uniting people from all walks of life in a vibrant celebration of diversity and acceptance. 

Weekend of Activities

Dallas Pride kicks off on Saturday, June 1, with the Dallas Pride Music Festival from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and the Dallas Pride Festival & Parade on Sunday, June 2, at 10 a.m. with a pre-parade festival and activities before the parade begins at 2 p.m. Vendors will have refreshments, DJs will spin, and attendees can engage in Teen Pride and the Family Pride Zone, in addition to enjoying shopping and other fun. The parade is a rainbow feast for the eyes, with outrageous costumes, inventive floats, bands, groups and more marching in support of the LGBTQ+ community in a mile-long event featuring more than 150 parade entries. Admission for the Dallas Pride Parade is free.

Tickets are on sale now for the Dallas Pride Music Festival on Saturday, June 1, which will feature musical headliners CeCe Peniston and Ha Sizzle. A variety of musical and dance performances on multiple indoor and outdoor stages will include singer Lardi B, DJ Sedrick, and other talented entertainers that keep the festivities going. Morphine Love Dion, a contestant on RuPaul’s Drag Race, and Aquaria, season 10 winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race, will be featured performers who will also wow the crowds at the Dallas Pride Music Festival. Tickets are $10 (+ services fees); admission for children 12 and under is complimentary. To get your tickets, visit dallaspride.org.

The Dallas Pride Music Festival features more than 200 vendors, who will have booths to see and shop at the festival. Family Pride Zone, an area designed for families, will feature several bounce houses, face painting, entertainment for the kids and the Pride Train ride in the Automobile Building at Fair Park. The festival also includes Teen Pride, which fosters a supportive environment for LGBTQ+ youth ages 13 to 19 and their friends to enjoy live entertainment from artists and DJs, and other age-appropriate activities. Local animal rescue groups will also be on-site for guests to meet a possible new furry family member. 

About Dallas Pride

The mission of Dallas Pride is to strengthen, support and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community. By prioritizing inclusiveness, Dallas Pride fosters a feeling of belonging for everyone from youth to seniors by creating events, initiatives and programs that foster connections between members of the community, its allies and its supporters.

Follow @DallasPride on Facebook, @DallasPrideOfficial on Instagram, @DallasPrideOrg on Twitter, or via the organization’s website, www.DallasPride.org, for all the tea.

In honor of May’s Mental Health Awareness Month, NAMI North Texas, a chartered affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and NAMI Texas, is raising awareness of mental illness and supporting individuals in their mental health journey. This year, NAMI North Texas is emphasizing the importance of normalizing mental health care through Take the Moment, the 2024 Mental Health Awareness Month campaign. Activities to support Mental Health Awareness Month include the lighting of Downtown Dallas Buildings and the annual NAMIWalks North Texas fundraiser.

“It is essential to foster an open and safe environment for sharing stories, and during Mental Health Awareness Month, we are calling on mental health advocates across the country to come together and address the stigma around mental health by providing testimonies and offering support,” states Dr. Athena Trentin, Executive Director of NAMI North Texas. “Take the Moment encourages individuals to prioritize and talk about their mental well-being without feeling guilty or ashamed. Our upcoming activities further emphasize our initiative.”

One of the activities in May includes Downtown Dallas buildings that will light up in green to kick off Mental Health Awareness Week. In collaboration with the City of Dallas, on Monday, May 13, this special honor by building owners will shine light on the fact that each year millions of Americans face the reality of living with a mental illness. It also will shine light on the importance to fight stigma, provide support, educate the public and advocate for policies that support people with mental illness and their families. Participating buildings include Reunion Tower, Bank of America, and One AT&T Plaza.

On Saturday, May 18 beginning at 9:30 a.m., NAMI North Texas will hold its annual fundraiser, NAMIWalks North Texas, at Riders Field in Frisco. The pet-friendly event includes a resource fair, activities for kids, and free parking. There is no registration fee for the walk. All participants are encouraged to collect donations from family members, friends, co-workers, business associates, and other mental health advocates. All walkers raising $100 or more receive a NAMIWalks North Texas event t-shirt and other recognition gifts. Sponsors include Denny’s, Texas Health Behavioral Health, Julie and Pierce Noble, Pillar Clinical Research, Carrolton Springs/Well Bridge Health Care/Collin Springs, Medical City Green Oaks Hospital/Medical City Behavioral Health McKinney, Medical City Mental Health & Wellness Center/Frisco, Teva, West Coast University, Connections Wellness Group, Neurocrine Biosciences, and NBC 5 / Telemundo 39. To participate, donate or support a team, visit www.naminorthtexas.org/namiwalksntx.

Founded in 1982, NAMI North Texas, a 501(c)(3) tax-deductible nonprofit organization, advocates for equitable access to mental health services, treatment, supports and research and is steadfast in its commitment to raise awareness and build a community of hope for all of those in need. Serving Dallas, Collin, Denton, and Rockwall counties, NAMI North Texas provides essential and free education, advocacy and support group programs. For more information, visit www.naminorthtexas.org.

On Wednesday, March 27th, Texas Woman’s University marked a significant milestone as Monica Christopher was formally installed as the inaugural president of the Dallas campus, culminating as a poignant addition to Women’s History Month. The ceremony, held at the TWU T. Boone Pickens Institute of Health Sciences — Dallas Center, located in the Southwestern Medical District, was accompanied by a vibrant celebration and reception attended by esteemed dignitaries.

Celebrating the enduring stability rooted in Texas Woman's 120-year legacy in Texas including 70 years in Dallas, the event spotlighted the institution's commitment to innovation and inclusivity. Chancellor Carine Feyten delivered a keynote address, underscoring the importance of diverse voices in shaping TWU's future.

Other speakers included Dr. Ann Stuart, TWU chancellor emerita, who shared anecdotes of TWU's history and her instrumental role in establishing the Dallas campus during her tenure as the inaugural chancellor. Dale A. Petroskey, president and CEO of the Dallas Regional Chamber, expressed enthusiasm for Christopher's leadership at TWU Dallas and emphasized the pivotal role of innovation in healthcare workforce development.

Dr. Daniel K. Podolsky, president of UT Southwestern Medical Center, highlighted TWU Dallas's impactful presence in the Medical District and its collaborative efforts with UT Southwestern in advancing healthcare research. Lottye Brodsky-Lyle, Ph. D., a TWU alumna and friend of Christopher’s, lauded the university's supportive environment, where both faculty and leadership prioritize listening and valuing individuals. Bob Mong, president of the University of North Texas at Dallas, conveyed excitement about Christopher's new role. Meanwhile, academic departments showcased their achievements, and staff presented engaging videos.

Special surprises included a proclamation from Dallas City Council Member Jaynie Schultz, officially designating March 27, 2024, as "Texas Woman's University Day” from Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson. The TWU Student Government Association presented Christopher with a stethoscope in a beautifully framed shadow box, symbolizing the breadth of healthcare programs at the Dallas campus. Dianne Baker, who lettered in five sports at Texas Woman's and later became the winningest head coach of the Pioneers’ softball team, humorously gifted Christopher a TWU "undefeated" football helmet, playfully nodding to the absence of a football team at the university. Finally, Nancy Barry, Christopher's first supervisor, sent a heartfelt video message and a copy of her book When Reality Hits: What Employers Want Recent Graduates To Know, which includes a mention of Christopher and further highlights her impact and contributions.

In February, Christopher assumed leadership at TWU Dallas, renowned for its exceptional academic programs and groundbreaking research initiatives in nursing, allied health professions, and health care administration. Christopher's appointment marks a significant milestone during a period of dynamic growth for Texas Woman’s University, the largest woman-focused university system in the nation.

In 2021, the Texas Legislature granted university system status to Texas Woman’s, which boasts campuses in Denton, Dallas, and Houston. Currently, efforts are underway to appoint an inaugural president for the Houston campus.

Furthermore, last September marked the launch of Dream Big, Texas Woman’s University's first comprehensive fundraising campaign. Set to culminate with the university’s 125th anniversary in 2026, Dream Big aims to raise $125 million to support the university's continued pursuit of excellence and innovation.

Christopher, a veteran fundraiser and community affairs strategist whose previous posts include executive and senior leadership roles at Communities Foundation of Texas and The Dallas Morning News/WFAA, is charged with growing campus engagement and raising the visibility of TWU Dallas, particularly with respect to increased enrollment and expanded partnerships with health care, business and community organizations.

"Today marks an exciting milestone for Texas Woman’s University in Dallas with the installation of Monica. Her profound grasp of our educational and research objectives, coupled with her exceptional ability to engage with corporate and nonprofit sectors, positions her as a catalyst for fostering community involvement and shaping a strategic vision for our Dallas campus," Feyten said. "With Monica at the helm, I am confident that our Dallas campus will emerge as a pivotal hub, propelling Dallas into a premier destination for top-tier higher education opportunities."

Following the March 22 celebration, Christopher said, "I am deeply honored and filled with excitement to assume the role of the inaugural president of the Dallas campus at Texas Woman’s University." She adds, “The university holds a rich legacy in Dallas, and I am eager to collaborate with our exceptional faculty, staff, and students to expand the campus, uphold its tradition of excellence, and spotlight the exceptional degree programs it offers."

About TWU Dallas

Texas Woman’s first established a presence in Dallas in 1954, when the nursing program was launched at Parkland Hospital. Today, the T. Boone Pickens Institute of Health Sciences ? Dallas Center is a 190,000-square-foot facility that sits in the heart of the Southwestern Medical District. Since then, Texas Woman’s has become a notable contributor to the healthcare workforce, graduating an average of 2,000 nursing and allied health professionals each year.

The Dallas campus also is home to the renowned Stroke Center, which provides more than 5,000 hours of clinical, neuro-rehabilitation services annually at no cost to members of the community. In addition to an MBA and graduate level healthcare administration programs, the Dallas campus offers upper-level undergraduate, graduate and doctoral programs in nursing, occupational therapy and physical therapy.

About Monica Christopher

Christopher is the inaugural Dallas Campus president. A seasoned fundraiser and community relations professional, she has served in key positions in both areas for the last 25 years, forging numerous successful private-public sector partnerships and amassing extensive experience in cultivating and stewarding major donors, grant making, program management, and public speaking. During her 15-year tenure at Dallas-based Communities Foundation of Texas, she rose to the level of senior vice president and chief giving and community impact officer, leading several teams in fundraising efforts that set new benchmarks in gifts and funds created. While at The Dallas Morning News/WFAA, she also held several positions over nearly 10 years in community relations aimed at building community engagement, raising brand awareness and coordinating charity events. Additional leadership roles for Christopher include involvement in the Dallas Regional Chamber, Dallas Summit, Junior League of Dallas, Cotton Bowl Athletic Association, and the Women’s Auxiliary at Children’s Medical Center, among other organizations.

Get ready to celebrate! Dallas Pride, the non-profit organization dedicated to strengthening, supporting and celebrating the LGBTQ+ community returns to Fair Park June 1-2, 2024, with an expanded festival and a spectacular parade with the theme of “Unity in the Community.”

“This year’s events are a celebration of the work that is done year-round to uplift the LGBTQ+ community,” said Sherrell Cross, executive director of Dallas Pride. “This year, we expanded our celebration to include even more people who have found the love, support and information we are able to offer as a non-profit whose mission is to lift others. It’s time to party.”

New for this year: By popular demand, the festival at Dallas Pride in Fair Park is now a two-day event, Saturday and Sunday, June 1-2, 2024. Bring the whole family to Fair Park for these all-ages events, which make for a weekend of fun honoring the LGBTQ+ community, its allies, sponsors and supporters. 

The Dallas Pride Music Festival on Saturday will feature a variety of musical and dance performances on multiple indoor and outdoor stages. More than 200 vendors will have booths to see and shop at the festival. Family Pride Zone, an area designed for families, will feature several bounce houses, face painting, entertainment for the kids and the Pride Train ride in the Automobile Building at Fair Park. The festival also includes Teen Pride, which fosters a supportive environment for LGBTQ+ youth ages 13 to 19 and their friends to enjoy live entertainment from artists and DJs, and other age-appropriate activities. Local animal rescue groups will also be on-site for guests to meet a possible new furry family member. 

The Dallas Pride Music Festival is Saturday, June 1, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tickets are $10; admission for children 12 and under is complimentary. Tickets go on sale in April at dallaspride.org. Watch Dallas Pride’s social media for daily updates on ticket sales and other event news. Vendor registration is open now, with more details available at dallaspride.org.

Then, on Sunday, Dallas Pride kicks off at 10 a.m. with a pre-parade festival and activities. Vendors will have refreshments, DJs will spin, and attendees can engage in Teen Pride and the Family Pride Zone, in addition to enjoying shopping and other fun. 

The Dallas Pride Parade winds its way through Fair Park on Sunday, June 2, starting at 2 p.m. Free to attend, the parade is a rainbow feast for the eyes, with outrageous costumes, inventive floats, bands, groups and more marching in support of the LGBTQ+ community in a mile-long event featuring more than 150 parade entries. 

Admission for Dallas Pride’s festival and parade on Sunday is free. Paid parking is available at Fair Park, or attendees may take the DART Green Line directly to Fair Park. Parade entry registration is open now (please note that the order of parade line-up is based on the order of completed applications and payments received).

Individuals, companies and organizations that would like to participate in a festival at Dallas Pride on June 1-2 or the Dallas Pride Parade on June 2 can find vendor, sponsor and parade participant registration links at dallaspride.org/registration/.

About Dallas Pride

The mission of Dallas Pride is to strengthen, support and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community. By prioritizing inclusiveness, Dallas Pride fosters a feeling of belonging for everyone from youth to seniors by creating events, initiatives and programs that foster connections between members of the community, its allies and its supporters.

Follow @DallasPride on Facebook, @DallasPrideOfficial on Instagram, @DallasPrideOrg on Twitter, or via the organization’s website, www.DallasPride.org, for all the tea.

Get ready to tee off for a day of philanthropy and fun at the 3rd Annual Life Changer Celebrity Golf Classic, benefiting Single Parent Advocate in alliance with The Scott Murray Scholarship Foundation. This highly anticipated nonprofit fundraiser promises a day of excitement and camaraderie on the green, all for noble causes.

Title:  3rd Annual Life Changer Celebrity Golf Classic

Date:  Tuesday, April 09, 2024

Time: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Location: The Clubs of Prestonwood – The Hills Clubhouse, 6600 Columbine Way, Plano, TX 75093

About the Course:

Designed by legendary golf course architect Dave Bennett, The Clubs of Prestonwood – The Hills Clubhouse offers an unparalleled 18-hole championship experience. Nestled in a private setting with a neighborhood ambiance, the course features rolling hills, tranquil waterscapes, and lush foliage that create a truly unforgettable backdrop for golf enthusiasts.

Distinguished Guests:

Join us as we welcome esteemed honorary chairs, Dallas Cowboys legend and Hall of Fame honoree Bob Lilly, alongside his wife Ann. Returning as celebrity emcee is an Emmy Award-winning broadcast journalist Scott Murray. Rub elbows with sports icons including Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Doug Donley, Cowboys safety Kenny “The Shark” Gant, Dallas Cowboys running back Timmy Newsome, as well as iconic actor Burton Gilliam, NFL wide receiver Mark Clayton, and cornerback Chris McAlister.

Exciting Prizes:

Play your best game for a chance to win fantastic prizes generously provided by Huffines Automotive Dealerships, celebrating their 100th year anniversary! Prizes include a car/SUV, an exciting trip, and a $500 shopping spree for golf gear. 

Supporting a Worthy Cause:

All proceeds from this event will benefit Single Parent Advocate, a nonprofit committed to providing resources, assistance, and empowerment to single parents and their children in Texas. A portion of the proceeds will also go towards educational scholarships through the Scott Murray Scholarship Foundation, supporting single parents and their children pursuing higher education. For more information on Single Parent Advocate, visit www.singleparentadvocate.org or to learn more about The Scott Murray Scholarship Foundation visit www.scottmurrayscholarshipfoundation.com. 

Why It Matters:

With 1 in 4 children in the U.S. growing up in single-parent households, the work of Single Parent Advocate is more crucial than ever. By supporting this event, you're helping to break the cycle of poverty and empower single parents and their children to thrive.

How You Can Participate:

Whether you're a golfer looking for a challenge, a company seeking sponsorship opportunities, or an individual wanting to volunteer, there are various ways to get involved. Visit www.singleparentadvocate.org/events to play, sponsor, or volunteer, and explore the different ticket packages available.

Join Us:

Don't miss your chance to make a difference while enjoying a day of golf and giving back. Mark your calendars for April 9th and join us at The Clubs of Prestonwood – The Hills Clubhouse for the 3rd Annual Life Changer Celebrity Golf Classic.