Monday, November 9, 2020
Equality New York Welcomes New Co-Chairs for Board of Directors,
Tanya Asapansa Walker and Cathy Marino-Thomas
New York, NY: Equality New York (EQNY), the state-wide advocacy organization working to advance equality and justice for LGBTQI New Yorkers and their families announced the appointment of their first set of co-chairs since its founding in 2016. Tanya Asapansa Walker and Cathy Marino-Thomas bring a collective 60+ years of organizing and nonprofit experience.
“There could not be a clearer endorsement of EQNY’s model than the transfer of leadership to two highly respected community leaders. Cathy and Tanya are the leaders our state needs to continue EQNY’s impact and growth on behalf of the Empire State’s LGBTQI communities.” EQNY Co-Founder, Gabriel Blau said.
“Equality NY has been a tremendous force in advocating for the rights and well-being of LGBTQ New Yorkers, and Tanya Walker and Cathy Marino-Thomas have been at the front lines fighting for equality and justice for many years. I commend Equality NY for electing Tanya and Cathy to lead its board. I look forward to working with them and executive director Amanda Babine to build upon New York’s legacy as the birthplace and national leader of the LGBTQ civil rights movement.” Matthew McMorrow, Director of LGBTQ Affairs, Office of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo
Walker and Marino-Thomas begin their three year term with an ambitious plan to expand EQNY’s reach with a focus on building a pipeline of organizers throughout the state to help project the organizations efforts more locally. In addition, through any coalition work the focus will be to build on the strong Equality-minded majority in Albany to increase our protections state-wide.
“Given the importance of our recent gains on the line and our persistent efforts for full equality far from over, we shouldn’t be more pleased to have such inspiring people lead Equality NY. Tanya Walker and Catherine Marino-Thomas are among the finest advocates for our community and their surefooted, forward-thinking guidance will most assuredly build upon the unique and profoundly important contributions of Equality NY. It will be my personal pleasure to work with them, to support them and for us all to welcome them to the largest, progressive stage for LBGTQI rights in the Nation.” EQNY Board Member, Teri Wilhelm said.
With the lack of support and damaging policies put into place from the current presidential administration, EQNY’s new leadership is focused on bringing awareness of the importance of state level protections.
“State level laws are more important than ever. I am thrilled to be working with Tanya, Amanda Babine and everyone at EQNY to insure NYS is a place for everyone.” EQNY Co-Chair, Cathy Marino-Thomas said.
“Even in the middle of a pandemic, myself and Co-Chair Cathy Marino-Thomas, who I am very happy to be working with, are determined to maintain the recent gains we’ve made for the LGBTQ community. We will continue working to get equality minded folks elected in New York State. The road ahead will not be easy but we will prevail” EQNY Co-Chair, Tanya Aspansa Walker said.
Equality New York will host a virtual meet and greet with Walker and Marino-Thomas on Wednesday, December 9, 2020 at 7:00PM to discuss their vision and strategic plan for the organization. Tickets can be purchased here: https://bit.ly/367EbGX