Governor's Advisory Commission on LGBTQ Affairs Announces 2025-27 Commissioners

Harrisburg, Pa - August 11, 2025 - Today, the Governor's Advisory Commission on LGBTQ Affairs announced the appointment of 28 commissioners that will make up its 2025-27 advisory board. The Commission's purpose is to gather information regarding LGBTQ Pennsylvanians' experiences and needs; review, evaluate, and assess programs affecting them; provide the Governor with information and recommendations regarding how best to meet their needs; and provide information about programs and services that may be relevant to LGBTQ Pennsylvanians' needs. The Commission was established by Governor Josh Shapiro through an Executive Order(opens in a new tab).

"The Governor's Commission on LGBTQ Affairs has a rich history of standing up for Pennsylvanians. Governor Milton Shapp established the PA Council for Sexual Minorities in 1975, the first governmental body in the nation devoted to developing public policy for the LGBTQ+ community," said Executive Director Ashleigh Strange. "Every agency under the governor's purview is committed to the protection and visibility of our communities. The commissioners I work with help uplift not only the diverse issues of LGBTQ Pennsylvanians, but also celebrate with our communities throughout the year. Whenever you see one of these commissioners, you know the Governor is listening to us."

Throughout the last two years, Governor Shapiro's Commission on LGBTQ Affairs has worked to prioritize addressing health inequities among LGBTQ Pennsylvanians. The Commission has also worked with the Pennsylvania State Police and the Pennsylvania Office of Homeland Security to hold Pride Safety Webinars to prepare Pennsylvania vendors, attendees, and organizers to hold safe, inclusive Pride events. There were approximately 89 Pride festivals held across the Commonwealth in 2025.

The Commission Chair and members are listed below.