Photos

PHOTOS: Wanda Alston Foundation Fall Reception

LGBTQ youth services organization honors Robert White, Japer Bowles, Washington Capitals

Published

4 weeks ago

September 20, 2026

Rayceen Pendarvis was the emcee at the Wanda Alston Foundation 2026 Fall Reception. (Washington Blade photo by Michael Key)

The Wanda Alston Foundation held its Fall Reception at the Penthouse Rooftop at The Wharf on Friday, Sept. 18. Honorees included D.C. Councilmember Robert White, Director of the Mayor’s Office of LGBTQ+ Affairs Japer Bowles, and the Washington Capitals. Rayceen Pendarvis served as the emcee and entertainment was provided by the Thomas Circle Singers.

(Washington Blade photos by Michael Key)

Up Next

PHOTOS: Walk and 5K to End HIV

Don't Miss

PHOTOS: SMYAL Fall Brunch

FUND LGBTQ JOURNALISM

Photos

PHOTOS: Miss Gay Maryland America

Jalah Nicole captures title at 41st annual pageant

Published

3 days ago

October 14, 2026

Michael Key

Jalah Nicole is crowned Miss Gay Maryland America 2026. (Washington Blade photo by Michael Key)

The 2026 Miss Gay Maryland America pageant was held at Hub City Brewery in Hagerstown, Md. on Saturday, Oct. 10. Jalah Nicole was crowned the winner, and Maria Posa was named first alternate. Both competitors qualify for the Miss Gay America pageant in Atlanta in January.

(Washington Blade photos by Michael Key)

Photos

Center for Black Equity honors leaders, activists at BE. Gala

Miyake-Mugler, Oakes co-host annual awards ceremony

Published

6 days ago

October 11, 2026

Michael Key

Center for Black Equity President and CEO Kenya Hutton speaks at the 2026 BE. Gala on Saturday. (Blade photo by Michael Key)

The Center for Black Equity held its annual BE. Gala at Conrad Washington, D.C. on Saturday, Oct. 5. Lolita Leopard Miyake-Mugler and Anthony Oakes co-hosted the awards ceremony.

Honorees included journalist and producer Justin Stewart; nonprofit leader Nikki Alexander; HIV advocate Marlene McNeese; the nonprofit organization FreeLux Project; actress Monroe Alise; public health advocate Tori Cooper; Manassas Park Vice Mayor Darryl G. Moore; Rev. Dr. Carmarion D. Anderson; Bishop Steven Sawyer; government relations professional Courtney Snowden; Senior Deputy Director of HAHSTA at D.C. Health, Clover Barnes; and Texas state Rep. Venton C. Jones.

The event was presented by Gilead.

(Washington Blade photos by Michael Key)