On Thursday, June 12, Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz celebrated the weeklong observance of Brooklyn Pride by honoring outstanding members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) community. Brooklyn is proud home to the city’s largest LGBT population.

BP Markowitz honored seven individuals that have made strides to improve the lives of Brooklynites from all walks of life. A posthumous citation was presented to Griot Circle Founder and former Executive Director Regina Shavers, with reflections by her partner of 20 years, Rev. Janice Jackson. Also on hand was Shavers’ mother, Geraldine. Citations were also awarded to Eryk D. Albury and Calvin Clarke of Langston Lounge; Sheila Frayne of Ginger’s Bar; Mark Hayden and Richard Kennedy of Excelsior; and Brooke Webster of Cattyshack.

The event, which was free and open to the public, featured entertainment by Robert German, Ron B. as Tina Turner, Appolonia Cruz and amberRose Marie. Also attending were Mickey Heller, Esq.; Doreen DeJesus, Treasurer and Communications Director for Brooklyn Pride, Inc.; and Zully Rolan, Chair of Brooklyn Pride, Inc.

The rainbow flag will fly at Brooklyn Borough Hall and the building will be lit in celebration of gay pride through this weekend. In addition, on Saturday, June 14, BP Markowitz’s float will appear in the 12th annual Brooklyn LGBT Pride Night Parade, which kicks off at 8:30 pm from Prospect Park West and 15th Street (Bartel-Pritchard Square). Earlier that day, at 2:45 pm, BP Markowitz will present a proclamation to Brooklyn Pride. For more information on the day’s events, visit www.brooklynpride.org.