Sheboygan County LGBTQ
Alliance History

The Beginning: Summer 2019
In the summer of 2019, a few thoughtful community members wanted to proactively counter the impact of discrimination on queer members of the community. This led to a conversation at the Mental Health America (MHA) office in Sheboygan where Kate Krause, Lex Cade-White, Carolynn Lee, and Jasmine Lammers met with MHA Director Julie Preder to discuss the need for an LGBTQ+ organization in Sheboygan and what that might look like.
 

The First Pride Picnic: June 22, 2019
That same summer, two local high school seniors organized Sheboygan’s first-ever Pride event—a last-minute but well-attended Pride Picnic at Fountain Park following the Saturday farmer’s market. More than 100 people gathered to watch drag performances, share meals, and celebrate the LGBTQ+ community. The event’s overwhelming success underscored the need for a dedicated LGBTQ+ organization in Sheboygan.
 

Community Outreach and Strategic Planning
In June 2019, an anonymous Google survey was distributed via Facebook and email, gathering over 110 responses from local LGBTQ+ individuals. This survey, repeated in subsequent years, became a cornerstone of the Alliance’s work, helping shape its mission and advocacy.
 

On August 12, 2019, the Sexuality & Gender Identity Community Initiative (SGICI) held its first official event—a luncheon at Paradigm. This event aimed to gain the support of community leaders, including elected officials, business leaders, school representatives, healthcare providers, and nonprofit organizations. Attended by 30 influential figures, this strategic gathering laid the groundwork for community engagement and support.
 

At a pivotal meeting on September 20, 2019, SGICI’s core steering committee defined its goals: raising awareness of the LGBTQ+ community, amplifying voices, coordinating resources, and mobilizing efforts across various sectors, including healthcare, education, workplaces, arts, faith-based communities, and public safety.
 

Public Launch: November 20, 2019
The first public event, a Community Conversation, was held at the UW-Sheboygan Fine Arts Theatre. Nearly 100 attendees braved snowy weather to participate in discussions facilitated by SGICI volunteers. The event provided a platform for LGBTQ+ individuals and allies to voice concerns and ideas, setting the stage for grassroots advocacy and broader community engagement.
 

The Birth of Sheboygan County LGBTQ Alliance
On February 29, 2020, the group officially adopted the name Sheboygan County LGBTQ Alliance and began hosting monthly meetings. Initially held at the downtown DHS office, the meetings transitioned to a virtual format due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the challenges, subcommittees were formed, and the group maintained momentum.
 

Virtual Pride: June 5, 2021
The Alliance hosted its first-ever virtual Pride event, live-streamed from Paradigm on Facebook Live. Hosted by Carolynn Lee and Angela Ramey, with special guests including Mayor Ryan Sorensen and Senator Tammy Baldwin, the event featured musical performances and a moving video montage of Sheboygan residents waving their Pride flags.
 

First Annual Pride Picnic: June 25, 2022
The first annual Sheboygan Pride Picnic at City Green featured live music headlined by Bitch, drag performances, food trucks, vendor booths, and an after-party at Paradigm. Despite a rainy day and concerns over local incidents of vandalized Pride flags, the event was a success. It also marked the Alliance’s growth with an official logo, an active social media presence, and a website.
 

That same year, the Alliance expanded its advocacy efforts by surveying local election candidates, a practice that would continue in future elections. Additionally, the group took a stand in defending LGBTQ+ youth in local school districts against discriminatory policies and political attacks, rallying community members to attend school board meetings and support vulnerable students.
 

Growing Influence: 2023 and Beyond
On June 24, 2023, the second annual Pride Picnic at City Green was met with warm, sunny weather and an even larger turnout. Vendor space was at full capacity, media coverage expanded, and volunteer engagement grew significantly. Leading up to this event, the Alliance also secured a fiscal sponsor, allowing it to accept tax-deductible donations and further expand its reach.
 

From its humble beginnings as a conversation in 2019 to becoming a recognized force for advocacy and celebration, the Sheboygan County LGBTQ Alliance continues to uplift and empower the local LGBTQ+ community. With a steadfast commitment to visibility, inclusivity, and action, the Alliance is here to stay.