Dallas Way announces Matching Gift Challenge honoring Longcope
James Lynn Williams, center, presents a check to The Dallas Way The Dallas Way today (Tuesday, Aug. 13) announced a $50,000 matching gift challenge from James Lynn Williams honoring his late partner of 46 years, Charles Longcope Jr.
James Lynn Williams, left, and Charles Longcope Jr. The Williams/Longcope Matching Gift Challenge will match donations to The Dallas Way up to $50,000 until the end of 2024, funding the digitization of historical documents for worldwide access. “Charles was passionate about education and preserving our community’s history,” said Williams. “This challenge will ensure future generations can learn from Dallas’ unique LGBTQ+ heritage.” Robert Emery, president of The Dallas Way, added, “This gift ensures Dallas’ diverse LGBTQ+ history will be studied for generations, providing valuable resources for research and education.” This gift to Dallas Way adds to Williams’ philanthropic efforts which include more than $1 million since 2022 to support the LGBTQ community.
James Williams arrived in Dallas on Feb. 4, 1974, fresh from Army service and armed with degrees from Cornell and Dartmouth.
Within 20 days, he met Charles Longcope Jr., a Dallas high school teacher and fourth-generation Texan. Their serendipitous encounter sparked a 46-year romance built on a shared passion for the arts.
