Cornelius Joy says growing up in St. Louis, he felt the pinch of a dearth of gay resources that would have been helpful to him.
So now as a Washingtonian, he’s committed to helping where he can. Joy is on the board of the Equality Chamber of Commerce and has volunteered for other organizations as well.
He helps the chamber plan events of all sizes. “My goal is to support the LGBT business owners in the DMV area and make sure I do everything I can to make sure they have the support they need and help them with resources,” he says. “I just want to make sure they know black queer people have a voice and that diversity is here, despite what someone may think or say.” He says it’s important work that someone has to do. “I made a promise to