Historic Health Equity Think Tank Championed by Georgia State Representative Park Cannon at the State Capitol

    ATLANTA, GA, February 16, 2024 /24-7PressRelease/ -- In an unprecedented gathering at the Georgia State Capitol on February 16, 2023 Georgia State Representative Park Cannon hosted a landmark think tank focusing on holistic health equity for the transgender and LGBTQIA+ communities. The event, moderated by Dr. Elijah Nicholas, Founder and Executive Director of 100 Black Trans Men, Inc., marked a significant stride toward inclusive health and education policies in Georgia.

This think tank brought together leading community advocates, healthcare professionals, and organizations in a collaborative effort to address critical legislative issues. Panelists included Dr. LuLu of Dr. LuLu's Pride Corner; Aubri Escalera of Trans Power in Diversity; Reuben Johnson of Sex, Tech, and Chill; Rev Julian Clarke of FOCUS2RISE; Queen Hatcher-Johnson, Activist, Community Advocate, and Public Speaker; Danielle Bonanno of Inclusive Recovery; and Reggie Dunbar of Poz Military & Veterans USA. Data for the think tank provided by Berthine Crèvecoeur West of Westbrdge Solutions, LLC.

The discussions focused on pivotal Georgia legislation, such as the Reproductive Freedom Act (GA H.B. 75), the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (GA S.B. 180), the Georgia Woman's Bill of Rights (GA H.B. 1128), and the Quality Basic Education Act (GA H.B. 822), underscoring the urgency for equitable and inclusive policy reform.

Key Highlights and Outcomes:

Legislative Engagement: The think tank, hosted at the Georgia State Capitol by Representative Park Cannon, emphasized the importance of direct legislative engagement in advocating for health equity and LGBTQIA+ rights.

Special Recognition: During open legislation on the Georgia Assembly Floor, Representative Park Cannon honored Dr. Elijah Nicholas for his nearly 25-year military career, advocacy efforts in Georgia, and his work as a children's book author enhancing awareness of the transgender experience.

Expert Panel Discussions: The event featured in-depth conversations led by experts and advocates, offering diverse perspectives on how legislation impacts the transgender and LGBTQIA+ communities. The panelists' contributions highlighted the need for continued advocacy and actionable policy recommendations.

Future Directions:

Motivated by the success of this think tank, efforts will continue to ensure the development of supportive, inclusive legislation. The collaboration between lawmakers, community leaders, and advocates like Representative Park Cannon, Dr. Elijah Nicholas, and Aubri Escalara exemplifies the powerful impact of collective action on shaping a more equitable future for Georgia and beyond.

Quotes from the Event:

"Hosting this think tank at the Georgia State Capitol has underscored the critical role of legislative allies in our fight for equality," said Representative Park Cannon. "I am proud to recognize Dr. Elijah Nicholas's invaluable contributions and look forward to our continued work together."

Dr. Elijah Nicholas expressed, "Being honored by Representative Cannon on such a significant platform is a moment of profound pride and motivation. It strengthens our resolve to advocate for policies that recognize and support the rights of the transgender and LGBTQIA+ communities."

Julan Clarke, a US Marine veteran and CEO of FOCUS2RISE remarked, "The discussions today have set a new benchmark for what we can achieve together. Our collective efforts to advance holistic health equity are just beginning, and we look forward to the impact our continued collaboration will have on the state of Georgia and beyond."

For further information, to support our initiatives, or to join in advocacy efforts, please contact:

Contact Information:

Dr. Elijah Nicholas
Executive Director
100 Black Trans Men, Inc.
[email protected]
www.100BlackTransMen.com

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