From the Desk of Phil Gilchrist, Executive Director

As Pride Month comes to a close, I’ve been reflecting on what Pride means—not just to me personally, but to the kind of community we are working to build here in Macomb County.

At Advancing Macomb, our mission is to connect community challenges with high-impact solutions. That work is rooted in a simple belief: communities are strongest when everyone feels seen and valued. This month, I had the privilege of serving as a juror for the Pride Art Show at the Anton Art Center. The exhibition, which remains on display through Aug. 1, features artwork created by LGBTQ2S+ artists from across the country and celebrates creativity, identity and self-expression.

That opportunity was especially meaningful because I am also a founding board member of Macomb County Pride. Watching Pride grow over the past several years has been truly inspiring. What began as a vision to create a welcoming space for LGBTQ+ residents, families and allies has become a vibrant organization and community celebration that continues to expand each year.

As a gay man, I’ve found myself reflecting on how different my own experience might have been if a community like this had existed when I was growing up. A more visible LGBTQ+ community would have created more opportunities for engagement and understanding of our collective history and current context. Being able to participate in something larger than ourselves builds community and creates stronger, more vibrant people and places.

The spirit of Pride Month extends beyond any one month on the calendar. It’s reflected in the relationships we build, the conversations we have and the choices we make every day to create a more welcoming and inclusive Macomb County.

I encourage everyone to visit the Pride Art Show before it closes on Aug. 1 and experience the incredible talent on display. I also hope you’ll join the community for the sixth annual Macomb County Pride Festival on Saturday, Aug. 8, in downtown Mount Clemens. The free, family-friendly event celebrates diversity while bringing together thousands of residents, local organizations and businesses.

Pride Month may be ending, but the work of building an inclusive community continues every day. I’m proud to be part of that work, and I’m grateful to everyone who is helping make Macomb County a place where we can all thrive.

Photo provided by the Anton Art Center