100 Women We Love 2011
It’s been a whirlwind year for Chely Wright. The award-winning country artist and songwriter stunned the conservative country music world by coming out in 2010, a difficult and life-changing decision she detailed in her 2011 autobiography, Like Me. She also released her critically-acclaimed seventh album, Lifted Off the Ground, a tour-de-force more than five emotionally-grueling years in the making. The documentary film, Wish Me Away, chronicles her journey from preparation to aftermath of her decision to come out to Nashville, her hometown, and within the LGBT community, will make its world premiere at the Los Angeles Film Festival this summer. Her soul-searching, however, has been worth it: The newly-minted LGBT role model serves as the national spokesperson for the Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (GLSEN) and speaks out against school bullying. Wright believes “that to whom much is given, much is required. I have lived a very blessed life and I know what it feels like to achieve goals. I want to do my part in helping others have as many opportunities to have milestones in their lives too.” –KL
The 100 Women We Love – out artists, elected officials, business leaders, athletes, community activists – are role models for us all. Many are up-and-coming movers and shakers; some are at the zenith of their careers. Some of their achievements change our world and, just as importantly, others improve the world’s perception of out women. They all strive tirelessly to increase our visibility and continue our incredible progress toward equality and justice.
We proudly present the class of 2011, in random order, so each gets her well-deserved turn in the spotlight.
Rev. Shari K. Brink
Throughout her career, religious and not-for-profit leader Reverend Shari K. Brink has been committed to bringing people together from diverse racial, socio-economic and religious backgrounds. As a founding co-president of Room for All, a small not-for-profit organization that educates and advocates for the full inclusion of LGBT people within the church, she challenges the church to rise above issues of gender identity and sexual orientation. Reverend Brink was appointed as Executive Minister of historic Marble Collegiate Church last summer, where she provides strategic leadership to one of New York City’s most diverse congregations. “Nothing brings me more joy than a congregation in which everyone knows they belong and has an opportunity to use their gifts and skills, strengths and experiences for the greater good,” said Reverend Brink. She also leads the G(LBT) people in Faith, Tradition & Service (GIFTS) fellowship, which is celebrating its 20-year history and finding new vitality in the continuing movement toward LGBT equality. –DP
