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.
Jane Castor
In her 27 years as a Tampa police officer, Chief Jane Castor—the first lesbian police chief of that Florida city—has collaborated with citizens, neighborhood leaders, activists and business owners to work to reduce crime. Her “Focus on Four” plan has contributed to a 61.5% reduction in crime since 2003. Chief Castor earned a Bachelor’s of Science in Criminology at the University of Tampa, and in 2006 was inducted into the University’s Athletic Hall of Fame. She holds a Master’s of Public Administration from Troy State University and is a graduate of the FBI National Academy. “When I first became a police officer, I thought there was no greater satisfaction than solving a crime for a victim,” said Chief Castor, “but I have since learned that the best way to serve my community is by preventing people from becoming victims in the first place.” In 2010, Chief Castor was named Law Enforcement Executive of the Year. –DP
