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.
Aicila Lewis
Committed to making the world a better place, Aicila Lewis joined her first nonprofit board in 2001 and subsequently found her professional calling. Lewis is currently the co-executive director for Out Boulder, a resource center for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning and allied individuals in Colorado. When not advocating for the LGBT community, she spends time with her two teenagers, plays word games and produces a podcast about the experiences of bi people in America. “I hope to inspire the queer folks I interact with to see beyond gay rights and embrace true equality for all,” says Lewis. “I believe the LGBTQ community is uniquely positioned to hear diverse voices and create a truly inclusive movement, and I want to be part of making that happen.” –DP
