100 Women We Love

100 Women We Love 2011

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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.

Ricki M. Perlowitz

Jewelry designer, young-at-heart optimist and unsung hero of the community Ricki Perlowitz is described by close friends as The Connector. She’s been cultivating relationships and connecting people since she began bartending 35 years ago at LGBT hotspots and gay Pride events across the northeast. “There’s enough conflict coming from outside the community already,” Perlowitz observes. “Instead of letting negativity tear us apart, we need to get along better and stick together.” Her artistic streak reflects this philosophy, and is infused with her love of life, family, friendship and community. Perlowitz created a pendant to hold the ashes of a dear friend lost in the 9/11 tragedy, which inspired a series of commissioned one-of-a-kind pieces. Her photographs (which can be found at Klymaxx Unlimited in Provincetown) range in subject from picturesque landscapes and hauntingly nostalgic architecture to whimsical still lifes, such as wedding portraits of same-sex rubber ducks. Her days are filled with spending time with her favorite people and animals, donating time and original jewelry to LGBT causes, collaborating on an autobiographical TV sitcom and dancing the night away. –DP

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