Mayor Dickens Appoints LGBTQ Director Dewayne Queen

By: Paul Goldberg, Senior Editor | JRL CHARTS – LGBT Politics USA

ATLANTA, GA — (June 27, 2025) — In a Pride Month announcement that marks both progress and celebration, Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens has appointed Dewayne Queen as the city’s new Director of LGBTQ Affairs. Queen will officially step into the role on June 30, succeeding Malik Brown, who vacated the position in November.

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The announcement also coincides with the 10th anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court ruling that legalized same-sex marriage nationwide, highlighting the city’s continued investment in LGBTQIA+ visibility and equity.

As Director of LGBTQ Affairs, Queen will serve as a liaison between the Mayor’s Office, city departments, and the LGBTQ Advisory Board. His mandate includes coordinating inclusive programming, strengthening partnerships, and supporting underserved segments of the community.

“As a city dedicated to creating opportunities for all, we welcome Dewayne Queen to our team in a role that will continue our Administration’s work to create innovative programming and opportunities for the LGBTQ community,” said Mayor Dickens. “Dewayne is well-equipped to coordinate efforts among community partners, amplify intersectional voices, and implement data-driven solutions that address the needs of marginalized groups, including LGBTQ youth, veterans, seniors, and communities of color.”

Who Is Dewayne Queen?

Queen brings a powerful blend of corporate leadership and grassroots advocacy to the post. He is a longtime Delta Air Lines employee and the former president of the company’s LGBTQ business resource group. He is also the founder and CEO of The Trans Life Awards, which celebrates transgender and nonbinary artists, advocates, and community leaders.

Queen currently serves on the boards of Atlanta Pride and Atlanta Black Pride, cementing his presence as a trusted voice in LGBTQIA+ organizing and visibility.

“My intention is to lead with hope — hope that builds bridges, empowers voices, and ensures every LGBTQIA+ person feels seen, valued, and protected in the city we call home,” said Queen.

Atlanta’s Chief Equity Officer Candace Stanciel added, “The work of equity, diversity and inclusion requires an intentional and focused leader to hear from, support and advance the agenda of Atlanta’s LGBTQ+ community. I’m excited to welcome Dewayne Queen as he sets a new vision for this work, which is foundational to the progress of human rights in our city and across the globe.”

Queen’s appointment comes at a pivotal time as cities across the U.S. face growing pressure to deliver measurable progress on LGBTQ protections and representation. Atlanta’s decision signals its commitment to ensuring queer voices remain centered in public service and policy.

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