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COLUMBUS, Ohio – Today, City of Columbus leaders announced 13 appointments to seat the newly formed LGBTQ+ Affairs Commission.
“Columbus has long been a beacon of LGBTQ+ culture and progress,” Columbus City Council President Shannon G. Hardin said. “It’s a community I’m proud to be part of and that I’m committed to investing in, especially in the face of continued attacks from both the state and federal government. The individuals appointed to the LGBTQ+ Affairs Commission represent the rich diversity of our city’s LGBTQ+ population, and I know their perspectives and ideas will both honor our community’s history and solidify our city as a welcoming place for LGBTQ+ residents to call home for generations to come.”
“The community leaders who have been selected to serve on the Columbus LGBTQ+ Affairs Commission will play a pivotal role in building upon our city’s efforts to advance equality, promote inclusion, and ensure every resident feels seen, heard and valued,” said Mayor Andrew J. Ginther. “Their leadership will help shape policies and partnerships that strengthen our community, and I look forward to their advice, advocacy and collaboration as we work together to pursue opportunity, dignity and prosperity for all.”
The commission was formed in July through Ordinance 1412-2025 to ensure that the voices and needs of LGBTQ+ residents are represented at the highest levels of city government. It will consist of 13 volunteer members chosen jointly by Columbus City Council and Mayor J. Ginther to represent the full diversity of Columbus’ LGBTQ+ community. Each member's term will begin on Jan. 1, 2026.
The newly appointed members are:
- Jasmine Roberts-Crews (Chair)
- Julia Applegate
- Siobhan Boyd-Nelson
- Peaches Calhoun
- Tyson Crenshaw
- Jaylah Hollins
- Thomas Savage
- Jonathan Keilholz
- Robert Leis
- Jamie Lenzo
- Blaine Saito
- Jimmie Vera
- Riley Williamson
Commission members will serve as a crucial bridge between the LGBTQ+ community and city leadership, advising the Mayor and City Council on issues that shape health, safety, opportunity and inclusion. By promoting access to government, advancing equitable policies and fostering public dialogue and education, the Commission will help ensure LGBTQ+ residents can thrive in a more connected and responsive Columbus.
Those interested in learning more about the LGBTQ+ Affairs Commission can find additional details here. Any questions about the Commission can be directed to LGBTQCommission@columbus.gov.
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