On January 11, 2025, the Montrose Center hosted Houston’s 2025 LGBTQ+ Community Summit, bringing together 250 community members for a day of dialogue and action. Drawing inspiration from Houston’s historic 1978 Town Meeting I, the summit addressed crucial issues facing the LGBTQ+ community today and into the near future.

The day began with a plenary session focused on the history of Houston’s 50+ year queer movement, featuring former Judge Phyllis Frye, LGBTQ+ Research Collections Librarian Joyce Gabiola from the University of Houston, long-time community photographer Dalton Dehart, and others. Throughout the day, participants engaged in focused breakout sessions covering civil rights, access to gender-affirming care, safety planning, and immigration rights. Workshops on mental health, community care, and mutual aid provided practical tools for community support.

The summit offered dedicated spaces for youth, legal aid, and intersectional connection. Cultural performances by drag performer Artemis Hunter and spoken word artist Blacqwildflowr enriched the program. The day concluded with an open dialogue session where attendees spoke about what they needed in this moment and shared their visions for advancing LGBTQ+ rights in Houston.

With generous support from The Hollyfield Foundation, Diana Foundation, and Outsmart Magazine, the event strengthened community connection and helped folks identify ways they can advocate for Houston’s LGBTQ+ community. The information and ideas shared during this summit will continue to support Houston’s queer community and influence initiatives in the year ahead.

For more information about LGBTQ+ resources in Houston, visit the Montrose Center’s website or contact lgbtqcenter@montrosecenter.org