PRESS RELEASE: Macon Pride Announces 2026 Pride Legacy Portrait Project Inductees and Macon Pride Month Unveiling Event

Macon, Georgia — August 31, 2026

Macon Pride invites the Middle Georgia community to an evening of art, storytelling, and celebration as we unveil the 2026 class of the Pride Legacy Portrait Project, an annual exhibit honoring LGBTQIA+ pioneers, activists, and cultural trailblazers whose leadership continues to shape our region.

This signature project pairs striking portraiture with personal narratives, offering a deeper look at the individuals whose work in the arts, activism, and community building has strengthened and inspired Middle Georgia. Each year, the committee selects three honorees for induction, expanding a living archive of local LGBTQ history.

2026 Pride Legacy Portrait Project Inductees

Founders of Macon Pride (2019): Jill Vanderhoek, Scott Mitchell, DeMarcus Beckham, Claire Cox, Andrea Carter Freeman, and Moe Dyer
Ty Battle
Zaria Newbill

These leaders represent the spirit of courage, creativity, and community-building that continues to move Middle Georgia forward.

Event Details

The 2026 portraits will be unveiled on Thursday, September 3rd at 6:00 PM at the Tubman African American Museum. Admission to both the event and the museum will be free that evening, welcoming residents, families, and allies to celebrate the legacy and future of LGBTQ stories, history, and culture in Middle Georgia.

The exhibit will remain on display throughout September. A special viewing will take place on Saturday, September 26th, during the Pride in the Park Festival in Cherry Street Plaza.

During the unveiling, Macon Pride will also announce: