Faces & Places: Governor Shapiro’s Pride Reception

Governor Shapiro’s annual Pride Reception, held Monday, June 23, at the Pennsylvania State Library in Harrisburg, was a significant event that drew many from the Pittsburgh community, including State Representatives La’Tasha Mayes and Jessica Benham. In a highlight of the evening, Governor Shapiro’s speech resonated with attendees as he declared, “Here in Pennsylvania, you are loved. And no matter what you look like, where you come from, who you love, or who you pray to, I will always have your back.”

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Jeff Freedman (he/him) is a Pittsburgh native celebrating his fourth decade of LGBTQ+ community volunteerism. A co-founder of the Steel City Softball League in 1981, Jeff has remained a dedicated advocate ever since. His leadership includes serving on the Pennsylvania Governor’s Advisory Commission for LGBTQ Affairs, chairing Pittsburgh Pride celebrations from 2005 to 2007, and currently serving as the Pittsburgh Pride March & Parade Co-Chair. In recognition of his lifelong dedication, Jeff was named the 2025 Pittsburgh Pride Grand Marshal. Regular parade-goers will recognize him as the enthusiastic voice on the megaphone organizing the march participants. Jeff looks forward to sharing his best stories—at least the printable ones—with the QBurgh community.