Hollander Accepts Madison Leadership Award
By: - Posted on: 7/17/2009

In accepting the OutReach Award as Man of the Year for 2009, Gary Hollander, Executive Director of Diverse and Resilient, described what he believes to be the intrinsic tie between support and expectations. He noted that all of the LGBT people present at the July 17 Awards Banquet had experiences with the limits of support. They knew the attenuated practical and emotional supports from family members, friends, educational systems, workplaces, and health care. Their community’s historical relationship with government has been unsupported because their needs and the impact of discrimination on their health have been ignored.

Hollander went on to say that LGBT people in Wisconsin have also been challenged by our limited expectations of ourselves and each other. “We have rightfully emphasized our moral authority to address the outrages against our rights and the denigration of our relationships and humanity. However,” he went on to say, “we need skills and a much bigger vision based on our power and contributions to society if we are to really thrive. We cannot base our futures only on what we have been able to accomplish in the past.”

Hollander’s comments concluded with his identifying the numerous supports he enjoys today. Among them are allies in the general community, state government, and the legislature. He particularly noted the impressive work of Representative Mark Pocan (Democrat, Madison). OutReach, Teens Like Us, and GSA for Safe Schools garnered Hollander’s commendation as important program partners from whom he receives support. The board and staff of Diverse and Resilient and its clients also received accolades in his comments. Hollander added that Paul Mandracchia, his partner of nearly 26 years, was a constant support. He finished his remarks by saying, “while I greatly appreciate this award, I am standing here tonight on the shoulders of all of those who support my work every day.”

Introducing Hollander, Joann Elder described his contributions to various Madison area organizations. “Through his leadership and passionate work of over 25 years, he has made significant and ongoing contributions to our community in Wisconsin and beyond. Gary leads the way in supporting public and individual health and well-being in the community. (He) has played an active role in assessing LGBTQ community health behavior and identifying health disparities.”

Honored with Hollander were Jane Boyd (Woman of the Year), SSBL (Organization of the Year) and Governor Jim Doyle (Courage Award). Approximately 400 people joined in the awards festivities at Monona Terrace in Madison. Captains hosted tables from area groups including Fair Wisconsin, Milwaukee LGBT Community Center, GSA for Safe Schools, AIDS Network, PFLAG, MATA, Our Lives, Diverse and Resilient, American Family Insurance, and others. The 2010 awards are slated to be announced at the September 17, 2010 Awards Banquet.