100 Women We Love

100 Women We Love 2011

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The 100 Women We Love – out artists, elected officials, business leaders, athletes, community activists – are role models for us all. Many are up-and-coming movers and shakers; some are at the zenith of their careers. Some of their achievements change our world and, just as importantly, others improve the world’s perception of out women. They all strive tirelessly to increase our visibility and continue our incredible progress toward equality and justice.

We proudly present the class of 2011, in random order, so each gets her well-deserved turn in the spotlight.

Reverend Pat Bumgardner

An active and vocal proponent for LGBT rights as human rights, Reverend Pat Bumgardner has served in numerous capacities at the Metropolitan Community Church of New York (MCCNY) for the past 30 years. Bumgardner has traveled the world addressing hunger, homelessness, homophobia and social prejudice. She founded The Sylvia Rivera Memorial Food Pantry and Sylvia’s Place, an emergency shelter dedicated to providing safe space for homeless LGBTQ youth. As senior pastor and executive director of the MCC’s Global Justice Institute, she has become a sought-after speaker, crossing denominational and multi-cultural divides. “I sincerely hope and pray that the work we do…will make the world a safer, more just place for everyone, especially God’s LGBTQI children,” says Reverend Bumgardner. She lives in the West Village with her spouse of 25 years and their puppy, and recently welcomed the birth of their first grandchild. –DP

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