Here it is, our 20 Most Remarkable People of 2020 — 10 in Central Florida and 10 in Tampa Bay. This yearly list is our way of recognizing those in our local community who have shown themselves to go above and beyond in the name of equality, have made a historical contribution to the movement or have been unsung heroes in the fight for LGBTQ people.
You will find politicians, activists, artists, volunteers and more among our remarkable 20. Those who managed to stand out in a year dominated by a pandemic, nationwide protests calling for racial equality and a presidential election that had the largest voter turnout in U.S. history.
2020 was a hard year, but selecting these remarkable people from it was the easiest decision for us to make. Congratulations to all of our remarkable people and thank you for your tireless work in a truly remarkable year.
CENTRAL FLORIDA
U.S. Rep. Val Demings, written by U.S. Rep. Mike Quigley
Felipe Sousa-Lazaballet, written by Robin Maynard-Harris
Eryn Harris, written by Randall Bertrand
Chris Bilyk, written by Andres Acosta Ardila
Blue Star, written by Rob Ward
Leah James, written by Carlos Carbonell
Joel Morales, written by Dr. George Wallace
Mr. Ms Adrian, written by Divine Grace
Bobby Hermida, written by Yasmin Flasterstein
Daniel Downer, written by Nicole Elinoff
TAMPA BAY
State Rep. Michele Rayner, written by Maya Brown
Larry Biddle, written by Jennifer Yeagley
Kayden Rodriguez, written by Nancy Desmond
Chad Mize, written by Andrea Pawlisz
Daphne Ferraro, written by Jarrod Ketzler
Cam Parker, written by Jasmin Walters
Chris Jones and Loralei Matisse, written by Brian Longstreth
Karla Bello, written by Rook Ringer
John Gascot, written by Ron Diana
