“Remarkable” is certainly a word that I would use to describe Michael Slaymaker.
He is truly one of the kindest, most humble and hard-working people I have ever met. Orlando is a better place because of Michael.
I was able to get to know Michael when he asked me to serve with him on the Orlando Anti-Discrimination Ordinance Committee in the early 2000s. I was impressed by both his enthusiasm and positive outlook.
Politicians just can’t seem to say “no” to Michael! Through his leadership, OADO was able to obtain bipartisan support for anti-discrimination ordinances, domestic partner registries and other important legislation benefiting the LGBTQ+ community here in Central Florida. Under Michael’s direction, numerous ordinances were drafted, debated and passed.
Michael is the reason Orlando has a perfect score of 100 on the Human Rights Campaign’s municipality scoring index. There’s just no way we would be the inclusive community that we are without his hard work and persistence.
More recently, Michael has been serving as CEO of Orlando Youth Alliance. OYA has been helping Central Florida’s LGBTQ+ youth for over 30 years, but the last few have seen tremendous growth for the organization, both in fundraising and in the services that have been made available to the youth.
For the youth served, OYA has provided fun recreational and entertainment options, given out countless college scholarships and created a safe place for youth to discuss issues important to them during weekly rap sessions. During his tenure as CEO, Michael has truly transformed OYA and the organization is able to help more youth than ever before. As Michael likes to say, “the children are our future.” So very true.
It really is an honor to assist in recognizing Michael Slaymaker for Watermark’s “Most Remarkable People” list. I can’t think of a more deserving person.
To view the full list of Watermark’s Remarkable People of 2022, click here.
