In the vibrant tapestry of Central Florida’s queer community, Jeremy Armando Rodriguez stands out as a vital thread weaving together passion, activism and transformative change.
Raised in the heart of Orlando as a queer Mexican-American, Jeremy’s journey epitomizes a harmonious fusion of personal triumphs and public victories. With a profound understanding of the challenges faced by marginalized communities, Jeremy has dedicated their life to fostering acceptance, inclusion and progress.
From an early age, Jeremy was immersed in the rich cultural intersections of Mexican heritage and LGBTQ+ identity — elements that fueled their unwavering passion for advocacy. This diverse background grants them a unique perspective, empowering them to champion causes with empathy and resilience. For Jeremy, commitment is deeply personal, resonating powerfully in every endeavor they undertake.
In their role as campaign manager to Nate Douglas, who ran for the Florida House, Jeremy has masterfully developed voter outreach strategies that amplify underrepresented voices, ensuring no one is left unheard. Beyond managing campaigns, they pour their energies into mentorship, empowering youth as a community organizer with Voters of Tomorrow. Through programs Jeremy has helped initiate, many young individuals have discovered their own political voices, galvanizing the next generation of leaders.
As a pivotal board member with the Contigo Fund, Jeremy’s influential work extends deeply into Central Florida’s transgender community. Inspired by their vision, the Central Florida Trans Care Fund was born, securing $100,000 to bolster transgender health care. This fund represents more than financial support, it is a beacon of hope and a concrete step toward equality and health care access for those most in need.
Since its inception, and as of 2024, the Contigo Fund has awarded over $4.5 million in grants. This substantial contribution supports leaders and programs at the forefront of queer rights and racial justice advocacy, delivering essential resources to grassroots organizations often facing systemic challenges. Under Jeremy’s stewardship, the fund continues to build resilience and empowerment within the community, reflecting their steadfast belief in the power of collective action.
For Jeremy, community is not merely a buzzword — it is a lifeblood. Every initiative, plan and event is infused with a collective spirit that Jeremy believes is elemental for true achievement. They inspire those around them to aim higher, strive for greatness and trust in the power of togetherness.
Jeremy’s personal journey of resilience and unwavering dedication positions them as an extraordinary asset to Central Florida and beyond. Their achievements in empowering marginalized voices are nothing short of remarkable, defining a new era of inclusion and hope — a reflection of what Central Florida can become.
Jeremy Armando Rodriguez, with vibrant resilience and contagious passion, you are a cornerstone of our community’s progress, a beacon for tomorrow’s leaders and truly one of the most remarkable figures of 2024.
View the full list of Watermark’s Remarkable People of 2024 here.
