The Baltimore City LGBTQ Commission was established by the mayor of Baltimore to represent the various needs and experiences of Baltimore’s LGBTQ residents. It collaborates with the mayor’s LGBTQ Affairs office to advise and guide the mayor and city governments on issues of importance to our community. The commission currently has five vacancies and is accepting applications for new members.

The commission has six primary areas of focus:

  • education and youth
  • law, policy, and advocacy
  • public safety
  • health and human services
  • unity and pride
  • economic development.

Commissioners assist in convening committees composed of community volunteers in each of the focus areas. They also assist with shaping the work of the LGBTQ Affairs office – suggesting or reviewing policy, participating in meetings with agencies and partners, and staffing or hosting events.

The basic requirements for appointment to serve as a commissioner are as follows:

  • be at least 13 years of age
  • live, work or attend school in Baltimore City
  • have demonstrated exceptional ability for leadership and advocacy on LGBTQ topics
  • commit to attending six public meetings per year, as well as additional meetings as needed, and
  • align with the established values of the Baltimore City Office of LGBTQ Affairs. Commissioners may also need to attend commission work-related meetings and events during the daytime, evenings or weekends, and those commissioners responsible for convening a committee will also need to attend committee meetings as well. Commissioners should expect to spend at least five hours per month on commission related work.

If you meet the requirements and are interested in serving the community and the city as a commission member, you are asked to send an updated resume / curriculum vitae (CV) and letter of interest to jabari.lyles@baltimorecity.gov on or before February 24th. If you have any questions, be sure to reach out as soon as possible to ensure you have time to submit your application. The applications will be reviewed by the current commission, and official recommendations will be made to the mayor and / or city council president to make final decisions. Commissioners will be notified of their selection on or before April 1st and will be officially sworn in by the mayor at a ceremony planned for a subsequent date.