The Frederick Center is proud to announce the return of Sampson McCormick as the official master of ceremonies for Frederick Pride 2015, taking place on June 27 in the Carroll Creek Linear Park in the heart of downtown Frederick. Sampson delivered a full day of laughter and energy two years ago at Frederick Pride 2013, and the Pride Planning Committee is thrilled to bring his humor and mischief to this year’s creek-side celebration.

“Sampson is a transformative figure in the LGBTQ community. He brings his unique background as an African-American gay man in America and delivers his social commentary with a sharp wit that rivals any national comedian or commentator,” says Kris Fair, co-coordinator of Frederick Pride 2015.

McCormick, who is currently on a national tour, is an award-winning stand-up comedian, writer, and activist who can make audiences double over in laughter while addressing homophobia, poverty, and religion. For over a decade, he has been a favorite at LGBT pride festivals and mainstream venues alike. His screen appearances include BET, MTV’s “Real World.” and the Oprah Winfrey Network. He is also the author of two books, Ebonic Faggotry and Taboo Village: A Perspective on Being Gay In Black America, and is at work on his third. He has also released three live stand-up comedy albums, including his latest, That Bitch Better Be Funny: Live at the Howard Theater, where he made history by becoming the first openly gay comedian to headline the famous venue. Other prestigious venues that he has headlined include the White House, the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, the World Famous Comedy Store in Hollywood, and Harvard University.

“The Frederick Center is proud of the stellar lineup of performers at this year’s event, including master of ceremonies, Sampson. Frederick Pride has become the kid-friendly celebration of the LGBTQ community we envisioned, and is not only a place to celebrate but also cast a light on the issues facing this community,” says Brian Walker, board chair of the Frederick Center.

For more information about Frederick Pride 2015 please visit TheFrederickCenter.org or email Kris Fair at kfair@thefrederickcenter.org

The Frederick Center was founded in 2012 with the vision of being the leading organization for LGBTQ resources and advocacy in central Maryland. It mission is to support, educate, link, organize, and provide outreach to the LGBTQ community and its allies.