On January 5th, the Office of Fort Bend County Judge KP George announced the official launch of the Queer Committee, a new initiative aimed at promoting inclusivity, providing resources, dispelling myths, and showcasing the economic contributions of the Queer community in Fort Bend County.

The committee’s launch was held on Friday, January 5th, at the Historic Fort Bend County Courthouse, 401 Jackson St., Richmond.

At the event Fort Bend County Judge KP George introduced committee members and discussed the goals and significance of the Queer Alliance Committee to the area community. Following the judge’s opening remarks, committee members presented a comprehensive overview of the LGBTQIA+ mission in Fort Bend County. “This multifaceted mission encompasses the provision of essential resources, educational initiatives, and active promotion of LGBTQIA + businesses,” said a press release from the judge’s office.

Members of the committee are Rev. Heather Patriacca Tolleson, pastor of First Christian Church Katy; Kendralyn Jasper, Ft. Bend County Attorney’s Office; Leslie Morrison, Moms Demand Action; Samantha Gulley, KP George's Office; Lilian MBise, Ft. Bend County Health and Human Services; Amanda Rose, president of Katy Pride; and Danielle Saldua, KP George's Office.

“I love that the elected leadership is taking intentional action to highlight, feature, and create safe spaces for our communities,” said Rev. Tolleson in a statement to the Katy Times. “It is important that we continue to call together our community and celebrate the strength we have in our differences.”

“The intent of the alliance is to bring voice and visibility to the resources of the LGBTQ community here in our immediate area,” Tolleson said. “I believe that we will also stand to create spaces for the queer voice in all aspects of community life and government here in Katy and Fort Bend County. It is important that we highlight the resources such as Transparent Closet, Katy Pride, Fort Bend County Health and Human Services, and others that provide resources to the LGBTQ+ community here in our area. We are a strong community and want to celebrate all that we are and all that we have. I know the committee is looking forward to representing the queer community, highlighting queer and ally business in our area, and lifting up all the amazing resources our community has to offer.”

Amanda Rose, president of Katy Pride, issued the following statement: “The formation of the Queer Alliance in Fort Bend county is a positive step to create a climate of support and empowerment for the LGBTQ+ community in Katy, Ft. Bend and West Houston. There is LGBTQ+ life outside of the loop and the need to recognize and expand the resources in our area has never been greater than right now. Serving on the Fort Bend County Queer Alliance aligns with the mission of Katy Pride. We are here to represent, support and uplift the LGBTQ+ community in the area and I am proud and honored to serve on the Queer Alliance on behalf of Katy Pride.”

"As I have said many times, I believe in human dignity and respect regardless of anyone's origin, race, ethnicity, religion, or orientation," said Judge George. "One of the primary goals of this committee is to advocate for equal opportunities for all Fort Bend residents, irrespective of their orientation or gender identity."