Embedded Files
Friends of Dorothy (FoD) began in March 2022 when a group of disaffected activists convened to organize a nonpartisan LGBTQ advocacy group committed to change in Noble County after a protracted period of revived anti-LGBTQ rhetoric sponsored by powerful local individuals.
What's in the Name "Friends of Dorothy"
What's in the Name "Friends of Dorothy"
Upon founding, several dozen names for our organization were proposed. It was decided to determine the name by means of ranked-choice ballot. "Friends of Dorothy" was the winner.
A "Friend of Dorothy" was a common euphemism referring to gay men in the 20th century. The origin of this euphemism is not assuredly known but widely attributed to gay icon Judy Garland (who played Dorothy Gale in the 1939 Wizard of Oz).
Notably, the original book series which inspired the iconic movie has a poignant piece of dialogue between one character and Dorothy:
"You have some queer friends, Dorothy", to which she replies, "
The queerness doesn't matter, so long as they're friends."
While initially used to refer to gay men exclusively, we use the phrase to encompass all queerfolk.
Leadership
Leadership
The Chair serves at the pleasure of the membership to execute their will and oversee daily operations, among other things. The current Chair is Zion McNull (he/him/his), who is also a founding member. McNull has served in a leadership capacity since the group's founding. Prior to assuming the role of Chair, he was Co-Chair alongside Ellie Shortridge.
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