New Leader Jake Trudeau Aims to Establish Community Center for Annapolis Pride

Annapolis Pride has appointed a new chair, Jake Trudeau, who is focused on establishing an LGBTQ+ community center in Annapolis. Trudeau, who succeeded former chair Joe Toolan on October 1, 2023, aims to enhance the organization’s role in advocating for and celebrating the LGBTQ+ community.

Trudeau, 39, highlighted the significance of Annapolis Pride, stating that it serves as a vital lifeline for many individuals seeking acceptance. “Annapolis Pride is an LGBTQIA+ community organization that really started as a grassroots organization,” he explained. “It’s more than just the parade and festival; it’s a lifeline for so many in our community who are looking for a place to be seen, heard and celebrated.”

As the first transgender individual to hold the chair position, Trudeau will manage a board of up to 15 members. Annapolis Pride was founded in 2018 and achieved 501(c)(3) nonprofit status in 2019. The organization’s annual parade and festival have become integral to the community calendar in Annapolis and Anne Arundel County.

The upcoming Annapolis Pride Parade and Festival is scheduled for Saturday, after being postponed from its original date of May 31 due to severe weather conditions. In recognition of LGBTQ+ History Month, County Executive Steuart Pittman issued an official proclamation earlier this month, aligning it with the festival and parade events.

Trudeau emphasized his commitment to maintaining and expanding the successes of Annapolis Pride. “We’re absolutely going to continue the success of Annapolis Pride, deepen those community partnerships and engagement, and really ensure that Annapolis Pride remains a leading voice for the LGBTQ+ community — not just during pride month, but all year long,” he stated. He stressed the importance of inclusivity, ensuring that everyone has a “seat and a voice at the table.”

On Tuesday, Annapolis Pride, in partnership with the Caucus of African American Leaders, hosted a forum to discuss LGBTQ+ issues with mayoral candidates Jared Littmann and Robert O’Shea. Additionally, the organization organizes monthly board meetings and various community events, including an upcoming Dance Party and Social event at ArtFarm this Friday.

Trudeau’s primary vision as chair is to create a dedicated community center for Annapolis Pride. “Quite honestly, my biggest priority is to have an Annapolis Pride community center,” he remarked. “I think it’s time, and the community needs one. This is going to provide a safe and affirming environment for people to connect, access resources and build community.”

Raised on a farm in Centreville, Queen Anne’s County, Trudeau attended McDaniel College in Westminster, where he earned a degree in business administration. He has spent 17 years in finance and currently serves as the budget manager for the City of Annapolis. Trudeau became involved with Annapolis Pride as treasurer in 2021 before being elected vice chair.

His advocacy work is inspired by the phrase, “Be who you needed when you were younger,” and he is particularly focused on youth mentorship and development. “We’re in a moment where visibility and advocacy are more important than ever,” Trudeau said. “We need educational outreach, year-round advocacy and deeper partnerships. That’s the work ahead of us, and I believe that Annapolis is ready.”

Trudeau and his wife, Tiffany, have two sons. He concluded by expressing his honor in taking on this role. “I’m honored to step into this role and continue to build spaces where everyone feels empowered,” he said. “To me, this is more than a title. It’s a commitment to making Annapolis really a city where everyone can live and love openly.”