Jaymes Black

Jaymes Black (any/all pronouns) joined Family Equality in 2021. They are the first African American person to lead the organization in its 44-year history.  Thanks to their trailblazing leadership and fierce advocacy, Jaymes has propelled the organization to the forefront of the fight for equality, making significant impacts for LGBTQ+ families across the country. 

A highly respected policy advisor, Jaymes has been invited to be part of crucial discussions at the highest levels of government – including with the Administration on Children, Youth, and Families, the LGBTQI+ Leadership Council, and the White House – on topics and issues that affect LGBTQ+ families. 

Prior to joining Family Equality, Jaymes worked in the corporate sector where they have a long history of senior roles in the defense, technology, and finance industries. They decided to turn their business acumen, lived experience, and passion to work for LGBTQ+ families and those who wish to form them. 

Jaymes has ushered Family Equality through a tremendous chapter of growth. From expanding the organization’s work to protect LGBTQ+ youth and families in schools to deepening the focus on removing barriers to parenthood, they have prioritized not only advancing lived and legal equality for LGBTQ+ families, but also advancing racial and social justice for BIPOC communities, those living in rural areas, and those living at or below the poverty line.

As an invited keynote speaker at various events including the 60th Anniversary of the March on Washington, Black Parent Pride Summit, and Unleashed, Jaymes shares the the joys and challenges LGBTQ+ families face as well as their personal experiences growing up LGBTQ+ in the rural South, being pulled out of the closet as a teen, and navigating life as a Black queer parent. 

Jaymes’ advocacy has helped propel Family Equality further into the national spotlight with appearances on Bloomberg TV, Bloomberg Radio, The Sunday Show with Jonathan Capehart, and more. They have also hosted a bipartisan panel discussion at the U.S. Capitol and led collaborations with national movement partners.

After relocating from their home state of Texas in search of a more welcoming community, Jaymes, wife Cheralyn, and twin sons, Duke and London, now enjoy life in the metro Washington D.C. area.