About Pride Northwest

Pride celebrations have been held in Portland since the 1970's. In 1994, the original board of directors of Pride Northwest created a 501c3 organization and held their first meeting. Since that time, the board and the event has grown considerably.

Today, Pride Northwest is made up of a dynamic group of individuals from many different backgrounds who are dedicated to providing a venue for the queer community to gather and celebrate. The mission of Pride Northwest, Inc. is to encourage and celebrate the positive diversity of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and queer communities, and to assist in the education of all people through the development of activities that showcase the history, accomplishments, and talents of these communities.

Meet the Board

Debra Porta – President

Debra Porta is a Texas transplant, working on her Bachelor's Degree in Sociology. Debra is a political activist and a self-professed news junkie. A reformed workaholic, she is relatively new to the local queer social scene. Debra enjoys meeting new people and spending what little free time she has with friends.

Hank Renfrow – Vice President, Media

Hank Renfrow has been an activist in the Portland Queer community for the past 8 years. Hank is currently filling the role of secretary for the 2007 Pride Board. In her off time, Hank is a drag king with the now defunct stellar group DKPDX and also volunteers for many local Queer organizations. Hank is involved in the local fat community as a member of the Fat Action Troupe Allstar Spirit Squad (F.A.T.A.S.S.cheerleaders).Hank is also an instructor at Portland State University in the Women's Studies and Communication Departments.



Pepe Raphael – Entertainment Coordinator

Pepe is working hard this year as our Entertainment Coordinator. We are all so grateful for the high energy and laughter he brings to this board. Learn more about Pepe's amazing talent at www.bottleblondes.com


Nathan Keep – Outreach Coordinator

Nathan has lived in Portland for roughly five years, and is currently in his final year at Portland State University. As Community Outreach Coordinator, it is his hope to hear from a variety of organizations about what they hope, see and plan for this coming year parade and festival. When not attempting to schedule in meetings and running around Portland, he spends what time he has working at the Queer Resource Center (PSU) in promoting social & educational events throughout the year.

Zebra (staff member) – Administrative Coordinator

Zebra is not actually a part of the board but is an enthusiastic staff memeber. Zebra has moved to the greener pastures of Portland from San Francisco three years ago. Since his charmed relocation here, he has discovered a network of diligent and enthusiastic folk who are eager to get involved. He is the founder of the "Gender Terrorist" troupe Sissyboy who has been igniting Portland nightlife for the past two and a half years. As an Administrative Coordinator of this year's Pride, he wishes to carry on the legacy of this inclusive and supportive festival while adding some fresh flair (because everyone needs a new look!). When Zebra is not working on projects he is practicing to become a Jedi Knight

Pride Northwest Board Application

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