Chris grew up in Milwaukee and personally experienced many of the challenges that exist for LGBTQ+ individuals. He faced homelessness, internalized negative messages about himself, and struggled with his identity. In his sophomore year of high school, Chris joined Diverse & Resilient, a nonprofit organization that supports LGBTQ+ youth. He quickly became involved in the organization, serving as a Youth Advisor and then as Program Manager of Milwaukee Programs. In these roles, Chris helped to create safe spaces for LGBTQ+ youth, provide resources and support, and advocate for more just and inclusive rights.

Chris’s experiences as a young LGBTQ+ person shaped his passion for social justice and his commitment to helping others. He believes that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. After graduating from college, Chris moved to Texas to work for the University of Texas at Austin working in the field of public health as a research associate on projects that examined the health disparities faced by LGBTQ+ people. While with the University of Texas at Austin, Chris worked with the Texas Department of State Health Services, where he focused on improving health outcomes for people at higher risk of acquiring HIV and those already living with HIV.

Our experiences, knowledge, and resources shape our perspective and affect the decisions we make. When we see communities struggling, it is not because they chose to be in that position; historical injustices created the context in which these struggles exist. Without action, inequities will continue to persist. Chris’s work has been dedicated to addressing these inequities and empowering communities to grow stronger together. Chris is a passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and health equity. He is a strong believer in the power of love, compassion, and understanding to create a more just and equitable world.

Chris returned to Milwaukee to take on the role of President and CEO of Diverse & Resilient, the organization that showed him, as a 16-year-old, that one person can truly change a life. Chris is determined to lead Diverse & Resilient into a future where queer and trans people of color, and the LGBTQ+ community as a whole, can thrive, living healthy, satisfying lives in safe and supportive communities.

2023 Pride in Color

The Champion: Chris Allen is President and CEO of Diverse & Resilient where he continues his vision and advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights and health equity.

The Change Maker: Kaleb Hawj is a prominent trans leader in the Hmong Queer Feminist Movement and is shaping the way the Hmong community protects, celebrates, and loves Hmong LGBTQI+ people.

The Community Organizer: Jennifer Morales brings creativity and queer culture to rural life while making real change at the policy level for queer families nationwide.

The Role Model: Steph Tai is trying to help fight the fight against climate change.