Charlotte's LGBTQ+ Women of Distinction Honored

Trailblazers from business, health, advocacy and the arts are shaping a more inclusive city

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Qnotes' LGBTQ+ Women of Distinction recognizes six leaders in Charlotte whose impact is shaping this moment. These women are showing up with clarity, consistency and care, strengthening LGBTQ+ life in the city through visible and deeply felt leadership.

Why it matters

The women profiled in this story are making a significant impact on the LGBTQ+ community in Charlotte through their work in business, health, advocacy and the arts. Their stories highlight the important contributions of LGBTQ+ women leaders and serve as inspiration for others.

The details

The six women honored are Ann Gonzales, Chelsea Gulden, Blue Klein, Bethany McDonald, Abby Mederos, Meredith Thompson, and Angel Truesdale. They are trailblazers in their respective fields, from running an LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce to leading an HIV/AIDS organization, advocating for social justice, creating community spaces, and preserving LGBTQ+ history.

  • The profiles were published on February 27, 2026.

The players

Ann Gonzales

A Filipino American entrepreneur who has served as president of the Carolinas Asian American Chamber of Commerce and in leadership roles with the Carolinas LGBT+ Chamber of Commerce.

Chelsea Gulden

The president and CEO of RAIN, a prominent organization providing HIV intervention and prevention services in the Charlotte area.

Blue Klein

The communications manager for the Freedom Center for Social Justice, where she builds bridges between advocacy and the communities it serves.

Bethany McDonald

The former owner of Hardigan's, a lesbian bar that became a cornerstone of the LGBTQ+ community, and the founder of the nonprofit Heart United for Good.

Abby Mederos

The director of operations for the Carolinas LGBT+ Chamber of Commerce, where she has overseen the organization's expansion and created an internship program.

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What they’re saying

“My biggest thing is to let people know, though I'm Filipino – I don't just represent Filipinos, I represent all Asian communities.”

— Ann Gonzales (qnotescarolinas.com)

“They should value themselves and recognize their needs are important, meaningful and worthy.”

— Chelsea Gulden, President and CEO, RAIN (qnotescarolinas.com)

“No system of oppression lasts forever.”

— Blue Klein, Communications Manager, Freedom Center for Social Justice (qnotescarolinas.com)

The takeaway

These LGBTQ+ women leaders in Charlotte are making a significant impact on their community through their tireless work in business, health, advocacy and the arts. Their stories serve as inspiration for the next generation of LGBTQ+ leaders to continue the fight for equity and representation.