Issue link: http://maconmagazine.uberflip.com/i/1476674
DeMarcus Beckham, 28 Special Events Coordinator, Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Georgia and Outreach Coordinator, Reach to Impact LLC. Women to register and re-register over 10,000 Georgia voters. Through the work of the Ocmulgee Artist Guild, I've got to be a part of the rich art community in Macon. As an LGBTQ+ rights activist, I work with some tenacious advocates to create inclusive spaces by helping co- found Macon Pride and working with municipal governments across the state to pass a non-discrimination ordinance. As you look to the future, what are your professional and personal goals? Since I can remember, I've had a deep fascination with history and political science, whether it is in education or advocating. Lobbying at the state and federal level is what I see as a long-term career goal. What are you personally committed to accomplishing in Macon and why? I talked about how the city is becoming a more inclusive and equitable city. I just wish that our local laws could reflect that. For the better part of six years, I and other advocates have been pushing for an unlawful discrimination ordinance in Macon- Bibb that would protect all residents from discrimination in housing, workplaces (small businesses), and public accommodations. If passed, Macon would be one out of 15 cities to do so. People still face discrimination, Tell us about your job and why you chose your career field. Currently, I sit as the Special Events Coordinator for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Georgia, where I fundraise and plan special events. I am also a proud HIV/AIDS and sexual health advocate in the North Central Public Health District through Reach to Impact . I have the opportunity to meet people where they are and offer free and discreet HIV tests and sexual health resources. Through my work, I get to act as a bridge, connecting my communities to resources. I enjoy being a full-time advocate for causes that are near and dear to my heart . Tell us about your activities in the community, especially what you're most excited about. In the last decade, I have been a part of some great initiatives. I have had the opportunity to work with groups like Georgia Equality, The New Georgia Project, and 9to5, the National Association of Working "ONE DAY I WOULD LIKE MACON TO BE KNOWN AS ONE OF THE BEST CITIES IN THE SOUTH. A COMMUNITY WHERE SCHOOLS ARE KNOWN FOR THEIR EXCELLENCE. WHERE PEOPLE COME TO SEEK OUT OUR THRIVING ART AND MUSIC COMMUNITY." -DEMARCUS BECKHAM 40 maconmagazine.com | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2022