Wisconsin LGBTQ History Project
Press Release

We’re proud to be named Wisconsin Nonprofit Organization of the Year!

2025 Business Awards reaffirm our 30-year commitment to local LGBTQ heritage

By - Nov 14th, 2025 12:23 pm

Milwaukee, WI – Last night, the Wisconsin LGBTQ History Project was named the 2025 Wisconsin Nonprofit Organization of the Year at the 13th Annual Business Awards at the Milwaukee Public Museum (800 W. Wells St.)

The award, presented by the Wisconsin LGBT Chamber of Commerce, recognizes a nonprofit organization that empowers and contributes to the growth of the diverse business community.

Ricardo Wynn, newly-elected vice president of the Board of Directors, accepted the award on behalf of our organization.

“Today we live in a time that suggests that people like us who gather in community, purpose and pride should not exist, that our voices should be silenced, and that the work we’ve poured our hearts into should be erased and forgotten… but I’m here to tell you united we stand, forever as one.”

“Together, we make the history — and together, we carry the story.”

2025 is the History Project’s first year as a 501c3 nonprofit organization, so this recognition is especially meaningful. Under the guidance of a three-year strategic plan, a diverse Board of Directors, and an extensive network of national partners, the History Project has evolved since 2023 into a nationally recognized heritage initiative.

“We give thanks to our all-volunteer team who helped us build the Nonprofit of the Year — and who help our history and heritage be seen every single day in Wisconsin,” said Michail Takach, president and chair.

“For over 30 years, we’ve been powered by volunteer passion, not profit… so the trophy truly belongs to them.”

Our Board of Directors would like to congratulate all 2025 honorees — and give special thanks the Chamber for this humbling recognition.

UP NEXT:

  • Our Summer to Be Seen Tour concludes its statewide tour of 20 hometown pride celebrations at Wisconsin Leather Pride (Saturday, November 15.)
  • We proudly support our trans family throughout Transgender Day of Remembrance Week of Action (Nov.17-21) honoring Transgender Awareness Week with a series of meaningful, connective, and advocacy experiences in Milwaukee.
  • Honor your loved ones, friends, and elders lost to HIV/AIDS. Share their photos and stories to be part of our Unforgettable campaign, coming Monday, December 1 in observance of World AIDS Day.
  • Save the date for the 4th Annual Banji Ball, to be held Tuesday, December 9 at Milwaukee City Hall, celebrating our local House and Ballroom heritage, and uplifting the brilliance, resilience and unity of the Black and Brown LGBTQ communities throughout the devastating impact of HIV/AIDS.

Questions? Contact us!

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.

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