LGBT Black History Month Spotlight:
7 Questions With Community Event Organizer Chris Alston
In partnership with Philadelphia Black Gay Pride, every day throughout the month of February we will spotlight an influential black mover and shaker in the city.
Today: Christopher Alston. Now working as a community event organizer, Alston is the former president of Philadelphia Black Gay Pride (PBGP). He currently wears several important hats within the LBGT community, such as the current vice president of operations for Fire Island Black Out (FIBO), treasurer and founding member of PHIRM, one of the largest self-funded and produced events during PBGP week. Recently, Alston was named director of Ebony Pyramid Entertainment‘s Gays & Lesbians Organized to Benefit a Life (GLOBAL) initiative. with Ebony Pyramid Entertainment.But when he’s not curating fun things to do, he works magic at his church as an organist and choir director. A job he’s held for an impressive 28 years.
What’s your Philly connection?
I am a proud product of Philly. I grew up in the West Oak Lane section of the city. My parents still live in the same house.
When you were a kid what did you want to be when you grew up?
An accountant.
Who or what is your biggest inspiration?
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. I know that many people may say that he is their inspiration, but I read this quote a long time ago and it changed my thinking about my selfish choices in life: “To think and speak on behalf of others is noteworthy, to serve and act on behalf of others is heroic, but what do we call someone who gave his words, actions and life on behalf of others?” Martin Luther King, Jr. is one of the few people in history who have so profoundly changed the world in such a short time. His visions and actions for social unity, racial brotherhood, true peace and social welfare were not only carefully thought and weighed, but acted upon with strategic finesse. I am in no way comparing myself to Dr. King, however, I feel that I can do what I can to help the LGBT community of color, which is why I started working within the community.
Finish this sentence: I feel fiercest when …
… when I am hosting an event at our house with my partner, Nick Grice, or when I am helping someone with interior decorating.
What’s your proudest achievement?
I am so grateful to God for all that He has allowed in my life and for that reason I am proud of everything I have done that has helped someone in any way. My success is a part of the Master’s plan, and because God allowed it. I’m proud of it and that settles it. I am also proud to say that I am in a committed relationship with the love of my life, and we are on the road to happily ever after.
If you could have a super power what would it be and how would you use it?
My super power would change the mindset of bullies and force them to approach to the situation differently. No specific type of bully. Just bullies in general.
Finish this sentence: In 10 years I …
… would like to have my interior design business fully operational as well has helping my partner with his business as needed.