Reinstate Richard at the Hudson Valley LGBTQ+ Community Center
The Issue
The Hudson Valley LGBTQ+ Community Center is once again a valued institution in our community. Much of its recent growth and revitalization stems from the incredible efforts of Executive Director Richard Heyl de Ortiz. During the past three years, under his leadership and guidance, the Community Center has flourished as a safe space and beacon of hope, acceptance and unity for all in the Mid-Hudson Valley.
But this growth is now being threatened by the rash actions of a few individuals.
What is at stake? The new events and revived programs begun by Richard and his team. The rise in fundraising and volunteer engagement he achieved. Plus the goodwill that Richard created with neighboring businesses and organizations.
We cannot afford to lose this rebirth of spirit and community— especially in this dangerous political moment.
Who is threatening all these achievements? The Board of Directors at the Community Center, after months of poor communication, behind-the-scenes sabotage and ignoring organizational bylaws and policies, has dismissed Richard. His leadership was terminated in a three-minute Zoom call on August 31st. No cause or explanation was provided.
We stand with Richard because he has already proven his ability to manage the Community Center with compassion and innovation. His separation threatens to undo the progress we’ve made. Especially at danger is the sense of belonging, empowerment, safety and trust for each person who walks through the doors of 300 Wall Street. Significantly, several key businesses and major donors have withdrawn their support for the Community Center since they learned of the dismissal.
We cannot allow this injustice to prevail. Our community is better than this. We ask the Board of the Hudson Valley LGBTQ+ Community Center to reconsider their decision and reinstate Richard as Executive Director.
It is not too late for the Board to admit that a mistake was made. Please take a moment to sign the petition. It is also helpful for the Board to hear from folks directly. You can email them directly at board@lgbtqcenter.org.
By signing this petition and/or writing the Board, you support Richard's leadership which nurtures our community and commits to continuing the growth and development of the Community Center for everyone. It is time to unite to preserve the advancements that Richard has so passionately worked to cultivate.
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The Issue
The Hudson Valley LGBTQ+ Community Center is once again a valued institution in our community. Much of its recent growth and revitalization stems from the incredible efforts of Executive Director Richard Heyl de Ortiz. During the past three years, under his leadership and guidance, the Community Center has flourished as a safe space and beacon of hope, acceptance and unity for all in the Mid-Hudson Valley.
But this growth is now being threatened by the rash actions of a few individuals.
What is at stake? The new events and revived programs begun by Richard and his team. The rise in fundraising and volunteer engagement he achieved. Plus the goodwill that Richard created with neighboring businesses and organizations.
We cannot afford to lose this rebirth of spirit and community— especially in this dangerous political moment.
Who is threatening all these achievements? The Board of Directors at the Community Center, after months of poor communication, behind-the-scenes sabotage and ignoring organizational bylaws and policies, has dismissed Richard. His leadership was terminated in a three-minute Zoom call on August 31st. No cause or explanation was provided.
We stand with Richard because he has already proven his ability to manage the Community Center with compassion and innovation. His separation threatens to undo the progress we’ve made. Especially at danger is the sense of belonging, empowerment, safety and trust for each person who walks through the doors of 300 Wall Street. Significantly, several key businesses and major donors have withdrawn their support for the Community Center since they learned of the dismissal.
We cannot allow this injustice to prevail. Our community is better than this. We ask the Board of the Hudson Valley LGBTQ+ Community Center to reconsider their decision and reinstate Richard as Executive Director.
It is not too late for the Board to admit that a mistake was made. Please take a moment to sign the petition. It is also helpful for the Board to hear from folks directly. You can email them directly at board@lgbtqcenter.org.
By signing this petition and/or writing the Board, you support Richard's leadership which nurtures our community and commits to continuing the growth and development of the Community Center for everyone. It is time to unite to preserve the advancements that Richard has so passionately worked to cultivate.
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Petition created on September 11, 2026