Bill Harrison

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Why do you love Richmond?

I have lived in Richmond since the mid-1970's and have been an activist most of those years. I have always found Richmond to be a welcoming city and I love seeing all the progress that has been made. Our city council supports our efforts as does the citizenry. Several years ago when marriage equality was on the ballot, even though it failed, the majority of Richmond voters were on our side. Our city, like all cities, has problems but our prizes far outweigh the negatives.

What’s your favorite thing to do in Richmond?

I personally love riding through Richmond neighborhoods...Church Hill, Westover Hills, Byran Park, Ginter Park and just looking at all the trees, the lawns, the homes. I love Maymont Park and studying the life of the Dooley family who lived there. I love Easter Parade on Monument. I really love all our great locally owned restaurants.

What do you do here?

I am the executive director of Diversity Richmond. We raise money through Diversity Thrift and Diversity Bingo and help local LGBT and LGBT friendly nonprofits through financial funding. We also offer free meeting rooms to local nonprofits, sponsor programs and community conversations. Since our inception, we have contributed over $850,000 back to the community.

What’s your favorite restaurant?

I have several....Max's on Broad....Comfort....Joe's Inn...Stella's....The Mill.

What would you tell somebody who has never been to Richmond before?

Richmond is full of history, beautiful neighborhoods, wonderful restaurants, friendly people and is very open to the LGBT community.

What's your favorite store?

Mongrel in Carytown...Diversity Thrift....Ellwood Thompson.....For the Love of Chocolate....

What's your favorite neighborhood?

Ginter Park.

How do you describe your community?

The Richmond LGBT community is a very diverse, active and responsive people. We have our activists on the front lines, organizers who quietly make a difference, rebel rousers and those who sit back and watch. We are organized and focused (for the most part) and enjoy much support from our allies.

Anything else you would like to add?

I believe that LGBT travelers will enjoy our city and surrounding region. Our history, our arts community, our festivals and our diversity all make up a very welcoming and beautiful experience. I have always enjoyed sharing my town with visitors.