MEET THE CEO
Phillip Alexander Downie (he/him) is an advocate and leader whose dedication and passion for justice have reshaped Montgomery County’s approach to inclusivity and equity. As the inaugural Chief Executive Officer of the MoCo Pride Center, Inc., and the Montgomery County Pride Family, Mr. Downie has pioneered programs that serve the most marginalized and underserved communities in the region. He has skillfully united a diverse array of service, advocacy, and arts and culture organizations under one umbrella, The Montgomery County Pride Family, propelling forward the community’s fight for dedicated funding, safe spaces, and inclusive services.
His strategic oversight has led to partnering with transformative initiatives such as Trans Maryland, MoCo Pride Prom, Maryland Trans Unity, and Drag Story Hour DC•MD•VA—championed by a team of full-time advocates, volunteers, and change makers with unparalleled commitment.
Under his leadership, the Live In Your Truth organization has become a beacon of advocacy, securing a pivotal citation from the State of Maryland and Governor Moore for its extensive work in 2023. Furthermore, as a Co-Chair of the Coalition for Inclusive Schools & Communities, Mr. Downie has been instrumental in advocating for LGBTQIA+ rights within the educational system, facing challenges with resilience and unwavering messages of love and inclusion.
Phillip Alexander Downie advocating for Inclusive Schools 9/2023
His tireless advocacy extends into the realms of education and creating policy recommendations; as a Co-Chair of Montgomery County's Anti-Hate Task Force—he underscores his commitment to combating hate incidences, crimes, and bias, working to foster a community where everyone can live authentically.
Beyond his executive responsibilities, Phillip Alexander Downie is an Emmy-nominated and Gold Telly Award-winning creator whose independent television productions channel his advocacy through media. Mr Downie has created impactful content such as Black LGBTQ Pioneers, Drag Duels, Black Girl Magic Stories, the MoCo Pride show, and more to ensure representation and amplify the voices of our community. Through his local TV programs and live productions, he continues to celebrate and spotlight the diversity and strength of the LGBTQIA+ populace.
A message to my community: You belong! You haven’t met all the people who are going to love you yet; And remember to ALWAYS Live In Your Truth!
– Phillip Alexander Downie
ADVOCATING FOR OUR COMMUNITIES
LGBTQ+ Survey Results Discussion
Phillip Alexander Downie joins Dr. Loraine Hutchins and Dr. Amena Johnson to analyze key findings from the Montgomery County LGBTQ+ survey.
Black and African American Community Conversation
Phillip Alexander Downie discusses issues impacting Black LGBTQIA+ communities, advocating for resources for our most underserved in Montgomery County.
Champions of Pride Month Feature
The County celebrates Phillip Alexander Downie, Rev. Ali K.C. Bell, and Armando Trull for empowering the community.
Council Testimony: Consortium Funding
Phillip Alexander Downie advocates for funding to support the Montgomery County Pride Family.
Council Testimony: LGBTQIA+ Programs
Phillip Alexander Downie urges the Council to invest in LGBTQIA+ community initiatives.
MoCo Pride Show on MMCTV with Dr. Amena Johnson
Phillip Alexander Downie interviews Dr. Amena Johnson about her role as the county’s LGBTQ+ Liaison.