Mercer County will mark Pride Month with an evening of celebration, recognition, and reflection when the Office of LGBTQIA+ Affairs hosts its 2026 Equality Gala, Liberty & Pride: Toward a More Perfect Union, on Saturday, June 20, at The College of New Jersey’s Brower Student Center.
The event comes as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary, framing the gala around the evolving meaning of liberty and the ongoing pursuit of equality. County officials say the evening will highlight the contributions of the LGBTQIA+ community while bringing together local leaders, advocates, and supporters.
“Liberty & Pride is more than a celebration, it is a reflection of our shared journey as a community and as a country,” County Executive Dan Benson said in announcing the event. “As we look toward our nation’s 250th anniversary, we are reminded that progress is ongoing, and that the voices and contributions of the LGBTQIA+ community remain vital to the promise of a more perfect union.”
This year’s gala will honor two individuals recognized for their impact and advocacy. Trenton North Ward Councilwoman Jennifer Williams will receive the 2026 LGBTQIA+ Leader of the Year Award, while Stephen Chukumba, featured in the Netflix documentary The Dads, will be honored as LGBTQIA+ Ally of the Year.
Organizers say the evening is designed to be both celebratory and reflective, pairing formal recognition with entertainment and community connection. The program will include a red-carpet-style arrival and performances throughout the night. The event will be emceed by Miss Stonewall 2019 Cissy Walken and co-hosted by Lady Celestina.
The Equality Gala is part of Mercer County’s broader effort to expand visibility and services for LGBTQIA+ residents. The Office of LGBTQIA+ Affairs, established in 2024 by Benson and the Mercer County Board of Commissioners, works to help residents access government programs, connect with services, and better understand their legal rights, while also strengthening outreach across the county.
Tickets and sponsorship opportunities for the gala are currently available at https://tinyurl.com/2026EqualityGala. Additional information can be obtained by contacting the Office of LGBTQIA+ Affairs at [email protected].
County officials say the event is intended not only as a celebration, but as a reminder of the work still ahead.
“As we gather to honor leaders and allies,” Benson said, “we also recommit ourselves to building a community—and a country—where everyone is seen, valued, and free to be who they are.”
