About Us
Our Founder:
As a nationally recognized champion for social justice, LGBTQ equality, human rights, and health equity, Beverly has tirelessly worked across local, federal, and international levels for nearly a decade. Her efforts have vastly improved access to care and treatment for transgender and HIV-positive individuals, while championing the dismantling of stigma and prejudice through advocacy, policy, education, and visibility.
Notably, Beverly made history as the first Black Trans Woman employed at the AIDS Foundation of Chicago, playing a pivotal role in the CDC CARS Initiative Project Elevate. Her influence extends to the Gilead PrEP 4 Love campaign, where she’s prominently featured on billboards, CTA Transit stops, and other public health platforms across the Midwest. In 2023, she proudly joined the Adidas ballroom community as an ambassador.
Recognized in the National Ball Scene as "Chicago Mother Beverly West," she combines her expertise in public health with a deep dedication to social justice and LGBTQ equality. Beverly continues to make history and impact as a trailblazer, organizing community events and wielding her ambassadorship with influence.
Our history
Beverly Ross, an influential figure in activism and public health, faced homelessness in Chicago with only one pair of shoes for six months. This challenging experience led her to initiate the Link To Freedom project and establish the nonprofit Lace to Liberation. Dedicated to providing shoes and essential referral services to underserved LGBTQIA+ populations, Beverly aims to reduce footwear insecurities, uplift communities, and empower those facing challenging circumstances.
Our Purpose
Lace to Liberation is committed to providing footwear and connecting LGBTQIA+ Chicagoans to housing, job placement, and HIV prevention services.
We aspire to empower our community members with the tools and resources needed to thrive, including access to education, healthcare, and support networks. Through our initiatives, we strive to create a safer, more inclusive environment where everyone can live with dignity, confidence, and resilience.
