Frankie Miranda Recognized as Trailblazer on Out100 List

Frankie Miranda, a prominent leader in the nonprofit sector, has been honored as one of the most influential figures in the LGBTQ+ community by making the OUT100 list for 2023. This recognition highlights his decades-long commitment to supporting Latino communities across the Tri-State area and beyond.

Miranda, who serves as the president and CEO of the Hispanic Federation, expressed his pride in receiving this accolade. “I felt very humble and very proud because it is a journey since 1995 of reading the magazine, still getting the magazine at home,” he stated. The full list will be published in the upcoming issue of Out Magazine, hitting newsstands on October 28, 2023.

Dedication to the Community

Throughout his career, Miranda has tackled a range of pressing issues affecting diverse communities. From providing aid to families in the aftermath of hurricanes in Puerto Rico to offering resources during the COVID-19 pandemic in New York, his work reflects a deep commitment to social justice. He has also focused on the challenges faced by immigrant families in states like Texas.

“I feel a huge responsibility to make sure that we are a true voice for the community,” Miranda said. He emphasized the importance of understanding individual needs, stating, “It’s about – tell me exactly what you need and I’m going to try to help you as much as possible.”

Miranda’s personal journey has shaped his approach to advocacy. Growing up in Puerto Rico, he faced challenges that many immigrants encounter. “My mom knew that I needed to leave, she cried like I was going to war and I said ‘Mom, I’m going to study’,” he recalled. This pivotal move to New York City in 1995 marked the beginning of a transformative chapter in his life.

Breaking Barriers

Upon arriving in New York, Miranda faced significant obstacles, including language barriers and the challenges of being an immigrant. “I was still treated like somebody that is not welcome here in New York,” he noted. Despite these hurdles, he persevered, becoming the first in his family to graduate from college and one of the first gay couples in the United States to marry.

Miranda remains an outspoken advocate for marriage equality, reflecting on the importance of rights and recognition. “Today we are still living a beautiful, happy life, but it took a lot of conversations with a lot of people to really understand that civil unions and domestic partnerships were not the same as all the rights that we can get,” he explained.

The honor of being included in the OUT100 list serves as a testament to Miranda’s impact and dedication. His journey from an immigrant navigating a new country to a leader making a difference in the lives of many exemplifies resilience and commitment.

As he continues his work at the Hispanic Federation, Miranda remains focused on empowering communities and amplifying their voices. With the OUT100 recognition, he hopes to inspire others to pursue their passions and advocate for change.

In a time when representation and advocacy are crucial, Frankie Miranda stands as a beacon for many, demonstrating that individual efforts can lead to collective progress.