The groups One Iowa and the Iowa Pride Network are joining forces. Beginning June 1, IPN’s work in student activism and helping schools form gay-straight alliances will be under the auspices of One Iowa, the state’s largest LGBT activist organization.
Iowa Pride Network’s co-founder and executive director is Ryan Roemerman. “This was the logical outcome and we’re really excited,” Roemerman said.
The union makes more resources available to young Iowans because of One Iowa’s large network, according to Roemerman. “We’re not going to be able to just maintain current programming, but grow and expand our offerings so young people don’t feel isolated and alone…they can and do deserve the right to be leaders and create safe school environments,” Roemerman said.
Roemerman is leaving the state to become director of communications and public policy for New York City-based Out Leadership. The organization works to create LGBT business and leadership opportunities.