Al Cowger
Advocacy & Activism
PRONOUNS: HE/HIM
About the Winner
Al Cowger has been showing up for Cleveland’s LGBTQ+ community for decades. He’s not one for the spotlight, but he’s always there to help, whether it’s through pro bono legal help or supporting grassroots efforts Al brings a mix of warmth, laughter, and support to everything he does. Al leads with heart and honestly. He continues to work hard making sure everyone feels seen and protected.
Messages of Congratulations and Celebration
"Al Cowger is the kind of person every movement wishes they had in their corner. He is bold, principled, smart, and unwavering in his commitment to justice. He brings his full self to the work, his intellect, his sense of humor, his love for the community, and yes, even his love for the zoo."
-- Phyllis "Seven" Harris, nominator
"His activism is rooted in both legal expertise and moral clarity. He shows up! Whether it’s to draft urgent memos challenging discriminatory state laws, educate community members about legal protections, or attend countless meetings to help nonprofits (pro bono) to stay in compliance and fight for their rights."
-- Phyllis "Seven" Harris, nominator
"Al is a steady thought leader who is courageous, clear, and committed. He has supported me boldly out loud and also behind the scenes.
When I think about him, I think about feeling safe in knowing that if I’m in a jam, and I need coaching or even expert legal advice that he will be there willing to help. In my experience, he shows up always at the right time, the right place with a smile and a willingness to help. I love and admire him lots. "
-- Phyllis "Seven" Harris, nominator
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About the Award
The Advocacy & Activism Award honors an individual for their outstanding commitment to advocating for positive change in the areas of social equity, inclusion, and support of marginalized populations. This honoree is a member of the LGBTQ+ community whose selfless acts have directly made an impact in making Cleveland a more socially just, diverse, and equitable community for folks of every background to thrive. They recognize that making Cleveland a better place for LGBTQ+ people benefits everyone. This person role models bold action, whether working at the grass-roots level, the policy level, or somewhere between.
Meet the 2025 Winners
