Atlanta, Georgia – Dewayne R. Queen is the new Director of the Division of LGBTQ Affairs in Atlanta’s Mayor’s Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion. Mayor Andre Dickens announced the appointment last week. On the tenth anniversary of the anniversary Obergefell v. Hodges Supreme Court ruling, the city made an announcement that is a big step forward in its continued efforts to support equality and inclusion for LGBTQ individuals.
Mayor Dickens commended Queen’s experience and commitment, saying that he was good at coming up with new ideas for programs and building strong relationships.
“As a city dedicated to creating opportunities for all, we welcome Dewayne Queen to our team in a role that will continue our Administration’s work to create innovative programming and opportunities for the LGBTQ community,” said Mayor Dickens. “Dewayne is well-equipped to coordinate efforts among community partners, amplify intersectional voices and implement data-driven solutions that address the needs of marginalized groups, including LGBTQ youth, veterans, seniors and communities of color.”
Queen has worked in both the corporate and nonprofit sectors. He was a key player in pushing for diversity, equity, and inclusion at Delta Air Lines for ten years. As President of Delta’s LGBTQ Business Resource Group, he worked closely with top executives to fix problems, reconnect with groups like the Human Rights Campaign, and create a working atmosphere where LGBTQ employees could thrive. During his time at Delta, he was able to show measurable results and get a lot of people involved, both employees and community partners.
“The work of equity, diversity and inclusion requires an intentional and focused leader to hear from, support and advance the agenda of Atlanta’s LGBTQ+ community. And I am excited to welcome Dewayne Queen as he sets a new vision for this work, which is foundational to the progress of human rights in our city and across the globe,” said Chief Equity Officer Candace M. Stanciel.
Queen has been involved in his community for a long time, in addition to his business successes. He has volunteered in schools in the Atlanta area, where he spoke to students about accepting differences and making settings that are welcoming to everyone. His work on the boards of Atlanta Black Pride and Atlanta Pride has helped him get to know more LGBTQ groups in the area, which will help him establish bridges and work together in his new job.
“My intention is to lead with hope—hope that builds bridges, empowers voices, and ensures every LGBTQIA+ person feels seen, valued, and protected in the city we call home,” said Dewayne Queen.
Queen will be the city’s main contact with the LGBTQ community as the Director of the Division of LGBTQ Affairs. Queen will work with the Mayor’s LGBTQ Advisory Board and other departments to make sure that housing, economic mobility, and health equity programs are all in sync. Queen leadership will work to break down systemic obstacles and honor Atlanta’s lively culture as the Southeast’s LGBTQ capital.
Dewayne R. Queen officially began his role on Monday, June 30, 2025.
