[Editor’s Note: CL asked the 2015 St. Pete Pride Parade Grand Marshals — Larry Biddle, Ashley Brundage, Nick Janovsky and Stonewall Democrats of Pinellas (represented by its president, Susan McGrath) — to talk about the experiences that have inspired their work with the community. The interviews, conducted via email, were condensed and edited for publication.]
NICK JANOVSKY: Spreading the word
Nick Janovsky, public relations director for Smith & Associates, is a veteran in public relations and politics. For over 10 years, he’s worked his way up in the political arena in advisory and senior campaign staff roles on municipal, state and federal campaigns. The founder and CEO of Strategic Campaigns, LLC, he played indispensable roles in the victorious campaigns of Kevin Beckner, Darden Rice, Deborah Kynes, Linda Stewart and John Morroni. He’s also worked on transportation issues, and high-stakes elections, such as Alex Sink’s congressional campaign, and the statewide attorney general race of George Sheldon. Janovsky has also led speaking tours on equality. Since 2010, he’s visited five major cities across Florida to comment and deliver letters on Domestic Partner Registries and Human Rights Ordinances.
Reflecting on your life, what are some of the key moments from your own personal LGBT history?
Working on the ground for Domestic Partner Registries (DPRs) and other equal rights ordinances throughout the Tampa Bay region was emotional as we watched progress happen and the tides change in our favor. On a personal level, giving public commentary and speaking out on equality has been fulfilling, while working collaboratively with others to bring about change even on a statewide level is something I will never forget.
What are some of your more memorable experiences working with the local LGBT community?
Kevin Beckner’s win in 2012 for his [Hillsborough County Commission] re-election campaign, and Darden Rice’s [St. Petersburg City Council] win in 2013, serving on the attorney general’s campaign of George Sheldon against the bigotry of Pam Bondi, and being voted a 2015 St. Pete Pride grand marshal are just a few key highlights. The personal stories folks have shared about the difference we all made in their lives has been the most rewarding.
What are some occasions in LGBT history that have inspired your community involvement?
I love the movie Milk. It gets me fired up. Flash forward to watching Tammy Baldwin’s US Senate race while running LGBT races here in Florida at the very same time. [This] has inspired me to continue to be a voice for others.
As the fight for equality moves forward, what are some changes you hope to see in your lifetime?
Full marriage equality countrywide and full partner benefits at all US companies.
This article appears in Jun 18-24, 2015.