The Chicago Black Gay Men’s Caucus is the oldest and only organization in the city focused exclusively on improving the overall health and well-being of Black gay, bisexual and same gender loving men.
OUR MISSION
Founded in 2005, the mission of the Chicago Black Gay Men’s Caucus is to advance health equity and community wellness among male-identified, Black gay, bisexual and same gender loving individuals by developing community-centered leadership and innovative programs.
We envision a Chicago where male-identified, Black gay, bisexual and same gender loving communities experiences complete physical, mental and social well-being.
Our Values
Community
The Chicago Black Gay Men's Caucus centers the voices, wisdom, and lived experiences of male-identified Black gay, bisexual, same gender loving individuals. We build power together uplifting one another through bold action, deep engagement, and a commitment to collective well-being.
Affirmation
We celebrate the full spectrum of who we are. Every individual who walks through our doors deserves to show up fully and freely - across every intersection of identity, expression, and experience. We honor the diverse ways our community presents and hold space for every dimension of Black gay life.
Sex Positivity
We embrace a sex-positive approach to health and wellness. We affirm pleasure, intimacy, agency and sexual freedom as central to whole-person health. We meet our community with dignity, and zero shame.
Health
We commit to the holistic health of male-identified Black gay, bisexual, same gender loving individual’s - mind, body, and spirit. We design programs, partnerships, and resources that advance health equity and close the gaps that systemic neglect has created.
Safe Space
We build environments where everyone feels safe to be exactly who they are. Authenticity thrives here. Judgment has no home with us. We protect the freedom to live, love, and lead without apology.
Boldness
We lead with courage. We challenge systems that harm our community and design solutions that reflect our genius. We move with urgency, creativity, and an unshakable belief in the power of Black excellence.
OUR STAFF
Dr. Green is a native Chicagoan with strong community roots and an extensive history as an organizer, educator, researcher, and advocate. He currently serves as Executive Director for the Chicago Black Gay Men’s Caucus, a grassroots community-based organization focused on advancing health equity among Black gay, bisexual and same gender loving men through community-centered leadership and innovative programs.
As a Ronald E. McNair Scholar, Dr. Green earned a master of social work degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a PhD in social service administration from the University of Chicago. He previously served as an associate editor for Positively Aware magazine and as director of federal affairs for the AIDS Foundation of Chicago. Dr. Green is also an award-winning spoken word artist and was inducted into the Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame by Mayor Raum Emmanuel in 2012.
Keith R. Green, PhD, MSW
Executive Director
Jada DeJesus
Operations Specialist
Jada is a passionate advocate for mental health and wellness, focused on helping others embrace the power of self-advocacy and self-care. Her journey with mental health inspired her to take a holistic, trauma-informed approach to healing, recognizing the connection between individual well-being and the need for community support.
As a Black woman committed to health equity, Jada believes true change starts within. She encourages others to prioritize self-care, rest, and self-compassion as tools for empowerment. To her, being an ambassador for change means ensuring that those doing the work are also cared for and uplifted.
Guided by the belief that the universe is always conspiring in her favor, Jada is dedicated to creating spaces where people feel seen, supported and encouraged to thrive on their own terms.
Pierre Sanders
Program Coordinator
Pierre, a proud Chicago native from the South Side, is a distinguished gentleman who believes that peace and stability are essential for growth. With over 15 years of experience in hospitality, networking, and customer service, he has cultivated a deep understanding of community connection and the importance of creating spaces where people can thrive without unnecessary conflict. After earning his BA, Pierre transitioned into community work, joining the Chicago Black Gay Men’s Caucus (CBGMC) to serve and uplift his own. His mission is to ensure that the voices of Black gay, bisexual, and same-gender-loving men are heard, their contributions recognized, and that true equality for all is achieved—all while fostering an environment of understanding, respect, and tranquility.
Dr. Mario Pierce
Workforce Development Coodinator
Multi-hyphenate creative Gabriel Mudd loves his queer community in Chicago. He can be seen on various commercials, on Chicago stages, biking along the lakefront trails, and on Hollywood beach in the summer. Gabriel is passionate about making sure that Black and SGL men (and others) have safe spaces, can explore and discover themselves, and take care of their mental and physical health; which is why he loves running social media for CGBMC.