Lavender Community Pride Award – Ally: Dot Belstler

Leaving a legacy is something we celebrate every day in our community. When an ally comes to us and leads, it guides us towards navigating the tough waters we often wade towards in becoming a community.

This is one way to describe Dot Belstler. When she was the Executive Director of Twin Cities Pride, she ensured that the “show must go on.” Through rainstorms, humid heat, and the occasional perfect day – the show went on.

For 13 years, Belstler led the way by opening up Loring Park and Hennepin Avenue every late June for the hundreds of thousands of people to celebrate our community and culture.

Belstler’s response to this award was full of surprise. She even wondered if she would be among the selected few chosen for this award. “’Wow, can I be in their company?,’” Belstler responded, “’Is that really the thing?’ So very humbled also just to say, “Okay, wow. Maybe, do I belong with them or not?” Maybe somebody believes I should be.”

Even though she has stepped away as Twin Cities Pride’s Executive Director, Belstler is still connected with them. She is involved with fundraising and grant research, and just being available to be of help to current Executive Director Andi Otto and the staff at Twin Cities Pride.

Even though she is not is the building all the time, Belstler is making sure that the show goes on.

For all she has done every June, Lavender Magazine congratulates Dot Belstler for her Community Award in the Ally category this year.