Greater Erie Alliance for Equality

The Greater Erie Alliance for Equality, known as GEAE, is a non-profit advocacy and educational organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for LGBTQ+ individuals and their allies across Northwestern Pennsylvania. Established in 2011 as the successor to Erie Gay Pride, the volunteer-led organization works to eliminate discrimination, strengthen community visibility, and foster an inclusive regional culture throughout Erie County.

Professional education and institutional training represent primary avenues through which the alliance creates lasting community change. The organization delivers specialized LGBTQ+ cultural competency workshops, workplace sensitivity seminars, and bystander intervention training for regional businesses, healthcare providers, educational institutions, and civic non-profits. These educational sessions equip employers and front-line staff with practical tools to establish affirming policies, adopt inclusive language, and ensure equal treatment for LGBTQ+ employees and consumers alike.

The alliance also invests directly in the future of local youth and scholars through competitive academic scholarship programs. The agency administers the GEAE Pride Scholarship, awarding annual grants to LGBTQ+ students residing in Erie County who are pursuing higher education at colleges, universities, or technical schools. In partnership with the LGBT Community Endowment of The Erie Community Foundation, the alliance also presents the Joseph M. Kulka Jr. Scholarship for Diversity Leadership, honoring a young counseling graduate and recognizing high school seniors demonstrating active leadership in advancing community inclusion. Signature community events, including the annual Afternoon for Equality, convene allies and community leaders to celebrate regional progress.