Exciting Changes for the Appalachian Equality Chorus in Johnson City
Johnson City is abuzz with exciting news as the Appalachian Equality Chorus, formerly known as the Knoxville Gay Men’s Chorus, has taken a bold step forward to support its rapid growth. The organization recently welcomed its very first Executive Director, Bleu Copas, whose passion and dedication promise to enhance the Chorus’s mission and community presence.
A Vision for the Future
The Appalachian Equality Chorus has come a long way since its humble beginnings in 2012. Starting with just 12 members in Knoxville, the group has blossomed into a vibrant community of 97 talented voices, along with countless enthusiastic volunteers in both Knoxville and Johnson City. As the Chorus continues to evolve, the board of directors identified a pressing need for someone to serve as the public face of the organization. In this exciting new role, Copas will work to strengthen relationships and engage with the larger arts community across Southern Appalachia.
“As the Chorus continues to grow and evolve, our board of directors saw that we needed someone who could act as the public face of the organization,” said Jeff Jarnigan, Board President. “We didn’t have to look far. Our founding member Bleu Copas is perfect for this role, and we are thrilled about this new direction.”
Bleu Copas: A Dedicated Advocate
Bleu Copas brings a wealth of experience to his new position, having served two non-consecutive terms as President of the Board of Directors and one term as Vice-President, in addition to being a steadfast singing member of the Chorus. His background also includes leadership, public relations, and fundraising for various non-profit organizations on both local and national levels. Since his discharge from the Army in 2006 under the controversial Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell policy, Copas has emerged as a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and equality. His personal journey made headlines and helped to shed light on the importance of visibility and the sharing of untold stories within the community.
Music as a Force for Good
Expressing his enthusiasm for the role, Copas emphasized the power of music in bringing people together. “We get to use the magic, joy, and fun of music to lift people up and build bridges,” he shared. “I’m eager to empower our community and invite them to understand how they can be a part of this important work we do.” This mission holds special meaning as the Chorus aims to create enriching musical experiences that promote inclusion, equality, and empathy while working to end hostility toward minority populations.
A Bright Horizon
The leadership transition comes at a pivotal time for the Appalachian Equality Chorus, as it sets its sights even higher for the future. With expanding membership and a robust lineup of performances, the organization seeks to engage with its community and amplify its message of hope and unity through the power of song. As they continue to create beautiful harmonies, the Chorus also aims to forge partnerships within the community that will lead to enriching experiences for everyone involved.
How to Get Involved
For those interested in learning more or joining the movement, the Appalachian Equality Chorus invites you to visit their website to find out more. This is an exciting time of growth and connection for the organization, and they welcome everyone to be part of their journey towards a more inclusive and supportive community.
As the Appalachian Equality Chorus steps into this new era under Bleu Copas’s guidance, it’s clear that the joy of music will continue to be a powerful tool for building bridges and fostering understanding throughout Southern Appalachia.
