Detroit City Wire

DETROIT -- As a member of both the Middle Eastern and LGBTQ+ communities, Brandon Shamoun has a strong sense of identity that helps him engage in fulfilling and authentic work.

Shamoun serves as Vice Chair of the Michigan LGBTQ+ Commission, a statewide advisory body that acts as a bridge between the community and government to support the LGBTQ+ population. He is also the Commissioner of Stonewall Sports Detroit, a non-profit recreational sports organization aiming to strengthen ties between local LGBTQ+ and allied communities.

“This is why I do this,” Shamoun said. “At the end of the day, folks can and should see other people like them. Representation really does matter.”

Shamoun is the third Game Changers honoree recognized by the Detroit Red Wings, Detroit Tigers, and Comerica Bank throughout June as part of Pride Month. The Game Changers program honors individuals committed to making a positive difference in the community.

“What started as a simple internet search to identify LGBTQ+ organizations at Wayne State University has now blossomed into a life centered around advocacy and awareness of the LGBTQ+ community for Brandon Shamoun,” said Kevin Brown, Director of Community Impact for Ilitch Sports + Entertainment. “In addition to his work with Wayne State and the State of Michigan’s LGBTQ+ Commission, Brandon is leveraging the incredible power of sport to unite and affirm communities through Stonewall Sports Detroit.”

Enacted by Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer as an executive order in June 2023, the Michigan LGBTQ+ Commission operates within the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity. Shamoun, one of 13 commissioners, stated that the commission works diligently to support policies and initiatives reflecting the needs of Michigan's LGTBQ+ population.

“I’m proud of our governor and where things are going in Michigan, but the fight isn’t over,” Shamoun said. “I hope to see more intersectional voices for the queer community, even if people aren’t queer. How can we showcase things during Pride Month and beyond for greater goodness?”

In his role at Stonewall Sports Detroit, Shamoun promotes communal bonding. Founded in 2010, Stonewall Sports is a nationwide organization with local chapters offering inclusive sports environments to raise funds for non-profit organizations.

“We strive to put on different leagues throughout the year,” Shamoun said. “We have kickball, volleyball, bowling, billiards, cornhole and pickleball. We have roughly 1,400 people that annually participate and we’re all volunteer-based. It’s a really fun time.”

Shamoun grew up in Sterling Heights, Mich., expressing pride in being recognized as a Game Changers honoree.

“I’m really honored,” he said. “To see growth and changes happening within our community; being part of this robust Game Changers network is an honor.”

For more information about Stonewall Sports Detroit or Michigan LGTBQ+ Commission activities visit their respective websites.