By Ray Rico
MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Community members gathered Thursday evening at The Pumping Station for Candidate Connection, an evening of civic engagement hosted by the Mid-South LGBT Chamber of Commerce that brought together voters and candidates seeking local, county, state, and federal offices.
Designed to encourage meaningful conversations ahead of the upcoming election, Candidate Connection offered attendees the opportunity to meet candidates face-to-face, ask questions, and learn more about the people hoping to represent the Mid-South. Approximately 80 community members attended the event, joined by 15 candidates representing a broad range of offices across Shelby County, Tennessee, and the United States Congress.
The event was organized by Lena Chipman, with support from Krista Wright Thayer, and made possible through partnerships with The Pumping Station and Tennessee Equality Project, whose support helped create an inviting and welcoming space for community dialogue.
Why Candidate Connection Matters
In a political climate where many people feel disconnected from the electoral process, events like Candidate Connection serve an important purpose. Rather than hearing campaign messages through television commercials or social media, attendees had the opportunity to engage directly with candidates, ask questions, and have conversations about the issues affecting their daily lives.
For the LGBTQ+ community, visibility and access remain essential. Candidate Connection created a space where elected officials and those seeking office could hear directly from constituents while demonstrating the value of showing up and participating in community conversations.
The event also comes during a time when Tennessee continues to receive national attention for issues affecting quality of life. CNBC’s 2026 “Top States for Business” study ranked Tennessee last in its Quality of Life category, citing concerns including crime, worker protections, and legislation affecting LGBTQIA+ residents. While studies like these often spark debate, they also underscore why civic engagement matters. Building stronger communities begins with informed voters, open dialogue, and participation in the democratic process.
Regardless of political affiliation, Candidate Connection reinforced the idea that democracy works best when voters have opportunities to engage directly with those asking for their support.
A Night of Conversation and Community
The Pumping Station provided an ideal setting for the evening’s conversations. Doors opened at 5 p.m., and guests began arriving immediately to enjoy refreshments, reconnect with friends, and network with fellow community members.
The community mixer officially began at 6 p.m., creating an informal atmosphere where candidates and attendees could begin conversations before the evening’s introductions. The venue’s welcoming environment, attentive staff, and generous food spread helped create a relaxed setting that encouraged meaningful interactions rather than formal speeches.
Around 7 p.m., each candidate was invited to introduce themselves during a brief forum, with approximately 30 seconds to share who they were, the office they were seeking, and why they chose to run. The introductions concluded around 7:30 p.m., after which attendees continued meeting candidates throughout the evening.
Rather than rushing out after the formal program, many guests stayed to continue conversations over drinks, discussing community priorities, neighborhood concerns, public safety, economic development, education, healthcare, and the importance of representation. The event became less about campaign speeches and more about relationship building, allowing candidates and voters to engage on a personal level.
Candidates Show Up for the Community
Candidate Connection attracted candidates representing offices at nearly every level of government, from Congress to county offices. Of the 18 candidates who RSVP’d, 15 attended and participated in the evening’s introductions and conversations.
Candidates represented races for the U.S. House of Representatives, U.S. Senate, Tennessee General Assembly, Shelby County Commission, Shelby County Sheriff, Shelby County Clerk, and Criminal Court Judge.
Throughout the evening, candidates spent time listening to residents, sharing their personal stories, and discussing why they believe public service matters. Many spoke about their Memphis roots, their connection to the community, and the importance of making themselves accessible outside of traditional campaign events.
Candidates who RSVP to attend included:
- Devante Hill — U.S. House District 5
- Rachel Hurley — U.S. House District 5
- Carrie Ann Iacomini — U.S. House District 5
- Jordan Hinders — U.S. House District 8
- Horace Taylor — U.S. House District 8
- Justin J. Pearson — U.S. House District 9
- Jim Torino — U.S. House District 9
- Tamika L. Abrum — Tennessee State Senate District 33
- Marquita Bradshaw — U.S. Senate
- Torrey C. Harris — Tennessee House District 91
- Telisa Franklin — Tennessee House District 96
- Gabby Salinas — Tennessee House District 96
- Sade Bradley — Shelby County Commission District 1
- Will Richardson — Shelby County Commission District 8
- Keeley Greer — Shelby County Commission District 8
- Brad Less — Shelby County Sheriff
- Tina Montgomery — Shelby County Clerk
- Joe Ozment — Shelby County Criminal Court, Division 8
Candidates Jim Torino and Joe Ozment were unable to attend.
While each candidate brought a unique perspective and campaign, the evening remained focused on conversation rather than debate, giving attendees the opportunity to ask questions and learn more about those seeking public office.
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Partnerships Make Community Events Possible
Candidate Connection demonstrated the value of collaboration among organizations dedicated to strengthening civic participation in the Mid-South.
The event was presented by the Mid-South LGBT Chamber of Commerce, whose board members and volunteers coordinated the evening as part of the Chamber’s ongoing commitment to supporting civic engagement and community leadership.
The Tennessee Equality Project provided sponsorship support, helping offset event expenses while continuing its long-standing mission of advancing equality and civic participation throughout Tennessee.
The Pumping Station generously donated the venue, staff support, and a full food spread, creating an inviting environment where meaningful conversations could take place.
Special recognition goes to Lena Chipman, whose leadership and planning brought the event together, and Krista Wright Thayer, whose support helped ensure a successful evening for candidates, attendees, volunteers, and partner organizations.
Looking Ahead
As Election Day approaches, events like Candidate Connection remind us that democracy begins with participation. Whether meeting candidates, asking thoughtful questions, or simply learning more about local government, informed voters strengthen communities.
Friday, July 17, is the deadline to register to vote in Tennessee for the upcoming election. Eligible voters can register online by visiting https://ovr.govote.tn.gov/. Check that you’re registered and your district here https://tnmap.tn.gov/voterlookup/.
The Mid-South LGBT Chamber of Commerce continues to expand its programming throughout the year. Community members are encouraged to follow the Chamber on social media, become members, or learn more at midsouthlgbtchamber.org.
The community will also gather again on Friday, August 21, for the Focus Awards: Pride & Progress – The Raging ’20s at Ballet Memphis. During the evening, the Mid-South LGBT Chamber of Commerce will once again present its Small Business Excellence Awards, recognizing outstanding LGBTQ+ owned businesses and professionals as part of the annual celebration.
Looking ahead to the fall, the Chamber will also host LGBTQ Business Week in October, continuing its efforts to connect business leaders, entrepreneurs, professionals, and allies across the Mid-South.
For photos, interviews, and additional coverage from Candidate Connection, follow Focus online and on social media as we continue highlighting the people and organizations working to strengthen our community through civic engagement.
