Lancaster Pride has removed its president, Tiffany Shirley, due to financial violations. The organization's Board of Directors made the decision following an internal audit and investigation, as announced on Wednesday (February 19). Shirley, who had been with Lancaster Pride since 2021 and became president in 2022, was also removed from her position as a board member.
The board emphasized that the decision was made with the best interests of the LGBTQIA+ community in mind. Lancaster Pride is currently consulting with legal counsel and advisors to determine the next steps. Despite the leadership change, the organization assures that its initiatives and activities, including the annual Pride Festival scheduled for June 28, will proceed as planned.
Vice President Lindsey Key will serve as interim president, according to David Seymour, Lancaster Pride's director of communications. Shirley, a Hempfield High School graduate, expressed her respect for the board's decision and did not comment further.
The announcement has been met with support from other local LGBTQ+ organizations, such as Lancaster County Chooses Love, which praised Lancaster Pride's transparency and accountability.
WGAL and LancasterOnline reported that the decision will not impact Lancaster Pride's programming, which includes various events throughout the year, especially during Pride Month in June.