Lesbifriend Luminary: Doni Burton
lu·mi·nar·y
/ˈlo͞oməˌnerē/ - n - a person who inspires or influences others, especially one prominent in a particular sphere.
Each month we take a moment to show appreciation for an exemplary member of our community. Affectionately named “Lesbifriend Luminary”, we honor you.
By day, Doni Burton is a senior consultant navigating the world of healthcare economics—but when the laptop closes, she’s all about community, joy, and connection. Whether she’s spiking volleyballs, jet-setting abroad, catching Broadway shows, or planning events that center Black queer joy, Doni shows up with intention and heart.
After moving to D.C. in August 2021, she missed the vibrant queer community she had in Oakland—and instead of waiting for it to reappear, she built it. In March 2022, Doni launched a monthly meetup for Black queer women, trans, and non-binary folks that’s now grown to four times its original size. From game nights and wine tastings to group outings and community picnics, her events are rooted in one powerful idea: that our joy deserves spaciousness and variety—not just the bar and club scene.
Doni’s work is a reminder that community doesn’t have to be loud to be impactful. It just has to be real. And on May 22nd, she’s hosting a happy hour during DC Black Pride—the perfect place to connect, celebrate, and experience the magic she continues to create.
Follow @dcblackqueerwomen on Instagram or join the group on Meetup to stay in the loop for her upcoming events!
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