Christian Fuscarino has deep roots in New Jersey, growing up in Belmar and spending much of his youth in and around Asbury Park. His positive experiences in Asbury Park played a pivotal role in shaping his commitment to LGBTQ+ activism. With over a decade of experience as an activist and organizer, Fuscarino has become a significant figure in advancing LGBTQ+ rights both locally and nationally.
Before his tenure at Garden State Equality, Fuscarino had a diverse and impactful career. A Hofstra University alum, Fuscarino was named Man of the Year in 2012 for his efforts in creating a safe campus space for LGBTQ+ students while pursuing his BA in digital media and LGBTQ studies. He worked with GLSEN, supporting high school Gay-Straight Alliances (GSAs), and served as a program developer for the Pride Connections Center of New Jersey, focusing on gay inner-city youth. His innovative work in public service was recognized early on when he won a student Emmy Award from the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences in 2007 for his “End the Silence” public service announcement. The same year, he founded The Pride Network, a national leadership development non-profit aimed at empowering LGBTQ+ youth.
In 2013, Fuscarino worked alongside Alan van Capelle at Bend the Arc: A Jewish Partnership for Justice, where he served as a digital strategist. Their efforts were instrumental in advancing social justice issues, including a notable campaign that led to California Governor Jerry Brown signing The Domestic Workers Bill of Rights into law. Prior to joining Garden State Equality, Fuscarino also served as the Communications Director for the Educational Alliance, a non-profit organization focused on breaking the cycle of poverty for low-income families through educational programs.
Fuscarino’s advocacy has earned him significant recognition. In 2016, PolitickerNJ named him the 2nd most influential advocate in New Jersey politics, and The Observer included him on their Power List 100. His volunteer work has been honored by numerous public figures, including the New Jersey State Senate and Assembly, Congressmen Bill Pascrell and Payne, U.S. Senators Menendez and Lautenberg, and former Governor Jon Corzine. His contributions have also been featured in major media outlets like CBS News, Sirius XM, and Genre Magazine.
Under Fuscarino’s leadership Garden State Equality has accomplished many things like HIV decriminalization, the LGBTQ Older Adults Bill of Rights, codifying marriage equality, and much more. He continues to be a dynamic and influential leader in the LGBTQ+ movement, dedicated to fostering equality and justice in his home state and beyond.
