Qnotes marked its 40th anniversary on Sunday, April 26 with a community celebration that honored four decades of LGBTQ+ journalism in Charlotte and the Carolinas while setting the stage for the publication’s next chapter.
The event brought together readers, Qnotes staff, community leaders, contributors and supporters for an evening focused on recognition and community. Attendees received a copy of Qnotes’ final biweekly print edition, underscoring a clear shift as the publication moves to a digital-first model with special edition print issues throughout the year. The transition reflects how Qnotes will continue covering local news, events and community voices while expanding its reach across digital platforms.
One of the most meaningful moments of the evening came when staff from Qnotes and The White Rabbit, past and present, surprised publisher Jim Yarbrough with a commemorative award recognizing his leadership and long-standing commitment to the LGBTQ+ community. The award highlighted his role in building and sustaining one of the region’s only dedicated LGBTQ+ news outlets and ensuring that LGBTQ+ stories across the Carolinas have been told, preserved and shared across generations.
The celebration also included recognition of the Freedom Center for Social Justice and Dr. Holly Savoy, named Qnotes’ 2025 Nonprofit of the Year and 2025 Person of the Year. Both honors reflect ongoing work in the region to support LGBTQ+ communities through advocacy, organizing and direct services, as well as the continued need for that work across the Carolinas.
The anniversary was further recognized through official proclamations from both the City of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County, each declaring April 24, 2026 as “Qnotes Day.” Charlotte City Councilmember LaWana Mayfield, the first openly LGBTQ+ elected official in Charlotte, read the City proclamation during the event, marking the moment with formal recognition of Qnotes’ role in documenting LGBTQ+ history and serving the community over the past four decades.
Longtime Charlotte drag performer Delighted Tobehere came out of semiretirement to host and perform, bringing a mix of humor, experience and stage presence to the evening. The entertainment lineup featured performances by Erica Chanel and LAMÄR, alongside music from DJs Lin Benfield, DJ Tober and Jungle Gym Jones.
The anniversary celebration also marked a transition point for the publication as it shifts toward expanded digital storytelling, including video, long-form content and new platforms. The move allows Qnotes to respond more quickly to breaking news, increase the frequency of coverage and create new ways for audiences to engage with stories beyond print.
That shift relies on the same thing that has sustained Qnotes for four decades: community support. For some, that means a one-time contribution. For others, it means joining the Qnotes Press Club and supporting the work on a monthly basis. In honor of the milestone, supporters are encouraged to give $40 for 40 years of Qnotes and help fund what comes next.
After 40 years, the mission remains clear: to inform, connect and document LGBTQ+ life in the Carolinas, with the community continuing to shape what comes next. To make a contribution in honor of the 40th anniversary of Qnotes or join the Qnotes Press Club, visit qnotescarolinas.com/pressclub/.