Community Pride Spotlight: Steven Henke

STEVEN HENKE – Chief of Brand Marketing, DAP Health

Affliction festers in the shadows. When we are alienated, we don’t receive the healing help we need because we’re almost invisible to the medical elite. That’s why the most powerful words that a healthcare provider can say are: The doctor will see you now.

Steven Henke understands how essential it is to be seen. As Chief of Brand Marketing at DAP Health, he is a maestro of messaging and a wellspring of compassion. “We want everyone, regardless of their background, to have access to the care and support they need to live a healthy and authentic life. We believe that healthcare is a human right, and our work is guided by the voices and needs of the diverse communities we serve. Our philosophy is rooted in the belief that by addressing the social drivers of health, we can create a more just and equitable society for all.”

Inclusion is the best medicine, and Henke has a prescription for Pride. “From providing expert health care services to fostering community connections, our work is driven by the belief that everyone deserves to live their healthiest life. The values of Pride fuel our commitment to health equity and social justice, ensuring that the most vulnerable members of our community have access to the resources they need to thrive.”

When access is no longer an obstacle, the healing begins, and happiness is just around the corner. These are the principles of Pride.

“Pride is a powerful celebration of authenticity, community, and resilience,” Henke explains. “Pride means being unapologetically true to oneself and embracing the diversity that makes our community so vibrant. It’s also a reminder of the ongoing fight for equality.”

This isn’t just pleasant rhetoric; he’s bringing his caring crew to Palm Canyon, the heart of the festivities. “Our Community Health team will be at the Greater Palm Springs Pride Festival, providing health information, free STI testing, and vaccinations. We encourage anyone in need of support to visit our website at daphealth.org, where they can find more information and access the services they need.”

photo by GED Magazine

But Henke’s calendar of care extends well beyond the weekend. “This year, DAP Health is celebrating our 30 Days of Pride commemoration, which includes a series of seven events throughout October and November. We’re kicking off with the Pride Honors Awards, where we’ll be recognized as the Spirit of Stonewall Advocate of the Year and continuing with events like National Coming Out Day at Revivals, the Revivals After Dark Back Alley Event, and the DAP Health Equity Walk. Personally, I’m looking forward to participating in the Pride Parade on November 3rd, where our team will walk together to show our solidarity and support for the LGBTQ+ community.”

Togetherness is a team sport, and Henke is eager to coach us all to victory.

“As we gear up for Greater Palm Springs Pride, I want to remind everyone that Pride is not just a celebration—it’s a statement. When we come together, we’re showing the world that we stand strong, united, and proud of who we are. Every year, when I walk in the Pride Parade, I make a point to make eye contact with as many people along the route as possible. I do this because I know there’s at least one person visiting from a small town where it isn’t safe to be LGBTQ, and they might be experiencing their first Pride. I want to make sure they go home knowing they have a community here and that they are never alone.”

Acknowledgement is a crucial component of healthcare. Henke is excited to meet as many of you as possible because the more, the healthier.

“Join DAP Health at the parade, the festival, and at our events. Let’s make this Pride one to remember—because Pride matters, and because YOU matter.”