In the Love in Color series, the Indianapolis Recorder explores love, family and friendship among some of the city’s community leaders and residents. Married couple Belinda and Danielle Drake talk about how they first met, what they enjoy doing together and their favorite holiday tradition.
Belinda is the executive director at Trans Solutions Resource and Research Center and the board president of Indy Pride of Color. Danielle dedicates her time and effort to social change, civic engagement and racial equity. She is currently the advocacy manager at the ACLU of Indiana.

Where did you meet? What do you remember about your first interaction?
Danielle: We met at Belinda’s campaign launch in December 2019. Our first interaction felt easy and natural — we just clicked and kept talking. Over the next few days, we stayed in touch, and our connection only deepened from there.

Where was your first date?
We went to see “Queen & Slim.” It was a powerful movie and sparked a deep, memorable conversation that brought us closer.
What is your favorite activity to do together?
We absolutely love to travel! Exploring new places together is one of our favorite ways to make memories.
Which family holiday tradition do you most enjoy?
We look forward to putting up and decorating the Christmas tree each year — it’s a tradition that brings us so much joy.

Fill in the blank: “I can always count on my spouse to…”
Danielle: “…hype me up!”
Belinda: “…keep us organized!”
If you have a story on love, family or friendship you would like to share, email us at newsroom@indyrecorder.com and use “Love in Color” in the subject line.
Contact Editor-in-Chief Camike Jones at 317-762-7850.