Every year, Atlanta Black Gay Pride makes headlines for its headliners. But there is another side of Pride that invites attendees to come together to think about how to empower the community, plus celebrate identity through cultural events like author readings and film screenings.
This year, Pride goers can also visit Piedmont Park to participate in organized activities and free, live entertainment.
Far from criticizing nightlife, two of Black Gay Pride’s major community events are put on by leaders who also organize club events. This year perhaps sparks a movement to bring both sides of the coin together.
Black Gay Pride over Labor Day Weekend is one of the busiest times in the LGBT year. While In the Life Atlanta is the official governing body of Black Gay Pride, several local promoters offer a full weekend of events.
See what’s happening each day, or find your favorite promoter by color.
In the Life Atlanta celebrates its crystal anniversary this year, marking 15 years of building community empowerment through Black Gay Pride weekend.
“The overarching theme for our anniversary this year is ‘In the present, learning from the past to shape the future.’ We chose the crystal ball because it’s been 15 years; 15 is the crystal year,” explained ITLA President Raymond Duke at a press conference late last month.
The non-profit organization formed in 1996 to bring a cultural component to Black Gay Pride, which began as an informal network of house parties, nightlife and other gatherings.
Now, organizers want to celebrate the past while also looking to the future.