EVENTS

Nov
20

Trans Day Of Remembrance

Join us November 20th for our Trans Day of Remembrance Luminary Walk to honor the trans lives lost to violence this year. 

The Luminary Walk will start at Farm Club and follow the TART trail to the Fouch Road Trailhead beginning at 5:30pm. If you would like to add a name to the memorial walk, extra luminary bags will be available at the Farm Club starting point of the trail.

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Game Night
Dec
6

Game Night

Join us for a game night at Secondhand Social Club on December 6th from 6pm-8pm. All ages welcome. We will have games and attendees can bring their own! More details coming soon…

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Dec
10

Open Art Night

Join us at Evergreen’s open art night at Art & Connection in Elk Rapids on December 10th from 6pm-8pm. All ages welcome! More details coming soon…

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Nov
9

Shop Your Community Day

We need YOU to shop downtown Traverse City on Saturday, November 9th and select "Up North Pride" at checkout to have 15% of your purchase go back to UNP! Get a group together, get some holiday shopping done, or treat yourself and give back to us at the same time! Shopping local also supports small businesses and keeps your dollars here. It's a win for everyone.

Bonus points for stopping at our merch home, My Secret Stash where UNP merch items give ALL proceeds back to UNP.

Find the participating businesses here: downtowntc.com/shop-your-community-day/

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Northport Tea Dance 2024
Sep
29

Northport Tea Dance 2024

Northport Pride’s 2024 Tea Dance, September 29, 2024 2pm to 6pm at Faro hosted by The Chetcuti Evans Foundation with special guest Monique Madison and The Kunty Kittens and music by DJ Jay Harnish.

The annual Northport Tea Dance is an important event for our region and creates awareness and visibility for the LGBTQ members of our community.

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Big Gay Brunch
Sep
29

Big Gay Brunch

BIG GAY BRUNCH

We’re ending Pride Week right with a delectable Big Gay Brunch and Picnic. The Brunch is free admission with local food and beverages available to purchase on-site with opportunities to interact with local nonprofit booths. The event will feature family-friendly activities and live music stylings by local performers.

Free admission, all ages welcome.
Food and drinks available for purchase.


THIS EVENT IS SPONSORED BY:

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Drag Night & Silent Disco
Sep
28

Drag Night & Silent Disco

Drag Night & Silent Disco

Join us at the Open Space, immediately following the Visibility March, for a drag-tastic event! Come and support our national, regional, and local death-dropping drag artists.

  • Nina West

  • Mrs. Kasha Davis

  • Dymond Denae

  • Aaliyah Tealhart

  • Deija Vaton

  • Felixxx

  • Mercedez Benz Over

  • Dee Riley

Refreshments and food will be available for purchase on-site. Come dressed in Pride gear, drag, or any gender expression you’re vibing with that night.

The party continues with the iconic Silent Disco under the stars. All attendees will be given headphones specially designed to keep the party going after hours. Our friends at 2BaysaProductions will be hosting the tunes. 

Join us for a beautiful evening of fun and entertainment along Grand Traverse Bay. Refreshments and food will be available for purchase throughout the event.

Free admission. Parental guidance is advised.


DRAG NIGHT IS SPONSORED BY:

SILENT DISCO IS SPONSORED BY:

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Visibility Rally & March
Sep
28

Visibility Rally & March

Visibility Rally & March

Join us for the largest participant-driven 2SLGBTQIA+ Pride March in Michigan beginning at F&M Park and proudly walking through downtown to The Open Space. The rally starts at 4 pm with keynote speakers and our Grand Marshall! The march will follow the kickoff speeches and is free and open to everyone.

Please arrive at 3:45 pm to assemble our forces!

Note:
The march ends at Open Space. If you're planning on staying for Drag Night and the Silent Disco, you may want to plan for transportation close to the bay.

• Wear your pride! This is the time to celebrate our individuality. Marchers often bring flags and signs.

• Food and drinks will be available at the the end of the march in the Open Space.

Free admission, all ages are welcome.

THIS EVENT IS SPONSORED BY:


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Comedy Night
Sep
27

Comedy Night

Up North Pride's
Fourth Annual Comedy Night

Join us for Up North Pride's fourth annual Comedy Night! This year's event promises an evening filled with laughter and entertainment, featuring an incredible lineup of comedians who will leave you in stitches. Featuring Comedy Night’s event host Kristin Key, Roz Hernandez, and Diana Graham. Don't miss out on this fantastic night of comedy!

Doors open at 7:00 pm, and the show kicks off at 8:00 pm.
Tickets are $20 for general admission.

The show is open for all ages, but please note that parental discretion is advised due to adult humor.

Performers

Kristin Key (host)
Kristin Key grew up in Amarillo, Texas, as a minister’s daughter. She first discovered her love for comedy at 19 while in college to become a paramedic, performing at a local open mic. Despite initial fears about coming out, Kristin eventually embraced her identity and has become a nationally headlining comedian known for her quick wit, original comedy songs, and viral social media presence. A finalist on NBC's Last Comic Standing, she now lives in LA, hosts the podcast "Kristin Knows Blank," and has recorded six stand-up comedy albums. Kristin's work often explores queer culture, relationships, and her personal journey, inspiring many with her humor and authenticity.

Roz Hernandez
Roz Hernandez is a transgender comedian, actor, and host who stars in Hulu's "Living for the Dead." Known for her energetic and stylish performances, Roz has hosted a popular show at Hollywood Improv and performed at notable venues like Largo and Dynasty Typewriter. Her podcast "GHOSTED!" delves into supernatural experiences and has been recognized by Vulture magazine as one of the best comedy podcasts of 2022. Roz's charm and wit have made her a favorite on various top podcasts and Bravo's "Watch What Happens Live." She resides in Los Angeles, where she enjoys collecting antiques and customizing her wardrobe.

Diana Graham
Diana Graham, a genderqueer comedian from Livonia, Michigan, is known as the “little sister of Detroit comedy.” With over 205,000 TikTok followers, Diana combines their day job as an industrial engineer with a growing comedy career. They often perform in Southeast Michigan and have been featured at events like the "Queens for a Cause" fundraiser. Diana's comedy, which began at 17, blends personal experiences with humor, addressing gender identity and life’s challenges with a thoughtful, engaging approach. Relocated temporarily to Nebraska, Diana continues to pursue both engineering and comedy, aiming to bring joy and insight to their audiences.

THIS EVENT IS SPONSORED BY:

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Northern MI HIV Summit 2024
Sep
27

Northern MI HIV Summit 2024

Healthcare professionals and the public can join a free hosted by Thomas Judd Care Center. The summit will feature educational sessions on HIV, free continuing education credits, the Community Collaborations Award, and showcases a 30-year anniversary video.

The event is free, but registration is required.

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Pajama Party
Sep
26

Pajama Party

Pajama Party

Up North Pride is excited to bring a new event to this year’s festivities! With panoramic views of Grand Traverse Bay, join us for a body-positive and inclusive pajama party — and a rare opportunity to dance on a rooftop in your pjs in the night air.

What to expect:

  • Snacks throughout the evening

  • An Inclusive Fashion show presented by Intimi hosted by Grand Rapids drag queen Dona Tella, who will also perform!

  • Nostalgic Sleepover activities: MASH, Diary confessions, nail polishing, friendship bracelets and stardust "tattoos"

  • Cookies and bedtime story

  • 3 different signature cocktails @ $8

Get your overnight stay with a special UNP Discount at our Official Hotel Partner Hotel Indigo!

Dress code: Dress as you like, with respect for our hosts when coming in and out of the party.

This is a ticketed event.

Ages 18+

THIS EVENT IS SPONSORED BY:

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Pride Ride & Sign Making Party
Sep
25

Pride Ride & Sign Making Party

PRIDE RIDE & SIGN MAKING PARTY

Join us at F&M park in your bike gear and pride gear for a spirited ride through downtown led by Norte and ending at The Little Fleet for our annual Sign Making Party. The Sign Making Party is your chance to make a statement and prepare for the Pride Visibility March on Saturday. The ride will begin at 6 pm so please join us at the park before 6 to rally up!

Free admission, all ages are welcome.

PRIDE RIDE IS SPONSORED BY:

SIGN MAKING PARTY IS SPONSORED BY:

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Sep
25

Pre Pride Ride Bike Decoration Experience

Join Little Joy Bike Club at F & M Park for a pre Pride Ride bike decoration experience on September 25th at 5:30!

We will bring streamers, ribbons, and other things that catch our eye at Michael’s Craft Store, and you will bring your creative spirit! We can’t wait to show our pride with you!

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QUEER:SAY Storytelling
Sep
24

QUEER:SAY Storytelling

QUEER:SAY Storytelling

Queer:Say is a live storytelling show where we can reconnect through the hilarious, heartfelt, and sometimes horrifying stories that tell life’s many truths. This special edition, paired with Up North Pride, will feature storytellers from the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. 

House opens at 6:30pm. Event starts at 7pm.

This is a ticketed event
Parental guidance is advised

THIS EVENT IS SPONSORED BY:

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Claybourne Elder: Gilded Age (concert)
Sep
13

Claybourne Elder: Gilded Age (concert)

Broadway’s hunky gay ex-Mormon dad Claybourne Elder (HBO’s The Gilded Age, Broadway: Company, Sunday in the Park with George, Bonnie and Clyde) brings his sold-out touring show to City Opera House for the first time in a hilarious, heartfelt and somewhat naughty evening. In a show that’s part cabaret, part stand-up, Clay explores sex, fatherhood, and what exactly happens when you eat the body of Christ. With Clay’s favorite music from Sondheim to the Great American Songbook to Whitney Houston – come see why critics call him “Handsome and intense” (NY Observer), “Tough and tender” (NY Daily News) and “Stupid funny as he is drop-dead buff” (The Wrap).

Claybourne Elder currently plays John Adams on HBO’s hit series The Gilded Age and was most recently seen on Broadway in the Tony Award-winning revival of Company starring Patti Lupone. He is a Grammy, Screen Actors Guild Award, Drama Desk and Lucille Lortel nominee and is known for his performances on Broadway in Bonnie and Clyde, Sunday in the Park with George, Torch Song and Sondheim on Sondheim at the Hollywood Bowl. He began his career originating the role of Hollis in Sondheim’s Road Show, he also originated the role of Ollie in Tennessee William’s One Arm. Other credits include: Do I Hear A Waltz at City Center, Allegro at Classic Stage, Two by Two (Starring Jason Alexander), Venice at the Public Theatre, Georgio in Passion, Tony in West Side Story, Joe in Angels in America, Curly in Oklahoma, Wolf/Cinderella’s Prince in Into the Woods, and Gaston in Beauty and the Beast. He also played Pete O’Malley in the CW’s The Carrie Diaries. His solar show has played to sold out crowds across the country and in London. Recently he launched an initiative called City of Strangers to provide free tickets to Broadway shows for people who might not have the means. They have given away over 3,000 tickets and have gained unexpected attention nationally, being featured on This American Life, CBS This Morning and The Kelly Clarkson Show.

Tier 1 $55; Tier 2 $45; Students $20. Purchase before June 1 and receive 10% off!

Special Up North Pride Discount Code for 20% Off: PRIDE

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Aug
24

Queer Clothing Swap

Join Benzie Area Pride Network for a FREE clothing swap for teens and adults!

This event is a fun, comfortable place to “swap” gently used clothing for “new to you” items that best express your gender identity and orientation.

Bring clothes, shoes, and accessories that no longer fit or no longer reflect you. We ask that clothes be in good condition and freshly laundered. Then, leave with “new to you” items!


Don't have clothes to swap? No problem! You’re welcome to come and find “new to you” items regardless of your ability to donate. We want you here!

Clothes will be sorted by “type” - dresses, tops, bottoms, shoes and by size, not by gender. Feel free to explore without the labels and without judgment. Volunteers from Benzie Area Pride Network will be on hand to help you find the perfect items to express you.

Facebook event: https://www.facebook.com/share/1aiYaZjJusBaFaet/

Contact the event organizer: kkarlene@gmail.com

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Community Listening Event
Aug
21

Community Listening Event

UP NORTH PRIDE
Wants to Hear From YOU!

This event will take place August 21st, from 5:30-7:30pm in the Woodmere Library’s McGuire Room.

Give feedback and thoughts on several aspects of the Up North Pride organization in the survey below. We will use those survey responses to craft this Listening Event into one where our board and staff can hear from 2SLGBTQIA+ community members and you can hear from us.

Our hope is to find out where our community feels supported by us and where we could do better as we move into our 10th year as an organization!

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Trattoria Stella 20th Anniversary Picnic
Jul
7

Trattoria Stella 20th Anniversary Picnic

Trattoria Stella 20th Anniversary Picnic

Join us for this Community-Led Event celebrating Trattoria Stella on their 20th Anniversary Picnic.

Live music, delicious food & drink, baby goats, puppies, balance bikes & more! Proceeds for this event will support the important work of our community partners: Northwest Michigan 4H, Cherryland Humane Society, Up North Pride & Norte Youth Cycling.

We are incredibly grateful for the work they do within our community and for the support they have given us over the past two decades.

  • Adult ticket includes admission to the event, food, commemorative Trattoria Stella anniversary wine glass and one drink token redeemable for beer, wine, cider or mocktail.

  • Tickets for children 12 and under include admission to the event, food & standard non alcoholic beverages (soda, water, lemonade.)

  • Children 2 and under are free.

  • Additional beverage tokens will be available for purchase throughout the event.

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Rainbow Run
Jun
22

Rainbow Run

RAINbow run update;

Due to the hazardous weather pattern outlook expected on Saturday, June 22nd.

This event is cancelled.

Heavy rainfall is expected across parts of northern Michigan
Saturday into Saturday night. Some areas of the lower peninsula may see over 2 inches of rain by Sunday morning. Isolated severe storms will be possible Saturday into Saturday
night. Damaging winds and a tornado or two will be the primary
hazards with any strong storms.”

TART Trails & Up North Pride are coming together to host the second annual Rainbow Run, a color fun run and fundraiser around the Boardman Lake Loop Trail.

To celebrate the trail systems and the Northern Michigan 2SLGBTQ+ Community during Pride Month, the event, on June 22, 2024, will invite the community to join together at Hull Park to enjoy music and refreshments before and after the run. The route will take participants counterclockwise around the 4-mile Boardman Lake Loop Trail.

There will be five distinct and separated stations along the route for participants to receive their colors. We will be using a powder made of colored cornstarch that will be human, fish, and environment-friendly and will wash out after a rain to have no long-lasting effects on the park or City infrastructure. The colors of the powders are bright and vibrant, and each station has a unique color theme. At one station, runners may be covered in bright pink powder, while at another, they may be hit with a cloud of orange powder. As participants make their way through each station, they are transformed into walking, running works of art.

All participants who register by May 31st will receive a branded white t-shirt. We will gather at Hull Park for music, refreshments, and community activities like lawn games after the event. All of the events at Hull Park will be open to the public. The trail will stay open for public use so please be kind to other trail users.

Participants will be able to pick up their packets at The Little Fleet between 4pm-7pm on Friday, June 21st.

event sponsors include:



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Long Memory Project
Jun
15

Long Memory Project

This is the second iteration of the Long Memory Project, whose mission is to cultivate the passing down of our community’s stories. As Brad Kik, founder of Crosshatch Center for Art and Ecology notes, “these stories are not just the ones considered worthy enough to make headlines and history books, but the small acts of courage, action, good governance and community building—the songs, poems and stories that help us understand where we came from, who we are, and what we envision for our future—both regionally and beyond.”

The work created by the artists will be on view in an exhibition at the CommonGrounds Building (414 E. Eighth Street in Traverse City) from June 8 - July 14, 2024. An opening reception at 6pm on June 15 will include a gallery show of the art, and a 6:30pm gathering at the Alluvion will feature a panel of artists and elders, a performance by spoken word and song artist Madeline October, and a concert from musician Blake Elliott.

The first iteration of the project featured stories from the environmental, peace and justice activist community, and took place in 2018. As they were happening, many of these campaigns received poor coverage in the press, and now risk being lost to time. “We realized that we couldn’t go to Wikipedia or Google searches to get the details right,” said Sam Cooper, a musician born and raised in Traverse City, “the only place we could go is to the elders

themselves.” “There are two important pieces coming together in this project,” explains Brad Kik “First, the value in hearing stories from our elders and passing them down through the generations; second, the magic that happens when we decide to center artists and their process. I’m excited to experience these brand new pieces coming out of our community’s history.”

The elders who shared their stories in this program are Eric Bower, Dan Brink, Diane Brandt, Beth L., Guy Molnar, John Ross, and Bobbie Wasielewski. The artists who have created work in response to the elders are Cyrah Dardas, Quinn Faylor, Jamie John, Elijah Nykamp, Madeline October, Miguel Pedraza, and Lilian Pitser.

The reception and gallery show are free. Tickets for the panel and performance at the Alluvion are $20 and can be found on the Alluvion website: www.thealluvion.org

The Long Memory Project is a partnership with Up North Pride, MiGen and Crosshatch Center for Art & Ecology. This program is supported by generous community members, Cedar North, The National Endowment for the Arts, and the Michigan Arts and Culture Council.

Event sponsored by:

“All ages are welcome, parental discretion advised for adult themes”

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Drag Bingo
Jun
14

Drag Bingo

Get ready for an unforgettable evening of Drag Bingo (with prizes!) at Iron Fish Distillery on Friday, June 14th from 5:00-7:00pm & 7:30-9:30pm.

Our special guests for the night are none other than The Real Dragwives of Northern Michigan! Gather your friends and join us for an entertaining and thrilling night of bingo, hosted by our fabulous drag queens. With exciting prizes up for grabs, you won't want to miss out on the fun. Come and experience the vibrant energy and glamour of our drag performers, and enjoy the unique atmosphere of Iron Fish Distillery. This is a night you won't forget, so mark your calendars and join us for Drag Bingo at Iron Fish Distillery!

EVENT SPONSORS INCLUDE:

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Pride Carnival
Jun
8

Pride Carnival

Come and be part of the festivities at NMC's Pride Carnival on Saturday, June 3rd, from 11am to 2pm.

Come and be part of the festivities at NMC's Pride Carnival on Saturday, June 8th, from 11am to 2pm. Get ready for a day filled with joy and celebration! We've got a fantastic line-up for you, including an array of food vendors, engaging activities from local non-profit organizations, and carnival-style attractions that everyone can enjoy - all for free! Plus, you won't want to miss the opportunity to visit the Dennos Museum, which will be open to the public throughout the event.

This family-friendly event is open to all and promises to be a fun-filled day of community and togetherness. So mark your calendars and come join us at NMC's Pride Carnival!

EVENT SPONSORS INCLUDE:


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Rainbow Story Time
Jun
8

Rainbow Story Time

Join this Community-Led Event with the Dennos Museum Center.

All ages, all families, all friends are welcome to the 2nd annual Rainbow Storytime at the Dennos in partnership with Wild & Wonder! Music, books, crafts will frame a morning filled with love, laughter, song, and community. Our community partner Brilliant Books will be there with our favorite books for purchase. After storytime, we will have a walking train to the carnival for anyone who is interested!

This is a FREE event. We also encourage you to stay after and head to the Pride Carnival happening right outside.

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Pride at the Ballpark
Jun
6

Pride at the Ballpark

Step up to the plate and join us for an unforgettable evening of inclusivity and celebration at Pride at the Ballpark!

Get ready to experience the thrill of baseball in a whole new light as we come together to honor diversity, love, and acceptance.

Be one of the first to rock our limited edition Pride-themed hat, available only through a special ticket link! Stay tuned for the reveal of this vibrant design. Enjoy $3 beers, $2 hot dogs and pops, and $1 bags of chips, making it the perfect opportunity to indulge while cheering on your favorite team. Let the Cherry Capital Men's Chorus serenade you with their rendition of the National Anthem, setting the stage for an evening filled with unity and pride. Keep the energy high with thrilling games and entertainment between innings, guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat.

Don't miss, one of the founders of Up North Pride: Jonny Cameron as he throws the ceremonial first pitch, kicking off the festivities with style and flair.

Quench your thirst with our special rainbow drinks and indulge your sweet tooth with a delectable Pride-themed dessert, available exclusively at the ballpark. Let your little ones' imaginations soar with a fun and engaging craft activity designed just for them, ensuring that Pride at the Ballpark is an event the whole family can enjoy! Don't miss your chance to be part of this historic celebration of love, acceptance, and community. Mark your calendars and secure your tickets now for an evening that promises to be as memorable as it is meaningful. See you at the ballpark!

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Drag Brunch
Jun
2

Drag Brunch

Get ready for an electrifying drag brunch experience, hosted by MI Drag Brunch at Short's in bellaire on June 2nd as part of Up North Pride festivities!

Join us for a fabulous day filled with laughter, entertainment, and mouth-watering food. Our drag queens will be serving up non-stop performances, with shows running from 11am-1pm and 2pm-4pm. You'll be captivated by their charm, wit, and talent, and have the opportunity to interact with them throughout the event. At Short's in Bellaire, you'll enjoy a rustic and inviting atmosphere, while savoring delicious brunch options that are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you're coming with friends or looking to make new ones, this event promises to be a memorable experience. Don't miss out on the fun – mark your calendars and join us for an unforgettable drag brunch as part of Up North Pride celebrations!

Ticket includes a complimentary cocktail and brunch item.


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Kick-off to Pride
Jun
1

Kick-off to Pride

Equality Michigan and UP North Pride are thrilled to join forces for the inaugural Kick Off Pride Kickball Competition in Traverse City, Michigan. This collaborative effort underscores a significant milestone in fostering community support and advancing LGBTQ rights in Northern Michigan.

More than just a celebration, the Pride Kickball Competition serves as a crucial fundraiser to support the ongoing initiatives of Up North Pride and Equality Michigan. Up North Pride is dedicated to advocacy, education, and community engagement, actively working to create safe spaces and advocate for policies that promote equality and acceptance. Meanwhile, Equality Michigan stands as a steadfast advocate for justice and nondiscrimination policies, offering vital resources and legal support to combat prejudice.

This event is a vibrant testament to the unity and strength of the LGBTQ community in Northern Michigan, bringing together individuals from all walks of life to champion a common cause. As participants engage in the spirited competition, they contribute not only to the celebration of diversity but also to the continued efforts of these organizations throughout the year. By supporting this event, attendees play a direct role in shaping a more inclusive and equitable future for the region.

EVENT SPONSORS INCLDUE:

want to donate to a team?

click the team name below!

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MKTG4PRIDE365
May
29

MKTG4PRIDE365

Marketing professionals and business owners, allies of the LGBTQ+ community and/or anyone interested In this discussion - this one's for you! Learn from industry experts, engage in meaningful conversations, and discover how to build authentic relationships with the LGBTQ+ community beyond Pride Month. 

Why Attend?

🔹 Gain valuable insights and practical tips

🔹 Connect with like-minded advocates

🔹 Take your inclusivity efforts to the next level

Meet our host + panelists 👇🏻🎤

💜Gibson Johns (he/him), host
@gibsonoma // @gabbingwithgib

💜Travers Johnson (he/him), panelist
@queerency

💜Alex Hughes (he/him), panelist
@alexalexhughes // @sodotgay

💜Brian Derrick (he/him), panelist
@brianderrick_ // @oath.vote

💜 Kacey Musick (they/them), panelist
@devbyjupiter

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