Despite park closures, political erasure, and adverse weather conditions, the D.C. queer community showcased its resilience last weekend by celebrating Pride in colorful and exhilarating ways during WorldPride festivities.
Across the city, locals engaged in an array of events, demonstrating that Pride Month encompasses more than just one weekend. The District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) area is set to continue its vibrant celebrations throughout June, so residents are encouraged to take a moment to recharge as filled schedules await.
Among the ongoing attractions is the exhibit “Essex Hemphill: Take Care of Your Blessings” at the Phillips Collection, which runs until August 31. Featuring a $20 entry fee, the exhibit highlights the life and impact of poet, performer, and activist Essex Hemphill, who made significant contributions to the queer arts and literary scenes both locally and nationally. This exhibit includes artwork from artists who knew Hemphill as well as those inspired by his legacy.
For those interested in visual arts, “We Are Proud!” at Zenith Gallery is another noteworthy exhibition available until June 28. This free show presents the works of three local queer artists, offering both artistic appreciation and purchase options.
A special event on June 11, Pride Night: We Are Gathered, will take place at Arena Stage starting at 4 p.m. for $39 with the code PRIDE. Visitors can enjoy a night dedicated to celebrating queer creativity and community, which features an art market, a panel discussion, and a performance of Tarell Alvin McCraney’s play, “We are Gathered.”
On June 12, Doubles will host a Queer Open Mic Music Night at 6:30 p.m. with free admission. This evening encourages participants to bring their musical talents or simply enjoy the performances of others in an inclusive environment.
As part of the DX/DOX Fest running June 12 through 15, various venues across D.C. will screen LGBTQIA documentaries, offering a unique cinematic experience with ticket prices that vary. Among the featured films is Sam Feder’s “Heightened Scrutiny,” which follows ACLU attorney Chase Strangio and the ongoing Supreme Court case regarding Tennessee’s ban on essential medical care for trans youth.
The Queer Art Salon will hold its opening reception on June 13 at 5 p.m. at DC CAH Gallery. This free event is funded by the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities and celebrates the work of queer and trans artists of the region.
Also on June 13, at 6 p.m. in Busboys and Poets on 14th Street, trans creators Alex L. Combs and Andrew Eakett will discuss their graphic novel “Trans History” during a free book talk with moderator Dee Harris.
The same evening will feature a fundraiser for families in Gaza titled “No Pride in Apartheid” starting at 9 p.m. at Sinners and Saints. This free-to-$15 event hopes to channel the spirit of Pride into support for mutual aid with music provided by DJs and opportunities for vendors.
From June 13 to 14, Compañia Medusa will present “Duplexity,” a performance exploring themes of queer joy and loneliness through dance and spoken word at Dance Place, with ticket prices ranging from $10 to $30.
On June 14 and 15, Lavender Con, a three-day LGBTQIA book and storytelling festival, will take over Capitol Hill with ticket prices ranging from $40 to $100. This event will feature panels, author talks, book signings, and a vibrant book market to celebrate queer literature.
The Phillips Collection will also host a sold-out poetry performance, “Notes on Essex,” at 2 p.m. on June 14, commemorating Essex Hemphill’s impact on literary and artistic communities with readings from various celebrated poets.
June 14 will also host Dew Drop Inn’s Dyke Party at 3 p.m., promising a lively atmosphere with DJ sets, art displays, games, and vendors, emphasizing a welcoming and inclusive vibe.
For those eager to let loose, a Pride dance party titled “Born This Way: A Cheugy Pride Party” will commence at 10 p.m. at As You Are, inviting guests to celebrate in a retro, quirky style.
Victoria artists will take the stage on June 15 when Australian indie-pop singer-songwriter Gordi performs at Songbyrd at 7 p.m. for $32.19. Her latest work, “Like Plasticine,” reflects her experience balancing her music career with her role as a doctor during the pandemic.
Later that evening, Suns Cinema will host “Creature from the Slut Lagoon II,” a queer and trans-centered dance party featuring local talent, for a $15 entry fee.
On June 17, audiences can look forward to screenings at Suns Cinema of the documentary “Gay USA” ($13.50), which highlights LGBTQIA experiences from the late 1970s, followed by “Transexual Menace,” a 1996 exploration of trans lives and politics.
Top Notch Comedy will take place at As You Are on June 17 at 7:30 p.m. for $17.85, supporting local comedians while also raising funds for a top surgery fund, blending a great cause with entertainment.
On June 18, readers can engage in an author talk by Mike Curato about his graphic novel “Gaysians” at the West End Library at 7 p.m. Curato’s work focuses on four gay Asians navigating love and identity.
Also happening on June 18, Annahstasia will perform at Songbyrd at 7 p.m. for $25.75, showcasing her unique blend of folk and R&B.
That evening, Hill Center will host “A Snapshot of D.C.’s Queer Artistry,” a free event celebrating local artists and the premiere of Mosaic Theatre’s production of “Andy Warhol in Iran.”
At 5:30 p.m., East City Bookshop will transform into a community hub for the Queering the Narrative Happy Hour, priced at $12.18 to support local queer youth. Attendees can enjoy refreshments while discussing books and engaging with fellow readers.
On June 19, an all-Black drag king lineup will take the stage for All the Smoke: A Juneteenth Cookout Show at the Black Cat at both 6:30 p.m. and 9 p.m., creating a festive atmosphere complete with food included in the ticket price.
The celebration continues on June 21 at As You Are with the MOTHER dance party starting at 10 p.m. This special event honors influential pop mothers.
Readers are invited to join a unique Pride-themed Reading Rainbows reading party at Old Town Books on June 22 at 7 p.m., where participants can bring their current reads or enjoy a relaxing atmosphere of silent reading in good company.
On June 25, Shanklin Hall will host a Queer Soup Night Black Pride Edition at 7 p.m., with suggested donations going toward the Queer Food Network.
June 26 will see an intriguing discussion at the MLK Library with the Culture Series: Vital Signs – DC and the Poetry of AIDS at 7 p.m. This free event honors three poets who shaped D.C.’s literary scene, shedding light on their contributions and the impact of AIDS.
Craft enthusiasts should mark June 27 for Queer Crafting Night at Merry Pin at 6 p.m., where individuals can gather to work on their projects in a supportive community environment.
Lastly, the month will round out with a vibrant Pride Art Market at Red Dirt Studio on June 29 from noon to 5 p.m., featuring over 40 local vendors. Participants can explore artworks, grab flash tattoos, and enjoy a lively atmosphere accompanied by a DJ.
To close out the month, the Literary Salon: PRIDE Edition will take place on June 30 at 7 p.m. at Rhizome, offering mini creative writing workshops, readings, and discussions amidst a welcoming and community-oriented setting.
This series of engaging events reflects not only the D.C. queer community’s strength and creativity but also the enduring spirit of Pride Month. With a broad array of happenings throughout June, there is something for everyone to participate in and delight in.
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