ATLANTA — As the city prepares for Atlanta Black Pride Weekend, organizers promise an event filled with celebration, education and community engagement as it joins up with a national organization.
This year’s festivities, set to take place from Tuesday, Aug. 27, to Sunday, Sept. 1, are expected to attract over 175,000 attendees, including global influencers, artists and activists.
Atlanta Black Pride Weekend, which touts itself as the world’s largest Black Gay Pride event, will be elevated this year by efforts from Global Black Pride. The event will feature several activities for all ages, including the annual Youth Festival, the Pure Heat Community Festival, and a new Freedom March planned on Sunday.
"We are so thrilled to be partnered with Atlanta Black Pride weekend," Micheal Ighodaro, Founder of Global Black Pride, said. "We have a numberr of artists headlining for the first time."
Atlanta's Tamar Braxton is set to perform, while Niecy Nash will present a Trailblazer Award to her wife, Jessica Betts. The weekend will also celebrate the 40th anniversary of house music with a dedicated stage featuring renowned DJs.
Global Black Pride’s involvement brings an international flavor to the several-day celebration, which includes a Human Rights and Health Conference, an Influencer Gala at the Sterling Hotel and the creation of a Global Black Village, a space for Black LGBTQ+ organizations and businesses to connect and share experiences. Among the performances, Afrobeat artist Ye La Day, who has collaborated with Beyoncé and others, will be headlining on Saturday.
Organizers collaborate with the City of Atlanta to ensure a secure and inclusive environment. Atlanta's LGBTQ Advisory Board, established by former Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms, plays a pivotal role in these efforts.
"(Atlanta Police Department) Sergeant Christopher Miller wrote up like this 100-plus page plan," Melissa Scott, Managing Partner of Atlanta Black Pride Weekend, said. "So we're prepared with regard to security. And with regards to protesters, it's just love in a different language."
Atlanta Black Pride Weekend started as a small backyard barbecue in the early 1990s and has since evolved into a significant event for the Black LGBTQ+ community.
"People of color have different needs, whether educational, financial, or emotional, and this weekend is about showcasing our talents, music, and health needs," Scott said. "It's essential to create spaces where our community can thrive and be celebrated."
For those interested in attending or learning more, visit the official event website at AtlantaPrideWeekend.com.
