2024 DC Black Pride Guide

Stories of Power and Vulnerability

Explore the relationship of mothers (or material figures) to sons as an essential network of support for getting Black gay, bisexual, trans and queer men connected to HIV care.

WELCOMETODC

As the Interim President of the Center for Black Equity, I have the immense privilege to extend a heartfelt welcome to all at DC Black Pride 2024! This year’s theme, “Black Pride Forever,” isn’t just a slogan – it’s a battle cry for the resilience, strength, and radiant beauty of the Black LGBTQIA+ community.

DC Black Pride is more than a celebration; it’s a defiant act of empowerment. It’s a space where we stand shoulder-to-shoulder, raising our voices in fierce pride against those who would dare to dim our light. We come together to honor the legacy of those who paved the way, to celebrate who we are today, and to declare with unwavering conviction the future we will build.

Let DC Black Pride 2024 be the platform where we recommit ourselves to the fight for equality, justice, and liberation for every Black LGBTQIA+ individual. We will celebrate the kaleidoscope of identities within our community, raise our voices in thunderous unison, and share our stories with the world.

Whether you’re a seasoned warrior in this fight, a newcomer to our vibrant world, or anywhere in between, you belong here. Your presence is a testament to our collective strength, and your journey enriches all of us.

So, let’s unite in a boundless tide of love, pride, and unwavering solidarity. Let DC Black Pride 2024 be the transformative experience where we, as chosen family, shine our light together, forever and ever bright! Welcome to DC Black Pride 2024—where Black Pride shines forever!

In solidarity and with much love,

Kenya Garçon Hutton

PREMIER

SOLIDARITY

EQUALITY

UNITY

STRENGTH

COMMUNITY EQUITY

PRIDE HELP DESK

Have questions? Need help? Come to the ballroom level in the Westin Washington, DC Downtown (host hotel) to get answers.

Friday, May 24: 2 – 10 p.m.

Saturday, May 25: 9 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.

ASL INTERPRETING

ASL interpreting will be available for many of the events in the Westin Washington, DC Downtown (host hotel) including all of the Saturday workshops.

HEALTH & WELLNESS PAVILION

The DCBP Health & Wellness Pavilion, sponsored by DC Health and Us Helping Us, will feature a wide range complimentary services. Services include:

• HIV Testing. On the spot and take home tests can be delivered to those in host hotel.

• Mpox Vaccine

• Immediate Doxy PEP

• Massages

• Mini Facials

• Vitals Signs Measurements (body temperature, pulse rate, respiration rate, blood pressure)

• Full Panel STI Screening

The Health & Wellness Pavilion will be open around clock from Friday, May 24 through Sunday, May 26 on the Meeting Room Level.

OVERDOSE PREVENTION KITS

Overdose prevention kits, including Naloxone, Fentanyl strips and more, will be available all weekend at the host hotel. Kits are made available by the Capital Ballroom Council and Harm Reduction at Westminster (HRAW).

BE SOCIAL

Share your DC Black Pride experience using the hashtags #DCBlackPride2024 #DCBP2024 #DCBP24. Tag and mention:

DISCLAIMERS

The sexual orientation or gender identity of attendees, advertisers, presenters and sponsors that participate in DC Black Pride is neither inferred nor implied.

The appearance of names or pictorial representation of individuals in this guide does not necessarily indicate the sexual orientation of such individual.

DC Black Pride is supported by many advertisers and the Center for Black Equity cannot take responsibility for any claims made by sponsors and advertisers.

There may be event photographers or videographers present at all DC Black Pride events. Any persons attending events consent to have their photo taken and their likeness used by the Center for Black Equity for promotional purposes.

Friday, May 24, 2024 2:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Saturday, May 25, 2024 9:00 am – 8:00 pm

Sunday, May 26, 2024 10:00 am – 1:00 pm

ORGS&VENDORS

The following organizations and vendors will participate in Rainbow Row: Organization & Vendor Expo.

AARP DC

AIDS Healthcare Foundation

Bisexual Resource Center

Black Aids Institute

Black Leaves Dance Company

Black Pride Network

Booz Allen Hamilton

Cagedbirds Productions

Capital Pride Alliance / World Pride

CCI Health Services

Community of Hope

DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities

DC Health

DC Mayors office of LGBTQ Affairs

DC Office of Human Rights

DC Strokes Rowing Club

DC Trans Pride

Family Medical Counseling Service, Inc.

Fields

FreeState Justice

Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington, DC

Gilead | HIV

Harriets Wildest Dreams

Havre de Grace Massage

Herueknits

HIPS

Human Rights Campaign

Impluse DC

Jack’d

Kiss Karma

Kunshu

Make All Votes Count DC

Making U Fierce

Medstar Georgetown University

Hospital

Modern Military Association of America

Monko

Motivate With Grace

NMAC

Planned Parenthood of Metropolitan

Washington, DC

Pleased Bi Her

Queertivity

Rainbow History Project

Ronita Overton

Rosarium Publishing

Signal 23 Television

SMYAL

The Wanda Alston Foundation

United States Secret Service

Urban Adventures Companies

Us Helping Us

Verizon

Veteran Pride Suicide Prevention

Coalition

ViiV Healthcare Xfinity

ESTABLISHED IN 1985, US HELPING US BEGAN AS A GROUP OF VOLUNTEERS THAT PROVIDED HOLISTIC HEALTH INFORMATION FOR PEOPLE LIVING WITH AIDS. THE STRATEGY WAS TO TEACH NATURAL HOLISTIC TECHNIQUES –INVOLVING THE BODY, MIND, AND SPIRIT – FOR HEALTH MAINTENANCE.

FOR OVER 35 YEARS, US HELPING US HAS BEEN PROVIDING INNOVATIVE CARE AND SERVICES TO IMPROVE THE HEALTH AND WELL-BEING OF BLACK, GAY MEN. WE WORK EVERY DAY TO REDUCE THE IMPACT OF HIV/AIDS IN THE ENTIRE BLACK COMMUNITY BY PROVIDING CARE TO ANYONE WHO WALKS THROUGH OUR DOOR."

SATURDAYWORKSHOPS

ASL interpreters will be provided for all workshops.

11 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.

Control the Message, Control the World. What is Your Message to the World? Westin, Potomac Ballroom Salon 2

Presenters

• Denaise Seals, Videographer/Editor/Media Arts Educator, Slingshot Video

• Brey Hall, Assistant, Slingshot Video

What’s YOUR Message to the World?

Unleash it with conviction. Share it with passion. Make it resonate with purpose. Because when you speak to the world, the world listens. This is your moment. Own it. Share it. Change the world.

11 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.

Self-Care and Self-Compassion

Westin, Rock Creek Ballroom Salon A

Presenter: Melinda Coles, Abundance Coach, Melinda Coles Coaching

How many of us take care of everyone else and have little to nothing left for ourselves? How many of us sacrifice ourselves to ensure others have what they need? How many of us judge ourselves harshly? How many of us learned that prioritizing ourselves and our needs is selfish? Many of us carry these beliefs and others that do not serve us. The goal of this workshop is for participants to unpack and reevaluate these beliefs about self-care and to learn ways to cultivate self-compassion.

11 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.

Sexpectations: Navigating Sexual & Romantic Compatibility While Dating Westin, Potomac Ballroom Salon 3

Presenter: Amari Ice, Gay Dating Coach and Matchmaker

Little known fact: The primary reason long-term relationships fail is not infidelity or money, it’s the frustration we experience as a result of our unmet (and often

unrealistic) expectations about what our partners should and shouldn’t do. Sexpectations specifically examines our expectations around intimacy and how they impact our perceived level of relationship satisfaction. Hosted by gay matchmaker, love coach, and best-selling author Amari Ice, this masterclass will provide participants with an understanding of how to articulate and negotiate their intimate intentions within the context of their relationship goals. Whether you’re decidedly single or delightfully dating (or already in an established partnership), this masterclass will equip attendees with insights into synthesizing the occasionally opposing ends of the sexual and romantic spectrums. Join us for this delicious dive into the depths of romantic desire. Note: A mobile device may be required to fully participate in some portions of this session.

12:30 – 1:45 p.m.

Advocating for Black LGBTQ Youth in Foster Care: Continuous Support from Early Years to Aging Out

Westin, Rock Creek Ballroom Salon A

Presenter: David Cunningham

In this insightful presentation, my goal is to illuminate the intricate challenges confronting Black LGBTQ youth within the foster care system. Delving into critical issues such as the alarming surge in fentanyl usage and its tragic consequences, along with the pervasive problems of homelessness and abuse, I will provide a comprehensive exploration of these pressing concerns. The core of the presentation lies in outlining robust support strategies meticulously crafted to address the unique needs of these individuals. By navigating through the complexities of their experiences, the presentation aims to foster not only a profound sense of community but also resilience. Join me on this journey as we delve into meaningful solutions and advocate for a future where Black LGBTQ youth in foster care can thrive and overcome adversities.

12:30 – 1:45 p.m.

Embracing Diversity: Mental Health Challenges in the LGBTQ+ Community

Westin, Rock Creek Ballroom Salon C

Presenter: D’Shawn Harris, MEd, LCPC, NCC, Mental Health Psychotherapist & Advocate; CEO, Safe Haven Therapy Services

This workshop delves into the multifaceted realm of mental health in the LGBTQ+ community, highlighting the intricate interplay of identity, discrimination, and access to care. Participants will engage in discussions and activities to unpack the unique

fundamentals of advocacy within the LGBTQ+ community, focusing on individuals living with HIV, public health professionals, activists, and advocates. This session will provide attendees with valuable insights, practical strategies, and tools to drive positive change in their communities. Topics Covered: Understanding the Landscape: Explore the current state of LGBTQ+ rights, HIV advocacy, and public health challenges, emphasizing the intersections of gender, race, and socio-economic factors. Act Now End AIDS (ANEA) Overview: Learn about ANEA and our mission to combat HIV stigma, promote access to healthcare, and advance social justice for marginalized communities.

12:30 – 1:45 p.m.

Queering Theology: Black Pride in the Pew Panel Westin, Potomac Ballroom Salon 2

Moderator: Kaetochi Okemgbo, The Table Church D.C.

Panelists

• Rev. Tonetta Landis-Aina, Co-Pastor, The Table Church D.C.

• LaTanya Simms, Director of Finance and Administration, The Open Church of Maryland

• Dr. Ravi Perry, Professor of Political Science, Howard University

In A Black Theology of Liberation, renowned theologian James H. Cone asserts that Black clergy cannot put the new wine of racial justice into the old wineskins of white distortions about God. Join a diverse group of clergy, academics, and faithbased community activists for a timely discussion about the urgent work of building a modern Black church that centers justice, equity, and inclusion. The discussion will be moderated by Kaetochi Okemgbo, a member of the Board of Elders at The Table Church D.C.

12:30 – 1:45 p.m.

Primary Sources: Elders Sharing Our Histories Westin, Anacostia Ballroom Salon D

Presenters

• Orilonise Yarborough

• Ashley Bamfo, The Rainbow History Project

Panelists

• Tania Abdulahab, Sapphire Sapphos

• Earline Budd, Community Advocate

• Leigh Mosley, Sapphire Sapphos + photographer and filmmaker

• Michael Vanzant, Best Friends D.C.

This history class is anything but boring! Join us for Primary Sources, a mix of oral history with live storytelling for an event that’s educational and entertaining! Spend your afternoon with the Rainbow History Project as we gather around Black Pride’s elders for a live interview with an oral historian. We’ll explore the story of D.C. Black Pride, its unique history and the vision our elders have for the future. Our elders will touch on everything from D.C. Black Pride’s origin story, campus and community organizing and the power of art and activism. Bring your questions, curiosities, reflections and memories as we dive into the rich history of this party with a purpose.

12:30 – 1:45 p.m.

Using Our Voice to Save Lives Westin, Potomac Ballroom Salon 1

Presenter: Angela Harvey, Facilitator, Let’s T.A.L.K. University

Interactive and engaging workshop on suicide prevention. We’ll use storytelling, role play, and group activities to share ways to use our voice to save lives.

12:30 – 1:45 p.m.

What in the L?!: All Things Lesbian Westin, Anacostia Ballroom Salon E

Presenters

• Brielle Winslow-Majette, Deputy Director, Garden State Equality

• Alicia Boykins, Deputy Director, National LGBT Task Force

Can we talk about All Things Lesbian?! A healthy exchange of information that will educate, empower, and uplift all participants. We will be celebrating the things that bind us together and discussing those issues that divide us in an effort to bridge the gap. All lesbian-identified persons are welcome. This workshop will engage participants in a discussion on “What DEIA Like in the Lesbian Community”. This discussion about diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility in the workplace, healthcare, language and movement building, and much more. It will convene lesbian women who identify across the gender expression spectrum, through varying ages, racial and ethnic backgrounds, and socioeconomic status to discuss the current issues that are affront in the Lesbian community and provide the opportunity for lesbian women to come together in a safe space to discuss personal experiences as it relates to their gender expression and gender identity.

EVENTSCHEDULE

All scheduled events and locations are subject to change. All events being held in the Westin Washington, DC Downtown (host hotel) are complimentary unless otherwise noted.

Social Events and Parties

CBE has partnered with several organizations to provide various social events and parties. The social events and parties are planned and managed by the organization listed. If an event, social event or party is not listed on this schedule, it is not an official DC Black Pride event. Partner organizations are:

Women

• A 2 Zee Events, MIM Entertainment and Onyx Entertainment: Unleashed DC

• MS Entertainment, Neiko Dinero and Party with Honey: SHE•SinCZRD

Men

• Daryl Wilson Promotions, LLC: Wet Dreamz

• Xavier Entertainment: Supreme Fantasy 2024

All

• Project Briggs, Inc.: Pride by The River

• Thurst Lounge: Thurstnik

WEDNESDAYMAY 22

7 p.m. – 12 a.m.

What’s Up Wednesday

Thurst Lounge, 2204 14th St NW, WDC 20009

THURSDAYMAY 23

5 – 10 p.m.

Welcome to DC Happy Hour [Presented by Us Helping Us]

metrobar, 640 Rhode Island Ave NE, WDC 20002

4 – 9 a.m.

Welcome to DC Black Pride UNLEASHED Happy Hour [Unleashed DC]

Decades DC, 1219 Connecticut Ave NW, WDC 20036

5 p.m. – 2 a.m.

The Pop Up [Thurstnik]

Thurst Lounge, 2204 14th St NW, WDC 20009

6 – 9 p.m. (Doors open at 5 p.m.)

Mr. & Miss DC Black Pride Pageant Westin, Potomac Salon 1 & 2

8 p.m. – 1 a.m.

We Outside Welcome Party [SHE•SinZRD]

Barcode, 1101 17th St NW, WDC 20036

9 p.m. – 1 a.m.

8th Annual DC Black Pride Unity Ball... Black Pride Forever Westin, Potomac Salon 1 & 2

10 p.m. – 2 a.m.

The Pregame [Wet Dreamz]

The Ugly Mug, 723 8th St SE, WDC 20003

FRIDAYMAY 24

2 – 9 p.m.

Pride Help Desk Open

Westin Washington, DC Downtown, Ballroom Level

4 – 10 p.m.

Rainbow Row: Organization & Vendor Expo

Westin, Ballroom Level

5 – 10 p.m.

DC Black Pride Opening Reception

Westin, Potomac Ballroom

6 – 9:30 p.m.

The No Homo Show [Unleashed DC]

Privilege DC Nightclub, 1115 U St NW

Suite A, WDC 20009

10 p.m. – 2 a.m.

DC Black Pride 2024 powered by UNDRGRND

Public Bar Live, 1214 18th St NW, WDC 200363

10 p.m. – 3 a.m.

F**k The City Up Pride Party [SHE•SinZRD]

Phantom Lounge, 1327 Connecticut Ave NW, WDC 20036

10 p.m. – 3 a.m.

All Black Party [Unleashed DC]

Space DC Restaurant & Lounge, 1355 U St NW, WDC 20009

10 p.m. – 4 a.m.

3000 Men Block Party [Wet Dreamz & Supreme Fantasy]

Karma DC, 2221 Adams Pl NE, WDC 20018

SATURDAYMAY 25

9 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.

Pride Help Desk Open

Westin, Ballroom Level

11 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Rainbow Row: Organization & Vendor Expo

Westin, Ballroom Level

11 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.

WORKSHOP | Control the Message, Control the World. What is Your Message to the World?

Westin, Potomac Ballroom Salon 2

11 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.

WORKSHOP | Self-Care and SelfCompassion

Westin, Rock Creek Ballroom Salon A

11 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.

WORKSHOP | Sexpectations: Navigating Sexual & Romantic Compatibility While Dating

Westin, Potomac Ballroom Salon 3

11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Laylah & Friends DC Black Pride Drag Brunch

Harlot DC, 2001 11th St NW, WDC 20001

11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Shades of Desire [Presented by ONYX Mid-Atlantic]

Westin, Anacostia Ballroom

Live Kink Demos: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Special Presentation: 1 p.m.

Panel Discussion: 1: 15 p.m.

12 – 5 p.m.

Black Pride Day Party [Presented by Black Leaves Dance Company]

Community Church of Washington DC, 15201 Ames St NE, WDC 20019

12:30 – 1:45 p.m.

WORKSHOP | Advocating for Black LGBTQ Youth in Foster Care: Continuous Support from Early Years to Aging Out

Westin, Rock Creek Ballroom Salon A

12:30 – 1:45 p.m.

WORKSHOP | Embracing Diversity: Mental Health Challenges in the LGBTQ+ Community

Westin, Rock Creek Ballroom Salon C

12:30 – 1:45 p.m.

WORKSHOP | Empowering Advocacy: ANEA 101 - Strategies for Change

Westin, Rock Creek Ballroom Salon B

12:30 – 1:45 p.m.

WORKSHOP | Primary Sources: Elders Sharing Our Histories

Westin, Anacostia Ballroom Salon D

12:30 – 1:45 p.m.

WORKSHOP | Queering Theology: Black Pride in the Pew Panel

Westin, Potomac Ballroom Salon 2

12:30 – 1:45 p.m.

WORKSHOP | Using Our Voice to Save Lives

Westin, Potomac Ballroom Salon 1

12:30 – 1:45 p.m.

WORKSHOP | What in the L?!: All Things Lesbian

Westin, Anacostia Ballroom Salon E

12 – 7 p.m.

For The Culture: Brunch Cruise [Presented by Us Helping Us]

The Odyssey, 580 Water St SW, WDC 20024

2 – 3:30 p.m.

DC Black Pride Writers Forum

Westin, Rock Creek Ballroom Saloon A

2 – 5 p.m.

Black Trans Pride Forever Westin, Potomac Ballroom Salon 3

3 – 6 p.m.

The Sounds of Black Pride: Music Through the Decades with DJ Suspence Westin, Magnolia A&B (Lobby Level)

4 – 9 p.m.

Candyland [Unleashed DC]

Power Nightclub, 2335 Bladensburg Rd NE, WDC 20018

4 – 10 p.m.

Epic The Exclusive Day Party [Wet Dreamz]

Walter E. Washington Convention Center, 801 Allen Y. Lew Place NW, WDC 20001

5 – 9:30 p.m.

Rated R Day Party [SHE•SinZRD]

Focus Social Club, 1348 H St NE, WDC 20002

5 – 10 p.m.

DC Black Pride Cookout [Supreme Fantasy]

Aqua, 1818 New York Ave NE, WDC 20002

6 – 9 p.m. (Onsite sign up begins 5:30 p.m.)

DC Black Pride Mary Bowman Poetry Slam and Open Mic Westin, Potomac Ballroom Salon 1 & 2

10 p.m. – 3 a.m.

Renaissance The Main Event [Unleashed DC]

Next Level DC, 15 K St NE, WDC 20002

10 p.m. – 4 a.m.

Hoe Down Main Event [SHE•SinZRD]

Ivy City Smokehouse, 1356 Okie St NE, WDC 20002

10 p.m. – 4 a.m.

The White Party [Wet Dreamz and Supreme Fantasy]

Echostage, 2135 Queens Chapel Rd NE, WDC 20018

3:30 – 7:30 a.m.

After Hours [Supreme Fantasy]

BUNKER, 2001 14th St NW, WDC 20009

SUNDAYMAY 26

11:30 a.m.

Sunday Service

The Community Church of Washington, DC, United Church of Christ, 5201 Ames St NE, WDC 20019

12 – 4 p.m. (Seating at 11 a.m.)

Brunch & Babes: The 3rd Annual DC

Black Pride Iconic Drag Brunch

Hook Hall, 3400 Georgia Ave. NW, WDC 20010

The strongest connection is the one among all of us.

12 – 8 p.m.

Pride by the River Super Sunday at Anacostia Park [Presented by Project Briggs]

Anacostia Park (near Roller Skating Pavillion), 1500 Anacostia Drive, WDC 20020

1 – 5:45 p.m.

3rd Annual Black Pride on the Water [Party with Honey]

Georgetown Waterfront Park, 3303 Water St NW, WDC 20007

1 – 5 p.m. (Brunch)

5 – 10 p.m. (Day Party)

The Hangover Pride Brunch & Live Band Karaoke [SHE•SinZRD]

Shark Bar, 2056 Crain Hwy, Waldorf, MD 20601

4 – 10 p.m.

The Finale [Unleashed DC]

Twelve After Twelve, 1212 18th St NW, WDC 20036

4 – 11 p.m.

Wet Dreamz Mega Day Party [Wet Dreamz]

The Bullpen @ Nats Stadium, 1201 Half St SE, WDC 20003

4 p.m. – 3 a.m.

Sunday Fun Day Rooftop Party [Supreme Fantasy]

Nellie’s Sports Bar, 900 U St NW, WDC 20001

4:30 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.

African-American Collective presents What That Mouth Do…

Undercroft Theater, Mount Vernon Place United Methodist Church, 900 Massachusetts Ave NW, WDC 20001

10 p.m. – 4 a.m.

Daryl Wilson Pride Super Party [Wet Dreamz]

The Park at 14th, 14th St NW, WDC 20005

MONDAYMAY 27

12 – 7 p.m.

Pride In The Park [Presented by Us Helping Us]

Fort Dupont Park, Minnesota Ave SE, WDC 20019

12 p.m.

Grub-N-Grind [Thurstnik]

Thurst Lounge, 2204 14th St NW, WDC 20009

10 p.m.

Meat Loaf After Dark Super Party [Xavier Entertainment and Daryl Wilson Promotions, LLC]

Ivy City Smokehouse, 1356 Okie St NE, WDC 20002

BALLROOM LEVEL

MEETING ROOM LEVEL

LOBBY LEVEL