As summertime approaches, we are reminded that the Gap Pride season has drawn near. For the green leaves Gay Pride and its more politically incorrect cousin, Black Gay Pride is perhaps one of the most defining moments in the life of a LGBTQ person. While, most gay people are attracted to the numerous parties and Mardi Gras type events, there are also numerous workshops, film festivals and networking type activities. But then again, the more cultural events are not the reason that thousands of people flock to Miami, New York, DC, Los Angeles and Atlanta. Nah…for the eighty percentile, they are coming to “Set it Off” and let their colors shine.
For those lesbians and gays of color who are able to travel to a black gay pride. It is an amazing event to behold. The media’s portrayal of the community as being racially homogenous is contradicted when one attends any of these events and witnesses the "kids" in living color. This weekend, we had a chance to attend one of the greatest shows on earth….Atlanta’s Black Gay Pride. Before we give a critique or summarize pride, let present a side note on The Runway which is Hartsfield-Jackson Airport.
Flying into the airport is one of the first events one must experience to truly appreciate BGP. The queens and drag kings are abundant and ever present walking with just enough swagger and flair to catch attention from the onlookers. While Atlanta has been known as a haven for black folks and family for the past two decades, Labor Day Weekend intensifies the presence of these individuals. The multicolored uniforms of Gays-R-Us sprinkle the airport as people meet to form their crews for the weekend. One can entertain themselves by just sitting in the various concourses and watch the dynamic, if not dram tic folks unboard the plane talking loud and fever pitch about the weekends activities. If this doesn't tickle your funny bone, then perhaps the shocked look of over bible based onlookers covering their kids eyes with flush cheeks will make you smirk. At the baggage claim, you will see the fabalous gay men with their matching luggage and Marc Jacobs sunglasses, while the his and her lesbians pair off and greet their friends with bear grunts and daps. Welcome to the show (more to come)
