City Hall transformed into a dazzling reflection of Atlanta’s queer brilliance as more than 300 residents, activists, artists, and allies gathered for the 6th Annual Mayor’s Black Gay Pride Reception. Themed “Through the Looking Glass: A Black Queer Wonderland,” this year’s event blended art, culture, and purpose into a celebration of belonging and legacy.
Hosted by the Mayor’s Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion and its LGBTQ Affairs Division, the reception has become a cornerstone of Atlanta Black Pride, showcasing not only the vibrancy of Black queer identity, but also the city’s commitment to equity and investment in future leaders.
“It’s a wonderful feeling to create a celebration of pride and people that also invests in our youth,” said Dewayne Queen, Director of LGBTQ Affairs.
A Night for Legacy and Lift
While drag artists twirled, DJs spun, and City Hall pulsed with sound and color, the night held a deeper mission: to send students to college. Thanks to generous donations, the event raised $15,000 for the Mayor’s Youth Scholarship Program, a city-run initiative supporting Atlanta students pursuing higher education.
In a heartfelt moment, scholarship recipients took the stage to share how the program helped them overcome barriers and pursue their academic dreams, making it clear that pride and progress go hand in hand.
“Thousands of our young people have benefitted from this program while working toward their degrees or certifications,” said Mayor Dickens in his remarks. “It makes me happy to know we can show up for these students when they need financial support.”
Honoring Those Who Lead and Inspire
Each year, the reception honors individuals shaping Atlanta’s social and cultural landscape. This year’s Community Impact Award went to Nik Harris of the Human Rights Campaign for her tireless advocacy, while the Cultural Impact Award celebrated iconic couple Da Brat and Jessica “Judy” Dupart-Harris for their influence, representation, and bold visibility.
The event also featured performances by Durand Bernarr, an Exhibition Kiki Ball curated by Overall Princess Jauan Durbin, and an electric crowd that stayed well into the night.
Powered by Community and Corporate Allies
Major sponsors such as Gilead Sciences, Delta Air Lines, Georgia Power, and the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation helped power the evening, demonstrating how public-private partnerships can support events that celebrate culture while driving impact.
Gilead’s signature photo booth became a focal point, capturing moments of joy, pride, and community with the hashtag #BlackQueerWonderland.
Pride with a Purpose
For six years, the Mayor’s Black Gay Pride Reception has redefined civic celebration. It’s not just a party—it’s a platform. One that uplifts young people, honors queer Black leadership, and uses City Hall itself as a canvas for inclusion.
This year’s event reaffirmed Atlanta’s identity as a city that leads with love—and as a government committed to making room for everyone, exactly as they are.
