The first ever pride festival to celebrate acceptance and diversity in the City of Logan is in the making.
The brains behind artistic not-for-profit Assorted Grains, Ali Strachan and Jimmy Watts, have spent the last two years finding a way to celebrate Logan’s LGBTIQ+ community.
They said the festival, Loud and Proud, was an opportunity to connect with local organisations and celebrate the diversity “that makes Logan such a great place to live”.
The day will include featured artworks, live drag performances and interactive stalls with various community and LGBTIQ groups.
It will also feature a panel of guests – comprised of parents, teens, and young adults – who will share their coming out stories.
“In a way that allows other people to be seen, ask questions, get resources and feel reassured,” Ms Strachan said.
“Sometimes it’s not an easy journey, but it’s amazing if we can share that together.”
She said there was so much good work that happened in the local LGBTIQ community.
However, it was “always done behind closed doors”.
“There hasn’t been a public, visible campaign,” Ms Strachan said.
“So, this is about making sure there is visibility and an opportunity to ask questions.
“The opportunity to speak to people who look like you, or who identify in a similar way, or have a similar story.
“This is their opportunity to feel seen and tell their story, and to empower others to say, ‘it is ok to be you’ – just because you identify as something different, it doesn’t mean you’re anything less.”
The inaugural festival will be held at the Kingston Butter Factory on 12 October, from 1pm.
Attendees will be able to explore art exhibitions, watch queer films, browse the artisan markets and try new foods.
There will be singalongs with the Brisbane Pride Choir, a dedicated kids’ space, and even a fashion show.
As the day turns to night, the dancefloor will open, and local mixer DJ Beksis will start a dance party.
There will be cabaret shows, roving performers, and several drag shows.
“Logan is growing – we see new families moving here from across Queensland,” Ms Strachan said.
“What better way to celebrate this growth than with an inclusive, celebratory pride event that everyone can enjoy.”
She said Loud and Proud was “vital” for the city.
“We want this festival to celebrate who we are as LGBTIQ people but also provide community awareness to reduce factors such as isolation, negative mental-health and miseducation,” she said.
Check out loudproudlogan.com.au
