As Atlanta Black Pride prepares to celebrate its 25th anniversary, it is important to acknowledge the roots of the annual celebration.
We were founded and formed in 1996 by a group of six friends who set out to fill a void of inclusion and diversity in the Atlanta metro.
In 1996, there was a huge difference in gay in America and Black and gay in America. Most “Pride” celebrations throughout the country did not have or include people of color on the board, in the planning or leadership, however it was okay for them perform on stages and attend certain functions.
Throughout the late ’90s and early 2000’s, the organization and event started to evolve into one of the largest Black Pride celebrations in the country.