Groups off gay Atlanta’s beaten drag-DJ-drinks path offer something for queens of different scenes. Atlanta has a rich history of activism, culture and art. For decades, gays have shaped the city by finding ways to get involved without getting bored.
By James P. Sheffield
Even before Stonewall, gay Atlantans were organizing and creating safe spaces for community. When you partner queer ingenuity with southern charm and style, the results speak for themselves.
The gay underground club scene, arts community and grassroots organizers throughout the decades have left behind a remarkable legacy, including one of the most vibrant gay bar scenes in the country, world renowned drag queens and entertainers, and a bounty of service & social organizations.
It’s undeniable that gay life in Atlanta has its own special flair, which is kept fresh by the formation of new groups and events around town, as well as our willingness to step out of the mainstream.
If there is one thing that there is no shortage of in Atlanta, it’s gays who aren’t afraid to set trends or create an alternative. All of our gay Atlanta establishments have a history of emerging from the fringe; small groups of people determined to create social change or a social experience.
Before the Atlanta Pride Parade was filled with floats and dancing boys, a small group of activists marched through streets with bags over their heads.
Before RuPaul was recording house music hits and crowning queens on national television, she was finding the fringe with other Atlanta-based queer creative types.
Before Lost-N-Found Youth was running a thrift store and renovating a house in Midtown, a handful of gay men put together a network of couches and hotel rooms to help homeless youth.
So what are today’s alternatives? What groups and activities step-out of the traditional bar and brunch scene and show us something different? Whether it’s just for fun or to create change, here’s a sample of some of Gay ATL’s current offerings:
Southern Fried Queer Pride
In the spirit of Stonewall and ACT UP, this group of alternative-pride producers is dedicated to exploring the political and creative side of queer identities. You can participate in a variety of events throughout the year, including an annual festival during the last week of June.
Expect everything from bands to movie screenings and speakers to social justice rallies. Keep an eye on their website for details on their first ever queer film festival, which launches this September. southernfriedqueerpride.com
Wilderness Network of Georgia
Gay & Bi men who want to get dirty in the great outdoors, look no further. Wilderness Network of Georgia has a variety of offerings, including camping, hiking, biking, and caving.
There’s no skill level requirement to participate, so jump in whenever you’re ready. Visit their Meetup page for a full calendar of events and info on how to get involved. meetup.com/wildnetga
Hotlanta Rubber Group
It’s not an uncommon sentiment for us to recognize our gay bars as more than “just bars.” They are places that create a sense of community, while also allowing for a variety of self-expression. The Atlanta Eagle is host to the Hotlanta Rubber Group, a monthly bar night that provides a safe space for those interested in rubber, latex, neoprene, and other gear & apparel of that nature.
Enjoy the festivities on the second Friday of each month by becoming joining the club. Membership is free and you can access the application here. atlantaeagle.com/the-hotlanta-rubber-group
OutWorlders
Are you a closeted Trekkie? Going stir crazy waiting for that new Game of Thrones book? Having trouble finding a friend to watch scary movies with? Desperate to discuss cosplay options for Dragon Con? OutWorlders is there for you. LGBT sci-fi, fantasy, and horror junkies can get their fix through a variety of events throughout the year.
There’s no fee to join, simply show up to any of the events listed on the OutWorlders site. outworlders.info or facebook.com/groups/outworlders
Gay Gamers of Atlanta
This group of fun loving gays has your board game, card game, and trivia needs covered. The last Saturday of every month they take over the Rush Center for a potluck and evening of gaming. Everyone is encouraged to bring a dish to share and a $5 donation, but all are welcome, even if you only bring yourself.
Rumor has it that a few love connections have been made at this monthly outing. We can’t guarantee you’ll get a date, but to be safe, we recommend keeping your competitive side balanced with some southern hospitality. You can find the Gay Gamers of Atlanta on their Meetup page. meetup.com/GayGamers
Web Exclusive Bonus Groups:
Team Friendly Atlanta works to fight HIV stigma through community education and events. facebook.com/TeamFriendlyAtlanta
Gay Spirit Visions creates safe, scared space for the exploration and strengthening of spiritual identity for queer men. gayspiritvisions.org
Hotlanta Softball, Southern Softpaw Fall Ball, Atlanta Bucks Rugby (Read our fall preview in this issue), National Flag Football League of Atlanta, the swimmers of Rainbow Trout and more host leagues nearly year-round for all skill levels. hotlantasoftball.org; southernsoftpaw.com; atlantabucksrugby.org; nffla.com; atlantarainbowtrout.com
Panther L/L Atlanta is a Leather & Levi club committed to fellowship and community service pantherll.org