Today we’d like to introduce you to Taylor Alxndr.
Taylor, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Southern Fried Queer Pride is a QTPOC-led queer and trans arts and advocacy organization. We uplift Southern queer communities through the arts and community organizing.
We started organizing in 2014 and grew from an annual festival to 40+ events a year ranging from all Black drag stage productions to community town halls on pertinent issues to galleries and more. We started out of a lack of space for queer and trans people of color who were artists and community organizers to form bonds.
That’s still very much our mission – to create intentional spaces and art for the community at large, but uplifting the most marginalized.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
It has a relatively smooth road. Each year we grow and reach more people, while also stepping back and changing how we operate to make sure we’re being intentional and inclusive.
Of course, as a grassroots arts organization, some of the struggles come from not having a dedicated space for venue for events. However, that’s something we aim to tackle in the oncoming year or so.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Southern Fried Queer Pride – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
Southern Fried Queer Pride specializes in creating intentional spaces where art and community exist without pressure to assimilate. We prioritize those in our community who are often ignored – Black and brown folks, trans folks, folks with disabilities, undocumented folks, femmes, etc.
I think what sets us apart is that we’re a grassroots, DIY organization – everything is for and by the community, with no prerequisites or dues. We believe the community knows best what is needed, and we should do our best to make those dreams realities.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
We’re going into our 6th year as an organization, without the 5th year of our annual festival, and so much more.
We’re aiming in continuing to grow our reach and organizing core. We would love for there to be an SFP event every week next year.
Our biggest goal is to lay the groundwork for an SFQP-owned and operated community and event venue – ideally Atlanta’s only queer community center.
Image Credit:
Jesse Pratt Lopez
Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
