Twenty years ago, what’s now known as Baltimore Blaq Pride was a block party started by Carlton “The Duchess” Smith, Leroy Burgess, Dana Owens and Kevin Clemons because the larger festivals were not addressing all the unique issues facing LGBTQ+ African Americans.

This year’s event, which launches Friday, is a monthlong slate of activities that will span across the city. There is also a new partner: the Black Arts District, the entity bringing back arts to the historic Pennsylvania Avenue.

Blaq Pride is different from the main Pride in June, when the Pride Center of Maryland hosts a concert headliner and people flock to Station North for a parade and other activities for one weekend.

As director of programming and co-chair of Blaq Pride, Kenneth Something (aka Kenneth Morrison) aimed to do something different.

“We focused on grassroots events so that we can empower the local community and give support,” said Something, also director of programming of the Black Arts District and former CEO of the Pride Center of Maryland.

“We want to put Baltimore on display for other Black Prides across the country,” said Jabari Lyles, co-chair of 2022 Blaq Pride. While June is national Pride, Black Pride events are held across the country at different parts of the year, further proof to some that pride is to be celebrated any day of the year.

Unlike June Pride, these celebrations don’t have to compete with other cities to host their events over just one weekend. For example, Baltimore Pride doesn’t conflict with New York City Pride and D.C. Pride.

This year, there are literally dozens of events to celebrate the contributions of Black LGBTQ+ people at Baltimore Blaq Pride. Here’s a glimpse:

BET Kiki Ball, Oct. 21

7:30 p.m. to 12 a.m.

Majestic Hall of Events, Baltimore

For those unaware, a ball is a celebration of all that makes Black queer community powerful: family, glamour and healthy competition. The BET Kiki Ball is no exception. With cash prizes of up to $500, this ball is sure to showcase talent from Baltimore’s ballroom culture.

Black Pride DLC, Oct. 22

3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

M.A.P. Technologies, Baltimore

M.A.P. Technologies hosts a free gaming tournament with a $300 cash prize. They are also featuring games that focus on diversity and inclusion in gaming. “Black Pride DLC stands to update the largest gaming lounge in the state of Maryland,” the group said. Gamers and spectators alike can hope to find fun, community and maybe discover new games.

Version, Oct. 22

10 p.m.

The Crown, Baltimore

Dance the night away and celebrate DJ Trillnatured’s birthday with the Version family. Kotic Couture will emcee and celebrate Black queer life all night. Advance tickets are available.

Club Bunns reunion, Oct. 23

4 p.m. to 9 p.m.

The Garage, Baltimore

Blaq Pride pulled out all the stops for this event. When building out the list of events for Blaq Pride, a former bartender at the shuttered gay bar Club Bunns hoped to bring a reunion to Blaq Pride, but didn’t have the resources. “They approached us and didn’t have support but had the passion … we can provide you the budget and the support,” Something said. There are sure to be many hugs and laughter as friends celebrate the beloved bar.

Ain’t No Mo’ Black Pride opening, Oct. 27

7:30 p.m.

Baltimore Center Stage, Baltimore

“Ain’t No Mo’,” a play written by Jordan E. Cooper, will have a special opening for Black Pride. The play centers around Flight 1619 that is booked with African Americans who are sent to Africa. The play premieres in Baltimore at the same time it premieres on Broadway. Attendees can enjoy the pre-show gathering and complimentary drink for $5 with code BCSCOMMUNITYNIGHTS.

Mecca’s Mic: Blaq Pride Open Mic, Oct. 27

7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Motor House, Baltimore

Meccamorphosis (aka Mecca Verdell) has been the youth poet ambassador of Baltimore and has one numerous poetry awards domestically and internationally. She also hosts an open mic to encourage new performers to share their creative talent. For Blaq Pride, Mecca will bring her open mic to the Motor House for a night of intellectual stimulation.

‘BLACK AS U R’: Film screening

6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Morgan State University Student Center, Baltimore

A winner of the Micheaux Film Festival, “BLACK AS U R” is a film all about the complexities of Black queer life. Directed by Micheal Rice, the film hopes to unpack some of the present homophobia that directly affects queer Black people. Rice will be in attendance with a special guest, and will answer questions after the screening of the film at Morgan State University.

These are only a handful of the events being offered during Baltimore’s Blaq Pride. The website is updated to include more events as they are scheduled.

Lyles suggests that if attendees are impressed by the offering this year, they should get involved. “Soon after this month, we will be convening our committee for next year and would love help to continue to put on events like this,” he said.

“Baltimore is one of America’s last great Black cities,” Lyles said. “Blaq Pride reflects that culture and resilience.”

imani.spence@thebaltimorebanner.com