Name: Behind the Rainbow (Queer Night)
Start: 2026-05-21T18:30:00-07:00
End: 2026-05-21T21:00:00-07:00
Location: 4304 S Fair Lane Tempe AZ 85282

This LGBTQIA+ event is open to all queer identifying folx and will be an opportunity to build friendships with other queer folx. Some of us are out and proud, some are exploring and curious, some of closeted to family/friends/work for a number of reasons - and all are welcome here. This event is designed to bring together those of us with similar lived experiences of navigating a predominantly straight society, so that we have a space to share our stories, give support, and build community. Do you find yourself sometimes downplaying your queerness in certain spaces? Or perhaps you play it up as a sort of social armor? Maybe you feel you’re “not gay enough” or conversely “too much” for some people. No matter where you are in your journey of self-exploration, let’s come together to look behind the rainbow at the humans underneath. This event is for all who self-identify as falling under the LGBTQIA+/queer umbrella - we will not gatekeep - none will be turned away due to orientation/gender/gender expression.

Doors will open at 6:30pm for some mingle and to give folk time to arrive. At 7pm, we’ll have some short announcements then get to the programming for the evening. The intention here is to create a space to have meaningful conversations. To facilitate that, we may break into smaller groups with facilitators guiding the conversation with conversational prompts and helping to create a safe environment to share and be heard. Prompts can be selected from “Ice Breaker” questions to deeper, more personal questions - depending on the participant’s level of comfort.
It is expected that everyone attending will show up as authentically as they are comfortable and to commit to holding the confidence of anything discussed. Our goal is for this to be an opportunity to have fun and build connections. As such, by attending you agree to:
1. Use “I” statements to share personal experiences, thoughts, and feelings. Speak from your personal experiences and not the experiences of others. We do not share stories that are not ours to tell.
2. Keep the confidence of what is shared at the event and not disclose information learned here to those not in attendance.
3. Actively listen, remove distractions (step away if you need to be on your phone), and not engage in cross-talk.
4. Respect those that are sharing by not interrupting or cutting tension by distracting with humor.
5. Refrain from giving advice unless specifically asked. This is about telling our stories, not telling others what they “should” be doing (unless they ask for advice).

***Love Fest Education supports regional and local organizers in creating inclusive, community-driven gatherings that celebrate diversity, equity, and connection. Learn more at lovefestevents.com/