 BEFORE WE MARCH: Protest Art Workshop & Activist Talk Before we march, we create. Join us for a unique advocacy workshop ahead of Pride in the CLE on June 6th! We are diving deep into the intersection of radical creativity and political resistance. Featuring guest speaker Anthony Cianciolo—filmmaker, curator, and activist with ACT UP and Queer Nation—this event is part history lesson, part strategy session, and part hands-on art studio. From the miniature masterpieces of the late Jerome Caja to the ACT UP demonstrations of the 80s and 90s, we’ll explore how queer joy and provocative art have always been our most powerful tools against burnout and erasure.  WHAT TO EXPECT The Legacy of Jerome Caja: Anthony will guide us through the Jerome Project, exploring the work of Jerome Caja (1958–1995). Jerome was a Cleveland-born drag queen and artist who used nail polish, eyeliner, and bottle caps to create radical icons during the height of the AIDS crisis. We’ll discuss how Jerome’s very existence was an act of defiance—a message that resonates today as we fight against Ohio’s drag ban. Activism Across Generations: How do we define ourselves today versus the activists that came before us? Anthony will share firsthand insights from the front lines of Queer Nation and ACT UP, discussing how to have unpleasant conversations through art and who gets to decide what is indecent, provocative, or allowed to be seen. Hands-on Workshop & Protest Art: It’s time to find your message. Whether you’re painting a t-shirt, drawing on cardboard, or xeroxing a zine-style poster, this is your space to create the gear you’ll carry at the Pride March when we lead chants in the streets of Downtown Cleveland. Get Involved: This event is hosted in collaboration with the Cleveland chapter of ACT UP. Beyond the art-making, this is a prime opportunity to learn how you can plug into local LGBTQ+ grassroots organizing efforts right here in Greater Cleveland. Representatives will be on hand to discuss how you can join the movement and keep the momentum going long after Pride. Finding Queer Joy: In a climate of increasing attacks, we cannot afford to burn out. This workshop is a space to find your story of self through art, build community, and remember that our radical existence is the foundation of our movement. Attendance is free! Art supplies provided (but feel free to bring your own materials, t-shirts or denim to customize!).
— We look forward to seeing you there! —  |
by Sheena Zilla & Elizabeth Katavich
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