G.R.I.T. = GENERATING RADICAL INCLUSION AND TRANSFORMATION

This series of conversations explores how grit, an attribute often given to people who overcome obstacles, can serve as a tool to build agency. With a specific focus on creative expression, G.R.I.T. seeks to expand what it means to practice art for social change. The title stands for: Generating Radical Inclusion & Transformation. In this session we will talk with Diana Diaz and Gaudencio Marquez about The Queer Mercado.

The Queer Mercado is a marketplace composed of Queer / LGBT+ Creators, vendors & artists. They are the first permanent LGBTQ+ feature in the community that takes place on the 3rd Saturday of each month. This is a unique space where they uplift, celebrate and support new business and talent in and around East Los Angeles through a holistic approach to the marketplace / vendor community. We intend to create economic opportunities for Queer / LGBTQ+ community members, specifically those that traditionally have not been afforded the opportunities to activate and elevate their brands, art, and even the opportunity to incubate innovative ideas. The Queer Mercado creates a space that will also engage the local community by contributing vendor fee profit to the local High school, engage youth in job training opportunities through In the Making, and ultimately help create safe environments for LGBTQ+ community members and ensure they see themselves represented and celebrated through a supportive and loving community.

свернуть