About Say It Loud!

Black & Latino Gay Pride in June of 2007, with a one-day celebration that consisted of a screening of the film “Paris is Burning,” a block party-esque get together in Washington Park, and an afterparty at the Fuze Box in Albany.

Over the years, Say It Loud! has grown to span an entire weekend, and offer a variety of events, including a drug and alcohol free dance party, and a Sunday brunch, in addition to the staples of the Saturday celebration, and afterparty.

The weekend has also grown to include over 1,500 participants, and draws Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender People Of Color (LGBT POC) from all over the Capital Region - and some even as far as Syracuse!

The importance of Say It Loud! is obvious. It is an opportunity for LGBT POC to come together in solidarity, to celebrate our individuality, diversity and strengths. In addition to the fun-fulled activities offered throughout the weekend, the main objective of Black & Latino Gay Pride is to promote the health and well-being of the LGBT POC community.

LGBT POC are the most medical underserved population in the United States. According to the Empire State Pride Agenda Needs Assessment (2009), LGBT POC experience more barriers to accessing healthcare. As a result, LGBT POC are less likely to seek preventative healthcare services, and at a higher risk for depression, drug abuse, and other destructive behaviors.