Starting at 9 p.m on Friday, the Civic Media Center will be opening their stage to anyone who would like to sing. They only have one rule.
“Sing any song you want, just no songs that are sexist, transphobic or hurtful in any way,” said Em Arnold, a recent UF alumni and coordinator of the event.
The event, located at 433 S. Main St., is free to all, but donations and tips are suggested. Participants are encouraged to bring an instrument to play with their songs.
Manu Osorio, a board member of the center, said the idea was created by a group of karaoke-loving friends who saw opportunity for an inclusive karaoke night.
“We wanted a karaoke night that was hosted by queer people for local queer friends,” Osorio said.
The event offers the local LGBTQIA community an opportunity to meet other queer people in a different type of setting.
“You can come, be yourself and be accepted,” Arnold said. “Make friends and have a blast without the fear of being misgendered or running into any other problems.”
Arnold and Osorio look forward to making this a regular event on the first Friday of every month.
“It is important for us to make these events public to be able to attract queer folks that haven't yet become involved in the community,” Osorio said.
Photo by Cecilie Johnsen on Unsplash
