Gay kerrytown
Summer Events for Queer Staff
Meet other Gay Staff at the University of Michigan and relish some of the local events Ann Arbor has to offer during the summer!
OUTFest, an annual pride celebration hosted by Jim Toy Community Center, returns to Ann Arbor's Kerrytown District with an array of activities for the lesbian, gay, bisexual person, transgender, queer (LGBTQ) and allied communities. Weekend events are open to all attendees! For more communication please visit, jimtoycenter.org
Rejoice by attending Pride Picnic on Sunday, August 6th, at noon.
Ann Arbor LGBTQ Metropolis Guide
Ann Arbor is perhaps one of America’s most well-known college towns, and with good reason. The University of Michigan calls the city home, and that means there are plenty of students and university employees here, and the culture of the city and the school are definitely intertwined. Beyond being a college town though, it’s also often called “Tree Town,” for its beautiful tree-lined streets, and for the 157 municipal parks it has located within 25 square miles. It’s the 6th biggest city in Michigan, and a town full of plenty to see, complete and enjoy. It's also a metropolis with a diverse and thriving LGBTQ community and a progressive outlook. In fact, it was the first capital in the nation to have an openly gay candidate be elected to public office, help in 1974. If you’re thinking of finding your next home here, chances are, you’ll discover plenty about it to love!
A Glance at Ann Arbor's History
Without scrutinize, Ann Arbor has long been a college town. Ann Arbor was initially founded in 1825 by John Allen of Virginia and Elisha Rumsey of New York. Both men had wives with the middle name Ann, for whom the town was
LGBTQ+ Ann Arbor: Historic Firsts and a Look Ahead
It’s no classified Ann Arbor is a top Homosexual friendly and welcoming destination in the Midwest. In proof, Ann Arbor has many firsts when it comes to advocating for gay rights. Did you know Ann Arbor held one of the first designated Gay Self-acceptance weeks in the country?
A ‘THANK YOU’ TO OUR PAST
The 1970s were a pivotal time for gay rights movement, and Ann Arbor organizers and trailblazers led the way. The city passed a groundbreaking anti-discrimination ordinance, and the first campus center in the United States opened for LGBT issues at University of Michigan.
During this time, Jim Toy had part in opening the U-M Spectrum Center, organizing the Male lover Liberation Front in Michigan, and is the namesake for the Jim Toy Group Center. Cultural anthropologist and author, Gayle Rubin, helped co-found the Ann Arbor Revolutionary Lesbians. Kelly Kozachenko was the first openly homosexual person elected to political office in the United States, and joined Ann Arbor City Council, to name a few.
Former businesses also helped shape Ann Arbor into the vibrant, queer kind destination we realize today. From pioneering gay bar, The Flame, to long-time fav
There's a place you always belong - Uplift!
Uplift is a brand new gender non-conforming bar in Downtown Ann Arbor proudly building collective and providing fun spaces for the LGBTQ+ folks in Southeast Michigan. Enjoy our neighborhood bar atmosphere during the week, or lively club atmosphere during the weekend!
Uplift
210 S First Street Suite 100N
Ann Arbor, 48104.
What's happening at uplift?
There's something for everyone.
Friday, August 22nd, Season 17 fan favorite Kori King is coming to show her star influence at Uplift! Known for her breathtaking beauty, glamour, and comedy chops, and unmatched charisma, we're so excited to put together this show. Kori will be joined by a cast of sickening local entertainers. Mark your calendars!
Tickets available at the door, or via advance purchase using the button below.
April 26, 2025
For boys and those who admire them! Come dance, liquor, and flirt with endearing boys with amazing home beats by DJ MTLFRND.
April 18, 2025
The finale is HERE! Come root for your favorite queen and enjoy drink specials!
April 23, 2025
Join us as we do some classic speed dating: sapphic style.
April 9, 2025
We&#
LGBTQ Ann Arbor: Historic Firsts & A Look Ahead
It’s no secret Ann Arbor is a top LGBTQ friendly and welcoming destination in the Midwest.
In fact, Ann Arbor has many firsts in advocating for gay rights. Did you know Ann Arbor held one of the first designated Male lover Pride weeks in the country? Find out what makes this college town a queer-friendly place to visit.
A ‘Thank You’ to our Past
The 1970s were a pivotal second for gay rights protest, and Ann Arbor trailblazers led the way. The city passed a groundbreaking anti-discrimination ordinance, and the first campus center in the US opened for LGBT support at University of Michigan.
During this time, Jim Toy had part in opening the U-M Spectrum Center, organizing the Gay Liberation Front in Michigan, and is the namesake for the Jim Toy Collective Center. Anthropologist and author, Gayle Rubin, helped co-found the Ann Arbor Radical Lesbians. Kelly Kozachenko was the first openly gay person elected to political office in the United States, and joined Ann Arbor City Council.
Former businesses also helped shape Ann Arbor into the vibrant, homosexual friendly destination