Go to the Roller Derby, Get Tickets for Dave Koz, Relax at an LGBTQ-Friendly Game Night
As LGBTQ+ Americans process the election outcome, many of us feel a mix of frustration, resilience and renewed determination. In a political climate that sometimes questions our right to exist, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But this is when our community’s strength shines brightest, rooted in a legacy of perseverance.
Now more than ever, it’s essential to seek out community. Make plans to see queer Grammy-winning saxophonist Dave Koz, gather with friends at an LGBTQ+ game night, where laughter and friendship bring relief, or cheer on the fierce competitors at a roller derby match, celebrating unapologetic self-expression. On the practical side, consider updating your passport if you’ve changed your name or gender marker.
These gatherings are more than events. They’re affirmations of our shared journey and unbreakable solidarity. Together, we find joy, pride and strength — powerful reminders that, even in challenging times, we are never alone.
1. Support the Black ‘n’ Blue
Campy nicknames, colorful uniforms and a dramatic competition on wheels — the core aspects of roller derby call to the queer community at Lansing Roller Derby’s Black ‘n’ Blue roller derby tournament, set for Nov. 29-Dec.1 in Mason.
Derby player Veronica Cockrell (Red Zeppelin) told Pride Source that the roller derby environment is incredibly welcoming. “[It’s] very inclusive and welcoming to everyone regardless of self-identification,” she said. “It's awesome to be able to go out and see skaters supporting, teaching and helping each other on and off the track and to be in an environment where everyone is welcomed and celebrated for being themselves.”
Nov. 29-Dec. 1 Ingham County Fairgrounds (700 E. Ash St., Mason). Snag tickets at bit.ly/3YSNTJU and learn more at instagram.com/lansingrollerderby.
2. Update Your Passport
While the election outcome may be out of your hands at this point, it’s still empowering to work on the things you can control. Now, more than ever, is a good time to take action to make sure your identity will be seen and respected. The University of Michigan's Spectrum center is doing its part by holding a Trans and Nonbinary Passport Clinic.
During the event, students and community members can meet with Washtenaw County Clerk's office officials to renew, apply for or make adjustments to passports through updated gender markers or name changes. Don’t wait; get your documents in order now.
Nov. 18, 12-2 p.m., Weiser Hall (500 Church St, Ann Arbor) Register at spectrumcenter.umich.edu/events.
3. Get Tickets for Dave Koz
With Thanksgiving looking like it might be a bit strenuous this year, why not skip ahead to planning for the holidays? Gay Grammy-nominated saxophonist Dave Koz is coming to Detroit as a part of his 2024 Christmas Tour. With Jonathan Butler joining him, in addition to a slew of other musical talents, Koz’s Christmas Tour promises to bring a fresh take on music rich with tradition. The show is bound to sell out, so reserve your tickets now.
Dec. 15, 7:30 p.m., Music Hall Center for the Performing Arts (350 Madison, Detroit). Ticketing information at bit.ly/4hvxmmx.
4. Find Housing Support
Affirmations, Ferndale’s LGBTQ+ community center, will host a Homlessness Support Clinic on Nov. 18 from 1 -3 p.m. “We understand that homelessness can be a challenging and stressful experience, but you don’t have to go through it alone,” press materials read. “Our clinic is a safe and welcoming space where you can get the support and assitance you need to get back on your feet.”
The clinic, offered through Affirmations and the Community Housing Network, will feature walk-in appointments for community members 18 and up who are facing or experiencing homelessness, including those living on the street, people living in in unsafe environments and people experiencing mental illness. No appointment necessary.
Nov. 18, 1-3 p.m., Affirmations (290 W. 9 Mile Road, Ferndale).
5. Relax at a Queer-Friendly Game Night
Relax among welcoming, affirming new friends at an LGBTQ-inclusive game night in Lansing.
The city’s Salus Center offers a monthly Gayme Night on the third Saturday of the month at it downtown headquarters (408 S. Washington Square, Lansing) from 5-7 p.m.. Snacks, drinks and board games are included (or feel free to bring your own and teach other participants how to play). Learn more at saluscenter.org.
You’ll also find queer-friendly gaming each Tuesday through LAGE (Lansing-Area Games and Events) at Frank’s Press Box (7216 W. Saginaw Hwy., Lansing) and The Gaming Cantina (4750 Hagadorn Rd., East Lansing), starting at 6:30 p.m. Learn more at meetup.com/lansing.
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