Model D Speaker Series tonight: Gay Detroit

Twenty-five years ago, the first pride march in Michigan took place in downtown Detroit. This year, Motor City Pride brought the festival back to the city, drawing over 40,000 people to Hart Plaza. To reflect on this occasion and to celebrate National Pride Month, Model D Media and WDET are teaming with Unity Michigan to present a special evening on Tuesday, June 21 at the Park Bar in downtown Detroit. Come for part or all; the event is free and open to the public. Seating is limited; please register in advance here.

Speaker Series: Gay Detroit (5:30 - 6:30 pm)
Presented by Model D, WDET and MSHDA.

A panel of local leaders discuss the state of gay culture and community in Detroit. How welcoming is our city to all people, regardless of sexual orientation and gender identity? How are LGBT Detroiters shaping our cultural and civic life? What role do neighborhoods, businesses and institutions play in creating an inviting city? Panelists include Charles Pugh, president of the Detroit City Council, Roland Leggett, Equality Michigan; Joe Posch, Supergay Detroit; Kirsten Ussery, Downtown Detroit Partnership and The Villages CDC; and designer and activist Nick Piotrowski, who will moderate the panel.

Town Hall: Equality Action (7 - 8:30 p.m.). Presented by Unity Michigan.

Current Michigan law does not prohibit discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation, leaving many at risk of being fired, evicted or denied services because they are gay or transgender. What are the social, economic and legal impacts of discrimination? Panelists include representatives from Unity Michigan's coalition for equality: the American Civil Liberties Union of Michigan, Affirmations and Equality Michigan.

Afterglow: Doggy Style (9 p.m.). Presented by Supergay Detroit.

Stay after the discussion for a special summer edition of Doggy Style Tuesdays at the Park Bar. Enjoy music and video with a gay vibe curated by local blogger, Supergay Detroit. Open to all gay humans and their friends. No cover, cash bar.

The Park Bar is located at 2040 Park Avenue in downtown Detroit. Doors open at 5 p.m.; the program begins at 5:30 p.m. The discussions will take place upstairs, on the 2nd floor. Light food and refreshments will be provided.