Texas Latino Pride, the nonprofit organization celebrating the cultural heritage and diversity of the Latine and LGBTQ communities in Texas, this week announced plans for its 11th annual Texas Latino Pride Festival in September and the election of two new members to the organization’s board of directors.
In addition, the organization hosts its annual TX Latino Pride ‘Vaquerx’ celebration Sunday, Aug. 10, from 4-9 p.m. at the Round-Up Saloon, 3912 Cedar Springs Road.
Texas Latino Pride Festival is set for Saturday, Sept. 13, from 3-10 p.m. at Reverchon Park. The festival lineup includes headliners Mistress Isabelle Brooks from RuPaul’s Drag Race season 15 and RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars season 10, and Valentina from Drag Race Mexico, RuPaul’s Drag Race season 9 and RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars season 4.
The festival’s host, Lushious Massacr, is an Emmy Award-winning drag artist who recently went viral with her YouTube series highlighting the intersectionality of LGBTQ and Latine identity. Singing headliner GusToso is a queer Brazilian artist who blends his cultural heritage with modern dance production.
Additional performers include co-host Catharaita Cavalli, Muriel, UDA Samba, Vanita Leo, Dulce Strutts, Juana Velez, Jade, Babidoll and La Divina Garza.
Local vendors, health screenings and more will also be part of the festival.
Tickets are available now through the organization’s Eventbrite page. Admission is free with registration, but a VIP option is available for $100, which includes drinks, food and meet-and-greet opportunities with the headliners.
New board members
Jacob Reyes, GLAAD’s Texas representative and the founder of the Queer and Trans Liberation March, has been elected as vice president of the Texas Latino Pride board, overseeing the operations and communications for the board. Texas Latino Pride President Juan Contreras will continue leading the team but will begin transitioning his leadership role to Reyes.
“I am honored to continue the mission of Texas Latino Pride, and I thank Juan for his trust in me,” Reyes said. “The role of vice president is a responsibility I do not take lightly. Together, this energized and dedicated Texas Latino Pride team will ensure our Latinidad is seen, listened to and valued.”
Forth Worth businesswoman and transgender advocate Aubrey Campos was elected as education director for the organization. Campos’ experience as a trans Latina based in Fort Worth will bring new influence to the organization as Texas Latino Pride ensures to highlight resources for LGBTQ Latine Texans. Additionally, TXLP has partnered with Campos for weekly events in Fort Worth, expanding the organization’s mission outside of Dallas.
Campos said, “Texas Latino Pride’s mission is now more important than ever. When we look back at this crucial moment, we will remember how our community came together, despite so much uncertainty. The Texas Latino Pride Festival is more than just a place to celebrate; it is an act of defiance.
“Our identities are sacred, and, as part of the board of directors, I look forward to highlighting that in future programming for all,” she added.
Other new board members include Operations Director Jamahl Powell and Finance Director Joseph Rangel.
According to a press release announcing the festival and the new board members, “Texas Latino Pride began 11 years ago when founder Juan Contreras had the idea to bring their respective communities together to celebrate pride and identity. As Texas sees numerous setbacks for LGBTQIA Texans and Latine folks, we must continue to remember the power of bringing people together to be defiant and of course, proud. Now, with new additions to the Texas Latino Pride Board of Directors, that vision can be seen through into the organization’s next decade.”
Contreras said, “As president of Texas Latino Pride, I’m focused on creating spaces where our cultural heritage and LGBTQ identities can come together in celebration. What started as a single annual event has grown into a nonprofit organization dedicated to building community and unity.
“There’s real power in showing up for each other, especially when the world faces continuing challenges,” they continued. “An integral part of that power is our annual festival. Through our fantastic lineup and vendors, we are proud to highlight our respected communities.”