2011 Jul 29 Come Out for Jing Pride: Grace Su Dishes on Closing Party
We already got a taste of the growing Pride movement back in May, when Beijing celebrated International Day Against Homophobia (IDAHO) for the third year in a row. Now we're nearing the end of the biggest Jing Pride we've had to date. We spoke to one of the organizers, Grace Su, about Beijing's LGBT community, sex toys and what to expect from tomorrow's closing party.
What's your story? Where are you from and how'd you get involved?
I was born in Beijing and grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area until now. I've always loved the vibe of Pride – people are just crazy and happy to be themselves. The Jing has some of the craziest people, so let's get that crazy out of them.
How many Jing Prides have taken place now, and how is this year different from those held in previous years?
Last year was a one-day bash at Lantung. This year could have been just a week of G&L events that were already around and that would be easy to organize. But that wouldn't be something we could be Proud of. That is why we made the opening at ROOMbeijing special and plan to do so for the closing party tomorrow afternoon.
Capture the spirit of Jing Pride Week in three words.
Pride. Acceptance. Fun.
What's the current climate like for Beijing's LGBT community?
There's a bunch of cool people in the community, not just your stereotypical LGBT activist. But there are not enough cool parties with great content to be proud of – that is why we are doing Jing Pride.
This was a weeklong bash – how has the public received the celebrations so far?
Much better than expected.
What'd you think of the ROOMbeijing opening party?
Kokoh Conley's performance really rocked it and showed us what Pride really is – not giving a damn about what other people think. (See photos from the event in our online gallery here.)
Why should we come to Saturday's bash?
In the same way that ROOM had that awesome surprise performance at the opening, there will be a surprise this Saturday, too. Look out for party favors distributed by Sweet Toys sex shop, other fun booths and RMB 30 drinks to the end. High-energy DJs Mo Li, Juliana Lima, and Kefra have also prepared house and electro Pride tracks.
Jing Pride Week is almost over – how can we keep on supporting the cause?
Watch out for more events with great content, such as WET in August.
Anything else to add?
This Saturday, rain or shine we are going to rock the Jing Pride closing party this Saturday because that's what Pride is about – nothing is going to stop us. We've waterproofed our sound system and have big umbrellas on standby in case of rain. See you there!
Show your true colors at Jing Pride's closing party this Saturday at Danger Doyle's from 5-10pm. Get more details from our Bars & Clubs Editor here.
Danger Doyle's. 3/F, Bldg 5, China View, 2 Gongti Donglu, Chaoyang District (6591 3337) 朝阳区工体东路2号中国红街大楼5号楼三层
Photos: Grace Su
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