The MHC Pride Coalition hosted “Electric Love” on June 28 at the Virginia Museum of Natural History, a vibrant celebration funded in part by the last of their HOPE Grant from the Harvest Foundation.
The event featured food, dancing, music, and local vendors, drawing a crowd in support of the LGBTQA+ community. Proceeds from the evening will support future coalition activities and events.
Electric Love followed a fundraiser held on June 13, along with several months of community meetups designed to foster connection and support among LGBTQA+ residents in Martinsville-Henry County.
“This show was a paid event that offered VIP seating to help raise more money for the organization,” said Elizabeth Carter, president and founder of the MHC Pride Coalition.
“Between our Snow Queens & Disco Dreams event in January and Electric Love this past weekend, our grant money was exhausted and well spent,” Carter said in a press release.
DJ Taylor of BOTW Productions & Entertainment provided the music, and drag performers—both queens and kings—from Martinsville-Henry County and surrounding areas lit up the stage.
“You all worked that stage and crowd surrounded by dinosaurs and preserved species like it was second nature,” Carter added. “Ha! Beat that venue.”
Vendors at the event included Joyful Canvas by Maci, Leslie of Bookbiffle, Aura Della, Spiral Treats, and M&M Sweet Sips Lemonade. Virginia Harm Reduction was also on-site to offer safe, private testing services.
Carter closed the event with a message of gratitude and visibility.
“Thank you, MHC, for showing up, supporting the MHC Pride Coalition, celebrating Pride with us, and proving that queer presence in rural communities is strong, growing, and vibrant. I hope you’ll stand with me—with us—as we continue #PrideAllYear. You are seen. You are heard. You are loved.”
Upcoming events and donation opportunities can be found on the MHC Pride Coalition’s Facebook page.
