We are thrilled to announce the upcoming 2018 Gentlemen’s Ball Weekend: Unapologetically BLACK!  It promises to be a weekend full of Empowerment, Entertainment, & Celebration, all in the spirit of PHILANTHROPY!  This year’s theme, ‘Unapologetically BLACK’, was chosen because it is a great and necessary reminder for us to reside in the knowing that our innate POWER individually and as a people,  is fueled by our BLACKNESS.  Sometimes, the resilience and tenacity that’s ingrained in us as we stand at the intersection of Black & LGBTQ++ is often forgotten; second fiddle to our sexual identity.  But we say ‘no more’.  This year, we offer the opportunity to honor our heritage, to celebrate our ancestors, and to embrace our future.  As our beloved Mother “O” has told us, “Your Crown Has Been Paid For”; it’s urgent for us to remind ourselves and the world of that reality. 

“We are a witness to the injustices that occur not only in our backyard but across the nation.  We believe that bringing the community together during this weekend of empowerment under the theme ‘Unapologetically BLACK’ will increase the unity in our community by reminding the world where we stand.  This is a chance for us to help progress our collective healing.”   says co-founders Juan & Gee Smalls.

The weekend will launch on Friday, October 5^th, with discussions and education on diversity in various industries, followed by a Welcome Reception & Scholarship Presentation Ceremony that will be accompanied by live entertainment & specially invited guests.

Saturday morning, October 6^th, will be kicked-off with a series of workshops, panels, vendors, discussions & keynote speakers that will focus on black empowerment in the LGBTQ++ community and how we can foster deeper healing.  Later that evening will be the pinnacle of the weekend, The 7th Annual Gentlemen’s Ball: Unapologetically BLACK at The Atlanta Marriott Marquis, where we will arrive in our very best versions of being Unapologetically BLACK in our attire and our swagger.  We will dine, fellowship and celebrate each other and our list of esteemed honorees from across the nation.  And you can BEST BELIEVE we will be dancing the night away at the official Gentlemen’s Ball After Glow immediately following the ball.

The weekend culminates with a special brunch on Sunday, October 7^th, that will be sure to leave you brothers and sisters feeling motivated, renewed, and inspired to stand unapologetically in the very fabric of your being well after departing.

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