Graphic via UndHERground’s Facebook.
Largo, Fla. | Project No Labels and the Tampa Bay Lesbians will present one final UndHERground at The Lady’s Room Sept. 21 from 8-11 p.m. before presenting pop-up gatherings throughout Tampa Bay.
All are welcome to attend the open mic night and singles mixer, hosted by LGBTQ+ entertainers and advocates Mr. Vyn Suazion and Sam Obeid. It will also feature music from DJ Danita Off the Meter from 8-11 p.m.
The Lady’s Room is currently one of only 24 lesbian bars in the nation and has hosted several UndHERground events. The partnership has aimed to bring more awareness to the business and the services that it provides to the local LGBTQ+ community.
Volunteers like Tina Sapia and River Bates worked in collaboration with The Lady’s Room to organize the events. They have encouraged attendees to participate, support and enjoy performances from local talent and more.
Claire Elisan, PNL founder and CEO, brought the organization back to Tampa Bay “based on the demand from the community, 100%.” She wants to provide a sense of community based on feedback from those the organization supports while hosting additional events throughout the greater area.
UndHERground focuses on providing a safe space for women and other members of the LGBTQ+ community to meet other people in real life rather than through a screen. Organizers have helped create this safe space by providing security at events and more.
“We want women to be able to step out of reality TV and into reality,” Elisan says.
The Sept. 21 event, as well as others presented in conjunction with PNL, proudly works to unite “the LGBTQ+ community with our straight allies through positive activities and events while promoting mental wellness and having fun!” It has an optional $5 or more donation that supports PNL’s “Dear Self, You Are Worth It” initiative.
The mental health program was launched in 2020 to make mental wellness attainable for all. Elisan says funds raised in the years since have allowed the organization to provide 6,000 LGBTQ+-affirming therapy sessions at no cost, as well as affordable and sliding-scale therapy services for Florida residents via in-person and virtual visits.
PNL the Tampa Bay Lesbians currently plan to host UndHERground events throughout Tampa Bay and are seeking partners to do so. Interested and inclusive venues who are open to hosting events in Tampa, Lakeland and Pasco County can contact Elisan at 813-438-3537 or ProjectNoLabels@gmail.com.
The next UndHERground is scheduled for Sept. 21 from 8-11 p.m. at The Lady’s Room, located at 9057 Ulmerton Rd. in Largo. For more information about PNL and UndHERground, visit ProjectNoLabels.org and Facebook.com/UndHERGround2018.
