With Pride Month coming to a close, celebrations across the District are winding down. But at North Hall in Eastern Market, DC Rawhides is ending the month with a sweet southern sendoff.
The nonprofit organization creates a welcoming space where members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and allies of all backgrounds, can connect through country western and line dancing. For over 30 years, the tradition of same-sex country western dancing has remained a part of the D.C., Maryland and Virginia region, and DC Rawhides is committed to keeping that tradition alive.
Event coordinator Patrick Ebatista says community is more important than ever.
“Don’t despair, especially if you’re a person on the margins,” said Ebatista. “If you’re LGBTQ, a trans person or a person of color, don’t despair. We were made for these times, and the way we will survive these times is through community and joy.”
DC Rawhides hosts events throughout the year, offering dance lessons led by instructors and “dance angels” who help newcomers feel comfortable on the floor.
The atmosphere is joyful, welcoming and filled with laughter, making it a place where people can be their authentic selves.
For Robert Poole, who recently moved to Bangkok from Baltimore, returning for the event was an opportunity to reconnect with old friends and make new ones.
“It’s a really great queer space where it’s dance and community focused,” said Poole. “It’s a really great time.”
