UNITED OUT LOUD: Learn. Listen. And Rise.

About

NJ's Inaugural Civic Cabaret and Concert at the Stone Pony in Asbury Park Every day, we witness new efforts by this administration to undermine, minimize, or erase our presence. Many of us have felt that familiar tension — the anger when we hear misinformation about LGBTQ+ people, trans women, same‑sex couples, and the communities we love. It’s easy to feel discouraged. But we are not powerless. We can push back, together. This fall, Jersey Pride presents UNITED OUT LOUD — part teach-in, part showcase, all community. Intended to encourage civic engagement and underscore why and how the LGBTQ+ community must be involved this election cycle, It's not just a conference. It's not just a concert. It's a civic cabaret built for this moment. Throughout the day, quick-hit 15-minute sessions will break down what's at stake for LGBTQ+ New Jerseyans in the midterms — from voting rights and ballot access to the policies shaping our futures. Between sessions, the stage belongs to comedians, spoken word artists, and musicians who'll keep the energy high and the message loud. The night culminates in a concert celebrating who we are and what we're fighting for. Along the way, connect with advocacy and other community organizations ready to help you turn inspiration into action. A special thanks to our sponsors: The Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel, Garden State Equality, Just4Cakes, Out in Jersey, and Philly Pretzel Factory. Come for the music. Stay for the movement. Leave ready to rise. Tickets: $20 in advance; $25 at the door Civic Cabaret from 3pm to 7pm United Out Loud Concert begins at 7pm. Civic Cabaret - Listen. Learn. And Rise with: Mark Segal — Founding father of the LGBTQ+ rights movement; publisher of Philadelphia Gay News for over 50 years. ViRAGO — A fierce queer feminist duo delivering high‑energy original rock, blues, reggae, and soul. Jane Clementi — Co‑founder of the Tyler Clementi Foundation, leading the fight against bullying and bias targeting LGBTQ+ youth. Susan Keiser — A comedian who uses humor to help us laugh, think, and navigate challenging times. Gary Paul Wright — Founder and Executive Director of the African American Office of Gay Concerns; lifelong civil rights champion. Assemblywoman Luanne Peterpaul — New Jersey’s first out gay Assemblywoman and sponsor of the recent Shield Law. James Dale — Plaintiff in Boy Scouts of America v. Dale; exploring visibility, self‑expression, and standing up for your rights. Friday Nite Specials — NJ’s iconic Rocky Horror performance troupe, entertaining audiences since 2001. Axel Torres Marrero & Kathy Ahearn‑O’Brien — Policy advocates from Hyacinth AIDS Foundation mobilizing communities to protect lifesaving care and treatment programs. Flynn Faye — Philadelphia‑based trans folk‑rock artist blending west‑coast folk and theatrical storytelling. Phil McCabe — Presenting a multimedia exploration of LGBTQ+ history, resilience, and community networks of care. United Out Loud Concert BETTY — Trailblazing queer feminist trio whose unmistakable harmonies, activist spirit, and genre‑bending sound have inspired audiences around the world for decades. Jess Alaimo — Sharp‑witted comedian and writer whose work blends smart social insight with humor that brings people together and gets them thinking. Crystal Envy — Dynamic New Jersey drag performer known for razor‑sharp wit, bold glamour, and high‑energy shows that light up every stage she touches. Josh Zuckerman — New Jersey–based rock‑pop singer‑songwriter known for high‑energy performances, heartfelt queer‑centered music, and a decades‑long commitment to LGBTQ+ visibility and community. Christine Martucci and The Band of Love — Powerhouse rock‑soul anthems driven by Martucci’s unmistakable vocals and a band known for electrifying, heart‑forward performances that uplift, unite, and ignite every crowd.