2nd Annual BLAQtoberfest returns October 3

BLAQtoberfest—also known as BLAQtober MKE Pride—is a transformative fall celebration that honors and empowers Black and Brown individuals within the queer community. The three-day weekend will spotlight cultural expression, wellness education, and collective action, all in service of advancing health equity.

The Wisconsin LGBTQ History Project is proud to sponsor photography costs for this landmark event.

“This weekend is about joy, belonging, and building the conditions for our communities to thrive,” said Ricardo Wynn, founder of Empowering Community Action Initiative and BLAQtoberfest. 

“By uniting culture with access to resources and care, BLAQToBER creates an affirming space for connection—and a launchpad for action on health and social justice within the greater LGBTQ+ community.”

2025 Theme:  Rooted in Power — Healing, Heritage, and Hope

This year’s theme, Rooted in Power -- Healing, Heritage, and Hope -- underscores intergenerational strength and the reclamation of wellness as a form of resistance. Programming will include:

• Opening Ceremony & Cultural Showcase featuring music, dance, and House & Ballroom talent
• Wellness Sessions on mental health, fitness, nutrition, and self-care led by local clinicians and educators
• Community Resource Fair with health services, housing, education, and employment resources
• Community Dialogue on health equity, social justice, and civic engagement
• Youth-Inclusive Activities to foster cultural pride and healthy living for teens and families
• Community Ball & Day Party celebrating heritage, achievement, and community resilience
• Closing Ceremony to reflect, regroup, and recommit to collective action

“BLAQtoberfest is a labor of love—created by and for our communities,” Wynn added. “We’re cultivating spaces where people feel seen, supported, and equipped to shape solutions together.” 

Building on 2024 Success In 2024, ECAI’s BLAQ MKE Pride initiative engaged 100+ participants over multiple days, including a focus group of community members whose insights helped shape this year’s experience. 

Survey data showed 45% of respondents felt safer and more connected simply by being in QPOC-centered spaces. The initiative paired celebration with access to critical services—80+ attendees were registered to vote, 20+ participants strengthened ballot navigation skills, and 80+ surveys informed future programming. BLAQtober 2025 continues that model, integrating celebration, education, and services to expand impact.

To advance health equity goals, BLAQToBER will again integrate free on-site HIV/STI testing, harm-reduction tools, and warm handoffs to prevention and treatment services with trusted partners. Peer educators will be on site to reduce stigma and increase engagement, with post-event follow-up to support continuity of care. 

Get Involved & Stay Connected 

For updates, programming details, and volunteer/sponsorship opportunities, contact Ricardo Wynn at  ecaimke@gmail.com  or 1-414-308-9377.

Follow BlaQtoberfest on Instagram.

About Empowering Community Action Initiative (ECAI)

Empowering Community Action Initiative (ECAI) is a 501c3 nonprofit dedicated to creating safe, affirming spaces and advancing health equity for marginalized communities. Through culturally responsive programming, partnerships, and data-informed advocacy, ECAI connects community members to resources that promote wellness, resilience, and civic engagement.

Questions? Contact us.