-Out in the Open will host its 13th annual "Summit for Rural LGBTQ+ People" Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 13 and 14, at the organization's newly acquired land in southern Vermont. The annual gathering brings together LGBTQ+ people from rural and small-town communities across the region "to build community, share skills, and re-imagine what it means to thrive in rural spaces."
Organizers wrote in a news release that the summit has become a cornerstone of Out in the Open's programming, with past sessions ranging from goat care and cheesemaking to drag creation and alternatives to policing. They said the event is "a place for (re)connecting with and queering rural traditions, building relationships and trust, celebrating and grieving together, and creating a roadmap to move us closer to our collectively liberated and joyful futures."
Saturday sessions will feature optional small-group field trips across southern Vermont and western Massachusetts, including a canoe adventure and an introduction to sustainable beekeeping.
Sunday is the centerpiece of the summit, with a full day of workshops and community sessions at Out in the Open's land. A hearty lunch with vegan and gluten-free options will be provided.
Confirmed sessions include Fermentation Fun, Queer/Trans Ritual Magic, Performance Art for Protests, Mini Stonewalling/Stacking, Tick Safety and DIY Tick Tubes, Crochet 101, Zine Making, Borrowing: an all-genre generative writing play, Cultivating Embodied Connection and Resilience, plus Open Topic sessions led by participants.
"We are thrilled to host this year's gathering on our new land, rooting into our commitment to creating spaces where rural LGBTQ+ people can thrive," said Diana Whitney, a community organizer at Out in the Open.
The Summit operates on a sliding scale registration model of $0 to $30, ensuring accessibility for all. No one will be turned away for lack of funds. Participants may register for the full weekend or for Sunday's main gathering. More details can be found at weareoutintheopen.org/registration.
This Town and Village item was submitted to The Commons.