A Thanksgiving Feast that Nourishes the Soul
As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to fall, the culinary community in Charlotte, North Carolina, gathers for a special tradition – the annual Eat, Gay, Love event. This inclusive Thanksgiving dinner, now in its sixth year, has become a beacon of hope and community care, touching the lives of countless individuals who might otherwise feel isolated or excluded during the holiday season.
At the heart of this remarkable initiative lies a simple, yet powerful mission: to spread love and nourishment to the underserved members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Organized by the team at Queen City Nerve and the passionate Brian DuBois, Eat, Gay, Love has become a cherished gathering that brings together people from all walks of life, united by a shared desire for belonging and celebration.
Creating a Safe Space for All
The Eat, Gay, Love event is more than just a Thanksgiving dinner; it’s a sanctuary where individuals can find solace, connection, and a sense of family. For many in the LGBTQIA+ community, the holiday season can be a time of exclusion, as they are often marginalized or disconnected from their biological families. The Eat, Gay, Love event aims to bridge that gap, offering a safe space for people to come together, share a meal, and revel in the joy of community.
“Unfortunately, members of the LGBTQIA+ community are often excluded from family functions during the holidays,” explains Brian DuBois, the event’s co-organizer. “We work together to offer a safe space for enjoyment, where everyone can feel welcomed, respected, and celebrated.”
The event’s venue, Resident Culture Brewing in the South End neighborhood, sets the tone for this inclusive gathering. With its warm, inviting atmosphere and commitment to diversity, Resident Culture provides the perfect backdrop for the Eat, Gay, Love celebration.
Spreading Love Beyond the Dinner Table
But the impact of Eat, Gay, Love extends far beyond the dinner table. For the sixth consecutive year, the event has partnered with the local nonprofit organization, Block Love CLT, to ensure that all remaining food is distributed to those in need.
“After the party is over and everyone is full of food and love, we will be boxing up and donating the remaining food to Block Love CLT,” shares DuBois. “They will then distribute the dinner to our houseless neighbors at encampments and shelters all around the city, spreading the love even further.”
This collaboration with Block Love CLT is a testament to the event’s holistic approach to community care. By redirecting leftovers to those experiencing homelessness, the Eat, Gay, Love team amplifies the impact of their efforts, ensuring that the spirit of generosity and inclusion extends beyond the four walls of the brewery.
A Celebration of Diversity and Culinary Delights
The Eat, Gay, Love event is not just about providing a warm meal; it’s a celebration of diversity, creativity, and culinary excellence. The menu, curated by local chefs and food enthusiasts, features a mouthwatering array of traditional Thanksgiving dishes with a twist, catering to a wide range of dietary preferences and cultural backgrounds.
“From classic roasted turkey and creamy mashed potatoes to vegan-friendly options and unique regional specialties, the Eat, Gay, Love menu is a testament to the diversity and creativity within our culinary community,” says DuBois.
The team at Eat, Gay, Love encourages everyone to participate in the festivities, whether by donating time, food, or supplies. Through a simple online form, community members can pledge to contribute a variety of items, from green beans and stuffing to desserts and gravy. This collaborative approach not only ensures a bountiful feast but also fosters a sense of ownership and investment in the event’s success.
Fostering Connections and Expanding Reach
As the Eat, Gay, Love event celebrates its sixth year, the organizers have witnessed the profound impact it has had on the lives of those it serves. What started as a small, grassroots initiative has blossomed into a vibrant, community-driven celebration that continues to inspire and uplift.
“Over the years, we’ve seen the event grow in both size and significance,” reflects DuBois. “The number of attendees and volunteers has steadily increased, and the outpouring of support from the local community has been truly heartwarming.”
But the team at Eat, Gay, Love is not content to rest on their laurels. They are continuously exploring ways to expand the event’s reach and deepen its impact. This year, they have introduced a curbside pick-up option for those who may not feel comfortable dining in the space, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to access the love and nourishment the event provides.
A Legacy of Compassion and Inclusion
As the Eat, Gay, Love event continues to unfold, it stands as a testament to the power of community, compassion, and the transformative potential of the culinary arts. By creating a space where individuals can come together, share a meal, and feel truly seen and valued, the organizers have built a legacy of inclusivity that will undoubtedly inspire others to follow in their footsteps.
“This event is not just about the food; it’s about fostering connections, breaking down barriers, and reminding everyone that they are worthy of love and belonging,” says DuBois. “That’s the true power of Eat, Gay, Love, and it’s something we are deeply committed to preserving and expanding for years to come.”
So, as the aroma of roasted turkey and the laughter of joyful guests fill the air at Resident Culture Brewing this Thanksgiving, the Eat, Gay, Love event will once again serve as a shining example of how the culinary community can be a force for positive change, nourishing not just the body, but the soul as well.
