By Benjamin Coy
Kollin Benson PhotographyOn the first day of Pride Month, The National LGBTQ Task Force hosted the CreativiTEA Mixer which gathered a radiant community of creatives for an afternoon tea party with a twist. Held in D.C.’s Union Market at the Treehouse Rooftop at Hotel Nell gathering was a joyful celebration and blend of artistry, activism, and queer brilliance.
Curated by The Task Force’s Communications team, the event brought together a dynamic mix of content creators, fashion designers, stylists, poets, musicians, consultants, and advocates in a space designed to celebrate their selfless contributions and encourage its continuance.
Guests included award-winning organizer and speaker, Hope Giselle; TV personality and activist, Preston Mitchum; vintage curator, Rich Rocket; musician, LYRICALMAR; doctor of clinical psychology and mental health advocate, Dr. Ashley Elliott; and founder of Cagebird Productions, Anthony Green.
This was a reminder that our creativity isn’t just an asset, but an act of resistance. Toni Morrison reminds us, “In times of dread, artists must never choose to remain silent.
This is precisely the time when artists go to work.” In moments like this year’s Pride month, we are proud to honor the changemaking creators who use their platforms to speak truth, imagine our freedom and build better futures.
Set against the backdrop of D.C.’s vibrant Union Market neighborhood, the rooftop overflowed with energy as guests mingled, sipped signature cocktails, and enjoyed tequila tastings from Vascano Tequila—a Black and queer-owned brand known for its smooth taste, bold flavors and commitment to community.
The glamour didn’t stop at the bar. A dedicated photo area gave guests the chance to shine their light in front of the camera, offering luxe “glam shots.” As a final touch, each guest was invited to take home a single-stem flower provided by Flowers’ Cuddles, an immigrant- and woman-owned florist in Virginia. Aptly described as giving people their “flowers,” this was a reminder to honor and celebrate the contributions of creatives in real time.
Throughout the night, R&B and dance sounds from DJ Mooncrumb set the tone. Whether dancing near the DJ booth or catching up with a collaborator over mocktails and bites, the sense of togetherness became tangible.
At its heart, the CreativiTEA Mixer event was about recognizing and affirming those who are shaping culture on screen, in fashion studios, on stages, in boardrooms, and across digital platforms. While the event centered LGBTQ+ experiences, it welcomed creatives across all backgrounds who are driving change in their fields.
In a world that too often commodifies culture without crediting its creators, the CreativiTEA Mixer was a love letter to the community of creatives we often look to for their powerful gifts, voices and perspectives.
