THE GREAT MKE DANCE PARTY

The idea for GMBP originated in January when Celestina Hertz, Zao MKE Church’s social work intern, thought of launching a collaborative campaign where local social justice organizations could work in solidarity with one another during the RNC. After Zao hosted their first planning meeting, interest quickly piqued with hundreds of community members ranging from artists to activists to city leaders in attendance. Dozens of organizations and businesses got on board with the idea as well, and the ball got rolling from there.

Roades adds, “One thing they always underestimate about Milwaukee is our ability to rebel with heart and creativity, and we’re always ready to throw a party.”

Rather than coordinating all the programming themselves, GMBP is providing planning assistance and small grants to those who want to throw public events. All who are passionate about creativity, inclusivity and community care are welcome and invited. Chappelle remarks, “It’s truly been a labor of radical love.”

Activities on the books so far include live music, art builds, trivia nights, drag shows, group bike rides, film screenings, family playdates and more. Participating businesses include Canni-MKE, The Sugar Maple, Tooth + Nail Studio, The Cooperage, Lost Valley Cider Company and many others. Some are offering food and drink specials where proceeds will benefit local organizations, while local creatives will have limited-edition GMBP products available for purchase.

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Performances from DJ DRIPSWEAT, DJ QUILLA, DJ SWADETRACKZ, DJ MIXX CHELLE

SWAMPVILLA W NVR.GRW.UP & RINA

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MKE MAKERS MARKET

A CREATIVE UNDERGROUND • ACM DESIGNS • ALEXANDRA SHELVIK • ANNA ELLIE ART • BOND BAR • CHASE MY CREATIONS • GREENIG ARTS • HIDDEN GEMS BY NICOLE • JEANIE BEAN C REATIVE • LUX CANDELA • MORANDA’S SWEETS & TREATS • P ENDROP POET • SAGEY ARTS • TANGLED CHAINS CRAFTS • TAPPS DESIGN • THAT’S SO JEWELZ • TRES OJOS • WICK+BEAN