Celebrating Diversity
Who We Are
Dats SO Nola Collective is a 501(c)(3) community-driven organization rooted in New Orleans culture and dedicated to uplifting the voices of BIPOC LGBTQ+ individuals. We believe in the power of expression, wellness, and unity to create lasting change.
Our Mission
Dats SO Nola Collective curates inclusive social experiences that celebrate and center the vibrant culture, creativity, and resilience of New Orleans communities. Through arts, wellness, and community-driven gatherings, we create safe and affirming spaces that nurture self-expression, support mental and physical well-being, and foster collective joy.
What Are We Building
Dats SO Nola is cultivating a vibrant ecosystem of care, creativity, and connection for the BIPOC LGBTQ+ community—rooted deeply in the spirit and soul of New Orleans. Drawing inspiration from the city’s rich legacy of art, music, food, and resistance, we curate immersive experiences that honor local culture while creating new traditions of inclusion and joy.
Our work is rooted in purpose and driven by impact. We are thoughtfully weaving HIV prevention education, mental health support, and substance use awareness into our programming—ensuring that wellness and celebration coexist across a spectrum of experiences. By designing culturally relevant spaces that meet people where they are, we reduce stigma, increase access to life-affirming resources, and empower our community to live boldly and authentically.
Cultural Celebration
honoring the traditions and creativity of our community.
Physical Wellness
including HIV prevention, education, and support.
Mental Health
breaking stigma and expanding access to care.
Substance Awareness
creating conversations around healing and harm reduction.
What We Envision
We envision a thriving BIPOC LGBTQ+ community in New Orleans that feels celebrated, supported, and connected. A city where our culture is uplifted, our health is prioritized, and our stories are at the center of change.
Organizational Structure
Dats SO Nola Collective is guided by a growing board of community leaders, artists, and advocates. Together, we are shaping the foundation of a lasting movement.
Dats SO Nola Initiatives
June 2026 (Pride Month)
- Event: Poolside Pride: Care & Culture Kickoff
- Theme: Soaked in Pride
- Focus: Body positivity, HIV prevention, summer mental health
- Type: Pool party, health resource pop-ups, art installations
- Timing: Early June
August 2026
- Event: Red Dress Run Brunch
- Theme: Back to the Block: Culture, Care & Community Kickoff
- Focus: Back to School community fundraiser
- Type: Raise funds to provide school supplies & hygiene kits
- Timing: Second weekend of August
Haunted Hoe Down
October 2025
- Event: Halloween Costume Experience
- Theme: Haunted Hoedown
- Focus: HIV prevention, self-expression
- Type: Nightlife/costume party with on-site HIV testing and safe sex kits
- Timing: Halloween Night
December 2025
- Event: Ugly Sweater Social: Warmth for the Mind
- Theme: Mindful Holidays
- Focus: Mental health, seasonal depression awareness
- Type: Cozy indoor social experience with therapists, safe spaces, karaoke
- Timing: Mid-December
March 2026
- Event: Sneaker Ball: Step Into Wellness
- Theme: “Every Step Counts”
- Focus: Physical wellness, substance use education
- Type: Formal but fun party, sneaker-themed with educational popups
- Timing: Around mid-March (after Mardi Gras but before festival season)
May 2026 (Spring)
- Event: Gospel Drag Brunch
- Theme: Joy Comes in the Morning
- Focus: Substance abuse support, HIV prevention, joy-centered healing
- Type: Brunch-style event with drag performers, guest speaker/storytelling element
- Timing: Late April or early May
Rooted in New Orleans
Our city’s heartbeat is culture. From second lines to bounce music, from Mardi Gras to queer nightlife, New Orleans is where we find strength, joy, and resilience. We are proud to carry this spirit forward in all that we do.
Call To Action !
Take the first step today. Whether it’s signing up, volunteering, or sharing the message, your action matters. Change starts when we choose to act , don’t wait for tomorrow, take action now.
Donate
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Get in Touch with Dat SO Nola Collective : Connecting with Us for Support and Collaboration
Your feedback and engagement are invaluable as we work together to foster a more inclusive and accepting world for the LGBTQ+ community.
Dats SO Nola Collective
“For Culture, Care, & Community”
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Stay Informed and Connected: Dat SO Nola Collective's LGBTQ+ Equality Newsletter
