Photo credit: Gilead Sciences
Atlanta Black Pride Weekend marked its 20th anniversary in 2026 with a full schedule of events celebrating Black LGBTQ+ culture, leadership, wellness and community. Gilead Sciences supported several of the weekend’s major gatherings. Its involvement also helped bring HIV prevention, PrEP education and health resources into spaces where people were already connecting and celebrating.
The weekend opened with Nathan Hale’s Cultural Architects. The gathering centered on Reimagining the Black Swan. It explored the cultural and emotional connection between Black gay and queer men and Black women through conversation, creativity and community.
Next, the 7th Annual Mayor’s Black Pride Reception brought community members and local leaders to Atlanta City Hall. Mayor Andre Dickens joined the celebration. The event also recognized people and organizations working to build a more inclusive Atlanta.
The Native Son Black Gay Leadership Forum added another important conversation. Emil Wilbekin led the forum, which was powered by Gilead Sciences. Black gay leaders, executives, entrepreneurs, creatives and advocates came together to discuss leadership, visibility and health equity.
Moderators included Nicco Annan, Tre Melvin, Hakim Asadi, Dr. Leo Moore and Craig Washington. Together, they helped create a space for ideas, connections and discussion about issues affecting Black LGBTQ+ communities.
PrEP education joins the celebration
Meanwhile, Pride + PrEP at V12 Restaurant & Sports Bar brought sexual health education into a relaxed social setting. Guests learned more about PrEP and HIV prevention. The event also gave people a chance to consider their health choices in a setting that felt familiar and accessible.
The Influencers’ Gala followed with a celebration of achievement across entertainment, business, advocacy and LGBTQ+ communities. The 2026 honorees included Jesseca Harris-Dupart, Vinny Watson, Carlos King, SG, Cliff Vmir, MC Fatha Flex, Karen KD Douglas, Niesha Dupree and Dr. Felicia Ivey.
The weekend then moved to Piedmont Park for the Pure Heat Community Festival. The large outdoor gathering featured live entertainment, wellness resources and community activities. It gave attendees another chance to celebrate while connecting with local resources.
A Vision For Hope also received a special award during the weekend. The Fulton County nonprofit supports youth, seniors and LGBTQ+ community members. Its work focuses on providing resources, support and opportunities that can help people build stronger futures.
The weekend also featured Durand Bernarr, Saucy Santana, Tamar Braxton, Cynthia Bailey, Oliver Twixt, Patrice Sway McKinney, Big Sexy, Billy The Goat and Terrell Carter.
Across the events, health education remained part of the larger celebration. Gilead’s support helped connect attendees with information about HIV prevention and care. At the same time, the events kept culture and community at the center.
For more information about HIV prevention and care resources, visit CareForTheCulture.com.
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