Ships in the Night is one of the East Bay’s most widely attended, monthly queer parties, so much so that the event’s organizers faced controversy last year for publishing an open letter that suggested that only LGBTQ people — and not straight allies — should attend. While some found this approach alienating, others agreed that a safe space for queer people, especially queer people of color, is paramount in the East Bay as gentrification progresses. With that said, this month’s Ships will be a good one: DJs Durt, Mutie, Minh La, and Rumorosa will spin party jams on the New Parish’s two dance floors. Local rapper Queens D.Light — who recently returned from an extended stay in New York City, where she worked on her forthcoming EP — will perform. While Queens’ last album, California Wildflower, featured down-tempo beats and lyrics that reflected on her Yoruba faith, her recent live shows have foregrounded unreleased tracks with more danceable production. The party’s proceeds will benefit El/La Para Trans Latinas, a nonprofit that provides a community space and Spanish-language health and counseling services to trans Latinas in the Bay Area.
.Queens D.Light
The Oakland MC will perform at the beloved queer party Ships in the Night.
