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Diego Canseco

How NYC's Queer Athena Transforms LGBTQ+ Community Spaces with Passion and Inclusivity

Updated: Aug 12



Lia Athena wearing Pride Colors
Lia Athena

How is Athena creating inclusive spaces for Queer NYC?


Lia Athena is the founder of Queer Athena who lives In the heart of New York City. Queer Athena didn't start big; it was a birthday party that started it all. Athena is the kind of person who unites people around them and helps them connect with one another, building a community. These passions are what their career stands for. What had started as a personal interest grew into something way bigger: Queer Athena, a successful organization serving the queer community of NYC.



It's Just The Beginning


Athena's first step into event planning was minute but life-changing. Their own birthday party ignited a passion for bringing people together. Experiencing that energy, connecting with others, and seeing people's faces light up in that space made it an unforgettable experience. A single event became many more. Each of these events attracted increasing numbers of people, and each was special in its own way. It was palpable that Athena had this talent for creating spaces wherein one feels visible, audible, and valued.


With every consequent event, they learned more about what really makes a gathering special: the people. They have this special way of knowing what their community wants and needs, creating experiences that are not just fun but also meaningful.


Queer Athena Pride Parade of 2023
Pride 2023

The Birth of Queer Athena:


The more popular Athena got, the more the vision expanded. Realistically, what was missing in the event scene for the queer community was spaces that didn't just include people. There was a need for spaces that celebrate them. Thus, Queer Athena was born. What started as a passion project has since grown into a full organization. Its mission: creating events that uplift and empower the queer community of NYC.


Queer Athena is so much more than that—Queer Athena is a movement. Athena designs safe spaces through their events where queer people can be themselves freely and relate to others who do the same. From parties to workshops, it's all about making sure every person's needs are taken care of and included. This makes Queer Athena second to none in the nightlife options available within the city.


Queer Athena at the Queer Liberation March
Queer Liberation March

How does Queer Athena create communities?


One of the most special parts of their work is that it can forge a sense of community. More often than not, people who come out for Queer Athena events usually leave not only with great memories but also with new friendships and connections, lasting way beyond the event. Athena seems to have a gift for bringing people together. This talent translates into a deep understanding of how much people need to connect with one another.


In a city the size of New York, within a community as diverse as the queer community, it is easy to get lost or even feel alone. Athena's events offered a remedy to that experience—a feeling of belonging and unity hard to find elsewhere. Focusing on the emotional and social needs of their community, they have been able to build a legacy extending beyond those particular events alone.


 lively crowd with raised hands, proudly waving rainbow flags at a vibrant outdoor Pride event.
Pride Celebration

How can you join Queer Athena’s events?


As Queer Athena grows, so does Athena's influence in the queer community in NYC. Their zeal for creating spaces that are inclusive and celebratory shines through. This has made them adored by the city event scene. But that's not all—Queer Athena is growing and making its way within NYC, and we would like you to be a part of that journey. Discover how you can get involved with us to help create inclusive and celebratory spaces for everyone.


Stay connected with us on Instagram for the latest updates, sneak peeks of upcoming events, and behind-the-scenes content. Follow along to see how we’re building a stronger, more inclusive community.


Check out our Events page, which will keep you updated on what's next at Queer Athena. From social mixers to workshops and community gatherings, there’s always something exciting happening, and we’d love for you to join us.

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