We're Here, Utah is turning 1 (and executive producer, Amber Jay, is turning...well we don't need to talk about that)
Help us to continue producing events centered on nourishing community connection, and join us for our
BIRTHDAY FUNDRAISER
(open mic+silent auction)
SEP 23 - 6pm - XOCOKAFE (Provo)
If you haven't heard of us before, We're Here, Utah (WHU) is a production collaborative with one goal: nourishing community connection. We achieve this through intentionally curated events that center those who don't neatly fit (or fit at all) into the cookie-cutter of Utah's traditional communities. Put in more playful terms, WHU proudly provides a gathering ground for Utah's misfits. While we host events all over the state, our primary area of focus is Utah County: a place known for conservative beliefs and expectations of conformity (and for not being very welcoming to misfits). Through both recurring and specialty events, WHU creates opportunities for us misfits to connect over shared interests and build caring community.
ORIGIN STORY...
Our roots stem from a partnership between our executive producer, Amber Jay (they/she), and the queer-centered bookstore and event venue, Mosaics. This partnership began as Amber (who is a nonbinary, pansexual, polyamorous stand-up comedian) was looking for stage time in a safe environment. They worked closely with Mosaics to develop what is now our longest-running (and most well-attended) event: the Others & Allies Variety Open Mic.
The experience (and confidence) gained from hosting the open mic revealed an interest in doing more. And so We're Here, Utah was born in August of 2024. From Tarot and Astrology nights to Deconstructing Religion Panels and Speed Friending, WHU has hosted over 500 attendees throughout 50+ events and collaborated with 16 local businesses/venues.
Indeed we are.
In order to make our events accessible to the communities we're aiming to serve, most WHU events are completely free to attend. There's a reason for this. While calling ourselves "Utah's misfits" is a cutesy way of saying that we don't often fit the mold, there are some very real, very not cute consequences of being a misfit. Many of us misfits are low (to no) income due to institutionalized/normalized/unconscious forms of bias and discrimination faced in workplaces. Because of this, we remain committed to ensuring there is never a financial barrier to accessing the spaces we come together to create at WHU events.
That being said, there are costs that we accrue in hosting events. The equipment, marketing, and venues that make our events possible cost both time and funds. So we're hosting one big event and inviting all those who are interested and able to donate to WHU through providing/purchasing services and items at a silent auction.
Additionally, when we apply for grants many of the applications ask what other sources of support you have applied to or received. Demonstrating that we have community "buy in" through the results of a fundraiser reflects well on us as a group and strengthens our applications.
We're hosting a silent auction of donated items and services provided by regulars of WHU events.
To donate items/services, please complete THIS form
The auction will be held...
When: September 23rd (Amber's birthday!)
Where: XOCOKAFE (821 W Columbia Ln - Provo)
bidding begins: 6pm
open mic sign ups: 7
open mic: 7:30-9:00
bidding ends: 9:15
Send inquiries to werehereutah@gmail.com