The fact that WerQfest, a musical experience that celebrates Black queer culture, takes place two weeks after Pride month ended is intentional.
“It’s a continuation of pride in a sense” said Tre’von Griffith, WerQfest co-founder. “It’s kind of like with Black History Month – we celebrate in February, but we are Black 365 days a year.”
What makes Griffith and fellow WerQfest co-founder Shelton Boyd-Griffith most proud is that they are making space for the Black queer community – and showcasing the root of its influence on mainstream culture.
“It’s basically a big, Black queer family reunion with joy, with fun and great entertainment,” Griffith said. “It really is just a great night of us celebrating us.”
Starting at 5 p.m. on Saturday, July 12, WerQfest will bring creatives from the St. Louis community and the national scene to Atomic by Jamo.
“Six years ago, we never imagined WerQfest would grow into something that resonates with audiences nationwide,” Griffith said. “In times like these, it’s more important than ever to keep creating spaces where Black queer joy and truth can thrive unapologetically.”
A local music spotlight will feature Golliday, Soumir, DJ Naybahood, Anansi Spins, S.A.Y., MASC_ERROR, and Strawberry Bounce. Resident DJ, DJ PBNJEFFY will bring signature sounds all day long.
“WerQfest has always been about giving our community a shining night to revel in our own creativity and culture,” Boyd-Griffith said. “Every year, we raise the bar for how we celebrate our stories, our artistry, and each other.”
These artists embody WerQfest’s mission to uplift Black queer artistry from St. Louis and beyond.
The 2025 headliner is R&B singer and Broadway star Avery Wilson.
He was most recently seen in the latest revival of “The Wiz,” which he co-starred alongside Deborah Cox and Wayne Brady. He’s not a household name just yet, but his incredible vocal skills will make him one soon enough.
In 2023, they welcomed R&B vocalist Durand Bernarr – which was his first festival headlining gig.
“I really want WerQfest to become a place of discovery,” Griffith said.
“It started off as a passion project and it really turned from that into a whole movement. I’m just so excited that the community has rallied behind it.”
As far as queer culture’s contributions to the arts, Griffith says “we’ve always been here.”
And everybody knows it to be true. From the fashion, to the slang to the artistry – and everywhere else.
“Sometimes you can’t wait for other people outside of the community to see us and celebrate us,” Griffith said. “We have to see ourselves first. It is a shame that it takes us to do it for ourselves. But sometimes that’s just what you have to do – and people will catch on later.”
The 6th Annual WerQfest will take place at 5 p.m. on Saturday, July 12 at Atomic by Jamo and includes several attractions leading up to the main event – and an afterparty. For tickets, additional information or a full schedule of events, visit www.instagram.com/werqfestl
Living It content is produced in partnership with Regional Arts Commission.
