Pride Across the Bridge (PAB) is a nonprofit that serves 2SLGBTQIA+ people on the Eastside through resources, community-based events, and advocacy efforts, such as pushing the City of Redmond to install its first rainbow crosswalk in 2023. Recurring events are vital for building relationships and trust, and many of PAB's incorporate creative or artistic elements.
"Art is a powerful tool for self-expression, especially within the Queer community. It speaks a universal language that can reach those who feel invisible, offering comfort, validation, and connection. With so much of our community under attack - whether in schools, healthcare, libraries, or simply in our right to exist - art provides a vital outlet," Axton Burton, founder and executive director of PAB, told the SGN.
Years ago, Burton joined an organization that they said claimed to be serving local Queer Eastside residents but discovered that it was run by allies and was "negligently disconnected" from the needs of those it was meant to serve. Burton ended up hosting the Eastside's first Queer holiday potluck, and the overwhelmingly positive response showed them the need for a safe and affirming space.
"That first event ignited my passion and trust in the community, proving that we could create events led by and for Queer people, and make an immediate impact," Burton said.

A variety of events
PAB hosts over 250 events per year, serving between ten and 10,000 people, (the number who at-tended the organization's flagship Redmond Pride festival). Burton said PAB events, which can range from local bakery runs to group skydiving sessions, have appealed to those from the ages of 16 to 95, including those who have a variety of mental and physical abilities.
Redmond Pride showcases Queer-owned businesses, artists, and creators, as well as local Queer performers. This year's had over a hundred vendor applications. Attendees come from Seattle, the Eastside, and surrounding areas. Some take advantage of sensory-friendly areas, like the book nook and the chill zone.
In addition to engaging food trucks, like Kathmandu Momocha and Sugar & Spoon, Burton said PAB felt inspired to highlight a local Queer-owned business by having it design the Pride logo and theme. The organization plans to continue this initiative each year.
Angel of Small Death and Kenbie Enby, local performers, steer PAB's DIY Drag Workshop, which Burton said opens a door to the realm of drag for those who may not have access. "Over ten weeks, participants form a drag family, exploring makeup, movement, act creation, and the culture and history of drag," Burton said. "The workshop culminates in one to two performances, offering a supportive space to step into this powerful art form."
Queer Creative Connections is a monthly event in which PAB partners with Bellevue Public Library, creating a mellow environment where people can work individually or collaboratively on creative projects.
Burton said many in the Queer community have shared experiences of feelings of isolation, and that creative spaces offer a space that's free of judgement, where they can explore their identities, share stories, and connect with others.
"Art fosters empowerment, ignites new experiences and broadens horizons, making it an essential part of our work at PAB, and healing in the greater community," Burton said.

For more information about PAB, visit https://www.prideacrossthebridge.org