In mid-August, the Kirkland Community Foundation partnered with Pride Across the Bridge (PAB) to present Shes, Theys & Gays! an all-queer comedy showcase that brought together some of the funniest LGBTQIA+ comedians for a night of pure joy, connection, and unapologetic brilliance. Hosted at the lively 5 Iron Golf venue, the event was more than just a performance—it was a celebration of queer identity, community resilience, and the power of shared laughter.
This collaboration exemplifies the Foundation’s commitment to building Community Connections and creating affirming spaces and experiences where people from all walks of life can come together, feel seen, and thrive.
From the moment guests arrived, the event set the tone for a playful, welcoming experience. Attendees were invited to loosen up with virtual golf and duckpin bowling before the show began—an intentional choice to foster ease, joy, and connection. The venue offered a variety of seating options, from general admission chairs to bar seating with stage views, ensuring everyone could find a comfortable spot to enjoy the evening.
The comedy showcase itself was electric. With a lineup of all-queer performers, the show celebrated the richness of LGBTQIA+ experiences through humor, storytelling, and shared joy. While the event was open to all ages (with a parental advisory for mature themes), it was designed to be a safe, affirming space where queer folks and allies could come as they are and enjoy the magic of togetherness.
“We believe in the power of affirming spaces where laughter, connection, and community thrive,” said organizers. “We’re so excited to share this night with you—come as you are and let’s celebrate queer joy together!”
Pride Across the Bridge is a passionate, grassroots organization dedicated to uplifting the voices and lived experiences of the LGBTQIA+ community on the Eastside. Their mission is clear: to create safe, inclusive, and joyful spaces for queer individuals—right here, close to home.
While Seattle offers a robust infrastructure of queer-friendly events and resources, the Eastside has long lacked comparable support. PAB is working to change that by offering a wide range of programming—from cozy gatherings in local bakeries to bold adventures like group skydiving. Their events are designed to meet people where they are, offering low-pressure opportunities to connect, learn, and celebrate.
“We believe that everyone deserves to feel safe, supported, and celebrated close to home, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.”
Pride Across the Bridge is more than an event organizer—it’s a movement builder. Their initiatives span education, advocacy, and celebration, all rooted in compassion and community care.
Highlights include:
Resource Sharing
Pride Across the Bridge provides curated LGBTQIA+ and ally resources, including terminology guides, compassionate local providers, tailoring services, and school vetting questions for parents ensures that queer individuals and families have access to practical, affirming support.
Inclusive Events
They hosts recurring gatherings like the Beyond Binary Connections group, Rainbow Elder Breakfast, and queer artist meetups, organizes large-scale events like Redmond Pride, featuring over 50 queer vendors and performers, and more events which foster connection, visibility, and celebration across generations and identities.
Community Education
PAB facilitates panels like Trans-cending Perspectives, which explore the lived experiences of transgender and non-binary neighbors which also creates safe spaces for dialogue, learning, and combating misinformation. Thanks to these educational efforts, the org helps bridge gaps in understanding and build empathy across the region.
The success of Shes, Theys & Gays! and the broader work of Pride Across the Bridge reflect a growing need—and desire—for inclusive, affirming spaces on the Eastside. For many queer individuals, especially youth and elders, access to local resources and community events can be life-changing.
By partnering with organizations like PAB, the Kirkland Community Foundation is helping to ignite belonging—supporting initiatives that don’t just entertain, but empower. These collaborations are part of a larger vision to build a community where everyone feels safe, supported, and celebrated.
“We thrive on connecting people and building relationships,” says PAB. “A strong sense of community is essential for LGBTQIA+ individuals to thrive and feel accepted.”
As Pride Across the Bridge continues to grow, so does its impact. With support from the Foundation and the broader community, PAB plans to expand its programming, deepen its partnerships, and advocate for more inclusive infrastructure across the Eastside.
Whether it’s through comedy, education, or public art, this work reminds us that joy is resistance, and that building community is both a celebration and a responsibility.
Want to support queer joy and connection on the Eastside?
Together, we can build a region where everyone—regardless of identity—feels at home.
Neighbors helping Neighbors. Launched in fall 2024, the Kirkland Community Foundation’s inaugural Ignite Kirkland campaign united residents, nonprofits, and businesses to fund 28 impactful local projects—granting $45,000, empowering 26 organizations, and igniting a lasting spirit of generosity and collaboration across the community.
KCF is a 501(c)(3) non-profit.
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