Utopia's safe protocols made us feel hope again.
On Labor Day weekend, 225 guests gathered in the Poconos for Utopia, a relaxing LGBTQ+ retreat with robust safety protocols. Wearing facial coverings and having been tested twice beforehand, attendees engaged in beach activities, yoga, hiking, campfires, and sports, along with outdoor stages, performances, and music by DJs Dan Slater, Matt Denton, and Spencer H.
Utopia was produced by Jake Resnicow, a trailblazing producer within the LGBTQ+ community since 2010 who has raised over half a million dollars for charities during WorldPride with events featuring Kygo, Cyndi Lauper, Billy Porter, and Bette Midler. He pledged to donate $50 from each Utopia pass sold to provide grants for LGBTQ+ artists and nightlife workers in need. Grants will be administered by a registered 501(c)(3) on a first-come, first-serve basis to qualified applicants.
"This is not a money-making endeavor," Resnicow says. "My goal is to give back to our community and pave the way to be able to once again host large events, safely and responsibly."
All photos by Bryan Kwon.
