IMPACT

The Full Story

Southeastern Diversity Project creates year-round community programming across North Alabama designed to increase belonging, visibility, safety, and connection for underserved individuals and families. Through public events, educational programs, service partnerships, and seasonal gatherings, SDP works to strengthen communities by creating spaces where people experience dignity, support, and shared purpose.

Signature Programs

River City Pride

River City Pride has grown into a multi-event annual celebration that creates visibility, joy, and belonging in North Alabama.

Parade: approximately 100 participants, with community attendance along the route
Prom / Celebration Event: approximately 70 participants
5K Run: approximately 70 runners
Festival Attendance: more than 1,500 attendees during severe weather; more than 3,800 attendees the following year
Picnic, Prayers, and Pride: a faith-centered gathering that creates space for reflection, welcome, and shared community 125 participants

Hocus Pocus Community Festival

Created in 2022, Hocus Pocus is a fall community celebration held in Lawrence County, Alabama — one of the most underserved areas of North Alabama and a place where no queer-led public event had previously existed.

More than 1,500 attendees annually
Partnerships with first responders
Partnerships with local businesses
Collaboration with local farm hosts

The festival was created to increase visibility, model inclusion, and demonstrate that community leadership can come from people whose presence is not always publicly represented in rural spaces.