Dragon Con 2024
Edited by Mikkel Hyldebrandt
A Celebration of Fandom and Inclusivity in Atlanta
Dragon Con, one of the largest multi-genre conventions in the world, returns to Atlanta in 2024 with all the excitement, creativity, and community spirit that fans have come to love. While this massive convention attracts people from all walks of life, it has become a particularly important event for the LGBTQ+ community. With its welcoming atmosphere, diverse programming, and strong sense of inclusivity, Dragon Con is more than just a fan convention—it’s a safe haven where everyone can express themselves freely.
Dragon Con’s commitment to inclusivity is one of its most defining features. For many LGBTQ+ attendees, the convention is a place where they can celebrate their identities in a supportive environment. Cosplay, panels, workshops, and social events allow individuals to explore and express who they are without judgment. The convention also provides a platform for LGBTQ+ creators, artists, and performers to showcase their work, ensuring that diverse voices are represented.
In a world where LGBTQ+ individuals still face discrimination and exclusion, Dragon Con stands out as a space where all are welcome. Whether you’re an avid cosplayer, a sci-fi aficionado, or just someone looking to connect with like-minded individuals, Dragon Con offers an inclusive community where you can be yourself.
Dragon Con 2024 is packed with events that celebrate diversity and offer opportunities for LGBTQ+ attendees to connect. From social gatherings to themed parties, here are some of the standout events you won’t want to miss:
The Dragon Con Night at the Georgia Aquarium
One of the most anticipated events of the convention, the Night at the Georgia Aquarium is a stunning blend of marine life and cosplay. This after-hours event is an LGBTQ+ favorite, offering a chance to mingle with fellow fans in one of Atlanta’s most beautiful venues. The aquarium’s vibrant atmosphere is the perfect backdrop for elaborate costumes, and the event often attracts some of the most creative cosplayers of the convention.
The Dragon Con Parade
The Dragon Con Parade is one of the convention’s most iconic events, drawing
thousands of spectators to the streets of Atlanta. It’s a vibrant celebration of fandom, featuring a diverse array of cosplayers, floats, and performers. For the LGBTQ+ community, the parade is a chance to proudly display their identities and celebrate the diversity within fandom. Many LGBTQ+ organizations and groups participate in the parade, making it a powerful statement of inclusion and visibility.
Workshops and Panels
Dragon Con is known for its diverse programming, and 2024 is no exception. The convention offers a range of panels and workshops that focus on LGBTQ+ issues within fandom and popular culture. Topics like queer representation in media, LGBTQ+ experiences in gaming, and the intersection of fandom and identity are explored in depth. These sessions provide valuable insights and
foster important conversations, creating a sense of solidarity among attendees.
Costume Contests and Cosplay Showcases
Cosplay is at the heart of Dragon Con, and the costume contests are a highlight for many attendees. LGBTQ+ cosplayers often use their costumes to express their identities and pay homage to queer characters in pop culture. The inclusive nature of the cosplay community at Dragon Con ensures that everyone, regardless of gender or orientation, can participate and be celebrated for their creativity.
As Dragon Con 2024 approaches, the anticipation is palpable. With its inclusive programming, vibrant social events, and commitment to diversity, the convention promises to be a celebration of everything that makes fandom—and the LGBTQ+ community—so special. Whether you’re a longtime attendee or a first-timer, Dragon Con is a place where you can be yourself, celebrate your identity, and join a community that embraces you for who you are.
Learn more, see the full programs, and purchase tickets to it all at dragoncon.org.
Are You Ready for The Queen’s Heroes?
By Mikkel Hyldebrandt
Photos courtesy of Kraven Comics
Ever since he was a teenager, Fernando Velez felt that there was no representation of himself and the LGBTQ+ community in comic books. Today, he is creator, founder, art director and writer of Kraven Comics that has published the Class6 comic book series, featuring a cast of characters representing all the colors of the LGBTQ+ rainbow. Now, he is ready to launch his first book project called The Queen’s Heroes where the same characters will engage in epic battles to save humanity. Welcome to the universe of The Queen’s Heroes.
The first book introduces us to Queen Izaar and her journey of ultimately safeguarding humanity. As the conflict intensifies, the enemy prepares to create an entity so powerful and unstoppable that it will set humanity on a path to destruction and extinction. Queen Izaar crosses paths with what will become her heroes, each playing a crucial role in the fate of humanity, and their lives have been interconnected since the beginning of time. Despite enduring rejection, attacks, and ostracism for generations due to their identities, they must find the strength to forgive humanity and unite with Queen Izaar to prevent such an evil entity from being created. But they wonder: Is humanity worth saving?
The Characters
Queen Izaar is a genderless, immortal being, the creator of modern humans, and a self-made warrior with the
ability to take or give life. She bears the divine mission of safeguarding humankind. Queen Izaar is increasingly isolated, responsible for humanity’s fate. She crosses paths with The Sisters, a group of drag non-binary
activists who introduce Izaar to the art of drag, igniting a new passion that will transform Izaar’s life.
Neveah’s journey began on Montenegro’s harsh streets, where she was homeless and endured relentless homophobic attacks until Dr. Jovanovic, a stem cell scientist, stepped in and adopted her. Dr. Jovanovic used his knowledge to develop a procedure for gender transition using stem cell genetic manipulation. However, the procedure was reversed when Dr. Tihon, Jovanovic’s superior, intervened. Unexpectedly, this intervention bestowed Neveah with remarkable abilities to manipulate stem cells. Using her newfound abilities, she escaped from Tihon’s control.
Jaseri, emerging from the depths of Uganda, is a survivor of her father’s abuse and a symbol of resilience, with her fate tied to ancient powers. As a Loa, her lineage holds West Africa’s secrets, with her ancestors shaping Earth itself. With the power to command nature, she rescues and defends vulnerable individuals who are persecuted by the government for the way they identify.
Eron’s story begins tragically in Venezuela. As a child, he was given to the cartel, who raised him to be a hitman until one night, a series of events gave him a chance to escape, with newfound abilities caused by an accident. His brain is continuously activating more parts, and with each percent increase, he finds new abilities. As he finds himself in a new world, and with the traumas of his childhood, Eron starts to battle with drug addiction.
Kian, or how some will refer to him as “the Catalyst,” originates from another universe, encoded within his DNA is the most advanced technology and data dating back to the universe of KE20.04. Brought to life against protocol, Kian embarks on a quest for his identity and to discover his capabilities, all with the desire to be loved by the one who brought him to life, Queen Izaar.
Nami was born in Hong Kong with a life-threatening illness that only Kuo, his father’s nanotechnology, could cure. However, an unexpected consequence of the treatment bestowed upon him the power to
manipulate nanos. Kuo constructed an underground empire using his son’s abilities, which Nami ultimately dismantled after a series of terrible events. In the aftermath, Nami grappled with an obsession to find the organized crime ring that his father was part of and destroy them too.
You can pre-order The Queen’s Heroes by contributing to the Kickstarter through the link found on kraven.us.
Toby – also known as Just Toby –is an Atlanta-based photographer who has captured the essence of drag for ten years In Atlanta and around the world. Right now, you can see a collection of his work that celebrates ten years of capturing local and legendary queens and shaping queer history. We got to talk to Toby about his work, how it all began, what stands out, and what is coming up for the artist and master of drag photography.
Toby, congratulations on the 10-year anniversary! How does it feel to have made it this far? How has the journey been?
Thank you so much. To be honest, the past ten years have flown by, and only recently have I taken a step back to realize just how much I’ve accomplished. It shows just how busy I’ve been. It’s been an incredible ride, especially with how much the drag scene has evolved. Being a part of that cultural shift has been truly humbling.
I got to know you just as you were starting out. Looking back, what are some of the biggest lessons that you have learned?
Over these ten years, I’ve learned that staying true to your art and yourself is crucial despite the many forces that can try to steer you off course. One thing I’ve come to believe strongly is the importance of keeping your close friends close. They are the ones who will uplift you, support you, and stand by you through thick and thin.
Tell us about some of the most significant moments throughout your career.
There have been so many great moments. One that stands out is when Mariah (Paris Balenciaga, ed.) encouraged me to pursue photography while still in the corporate world. I vividly remember the day she convinced me to take that leap, and I’m so thankful for it. Another unforgettable highlight was the day RuPaul’s Drag Race followed me on Instagram. It sounds silly, but having your favorite show acknowledge your work and tell you that you’re excelling in the industry is truly one of my proudest moments.
… and some of the worst? You don’t have to name names…
Just Toby: Ten Years of Shaping Queer History
By Mikkel Hyldebrandt All Photos courtesy of Just Toby
To be politically correct and play it safe, I’d say you’re the worst—but I’m just kidding! In general, though, the worst is when a young entertainer gets a taste of fame, and their attitude completely changes. It’s so important to stay humble.
Tell us about your show at Out Front’s Queer Spaces. How did that come about?
This opportunity came from a conversation with Paul from Out Front Theater. He proposed the idea of showcasing local artists for a period of time while their work is displayed in the theater, which I thought was fantastic. When he asked if I was interested, I immediately said yes—I had been looking for a venue for this year, and it just fell into my lap. I’m so grateful to have my work showcased throughout the year. Raising awareness of art and charity through this project is incredible, and the blend of my work with Out Front Theater’s performances is a wonderful mix. Oh! And to be clear, this is my first solo show, and it’s an honor that I was able to have this space!
How did you even select the pieces for the show?
The selection process for my pieces was clear in my mind. I wanted to represent the people who brought me to where I am today—those who believed in something I didn’t believe in at the beginning. It’s deeply emotional to present this to you, and like the tip of the iceberg, there is a lot behind my success. They know who they are
What’s next for you? Are any big projects coming up?
At the moment, I have another show exhibiting my work at the mayor’s office here in Atlanta; I also have a display outside the Civil Rights Museum, and I am also working on hosting/promoting a pageant, a preliminary for Entertainer of The Year, which will be on September 23. I am also working on projects that I have never revealed. One project I’m excited about is to have a roast for my 10-year anniversary, which I hope y’all can sponsor HAHAHA.
Finally, tell us how we can watch this show and follow along your journey on socials.
The show will be displayed until the end of September. You can purchase any of the works, or you can always donate to Out Front Theater so we can keep art alive. You can find my work mostly on Instagram (@justtobyMe) or my personal Facebook, with my personal accounts being the most frequently updated. I’m finally working on my website, and I hope it will soon become the central hub for connecting with me and exploring my art.
Anything else you’d like to add?
My journey is far from over. For years, I’ve struggled with insecurities about releasing some of my work, but now I’m finally at a point where I’m ready to share it. As Brigitte Bidet once said, “You have iconic photos that the world would die to see.”
JUST TOBY JUST TEN
The collection showcases entertainers that have a special significance to the artist personally; in no particular order: Mariah Paris Balenciaga, Ben DeLa Creme, Evah Destruction, Bob the Drag Queen, Alyssa Edwards, Adore Delano, Coco Montrese, Trixie Mattel, Katya, Alaska, Joslyn Fox, Sasha Velour, Bianca Del Rio, Delta Work, Aquaria, Violet Chachki, Brigitte Bidet, Lena Lust, and entertainers from “The Other Show” (not all pictured here).
Catch JUST TOBY JUST TEN at Out Front Theatre until the end of September.
Photos by: Russ Bowen-Youngblood
CLINICAL
Clinical HIV care in a supportive, confidential, and gender affirming environment. Available at three Centers located in Duluth, Decatur, and Marietta.
Photos by: Russ Bowen-Youngblood
Dini
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Photos by: Russ Bowen-Youngblood
by: Russ Bowen-Youngblood
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Being in a throuple sounds so good financially
My therapist is actually the one that grows as a person just by talking to me.
I love that being tied up is a fetish. Like okay go off shoes.
There should be a day between Sunday and Monday called Hang On a Second!
I hope this email sucks you o .
Don’t thank me for my payment. I paid that bill against my will. He’s nice, but he’s an Insta model, which in gay is like a club promoter.
I need to save people’s numbers. I accidentally went on a date with the wrong guy the other day.
