PuNané (PuNane), an African American lesbian social group dedicated to showcasing “African American lesbian culture in Cleveland”, was founded in 2005. PuNané’s primary goal was to “help build solidarity among women who love women” by “connecting with women in the community by providing an affordable, fun, and inspiring evening of entertainment.” To this end, PuNané has hosted a variety of arts and cultural events in Cleveland, including the ‘Art, Soul, and Jazz Holiday Mart and Music’. Since 2005, PuNané has hosted the annual Talent Showcase, a “womyn-only” event spotlighting local lesbian and WLW performers and entertainers. PuNané has collaborated with a variety of local LGBTQ+ groups and organizations, including the Eight Ball Club, BlackOut Unlimited, and Oven Productions, to produce events by and for African American LGBT+ women in Cleveland.
Additional information coming soon.
Resources
- “Calling All Womyn!” PuNané. (Archived webpage ca. 2010.)
- Harris, Kristen Schmidt. “Building African American Lesbian Culture is Group’s Goal.” Gay People’s Chronicle. Pride Guide 2008. Page A-18.
- “Meet the Members.” Movement in Black.
- “What is PuNane’?” PuNané. (Archived webpage ca. 2010.)