Storyblocks is headed to SXSW! We had two panels accepted to the official SXSW 2022 line-up:
The Creator Economy & Brands: How To Build Trust – March 14th, 4pm CT
Unlocking Inclusive Media with Intersectionality – March 15th, 10am CT
In these panels, we have more LGBTQIA+ speakers than not, and both either exclusively or frequently discuss the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in media today. The thought of traveling to Texas amidst Governor Abbott directing state agencies to investigate the use of gender affirming care for trans children, stating that “it can legally constitute child abuse,” has been difficult to grapple with. Loving and supporting trans people is not abuse– trans children deserve our love, understanding, and trust that they know what they need. Abbott’s actions are a direct attack on the trans community and their supportive families, and is completely unacceptable.
While we are there, we want to do everything we can to support the LGBTQIA+ community in Texas. Storyblocks is donating to Equality Texas, a 501(c)(4) nonprofit organization serving as the largest nonpartisan statewide political advocacy organization working to eliminate the discrimination targeting the LGBTQIA+ community.
Additionally, we’d like to share some of the incredible LGBTQIA+ owned and operated businesses in Austin we plan to patronize during our stay in Austin. For this list, we went to Cash Colburn (She/Her), a Sr. Copywriter and amazing human based in Austin. Here are some of her recommendations we cannot wait to visit:
1. JO’s Coffee
For a morning cup of coffee, we’re heading to Jo’s Coffee on S Congress – A fun fact from Cash is that the iconic “I love you so much” graffiti at this location, that tops the list for many tourists, is actually an expression of queer love between the owners.
Check out Jo’s Coffee on Instagram
2.Crema Bakery
For our morning pastry, we’re visiting Crema Bakery on Brodie Ln – A lesbian owned bakery with excellent pastries (and coffee, if we’re in need of round 2). Tons of vegan, gluten free, and keto options too!
Check out Crema Bakery on Instagram
3. La Barbecue
For lunch we’re hitting up La Barbecue on E Cesar Chavez – this LGBTQIA+ owned BBQ joint is the best in town according to Cash. She recommends their brisket and grabbing some sauces from the market inside.
Check out La Barbecue on Instagram
4. The Little Gay Shop
To pick up some gifts for the folks at home, we’re headed to The Little Gay Shop on Airport Blvd. This shop is packed full of artwork designed exclusively by LGBTQIA+ artists.
Check out The Little Gay Shop on Instagram
5. Fukumoto
For dinner, we’re heading to Fukumoto on Medina St for some incredible sushi, sashimi, and yakitori (skewers grilled over Japanese charcoal)! Everything on this menu looks .
Check out Fukumoto on Instagram
6. Lick Honest Ice Cream
Time for dessert at Lick Honest Ice Cream. The fact that the vast majority of their ingredients come from local farms, their balance of traditional and unusual flavors (yes, I will be trying chocolate, olive oil, sea salt), plus their plethora of dairy-free options make this place a can’t miss. Also, it’s JVN approved.
Check out Lick Honest Ice Cream on Instagram
7. Cheer Up Charlie’s
After dessert, we’re going to need some drinks. So we’re off to Cheer Up Charlie’s! They’ve got kombucha on tap, organic juice blend cocktails, local beers, and biodynamic wines. Their parachute-shaded patio is a great spot for a shady drink in the afternoon, or to catch a show at night.
Check out Cheer Up Charlie’s on Instagram
Have more LGBTQIA+ owned businesses suggestions to go to? Let us know in the comments. We hope to see you all there!
