Please RSVP or request a reminder at the Eventbrite page.

Many of us wonder: Can I be myself AND be accepted?
At Authenticity Fest, the answer is yes.

At this FREE 3-hour event, we will share stories and talk about our true selves. You can come and just listen, and if you want, you are welcome to share your own story. The theme is authenticity & coming out, so please tell us about anything you were or still are nervous to share.

Some examples of experiences or identities that people can sometimes be nervous to share about are

  • physical/mental health

  • drastic career changes (or desires to change careers)

  • non-traditional relationships

  • immigration status or history

  • drug use or abuse

  • gender identity

  • sexual orientation

  • financial struggles

  • other struggles or experiences

You don’t have to decide in advance whether you want to share your story. You will also have the opportunity to share without getting on a stage, including anonymously.


SCHEDULE
Please come within the 1st half hour and try to stay for the whole event. That being said, if you need to come late or leave early, you are totally forgiven.

3:00-3:30 - snacks & fun welcoming activities
3:30-5:00 - story sharing
5:00-6:00 - discussion 

Please read more details in the Frequently Asked Questions and reach out with questions, comments, or with your story at the Contact form.

Please RSVP or request a reminder at the Eventbrite page.

If you aren’t sure if you can come but are interested, you can RSVP to indicate your interest and get a reminder!

Talk about Authenticity Fest & invite people on the Facebook event page.

Download flyers (feel free to share!)

Click to download Authenticity Fest flyer.
Click to download flyer that can be printed 2/page or 4/page (File —> Print —> Pages Per Sheet)

Location

 

LGBT Center
3909 Centre St
San Diego, CA 92103

The LGBT Center is near the intersection of Centre St & University Avenue, half a mile east of the Trader Joe’s.

Free parking is available.

NOTE:
This event is at the LGBT Center but it is about all kinds of authenticity, not only about sexual orientation/gender identity. Any stories about anything you were/are nervous to share are welcome.

We are thankful to the queer community who courageously developed the tradition of coming out — sharing their/our truths even when being authentic was risky.

The organizer of Authenticity Fest, Masha, is deeply grateful to the LGBT Center for opening their space to this event.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 
When and where is Authenticity Fest? Authenticity Fest is at the LGBT Center (3909 Centre St, San Diego, CA 92103). Find more location details by clicking here.NOTE: This event is at the LGBT Center but it is about all kinds of authenticity, not onl…

When and where is Authenticity Fest?
Authenticity Fest is at the LGBT Center (3909 Centre St, San Diego, CA 92103). Find more location details by clicking here.

NOTE:
This event is at the LGBT Center but it is about all kinds of authenticity, not only about sexual orientation/gender identity.

What should I share about? Tell us about something you were (& maybe still are) nervous to share. Maybe you have felt an outcast or like you can't share your true self. We support you in sharing your story. Some examples of experiences or ident…

What should I share about?
Tell us about something you were (& maybe still are) nervous to share. Maybe you have felt an outcast or like you can't share your true self. We support you in sharing your story.

Some examples of experiences or identities that people can sometimes be nervous to share about are: physical/mental health experiences, drastic career changes (or desires to change careers), non-traditional relationships, immigration status or history, drug use or abuse, gender identity, sexual orientation, financial struggles, other struggles or experiences.

This event will be at the LGBT Center, which supports the queer community. Stories about coming out as LGBTQ+ are absolutely welcome, but the list of other possible topics is included to ensure that attendees understand that “coming out” and authenticity are relevant far beyond the queer community.

What if someone shares a similar story? Please share if you want! We aren't trying to find one of each type of story. That would be an example of tokenism (click here for more info on tokenism) and it is absolutely not what Authenticity Fest is abou…

What if someone shares a similar story?
Please share if you want! We aren't trying to find one of each type of story. That would be an example of tokenism (click here for more info on tokenism) and it is absolutely not what Authenticity Fest is about.

Even if your story has themes in common with someone else’s, your story will be unique because everyone’s is. That being said, if hearing someone else share a story that is similar to yours gives you the satisfaction of feeling less alone and you have no desire to share your own, no pressure. Please use this space and time in the way that feels best to you.

What if my story isn’t worth telling? If you want to share your story, even just a little bit, please do. People aren’t generally very good at determining whether or not their stories or output is worth sharing. This is especially true for perfectio…

What if my story isn’t worth telling?
If you want to share your story, even just a little bit, please do. People aren’t generally very good at determining whether or not their stories or output is worth sharing. This is especially true for perfectionists.

Either way, this event isn’t about finding the best story. It’s about creating a space for all of us to feel more ok. If that sounds good to you, please join us. If you have any specific questions, feel free to reach out to the organizer, Masha, through the Contact form.

Can I get a reminder? Yes! Please do. We want you there. Please request a reminder using the Eventbrite page.

Can I get a reminder?
Yes! Please do. We want you there. Please request a reminder using the Eventbrite page.

That’s a really common feeling. It is guaranteed that you will not be the only one. Whether or not that eases your mind, here is some more info:This event is designed to help people connect. The organizer, Masha, is very thoughtful about the factors…

That’s a really common feeling. It is guaranteed that you will not be the only one. Whether or not that eases your mind, here is some more info:

This event is designed to help people connect. The organizer, Masha, is very thoughtful about the factors that help people feel more comfortable in groups. If there is something you are particularly concerned about, please use the Contact form to ask Masha about it.

What if I want to attend but not speak? Save the date, RSVP, & we'll see you there! Bring people you care about or come alone. You'll meet new friends either way.

What if I want to attend but not speak?
Save the date, RSVP, & we'll see you there! Bring people you care about or come alone. You'll meet new friends either way.

Why should I come to Authenticity Fest? Many people find relief & clarity when they are in a space where they can be accepted for who they are. Here, you will meet people with whom you can be yourself. It is often comforting to hear other people…

Why should I come to Authenticity Fest?
Many people find relief & clarity when they are in a space where they can be accepted for who they are. Here, you will meet people with whom you can be yourself. It is often comforting to hear other people’s stories and can bring great relief to share your own.

If this event doesn’t sound like your cup of tea, please, spend your time and energy however suits you better. To each their own! :) But if you’re reading about this event and thinking that it would be cool to be awash in a few hours of authenticity with other caring people, please RSVP to get a reminder.

What if I want to share but not on stage? You can share your stories (anonymous or not) at a booth off-stage. You can also share your story in advance online using the Contact form. If you use the Contact form to share a story for use at Authenticit…

What if I want to share but not on stage?
You can share your stories (anonymous or not) at a booth off-stage. You can also share your story in advance online using the Contact form. If you use the Contact form to share a story for use at Authenticity Fest, please select “public” on that form.

What if I want to volunteer in other ways? Please fill out the Contact form to indicate your interest in volunteering. Filling out the form doesn’t obligate you to anything.Examples of the volunteering help we need include directing people, showing …

What if I want to volunteer in other ways?
Please fill out the Contact form to indicate your interest in volunteering. Filling out the form doesn’t obligate you to anything.

Examples of the volunteering help we need include directing people, showing people how to share their story off-stage, helping to set up or take down the event, etc. The majority of volunteer roles don’t need any specific skills.

Who is organizing this event? This event is organized by Masha Evpak, who you will meet at the event. Masha cares strongly about authenticity, because it is important to her personally AND because she feels strongly that authentic sharing has the po…

Who is organizing this event?
This event is organized by Masha Evpak, who you will meet at the event. Masha cares strongly about authenticity, because it is important to her personally AND because she feels strongly that authentic sharing has the power to do so much good both personally and socioculturally.

The first identity/experience that Masha ever came out about was about being pansexual/bisexual/queer. 10 years later, she has noticed that there are many other identities/experiences she has been nervous to share. She has used the experience of coming out (click here for more info about coming out) as queer to guide her as she shares other parts of herself that she has been nervous to share.

What motivates her most strongly is that what people are most nervous to share isn’t generally random: instead, it is usually is because they don’t conform to what society says about how we are “supposed” to be. This means that people who have non-normative identities or experiences have to constantly decide whether to combat other people’s assumptions about them. This is an unfair burden and is a social justice issue.

If you have any questions or just want to say hi, you are encouraged to fill out the Contact form, which will go directly to Masha.

I need accessibility information. The event is in the LGBT Center Auditorium, which is wheelchair accessible on the main (ground) level of the Center. Two (2) ADA-compliant bathrooms are available for use on the main level.If you have additional acc…

I need accessibility information.
The event is in the LGBT Center Auditorium, which is wheelchair accessible on the main (ground) level of the Center. Two (2) ADA-compliant bathrooms are available for use on the main level.

If you have additional accessibility needs, please fill out the Contact form as soon as possible and we’ll figure out what we can do.

Do I need to prepare? You absolutely do NOT need to prepare. However, you can do some prep work if you feel that this will allow to more precisely share your story or to make you feel more comfortable.If you use notes, it is suggested that you use b…

Do I need to prepare?
You absolutely do NOT need to prepare. However, you can do some prep work if you feel that this will allow to more precisely share your story or to make you feel more comfortable.

If you use notes, it is suggested that you use brief bullet points written clearly in a thick marker. This can be easier to glance at than paragraphs written in small text. You can read straight from a paper if that is more comfortable for you.

There will be index cards & markers there for you to quickly jot down some notes for yourself, if you like.

Are children allowed at this event? There are no age restrictions on this event. However, if you bring children, please be aware that due to the authentic nature of the sharing at this event, they may hear about a wide range of experiences and ident…

Are children allowed at this event?
There are no age restrictions on this event. However, if you bring children, please be aware that due to the authentic nature of the sharing at this event, they may hear about a wide range of experiences and identities that they may not be used to hearing about.

If you bring children, please make sure that they are comfortable being quiet and respectful when others are sharing. If they start to get antsy or noisy, please be prepared to help them quiet down or step outside if needed.

Please note that there will be no alcohol at the event.

What should I know about sharing my story? Sharing will happen between 3:30-5:00pm. The stage will be open for anyone who wants to share, for as many people as we have time for. Each person can share for 2, 4, 6, or 8 minutes. If there are a lot of …

What should I know about sharing my story?
Sharing will happen between 3:30-5:00pm. The stage will be open for anyone who wants to share, for as many people as we have time for. Each person can share for 2, 4, 6, or 8 minutes. If there are a lot of people wanting to speak, we may cap the stories at 6 minutes max, so please be flexible. Sign up when you arrive. If you would like to share the stage with someone who will co-tell the story with you or just be moral support, we absolutely welcome that.

There will be some question/prompt cards which you can use for inspiration. You can also choose to read a question/prompt or share your own on stage without actually asking it. Maybe you care about the question but aren’t ready to publicly answer it, or maybe you just want to invite your fellow attendees to consider the question.

If you want to use a pseudonym and/or wear a mask while you share, no prob. NOTE: Costume props and masks were going to be provided, but in the interest of minimizing possible germ-sharing, please bring your own mask or costume props if you want.

After sharing, we will switch to small group discussions.

Is authenticity safe? General Authenticity As I am sure you realize, there are risks to authenticity: Not all marginalized identities and experiences are protected against discrimination. Additionally, those who are motivated to do so can find ways…

Is authenticity safe?

General Authenticity
As I am sure you realize, there are risks to authenticity: Not all marginalized identities and experiences are protected against discrimination. Additionally, those who are motivated to do so can find ways of oppressing others.

But there are also risks in not being authentic and I imagine you’ve thought about this as well. When we aren’t authentic, we can’t be known for who we really are. Some people don’t mind that and choose to be more private and that is ok too. But for those who want to be known for who they really are, having to hold back can be exhausting. Not being able to share themselves can hold people back from meeting people who will support them, from finding careers/projects that suit their goals/needs, or from sharing their words, art, or self with the world.

Every person’s circumstances are different and so must be their decision-making about their own authenticity. Coming out isn’t a one-time process, so there are plenty of opportunities to decide whether, how much, and how to share.

Authenticity Fest specifically
1. No photos or videos will be taken at the event without permission.

2. Attendees will be instructed that what is shared at Authenticity Fest stays at Authenticity Fest. They will be welcome to share broadly the kinds of stories that they heard, but it will be strictly forbidden to tie stories to names or to share identifying details.

3. You are very welcome to use a pseudonym or share anonymously, both when you’re sharing on the stage or at the off-stage sharing activity.

4. You can bring a mask to wear that obstructs all or part of your face. If you plan to wear a mask the whole time, please ensure it is one you are comfortable in.

5. While we will not be screening people at the door, it is expected that the people who choose to spend their Saturday afternoon at Authenticity Fest are exactly the kind of people who will support you in your goal of being your authentic self.

If you value authenticity but are really reluctant to share your story, please remember that even attending without sharing is a great way to experience the supportive atmosphere. You can always decide on the spot to share your story. We will hear as many stories as we have time for.

What happens during the discussion? The small-group discussion will happen from 5:00-6:00pm. Inspired by the story sharing that occurred just before, we will discuss authenticity/coming out and related topics. We will have prompts to inspire convers…

What happens during the discussion?
The small-group discussion will happen from 5:00-6:00pm. Inspired by the story sharing that occurred just before, we will discuss authenticity/coming out and related topics. We will have prompts to inspire conversation and participants can also raise their own questions for the group.

The discussion gives people a chance to share who may not feel comfortable on a stage. Additionally, this allows a back-and-forth so we can explore ideas more deeply than may come from monologuing.

Some people can have a hard time jumping into conversations, so we will have visual cues you can hold up to indicate you would like to share.

Depending on how many people participate in the discussion portion, we will either break into small groups (facilitated by Discussion Leaders) or talk in a single group.

Will I be judged for what I share? The goal of Authenticity Fest is to listen to each other’s experiences and validate the diversity of experiences and identities in the room. In general, if what you are sharing about yourself isn’t hurting others, …

Will I be judged for what I share?
The goal of Authenticity Fest is to listen to each other’s experiences and validate the diversity of experiences and identities in the room. In general, if what you are sharing about yourself isn’t hurting others, there is no reason for us to judge you. If you are sharing about an experience in which your actions hurt others but you are sorry for it and are moving toward making up for the harm and/or taking steps to prevent future harm, we are here to validate and support you.

The marketing of this event does not include anything like “judgment free zone” because this is a promise that the organizer can’t deliver on – it would be disingenuous to think that we can control the thoughts of everyone at an event. Even people who care strongly about accepting the diversity of human experience can feel judgmental toward other people, even as they work to spend less time on the judgments and to move more quickly toward acceptance. It’s also important to note that holding a negative judgment about one element of an individual does not mean condemning the person entirely.

Please keep in mind that this event is designed for those who want to accept people for their complex authentic selves, so you should find this a very warm and welcoming environment. If you have further questions about this or anything else, please reach out to Masha, the organizer, through the Contact form.

 

Contact

Your message will be sent to Masha Evpak (they or she pronouns), the organizer of Authenticity Fest. She is the only one who checks her inbox and she promises to never share anything that you tell her without your permission.