From January 22 to January 26, 2025, Las Vegas will host the 38th annual Creating Change Conference, a monumental gathering organized by the National LGBTQ Task Force. This is the first time the city will welcome this transformative event, bringing together over 2,500 activists, community leaders, and allies for a week of education, connection, and celebration. At the helm is Kierra Johnson, the President of the National LGBTQ Task Force, whose vision and leadership guide this essential event for the LGBTQ community.

"Creating Change is not just a conference—it's an experience," Johnson explains. "It's a space where we affirm each other, inspire action, and birth new ideas to propel the movement forward."

The Heart of the Experience: Workshops, Plenaries, and Connection

The conference offers a rich tapestry of workshops, plenary sessions, and networking opportunities designed to meet the diverse needs of attendees. A standout feature this year is the Democracy Panel, a continuation of the dialogue started in 2024 about the growing threat of fascism in the United States and how the LGBTQ community can stay vigilant and proactive.

"This isn’t just an academic exercise," Johnson emphasizes. "It’s a space to strategize and prepare for the real-world challenges ahead, especially as we navigate a changing political landscape."

Attendees can also expect dynamic cultural programming, such as a ball and a cabaret, which balance the intensity of activism with opportunities for joy and celebration. For many, Creating Change is the only time all year where they can fully express themselves in a safe, affirming environment.

"Creating Change isn’t just about organizing and strategy," says Johnson. "It’s also about dancing, laughing, and being your whole self."

Workshops will explore a range of pressing issues, from addressing homelessness and healthcare disparities in the LGBTQ community to combating anti-trans legislation and supporting mental health. Attendees will have the chance to learn directly from experts and grassroots organizers who have pioneered innovative approaches to activism.

Why Las Vegas?

Bringing the conference to Las Vegas is a deliberate choice, reflecting the Task Force’s mission to go where queer people are—everywhere.

"Las Vegas is a dynamic and diverse city with a rich history of activism," Johnson notes. "The strong labor movement, the advocacy by sex workers, and the intersectionality of the community here make it the perfect host city."

The conference isn’t just an event that comes and goes; it leaves a lasting impact on its host city. By partnering with local organizations, vendors, and volunteers, Creating Change strengthens local networks and builds capacity for future activism.

"We’re working with local childcare providers, contractors, and businesses," Johnson explains. "This isn’t about parachuting in—it’s about building connections and leaving something meaningful behind."

This year’s local collaborations include partnerships with Las Vegas-based nonprofits addressing food insecurity, LGBTQ youth homelessness, and equitable healthcare access. Conference attendees will have opportunities to volunteer with these organizations, creating direct ties between the national LGBTQ movement and Las Vegas’s local needs.

An Inclusive Space for All

Creating Change is renowned for being a big tent event that welcomes people from all walks of life. This year’s attendees include students, professors, nonprofit leaders, elected officials, and everyday community members who share a commitment to advancing LGBTQ equality.

"It’s a microcosm of our movement," Johnson says. "You’ll find white folks, Indigenous folks, pansexual folks, cisgender men, transgender women, and people from Oakland to Idaho all in one space, learning from and supporting one another."

For first-time attendees, Johnson offers practical advice:

• Stay Hydrated: With so much to do, it’s easy to neglect self-care. "Drink water and take breaks."

• Pace Yourself: The sheer volume of programming can be overwhelming. Johnson suggests taking time to step outside and breathe.

• Find a Buddy: Connecting with a veteran attendee can make the experience more digestible.

• Utilize PheedLoop: This digital platform keeps participants updated on schedule changes and special announcements.

One of the event’s hallmarks is its focus on intersectionality. Workshops and panels will explore how race, class, gender identity, and sexual orientation intersect to shape the LGBTQ experience. Faith-based programming will provide spiritual resources for attendees of diverse religious backgrounds, while youth-focused tracks will ensure that younger activists find their voice in the movement.

Balancing Progress and Challenges

While the conference celebrates progress, it doesn’t shy away from addressing the ongoing challenges faced by the LGBTQ community. Johnson points out the importance of acknowledging both.

"We have to honor the wins of our ancestors while recognizing the work that remains," she says. "Progress is never linear, but every step forward matters."

Johnson’s perspective is rooted in history. She highlights how far the community has come, from the height of the HIV/AIDS crisis to today’s struggles for trans rights and against systemic oppression.

"Even as things get bad, it’s not like it was 50 years ago. That’s a testament to the resilience and brilliance of our community," she asserts.

Prioritizing Safety

In a world where LGBTQ spaces are often targets, safety is a priority for the Task Force. Creating Change implements a range of measures, from badge systems to partnerships with local law enforcement and hotel security teams.

"Our first plan is always to take care of each other," Johnson explains. "We’re consistent about ensuring that everyone who is supposed to be there is identifiable, and we’re working closely with local allies to address any potential threats."

The conference’s security measures extend to creating a firearm-free zone and ensuring that all vendors and contractors align with the community’s values of safety and inclusivity. Additionally, the Care Bear team will be present throughout the event to provide emotional support to attendees navigating challenging topics or personal experiences.

The Las Vegas Footprint

One of the unique aspects of Creating Change is the impact it leaves on the host city. For Las Vegas, this means strengthened networks, increased visibility, and a deeper commitment to activism.

"People follow Creating Change from city to city," Johnson says. "The relationships and ideas forged here will continue to influence the movement long after the conference ends."

The collaboration with local activists, labor movements, and organizations brings a unique flavor to this year’s event. By highlighting issues specific to Las Vegas—from sex worker rights to housing justice—Creating Change ensures that its programming reflects the realities of the host city while providing national and global perspectives.

A Space for Joy and Inspiration

Above all, Creating Change is a space for inspiration, where attendees leave with renewed energy and a sense of purpose.

"It’s a reminder that we need each other to not just survive but thrive," Johnson concludes. "We are deserving of joy, love, and the freedom to dream big. This conference is about creating that reality together."

The event’s cultural programming will feature performances from renowned drag queens, spoken word artists, and musicians, ensuring that the spirit of creativity and expression remains central to the experience. Workshops will range from beginner-level sessions on organizing to advanced discussions on policy advocacy, ensuring that attendees of all experience levels find value.

Even the dining and informal gatherings are intentionally planned to encourage community-building. Las Vegas’s vibrant nightlife will be integrated into the conference, with LGBTQ-friendly venues hosting after-parties and networking events.

The Power of Legacy

As the conference marks its 38th year, it’s a moment to reflect on its enduring legacy. Founded in 1988, Creating Change has grown from a small gathering to the premier convening for LGBTQ activists and allies. Its longevity is a testament to the power of community and the importance of spaces dedicated to collective growth and action.

"Every Creating Change feels like a family reunion," Johnson shares. "It’s a time to reconnect, celebrate, and recommit to the work that lies ahead."

For Las Vegas, hosting this milestone event is not only an honor but an opportunity to showcase the city’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. As attendees arrive, they bring with them the hope, energy, and determination that define the LGBTQ movement.

Looking Ahead

As the doors open on January 22, Las Vegas will not only host a conference but will become the epicenter of a movement. For those attending, it promises to be a life-changing experience. And for the city itself, it’s a chance to showcase its commitment to diversity and inclusion—proving once again that Las Vegas truly is a place for everyone.

Welcome to Creating Change 2025. Let’s make history together.