Prepare for a Perfectly Purple Party, People

Contributed

With a two-fold purpose, 40 Shades of Purple will celebrate the 40th birthday of Compton's Table founder Tyler Titus and act as a fundraiser for the organization. Hosted by Rebecca Mae, funds raised through ticket sales and at the event will help to provide vital support for Erie's Queer youth.

FRIDAY JUN. 21

The gravity of turning 40 is not lost on Tyler Titus. "I will be turning 40 years old, a number that many transgender individuals never get to see due to various systematic barriers that cut our lives short," says the Compton's Table founder and chair. But the non-profit organization whose mission is "to create a thriving Queer community in Northwestern Pennsylvania where Queer individuals are seen, valued, and affirmed" has been working to change that statistic.

On June 21, the Erie Art Museum will be host to 40 Shades of Purple as both a fundraiser for Compton's Table and a celebration of Titus turning 40, in grand style. The color scheme is purple, gold, and white; cocktail attire is suggested and there will be heavy hors d'oeuvres and a cash bar. The event will be hosted by Rebecca Mae (Erie's 40 under 40 drag queen) and will feature a silent auction, DJ, and music by Matt Texter.

Titus says they hope to raise $15,000-$20,000 for the nonprofit at this event. "This would cover our next name change clinic, our Open Mic Nights, give us seed money for our rental and emergency assistance funds that we use to keep Queer young adults in safe housing, and help cover our overhead costs."

Titus wants party-goers and general donors alike to know that "We know the importance of representation and we know the pain of being forgotten. The need far exceeds our capacity, but we refuse to give up or back down. Erie needs Compton's Table and Compton's Table needs Erie's support." Titus adds, "We are a completely volunteer-based organization so every dollar raised goes directly back into the programs we offer and remain free to those who use them."

As if that weren't encouragement enough to party for a cause, Titus promises to be wearing "one perfectly purple outfit you won't want to miss."

6:30 to 10 p.m. // Erie Art Museum, 20 E. 5th St. // $40 // Tickets and info: tickets.eriereader.com