An outdoor market in East Los Angeles is dedicated to serving the LGBTQ+ community.
Many attendees refer to the “Queer Market” as a hidden gem for the queer community and business owners.
The marketplace has been running for two years, and the founder says her goal is to help provide visibility.
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“When people see me, it’s kind of hard to sell in regular places,” said Anna Sutton, a salesperson for Maps.LA.
Pottery, jewelry and art are displayed and sold in the market by queer vendors.
“I am very proud to have been able to help create economic opportunities and a safe space,” Diana Díaz, founder of Queer Mercado.
Diaz is a street vendor and school counselor who says the concept came from one of her students traveling through Los Angeles to other markets.
It finally launched in 2021, with about 40 vendors, and has been able to attract hundreds more since then. The event is held every third Saturday of the month on the lawn of the East Los Angeles Civic Center.
“When you come to the Queer Mercado, you see the grannies, you see the children, you see the family that comes to support the vendors and realizes that they are here on business,” Diaz said.
The foundation supports people seeking housing and medical help.
Although Diaz has been successful, she’s also faced a bit of negativity, but she’s moving on.
“I have received some negative comments and even from the queer community,” Diaz said. “We need support and we need visibility.”
This story first appeared on Telemundo 52’s sister station, NBCLA. Click here to read this story in English.
