PORT ANGELES — It’s Esprit week in Port Angeles.
Billed as an “educational conference for all people on the gender spectrum,” the annual transgender convention begins today and runs through next Sunday.
Events and classes will be held daily in and around the Port Angeles Red Lion Hotel.
“Esprit focuses on changing lives for the better and creating pride and self-respect for anyone who is transgender,” according to the event website, www.espritconf.com.
“Educational, inspirational, and experimental, Esprit is steeped in prospects for personal growth and friendship. But most of all, Esprit is about fun in a magnificent setting among a friendly and accepting local population.”
The convention has been held in Port Angeles every May since 1989, organizers say.
A talent show will be held at 6 p.m. Friday at the Elks Naval Lodge.
At noon Saturday, keynote speaker Ginger Chien will discuss corporate LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer) diversity efforts.
The Saturday Night Gala will begin at 6 p.m. in the hotel’s upstairs ballroom.
Classes will be held throughout the event on topics such as cross-dressing and self-defense.
Certain Esprit events like the Friday talent show and Saturday dance are open to the public after meal service ends.
The Nasty Habits, a popular transgender band that books Port Angeles shows around the convention, is scheduled to perform at the Metta Room at 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
For a schedule of events or other information about Esprit, click on www.espritconf.com.
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Reporter Rob Ollikainen can be reached at 360-452-2345, ext. 56450, or at rollikainen@peninsuladailynews.com.
