Liz Achanta
This year .gay is thrilled to be partnering with Treefort Music Festival again to highlight incredible LGBTQIA+ acts playing the fest!
We’ll be publishing interviews with out Treefort bands ahead of the festival, then on site bringing you all the action on socials during.
To kick things off, we caught up with Talon Smartt. Check out our chat below.
Why do you feel it is important to be out and proud as an artist?
We feel it’s important to be out and proud as an artist so that there are artist out there to look up to, to inspire, and support one another within the LGBTQIA+ community.
What does LGBTQIA+ visibility mean to you?
It means being heard/seen in a world where many of us are silenced and hidden.
Why is LGBTQIA+ safety and support in the music industry important in 2024?
Many of us in the past have been put in unsafe situations. The industry has come a long way but just like anything, it’s not perfect. That’s why it’s good to raise awareness and to keep pushing into the right direction until everyone can create, work, and thrive in a safe environment.
Tell us about what brings you to Treefort? Have you been to Idaho before?
This will be our 2nd time playing Treefort!
If you could tell Queer and Trans youth one thing, what would it be?
Be true to yourself and never let anyone tear you down. You are seen. You are heard. You are powerful.
Anything else you would like Idaho’s LGBTQIA+ community to know, hear, or feel as they discover your band at the festival?
We love each and every one of you that comes out to support us. Our shows are safe spaces for you to be yourself, be free, & to have fun!
Elizabeth Achanta
Some cities and states in the U.S. have earned reputations as being particularly inclusive, welcoming, and affirming. These places not only boast strong legal protections but also provide rich, supportive communities where LGBTQIA+ individuals can thrive without fear of discrimination or marginalization.
Liz Achanta
.gay Domains had a great time again this year at the GLAAD Media Awards and we continue to be so proud to support this vital community organization’s work through DotGay’s built-in 20% giving model.
Liz Achanta
Supporting LGBTQIA+ communities is more than flying a rainbow flag every June—it’s a commitment to fostering equality, acceptance, and respect for all. In a world where the LGBTQIA+ community continues to face systemic discrimination, legislative battles, and social stigma, allyship has never been more important. Showing up in meaningful ways requires more than surface-level support—it calls for action that drives change and uplifts marginalized voices.
Liz Achanta
The internet is long overdue for a glow-up, and DotGay domains is here to make it fabulous. In a digital world often dominated by corporate agendas and cookie-cutter content, the .gay domain carves out a bold and unapologetic space for LGBTQIA+ visibility, inclusion, and solidarity. These domains are more than just web addresses — they’re digital beacons for pride and empowerment; not to mention, they’re often small businesses that feed families and provide community support. As the fight for equality continues, DotGay is leading the charge to make the internet a more vibrant and welcoming place for everyone under the rainbow and our allies.
