Creative gays and theys in New Jersey are literally crafting a better world. The NJ Queer and Trans Makers Market welcomes LGBTQ vendors to sell their artwork, mingle with like-minded folks, and thrive financially in a safe space. The next NJQTMM is on Sunday, April 27 from 3-8 PM at the Morristown Unitarian Universalist Fellowship in Morristown. Future plans for the rotating pop-up will be shared on Out In Jersey‘s event page.
Mac Allen is the founder and organizer of the New Jersey Queer and Trans Makers Market. Allen also works with trans youth through local community groups like HiTOPS and helms an inclusive art brand called Sharkboy Stuff. I donned one of Sharkboy Stuff’s Nintendo Pikmin inspired shirts that says “Let Queer and Trans Kids Bloom” and it was a huge hit at the gay bar. His pop-culture-meets-social-justice designs and wares are up for sale, along with 19 other vendors also tabling at the next Market.
Allen founded NJQTMM after several transphobic encounters at a popular market. Working to create an actual safe space for queer and trans people, he founded NJQTMM in April of 2024. “We’re a space for people to be themselves outside of Pride Month. Spaces like these are incredibly powerful, especially in the face of adversity.” said Allen.
In just one year, the event has garnered hundreds of excited guests, sellers, and community partners to unite for the sake of inclusive art. The bazaar is a bustling business hub for progressive people. The NJQTMM has sellers from the LGBTQ community, live music, free resources, and food trucks. More than 15 volunteers and workers help to make each event happen.
In asking what motivates him, Allen said, “I believe that the power of our community is needed right now, especially given the political climate in our nation. Queer and trans creatives, makers, and artists deserve to live comfortably and be financially stable all year long. And not just during June. What I hope people take away from our event is that you can support and shop from LGBTQIA2S+ makers all year long. When large corporations turn their back on us, it’s important to invest in our local communities.”
Shopping locally is an actionable way to raise awareness especially since many corporate DEI initiatives have been reversed since Trump’s return to the White House. Spend your time and money supporting local artisans instead of morally bankrupt businesses.
You’re bound to find something homemade with plenty of heart when attending as a shopper. The talented vendors sell all kinds of LGBTQ clothes, accessories, pins, sweaters, art, adorable crocheted Pokémon plushes, and more. We’re also partnering with the NJQTMM to provide 25 free copies of Out In Jersey at their events, so be on the lookout for those if you’re attending.
