On Dec. 18, the Pink Sappho social club hosted its first members-only event, Drunk Sappho, at Hammy Whammy, 4633 N. Clark St. Inspired by the concept of “Drunk Shakespeare,” the evening was designed as an intimate spoken-word gathering where Black, Indigenous and other sapphics of color could gather in comfort and safety while sipping complimentary drinks.
With sapphic-themed performances and intimate group discussions guided by conversation cards produced by Cookies and Conversations, a Black-owned business, the night fostered connection during the hectic holiday season. The event was sponsored in part by ChiCity Alkalinity, a Black queer woman-owned alkaline water brand.
“As someone who often feels like an outcast or misunderstood, it was so refreshing to be present in a space filled with sapphics of color and overflowing with dialogue,” said attendee Kiara Hill.
Founder Aderinsola Akeju described Pink Sappho as “a movement in the guise of a social club,” centered on amplifying the voices of sapphic individuals of color and creating culturally specific, intentional community spaces.
“We’re offering art to be experienced, down to the details of the venue we pick. The architecture itself is art,” said Akeju. “Our events are curated with intention.”
Pink Sappho has also expanded beyond Chicago through its Muse Series, which profiles sapphics from around the world. The series launched with London-based indie artist Neusha Gray and Nigerian creative writer Tofunmi. According to Akeju, the project highlights “their story, who they are, and what they bring,” as part of a broader effort to “saturate the media with sapphic images.” Each Muse is featured in a magazine-style Instagram cover and a longer blog profile.
Looking ahead to 2026, Akeju is focused on the movement’s continued growth. Pink Sappho has launched a membership tier that offers access to members-only events, free or discounted blog content and additional monthly gatherings. The group plans to host two events per month—one members-only and one open to the public—with upcoming programming planned in New York City, Baltimore, and internationally.
Alongside its events, Pink Sappho is developing its first physical products, including conversation card decks and a community-written sapphic sex education book, Erosophy: The Art of Sapphism, co-authored with queer sex educators.
What began as a small, apartment-based gathering has grown into something much larger. Akeju and the Pink Sappho team are looking ahead to a new year filled with expanded programming, partnerships and continued community building.