It’s Friday in Milwaukee, and here are some events that can enrich your weekend. If you would like your event to be considered for this column, please email info@milwaukeenns.org and put 5 things in the subject line by noon Thursday.


Milwaukee Pride is creating a space for trans and queer people of color to come together during PrideFest Milwaukee. (Photo provided by Milwaukee Pride and Savannah Paige)
1. Safe summer kickoff with COA: Friday, June 7
COA and other community partners are hosting an event to kick off the summer. Groups such as Safe & Sound, Amani United and others will be promoting safe summer tips and activities. There will be free food and community resources available. The kickoff will be held in Moody Park, 2320 W. Burleigh St., and start at 4 p.m. Friday, June 7.
2. Wear Orange community celebration: Saturday, June 8
Groups throughout Milwaukee, including Moms Demand Actions for Gun Sense, WAVE and the City of Milwaukee Office of Violence Prevention will be wearing orange this weekend. Orange is worn to raise awareness for gun violence. On Saturday, several groups are hosting a gathering to promote community over violence. The event is at the North Side YMCA, 1350 W. North Ave. and will start at noon Saturday, June 8.
3. Rubies’ second annual fundraiser against human trafficking: Saturday, June 8
Rubies, or Rare Unique Beautiful Intelligent Excelling Sisters, is hosting its second annual fundraiser. The goal is to raise awareness and fight against sex trafficking in Milwaukee. Guests are invited to enjoy Caribbean dishes prepared by Denver Flavors. The fundraiser will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, June 8 at Third Branch Studio, 133 W. Pittsburgh Ave. Tickets cost $75.
4. Pride social for queer and trans people of color: Saturday, June 8.
As PrideFest Milwaukee continues through Sunday, June 9, Milwaukee Pride and the Zao MKE Church are inviting queer and trans people of color to join the celebration and create a community at the Miller Level Up VIP Space at 5 p.m. Saturday, June 8. The event will include a history lesson, snacks, social resources and an opportunity to socialize.
5. Miss and Little Miss Juneteenth Pageant: Sunday, June 9
This year, Milwaukee is celebrating its 27th Annual Miss Juneteenth Pageant. African American women ages 14 to 18 are invited to join the scholarship competition. The pageant showcases participant’s academic achievements, community service and talents. The winner and her court will be featured in the Juneteenth Day Parade on June 19. The pageant starts at 2 p.m. Sunday, June 9 at the Martin Luther King Center, 1531 W. Vliet St.
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