Merriam-Webster dictionary defines forward as “advocating an advanced policy in the direction of what is considered progress” and so Nashville goes—forward, that is. Forward toward a goal of equality in church and state, government and education, arts and sports, employment and enjoyment, and Tennessee Equality Project (TEP) is helping lead the way.

And this year, TEP takes another step forward with a new event, Forward Friday, imagined by Wesley Summers, Director of Marketing for TEP.

Summers moved to Nashville in August of 2011, from North Alabama. “I would say two things define me: my art and my passion. I am very blessed to work with Tennessee Equality Project, as their Marketing Director. It really puts me in a strong position to use my art to change our city and state for the better.”

Summers explained to us just how Forward Friday come about. “Forward Friday came about when we reached out to the owners of Tribe in an attempt to expand our audience. They were very accepting of TEP and what we wanted to do. TEP is very grateful for [Tribe] letting us host this event there.”

There are several goals the marketing expert hopes to achieve with this event, including fundraising. “The fight against the Don't Say Gay Bill, and the fight for positive legislation statewide is very expensive. We need all the help we can get,” said Summers.

Celebrating victories will also be a focus of the event. “TEP has had an amazing past few years. From getting Non-Discrimination Ordinances on the books in Memphis, Knoxville and Nashville to fighting off the Don't Say Gay Bill for four years in a row. We have a lot to celebrate.”

And last, but not least, Olympus is right around the corner. “We are looking forward to September. Olympus is such a huge deal for us. We want people to be excited about it. So we really hope to communicate a lot about Olympus at Forward Friday.”

What else can the community expect from Forward Friday? “People can expect a fun night. We are very excited to be hosting the Change Project, visiting us from Alabama. The Change Project is an art based advocacy project. At a cost of $20 to get your Change Photo it is a very reasonable chance to make a statement, and have a lot of fun doing it. We will also be having a silent auction with some great items up for grabs. There will also be TEP and Change Project merchandise for sale. So, definitely come on out and see what we have,” said the obviously enthusiastic Summers.

And it’s easy to be a part of the birth of the event. Simply show up at Tribe in Nashville on July 19 between 7 and 10 p.m. to show your support.

Learn more about Forward Friday and 'like' the TEP Facebook page.