Michael Somkuti, an Abington native, wants to share their love for gaming with people in the LGBTQ+ community, writes Suzi Nash for Philadelphia Gay News.

As a nonbinary member of the community, they were aware of the hostility and hate that has been recently directed to the LGBTQ+ community, especially in the gaming sphere, and wanted to create a safe space for people to enjoy playing games.

Somkuti teamed up with another queer gamer, Chris Compendio, to start LFG Philly, which is a space not only for gaming, but also for discussions and social interactions. Both Somkuti and Compendio have backgrounds in esports event organizing.

LFG Philly’s Queer Gaming Night recently brought together almost 20 people for a night of playing “Fall Guys,” “Fortnite” and “Super Smash Bros. Ultimate” for the first in-person LFG Philly meetup.

They said they had a nice turnout.

“I’m really pleased because I just wanted to have an event that would be a safe space for queer gamers no matter who they are. Having experienced and seen what can happen online, a lot of people are turned away or turned off of gaming or intimidated because they don’t have a certain level of skill,” Somkuti said.

“This group is where they can meet other queer people and socialize and be respected. We’re not just about competing. You don’t have to be a professional player to join!”

Read more about LFG Philly in Philadelphia Gay News.

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Philadelphia Pride March 2023