Born out of an idea of inclusion, the vibrant climbing community at North Mass Boulder (NMB) has evolved into a space that transcends mere recreation for its participants. Conceived by Cael Lee and co-host Khristopher, Queer Trans Climb Night (QTCN) has rapidly grown into a pivotal gathering for queer and trans individuals seeking not just physical activity, but also a sanctuary to socialize, and build connections and celebrate their identities in an inclusive environment.
“Climbing is traditionally male dominated, so creating space for women and femmes was crucial,” says Lee. “I wondered aloud if NMB would extend this inclusivity to the queer and trans community, given the often unwelcoming nature of gyms for LGBTQ+ individuals. Toxic gym culture, with its emphasis on cis-heteronormative ideals and historical harassment in locker rooms, underscores the need for safe spaces.”
Encouraged by NMB’s ethos of diversity and inclusion, Lee approached management with a proposal for an event that would welcome queer and trans climbers. The response was overwhelmingly positive, leading to the launch of QTCN in March 2022 – a watershed moment in making climbing more accessible and affirming.
On a typical QTCN night, NMB transforms into more than just a climbing gym. The evening commences with introductions and icebreakers, fostering a warm atmosphere where participants share pronouns and connect over shared experiences. Moving to the bouldering gym, climbers of all skill levels support one another, creating an environment that encourages growth and camaraderie. The night culminates upstairs in the cafe and bar area, where conversations flow freely in a relaxed, alcohol-free setting, reinforcing the bonds forged on the climbing mats earlier.
“If you’re new, expect a warm welcome,” says Lee. “There’s no pressure to climb; the night is about inclusivity and support. While some enjoy a drink at the cafe, many don’t, reflecting our focus on creating an environment where everyone feels comfortable.”
QTCN has swiftly become a cornerstone of Indianapolis’s queer and trans community, addressing a critical need for sober, physically engaging social spaces. Participants often leave with new friends and a sense of belonging rarely found in conventional gym settings.
Inclusivity lies at the heart of QTCN’s mission, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of identity or experience, feel welcome. “We don’t check queer IDs at the door,” quips Lee, underscoring the event’s commitment to inclusivity. “Whether you’re exploring your identity or seeking community, QTCN is for you.” Advocating for pay-what-you-can nights further minimizes financial barriers, enhancing accessibility and broadening participation.
“Many mistakenly believe climbing requires great strength or athleticism,” says Lee, dispelling myths. “Bouldering accommodates all body types and abilities. At QTCN, you’ll find a diverse range of climbers, from beginners tackling their first routes to seasoned climbers pushing their limits. Spectators are just as welcome, reflecting our commitment to accessibility.”
Engaging with QTCN is straightforward through NMB’s events page, listing upcoming sessions. Beyond climbing, QTCN fosters partnerships with queer- and trans-affirming organizations, amplifying its impact beyond the gym. Participants advocate for greater inclusivity and visibility in sports and recreational spaces by attending and promoting QTCN events. Registration details are available on NMB’s events page. Whether a seasoned climber or a first-time participant, QTCN invites all to join in and experience the transformative impact of community, affirming the belief that climbing is not just about scaling walls, but also about building bridges and embracing diversity.
“I am humbled to get to help organize this event,” says Lee. “QTCN has not only brought me friendships that I feel will be lifelong, it has also increased my community connections to other queer and trans organizations.”
For Lee, QTCN has been transformative, reinforcing the necessity of queer-affirming spaces and fostering deeper engagement within Indianapolis’s queer and trans community. Beyond personal connections, QTCN embodies the power of collective support and advocacy, empowering participants to ascend to new heights of inclusivity and camaraderie, one climb at a time.
