Ruth Ellis Center

Named in honor of a resilient Detroit icon, Ruth Ellis Center works to create a supportive environment and community for LGBTQ+ young people.

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We are dedicated to embedding Racial Equity and Transformative Justice in all of our work.

Racial Equity Statement

Working to create a supportive environment and community for LGBTQ+ young people.

Our mission is to create opportunities with LGBTQ+ young people to build their vision for a positive future.

Our vision is a world where LGBTQ+ young people are safe and supported no matter where they go.

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Upcoming Event

Category is: Necessary Night Out - June 13th Catfight Returns

After a much too long hiatus, Detroit’s most electric, somewhat eclectic, drag beauty pageant is back—bolder, campier, and queerer than ever—in the iconic St. Andrews Hall with all its intimate, up-close energy.

What started in 2018 as a grassroots fundraiser for Ruth Ellis Center has grown into a one-of-a-kind Pride season staple. And this year, we’re returning to our roots with:

  • All-amateur performers bringing raw, unfiltered talent
  • closer, louder, more immersive crowd experience
  • A celebration for LGBTQ+ youth, their families and friends

Expect outrageous performances, ballroom-inspired flair, and a crowd that shows the hell out.

Save the date. Tickets will drop soon and sell out fast.

📍St. Andrew’s Hall

Detroit, Michigan

📅 Saturday June 13, 2026

Upcoming Event

Cat Call - Want to be A part of the Show?

We are all in some way doing drag, but this is your chance to show the world who you are—and who you’re doing it for.

Claws out, kitty—this is your chance to perform in front of a SOLD-OUT crowd.

Details in the links below.

Good luck, and don’t f*** it up!

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Young People

Ruth Ellis Center welcomes young people and supports your housing, health and wellness needs. Click to learn more.

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Supporters

Ruth Ellis’ legacy is not ours alone. The Center is a community-driven effort. Learn how you can support.

Our Approach

Boom! It was a whole community. It was like multiple people came together to create Ruth Ellis Center.

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