FOR US. BY US.

More than events. More than entertainment. This is community.

On the DL was created to build spaces where Black Caribbean LGBTQ+ people can show up fully, freely, and authentically—without feeling the need to separate their queerness from their culture.

Founded by Lorrin Jay and DK, two Caribbean refugees who came to Canada seeking the freedom and safety to openly express who they are, On the DL was born from lived experience. We understand what it can feel like to search for spaces where you are not only accepted as LGBTQ+, but where your Blackness, Caribbean culture, music, language, energy, and experiences are understood and celebrated too.

After finding community in Canada, we wanted to help create more of the spaces we wished existed: spaces where Black queer Caribbean people could connect, celebrate, access opportunities, find resources, build relationships and simply be themselves without having to shrink any part of their identity.



On the DL began through events, but our vision extends far beyond nightlife.

We create culturally relevant events and social experiences where our community can dance, laugh, network, meet new people and celebrate together. But we're also building On the DL into a community platform that connects people with employment opportunities, LGBTQ+ resources, safe havens, community organizations, local businesses, education, workshops and important updates affecting Toronto's LGBTQ+ community.

Whether someone comes to us looking for a party, a job opportunity, a trusted resource, a new friendship or simply somewhere they feel represented, we want On the DL to be a place they know was created with them in mind.