In the Life Atlanta (ITLA) was formed in 1996 to serve the needs of the Lesbian/Gay/Bisexual/Transsexual (L/G/B/T) people of African descent. Through education, advocacy, coalition building programs and other activities, ITLA fosters unity, pride, empowerment, and positive visibility resulting in a strong community voice. This enhanced ITLA's ability to serve the needs of Atlanta's L/G/B/T people of African descent community, which includes elders, youth, allies, organizations, and businesses affiliated with the L/G/B/T community. ITLA was also the official coordinator of Atlanta's Annual Labor Day Black Gay Pride Celebration during the Labor Day Holiday weekend. Atlanta hosts the nation's third largest Black Gay Pride celebration attracting visitors from all over the world. Each year, ITLA coordinated various events throughout the pride weekend including: Poetry readings, Book signings, Art Festivals, Dance Performances and Social and Cultural workshops and seminars. In 1998, ITLA was one of the hosts of the National Black Lesbian and Gay Leadership Forum's annual conference. ITLA was instrumental in all areas of the conference including hotel selection, logistics, workshop coordination and hospitality. ITLA has also organized celebrations honoring Bayard Rustin to celebrate the impact he has had on the L/G/B/T community and bring awareness to those who are not familiar with his work, not just a civil rights activist but also a proud gay man. ITLA supported several community organizations including the AIDS Walk Atlanta, The Atlanta Gay and Lesbian Center, Atlanta Pride, ZAMI, and Second Sunday to name a few. Comprised of a volunteer board and staff members who were dedicated to the enrichment of the L/G/B/T community, ITLA relied on donations from corporate sponsors, community organizations, and individuals.