Here’s something to download into your mind: Ctrl+, an inclusive gaming collective, is reshaping the social scene in the DMV—specifically in Silver Spring and Washington, D.C. More than just a gathering of gamers, Ctrl+ fuses video games, nightlife, and community, all filtered through a queer, Black lens. The collective hosts everything from competitive tournaments and casual game nights to themed parties, vendor markets, and collaborations with local queer artists and businesses. Founded by Shannon Miller (she/her) and Sierra Stansberry (she/her), Ctrl+ grew from their shared love of gaming and a mutual frustration with the lack of spaces that felt like home. “We were tired of waiting for a space that spoke to us,” they said in an email interview. “The DMV has tons of gaming events, but none made specifically for queer Black people.” After noticing a lag in said spaces, Ctrl+ was born.
The Origins of Ctrl+
“We wanted a space where queer Black people could show up fully, have fun, and take up space unapologetically,” Miller and Stansberry said. The concept behind Ctrl+ sparked from their own experiences. Miller and Stansberry felt the absence of welcoming spaces that feel like home for queer Black gamers. In 2024, they officially launched Ctrl+ with their debut event, Tourney Up. Attendees showed up, showed out, and made it clear that this kind of space was not only wanted, but urgently needed. Encouraged by the turnout, the collective returned this year with Tourney Up: Black Pride Edition, held right before the start of Pride Month. The sold out event was a clear sign that the DMV area is hungry for gaming spaces rooted in joy, identity, and community.
What to Expect at a Ctrl+ Event
A typical Ctrl+ event includes various games, music, dancing, and all the socialization you need to satisfy your inner social butterfly. Tickets are typically priced between $10 and $25, with limited free tickets available for laid-off workers and federal employees. “We’re committed to making our events accessible while still supporting sustainability,” the two founders shared.. During an event, there are multiple things happening at once. According to its founders, it wouldn’t be a surprise to walk into a Super Smash Bros. or Mario Kart tournament in one part of the venue, a DJ mixing tracks and people dancing in another, and a group playing party games or just enjoying the atmosphere in another area. Whether you’re in it to win or just want to relax and socialize, Ctrl+ offers a space that welcomes all levels of play. Miller and Stansberry’s perspectives help them have an idea of what makes an event exciting, accessible, and community-driven. “We know what it’s like to be left out, and we’re making sure no one else feels that,” they explained.
Overcoming Challenges
As with many grassroots projects led by marginalized voices, the road hasn’t been easy. According to Miller and Stansberry, funding events for the gaming collective has been a challenge. The two have also voiced that they’ve had to educate people about why Ctrl+ and its mission matters. “[We’ve had to] fight the assumption that gaming spaces can’t be cultural or political. But we’ve been resourceful and resilient,” they shared. Miller and Stansberry are motivated to control-alt-delete the absence of inclusive gaming spaces and create more opportunities where queer Black gamers can feel “seen, celebrated, and centered” with Ctrl+. “Our mission is to reclaim joy, build community, and create a vibe that feels like home,” they said.
Looking Ahead
Currently, Ctrl+ events are held monthly or every other month, depending on scale. Their next event—on June 14—will celebrate World Pride. Long-term, Miller and Stansberry hope to expand Ctrl+ beyond the DMV. New York is already on their radar. In five years, they envision a dedicated gaming lounge that’s open weekly, featuring memberships, regular events, and community-driven programming. “[We see it as] a place where joy is resistance and gaming is the gateway to connection,” they said. You can follow Ctrl+ on TikTok and Instagram.