BLAQUE/OUT Magazine July 2023 Issue#034

JULY2023 ISSUE#033

JULY 2023 ISSUE #034

Exclusive!

BLAQUEOUT'S JAVANNAH DAVIS SITS DOWN FOR A 1:1 LIVE INTERVIEW WITH THE ONE & ONLY TS MADISON ON STAGE AT ST. PETE PRIDE'S SHADES OF PRIDE FESTIVAL!

GET MORE OF THE BLAQUE/OUT YOU KNOW & LOVE

@blaqueoutmagtv

WWW.BLAQUEOUT.COM

TAMARA S. LEIGH, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

CONTENTS BLAQUE/OUT MAGAZINE IS A MONTHLY DIGITAL PUBLICATION CENTERED FIRMLY IN BLACK & BROWN QUEER QULTURE. BLAQUE/OUT FEATURES WRITERS, ARTISTS, PHOTOGRAPHERS, CREATIVES AND INFLUENCERS FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD. WE ARE WORDS. WE ARE ART. WE ARE FASHION. WE ARE CULTURE. WE ARE MUSIC. WE ARE PROTEST. WE ARE WHERE BLAQUE QUEER CULTURE LIVES. FIND US ON FACEBOOK, IG, TIKTOK. TO SUBSCRIBE TO BLAQUE MAGAZINE, VISIT: HTTPS://ISSUU.COM/STORE/PUBLISHERS/BLAQUEOUTMAG/ SUBSCRIBE

FOR ADVERTISING, EMAIL ADVERTISING@BLAQUEOUTMAG.COM FOR SUBMISSIONS, EMAIL TAMARALEIGH@BLAQUEOUTMAG.COM

09

WWW.ISSUU.COM/BLAQUEOUTMAG WWW.BLAQUEOUT.COM

AN EVENING WITH AN ICON

08

WHOSOEVER WORKS

14

REVISITING THE AFTERMATH

RONI WINSTON

E.L. WINSTON

18

DIVERSE HAMPTON ROADS

DON'T SAY DESANTIS

EDITORIAL MEL HOWARD

03

EXCLUSIVE!

LIVE YOUTUBE INTERVIEW WITH TS MADISON ON BLAQUEOUT TV

09 COVER PHOTOS CREDIT: ZAIRE DOWNS @UWANTPHOTOSBYZAIRE

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT MANAGER: DOREEN SCANLAN

JULY 2023 | ISSUE# 034

11

15

BlaqueOUT columnists

Javannah J. Davis (she/her) resides in Rochester, NY where she has worked in healthcare for 19 years, is a self-published author, Founder/President of W.A.V.E Women Inc & CEO/Owner of Linjé Enterprises LLC. Javannah is passionate about healing, self-love, self actualization & helping others to live the best of their lives in a healthy way.

Benjamin Griffin III; (he/ him/his). Enjoys bringing laughter to those he encounters and a major collector of Diecast School Bus models. In addition, he has a heart for education & children!

Lastly, he is 1 half of "A Moment w/ The Griffins"

Lade Breez (He/Her/Them) is an award winning 3x published author, publisher, philanthropist, humanitarian, motivational speaker, life coach, event host, youth tutor, artist developer & spoken word artist. Owner & founder of Express Me Poetry Business Services & Events, & Educated Blessyns LLC, improving this world one stage at a time. ExpressMePoetry.com

E.L. Winston of Fayetteville, NC (He,Him, His) Trans Community Advocate, Co-Founder of Lambda Gamma Omega Nu Fraternity. Just your everyday introspective old man and 1 half of Team Winston

Immani Love, (she/her) A Lesbian Erotic Poet, Author, Ordained Minister, Freelance Writer, Real Estate Agent, and overall witty, seductress with the voice of a Siren. An educated Vixen in sunny St. Pete, Florida.

Roni Winston aka The Mrs. aka Pastor Roni (She/Her/Hers) Fayettevlle, NC. Minister, educator, entrepreneur, couples' coach, writer, mom, and grandma.

Half of Team Winston.

Mel Howard (he/him) Resides in Newport News, Virginia where he worked in finance industry for over 5years, is a columnists for BlaqueOUT Magazine and Founder/President of THRIVING TRANSMEN OF COLOR. Mel is passionate about community, self acceptance and forgiveness.

Tina Marie Jones (she/her/hers) Founder of Uncover, LLC, mother of 4, activist, motivator, and columnist.

David Maurice Griffin (He, Him, His) Columbia, SC; Providing the gift of massage is what he does, but spreading awareness of HIV/AIDS is who he is…1 half of "A Moment w/ The Griffins"

Courtney L (she/her) designer, developer, business owner, who loves to travel. When she is not doing that she loves to write poetry, a bit of a nerd, spend time with family and friends and help people learn technology. She lives in Los Angeles, with her dog.

Tamara Sanaa Leigh

a word.

Editor-In-Chief Reflecting on National Pride Month is a lot this year.

First of all, if you plan Pride events, It's hard to enjoy Pride through the exhaustion. The heat, the emotions, the brick walls, the safety concerns, the budget, the policy & legislation , the bigotry, the capitalism and last but certainly not least, the racism, misogyny, and transphobia that exists within every Pride team and every Pride season. On one hand, the beauty of creating safe spaces and the feeling you can ONLY get during Pride celebrations Is worth everything. On the other hand, this year especially has been Incredibly hard to navigate and hard to celebrate. With Anti-Trans & AntiLGBTQ+ bills swirling by the hundreds in every corner of the country, watching celebrations of our authenticity becomes both vital and frustrating. How can we show up for a party but not for a protest? If so many of us exist, how are they able to vote, rule and plot against us? What I do know.. is Black, Queer people are the roses that grow from concrete. No matter how they try to take us out, we find a way to survive. And we always will. Pride this year meant working with the amazing Ts Madison again. It meant being In the largest Pride parade In Florida. It meant once again creating spaces for Black, Queer women and supporting Black & Brown Trans folks. And If I accomplish nothing else, still makes It a hell of a month and a hell of a purpose.

, s n o i t a l u t a a r r g a n m a o T C a own ed

y r m e . a t v n S r s r a o Ou f w l h a g h i s e r L a , M e d d i r n P a e t Gr 's e a P d t ri s o e l F larg e d i r !

P n o ti a r b e l e c

It is time to let it grow.

- Pastor Roni

PORTRAITS PRESTIGE BY:

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Wo ’s God believing in God, well, God is are You ier. eas be uld wo er ang en kindness wh g, so God has offered you life today. believing in you. Your heart is beatin whosoever works will find the Don’t take it for granted. Beloved, abundance of their faith.

PHOTO

st rks opens the door for their greate wo r eve oso wh but g, hin not get When you do nothing, you , or show ever embrace you, show up for you ’t don I but , you love I t tha you blessing. If I tell I want to convey? You won’t. love the l fee you l wil how n the s, concern for your experience God is ess may rock our relationship. Well ptin em of ll chi a and d col the in You will feel left hand on your life and it is God’s a ps kee God e. issu ent nm ndo aba surely the opposite of this ship fort, trust, and hope. In this relation com of se sen a h wit you fill ly ual desire to contin ie to just give and give to you. You gen gic ma a for g itin wa und aro though, you are not sitting so faith the body without the spirit is dead, as r “Fo us, s tell le Bib The . ility have a responsib r r spirit for living and you need you you d nee You 6).

2:2 s me (Ja o” without works is dead als works to increase your faith.

North Carolina

Whosoever Works...

LIVING IN THE LIGHT: EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

July 2023

WATCH THE FULL LIVE VIDEO HERE

It was written in the stars at the beginning of this year that I was going to sit down with the incomparable TS Madison Hinton. Who wrote it? I did!

The beginning of this year I sat down and wrote out 300 things I wanted to have happen in my life this year.

Meeting and working with TS Madison were two of them. A few months ago my affirmation came to reality. I was speaking

with

editor-in-chief

of

BlaqueOut magazine, Tamara Leigh, and she offered me the great task of interviewing

THE

“TS”

during

St.

Petersburg ‘Shades of Pride’ Festival. I couldn’t have been more excited. I had to pull my car over to collect my thoughts on the opportunity I was just offered. It seemed so surreal.

Since the beginning of her social media career when the internet was new, and VINE was a cool 15second way to display your personality and talents, Madison set it ablaze with her off-color humor. There was no one like her at the time, or even still, realizing her potential she took off, and brought her true fans along for the ride. I was right there every step of the way, from 15-second VINES to full-length top grossing motion pictures. Though we lived different lives I felt an almost immediate connection to a woman I knew only, at the time, as the naked transwoman screaming about 22 inches of hair! It was something about her humor and her fearless outspokenness.

PHOTO CREDIT: ZAIRE DOWNS. @UWANTPHOTOSBYZAIRE

I hadn’t transitioned in my life, and watching her on her journey as I was going through mine helped guide me in my decision to live my life fearlessly, out loud, live, and in color! When she said, “STEP YA PUSSY UP BITCH!” I felt that.

It was time for me to level up and pull myself out of the dark place I was in. To be free. To be ME! As the years passed and I cheered her successes that came, and prayed for this woman I never knew I’m her down moments, I too was going through what I needed to go through to reach my better day just as she has done. As she triumphed in her life, I began to triumph in mine. All I wanted to do was meet this individual, and possibly work with her, to tell her how much of an impact she had on my life, and how much seeing her grow from where she’d been made my heart glow with joy.

It’s possible that the interview I did with her during the St. Pete's'Shades of Pride’ festival was just ‘another day at the office’, but I have faith that sharing space with her, someway, somehow, the love, positive energy and admiration I have for her will be felt and hold value for the both of us that’s lasting. I wish I had more time to sit and talk with her, but I have faith that another time will come. Stay tuned…

Check out the FULL interview on

DIVERSE

Hampton r o a d s

H

ow did Diverse Hampton Roads come into existence?

The idea to start Diverse Hampton Roads came in 2021 during the

pandemic. I was visiting a local restaurant and saw quite a good number of business cards in a designated area. I took some home with me, and I was going through them and noticed most were minorityowned businesses that didn't have a website, and/or some lacked any digital presence. In today's environment, a small business needs to have a digital presence to obtain and maintain growth. A micro or small business without a strong digital presence misses the opportunity to get in front of its target audience. A powerful digital presence doesn't just consist of having a website and some social media accounts. A business's name should be found in a variety of places online to maximize exposure. Unfortunately, a lot of micro and small businesses have limited to no marketing budgets and don't have the information they need to effectively market their business to potential customers. That's why, I decided to create a website with a directory that enables micro and small businesses to enhance their digital

presence/business visibility. I also decided that I wanted it to focus on diverse businesses, which in this country face huge disadvantages when it comes to opportunities for growth. Now, Diverse Hampton Roads has moved beyond just a website with a directory. Our vision is to build a community of diverse entrepreneurs, small business owners, organizations, and customers who champion diversity in Hampton Roads.

What services does your organization offer?

We have an online directory where business owners can list their businesses to help them gain more exposure, especially in Google search results. Our business listing packages have various features that business owners can choose based on their needs. We also allow members to provide business cards/promo items for us to pass out at community events where we are exhibitors.

We do workshops and networking events. In addition, we provide resources on our website to help them to increase their knowledge. These resources are for example, sharing events that are happening in the area, courses (online or in Hampton Roads), and business-building information and tools that can assist them.

What tips do you have for someone who is interested in networking with potential clients or potential investors?

My first tip, be authentic. Let people see who you are. The people you're meant to connect with will connect with the real you. The second tip, get to know people genuinely. Don't lead with what you are trying to sell or get help with. Talk to them about their needs before you talk about what you can bring to the table Build a real connection. My last tip is to be intentional. Don't overpromise things you know you can't deliver for the sake of getting a client or investor. Remember, you're building a reputation and that reputation does follow you.

diversehamptonroads.com

How does your business give back to communities of color especially LGBT+?

@diversehamptonroads.757

We donate to causes and we are actively working to build stronger community partnerships with organizations that assist minority LGBT+ individuals. We want to provide assistance that celebrates, showcases, and supports all micro and small businesses in the LGBT+ community.

What are some benefits of the services you provide?

1. More brand exposure and recognition for businesses 2. Opportunity to network, collaborate and build partnerships with other diverse business owners 3. Opportunity to gain or increase business knowledge 4. Opportunity to be a part of a community of diverse business owners who believe that everyone deserves to be treated equally no matter their color, gender, sexuality, or religion. We are a safe and inclusive group.

@diversehamptonroads.

Central Florida

Click to Learn More!

REVISITING THE AFTERMATH E.L. WINSTON

"Y'all remember last year this time when I said that the overturning of Roe vs Wade was just the tip of a much bigger iceberg? Well, let's take a look at what has transpired in the year since."

558 anti-Trans bills across 49 states; 83 have passed; 363 are active and 112 have failed.

L

My very right to receive gender affirming care is being attacked. Parents of transgender youth are being persecuted and told they’re not fit to raise their own children. Nevermind that the foster care system is a complete trainwreck and there are parents out here that I'm positive shouldn't be allowed to raise children, but I digress. In Oklahoma, they are trying to pass a bill that will make it a felony for a doctor to offer gender affirming care to anyone under the age of 26. Now the last time I checked, 21 is the legal age for most decision making. Books being banned and diversity being attacked. This is the war that we have been ill prepared for, but it isn't too late to prepare ourselves and win.

First, we need to know who we're up against. Any company or person funding the conservative, right wing does not have our best interests at heart. We must stop spending our money with them. We can no longer be participants in our own oppression. When people start talking that right wing rhetoric, debate them with facts.

Which leads to the second aspect of our preparation, we must equip ourselves with knowledge. We must educate ourselves, so that we are able to differentiate truth from fiction. When we share our points of view, we must remain composed and speak with confidence. An inability to articulate our anger allows them to make perception the reality. Painting us as unintelligent, mentally incapable and emotionally out of control creates spaces where we are no longer heard.

Third, be involved. We must understand how the government works and engage actively in the election process. Let’s volunteer to sign up new voters. Our young people are too disengaged. In 2024, we can not afford to fumble the bag.

WE MUST SHOW UP AT THE POLLS! We must do what we can.

We are at an all time high of physical attacks on our community, so caution is necessary, but fear cannot keep us from living. There are self defense kits and self defense classes. We should create safety plans with friends. If we come together, then we leave together.

This fight is gonna be a long and taxing one, but we must fight. Too many of us were sleeping in comfort when Roe v.

Wade was under attack, but we can afford that no longer. Thinking Roe v. Wade had nothing to do with us, got us here. We are living the aftermath and the destruction is spreading. Will you take up the mantle with me? Action is now.

THE SEAHORSE DAD LOVES HIS OFFSPRING AND CARRIES HIM WITH PRIDE AND HONOR. IF A SEAHORSE CAN, WHY CAN'T A MAN OF TRANS EXPERIENCE DO IT? SEE SOCIETY SAYS YOU ARE NOT MAN ENOUGH WHEN WE DON'T DO WHAT CISGENDER MEN DO. THE TRUTH IS, AS TRANS MEN WE ARE ALREADY BREAKING THE RULES OF SOCIETAL NORMS. AS TRANS MEN WE DESERVE TO MAKE OUR OWN RULES AND NARRATIVES AND WE DESERVE TO LIVE AUTHENTICALLY. WE ARE NO LONGER BOUND BY THE LAWS OF NATURE BECAUSE WE ARE ALREADY CHOOSING A LIFE THAT MOST DON'T UNDERSTAND. TRANSMAN DADS AND PARENTS EXIST FOR A REASON BECAUSE THEY GAVE LIFE IN A WORLD WHERE THEY DON'T EVEN WANT ANY PART OF THE LGBT+ TO BE A PART OF BUT WE ARE STILL HERE AND THRIVING. WHY CAN'T TRANS MEN CARRY THEIR KID IF THEY CHOSE? PEOPLE SAY A MAN CAN NOT HAVE BABIES

E D I T O R I A L

NEITHER CAN SOME WOMEN BUT DOES THAT MAKE THEM WOMEN BECAUSE OF THEIR INABILITY TO CREATE NEW LIFE? WHY WOULD A MAN OF TRANSGENDER EXPERIENCE BE LESS OF A MAN BECAUSE OF HIS ABILITY TO CREATE LIFE? SOME FOLKS SAY MEN DO NOT HAVE BREASTS. WHAT ABOUT THE GUYS WHO HAVE PLENTY AND ARE NO LONGER MEN? THERE IS NO RULE BOOK THAT SAYS WHAT IS ACCEPTABLE AND WHAT IS NOT. WE ARE ALREADY LIVING OUTSIDE OF THE BINARY RULES THAT WERE PLACED ON OUR LIVES. THIS COMMUNITY IS JUDGED ALREADY BY OUTSIDERS WHO WILL NEVER SEE US AS US. MUST WE INDULGE IN THEIR DEPICTION OF US? IMAGINE US A COMMUNITY COMPLETELY OPPRESSED, OFTEN SILENCED, AND FEARED. WHEN WE ATTACK OTHERS FOR LIVING THEIR TRUTH, WE CONTINUE THE CYCLE INSTEAD OF FINDING WAYS TO LOVE THE DIFFERENT VARIATIONS OF US. WHEN WE AS TRANSMEN ALLOW OURSELVES TO PLACE OURSELVES IN DIFFERENT BOXES WE BEGIN TO REALLY LIVE. NO ONE DETERMINES OUR RULES, WE MAKE OUR OWN. AS TRANS MEN WE ARE ALLOWED TO DATE MEN IF WE CHOOSE, WOMEN IF WE LIKE AND EVERYONE THAT DOESN'T FIT THE BINARY. IF WE LAY DOWN OR ON TOP OF WHOEVER AND A PREGNANCY OR SEVERAL BE A PART OF THAT STORY THERE SHOULD BE NO STIGMA BECAUSE IT’S A PART OF LIFE. WE AS TRANS MEN NEED TO STOP BASHING OTHERS FOR LIVING AND START EMBRACING HOW AMAZINGLY UNIQUE WE ARE. WE DESERVE A VARIETY OF FORMS OF LOVE AND IT SHOULD LOOK DIFFERENT FOR ALL OF US WITHOUT HATE. AS A COMMUNITY, IF WE STOPPED SUPPRESSING OTHERS AND ALLOWING THEM TO LIVE FREELY. THAT ACTION ALONE WOULD HELP REDUCE SUICIDAL IDEATION’S IN OUR COMMUNITY STEMMING FROM OTHERS FORCED HATEFUL LOGIC. OUR COMMUNITY IS TOO SMALL FOR HATE TO BE THE ONLY MESSAGE DISPLAYED. THE FIGHT SHOULD BE FOR OUR RIGHTS, THE RIGHTS WE CONTINUALLY LOSE DAILY WHICH COULD LEAD TO MORE ISSUES. RIGHT NOW IN SEVERAL STATE IF A TRANSMAN GETS RAPED HE MIGHT NOT BE ABLE TO GET AN ABOLITION SO THAT WOULD MAKE IT POSSIBLE FOR HIM TO BE A PREGNANT TRANSMAN UNWILLINGLY OR WILLINGLY. RIGHT NOW IN SOME STATES THEY WANT TO REMOVE THE OPTION FOR A PLAN B PILL. THERE ARE MORE SHOOTINGS IN CHILDREN’S SCHOOLS WITH NO CONVERSATION AROUND GUN CONTROL. TOO MANY CONVERSATIONS AROUND TRANSGENDER CHILDREN BEING ALLOWED TO ATTEND AND NOT ENOUGH CONVERSATION AROUND THE BENEFITS OF LIVING AUTHENTICALLY PAST THE BINARY.

MEL HOWARD

UNDERSTAND THAT AS A COMMUNITY WE ARE BROKEN BUT THE FIGHT SHOULD BE ON THE RIGHTS . WHY CAN’T WE BE SEAHORSE DADS TOO?

North Carolina

THE OLD MAN'S CORNER E.L. WINSTON I spent my birthday in a yurt with two of my closest friends and was able to send out some gender affirming items to some brothers in need. Rebranded and relaunched our nonprofit Tranzformation and our Greek Org with my brother Pharoah. The Mrs. and I started a podcast, Love Lives in Us and started our couples coaching business of the same name with the

3rd

Winston,

Tomari.

We're

still

working out some things with that one, but you can certainly check out what we’ve already done. One crucial step of jump starting our next step has been co-writing the ‘Love Lives in Us’ column. I’ve also been able to interview some amazing people Rochelle J Photography

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY, FAMILY! It's been a year since I joined the BlaqueOut family and an Old Man's Corner was born. It's also my wedding anniversary, so July is really a special month for me. I want to thank you all for taking this journey of self discovery with me. I've experienced quite a year with you guys from my views on Roe vs Wade to reflecting on fatherhood and making peace with the way my father raised me. You guys have been along with me as I went on my first wellness retreat in Texas and my awesome experience at 100 Masc Suits.

This has been my year of the yes. I participated in the documentary Remember Me Now by Brittan Hardgers and my first TransMan Calendar by Aiko Finesse. Y’all be sure to check out the doc and grab a calendar!

who I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know, made some new friends and rekindled some old friendships.

Through it all I have had an absolute ball getting to know myself. Walking in the light has never felt better. So, what's next for this Old Man? Certainly, more advocacy work because our people are dying, our rights are being taken away and we’re going to need all hands on deck for this fight. Here I am suited and booted! I’m looking forward to taking you guys along for the ride. There are sure to be more peeks into my thoughts about the world around us and how I see myself fitting into it. I think I’m going to do a treehouse this year for my birthday and, of course, you all will be with me. Last year was the year of discovery. This year is the year of purpose.

Here’s to another 365 days of being the best Old Man I can be! Thanks for hanging in with me. I truly appreciate it.

IMMANI LOVE

DON'T SAY DESANTIS SHE/HER @IMMANILOVE AUTHOR, POET, PERFORMANCE ARTIST

Florida has a reputation for brilliant sun, pristine sandy beaches, and the playfulness of the giant mouse!

It’s the home of fantastic vacations, the hottest nightlife, and a retiree’s dream of a slower paced lifestyle.

The Sunshine State beckons most people to enjoy living in a place where their wildest dreams can come true. Unfortunately, if you happen to be LGBTQ+ and live in Florida instead of your wildest dreams coming true, you may currently be living your biggest nightmare. The one where you are being systematically forced back into the closet by a Governor with presidential aspirations who is using our rights as his platform to gain far left supporters. From his “Don’t say Gay” legislation in schools (Don’t Say LGBTQ+ Expansion Bill (HB 1069) to his most recent attacks on the Transgender Community with laws regarding public bathrooms (Anti-Trans Bathroom Bill (HB 1521) and Drag performances (Anti-drag show bill (HB 1438.) In a place where alligators walk through neighborhoods and across golf courses and hurricanes destroy homes in a blink of an eye, the scariest thing in Florida is our government.

Photo Credit: Human Rights Campaign

Being a Black, Lesbian in the Arts community is celebrated in most places but here in the place I’ve chosen to make my home it has become increasingly harder to live my authentic life without fear.

Various national organizations have issued travel advisories for our state including the NAACP and Equality Florida telling travelers that it’s not safe to come here, so imagine how it feels to live here.

We had restrooms having signs that said “Whatever, Just wash your hands!” Now we have people being confronted and even assaulted by overly helpful citizens “protecting children.” All in support of their beloved Governor, Ron DeSantis.

The question is, who’s protecting us from him?

With Pride Season in full swing here in Florida, several members of our community find themselves not only being targeted because of the way they look or who they love, they are losing their jobs and livelihoods. Drag performers are financially struggling because their long-standing performance opportunities have dwindled. Many businesses have stopped having Drag Brunches to protect their liquor licenses, smaller Pride

festivals are being cancelled or changing their policies to only allow attendees that are over 18yrs old. This practice not only hurts the adults but makes the critical formative ages of our youth who are trying to find their place in the world almost impossible to express themselves authentically.

Our LGBTQ+ Youth are in danger. They are being restricted in their schools with banned curriculum and books, educators are prohibited from speaking about their gender identities, and LGBTQ+ clubs on campuses are being disbanded.

In his effort to “protect” our children, Florida’s governor has made many of them more vulnerable than ever!

We as a community have taken on the task to go back to the days of why Pride even existed in the first place, as a PROTEST. We have had Drag Marches on our capital in Tallahassee to bring awareness to the strife this legislation has caused and to remind the Florida government that we will not be silenced. We have had non-violent protests at schools in support of our youth and continued to support our Pride organizations financially and with volunteerism.

We continue to hold voter registration drives to make sure that we are represented in upcoming elections. Our community is large and strong and when we unite we have a presence that can’t be denied.

We, here in Florida, LOVE our home, we love our diverse communities, and we support the many facets of what it is to be an American. We have big dreams of a beautiful life in a climate where the sun kisses our skin and welcomes us to bask in the unique, varying landscapes from forests with natural springs to swampy everglades brimming with wildlife. We are growing swiftly and as our population expands, so should our awareness of the power of the voter’s voice. The voices of the communities that our government serves have a new battle cry. It is heard in the Gayborhoods throughout the state, it is chanted at rallies, it is worn on shirts and hats to spread the word. Our voices ring loud and clear, in Florida (and hopefully around the world) we “Don’t Say DeSantis!”

Photo Credit: Tamara Leigh

Let life lead your steps, while you live in purpose.

Oh I’m Phi With it, Zeta Phi In 2017 I connected my life’s activity to become a proud member of Lambda Zeta Phi Nu Fraternity Inc (ΛΖΦΝ). A non-Collegiate, Masculine of Centered Organization serving the community with Valor and Strength.. I was graced to come in as Ace on the PhiProof Phoenix line Spr17. We are the 2nd Branch under the Lambda Nu Dynasty.

Prior to my arrival to the sands, the choice was already made, and the decision to change paths set a course to seek a different level of guidance and the opportunity to expand in a bruhhood. In certain spaces, it’s not always acceptable to be a masculine presenting woman, but within LGBTQIA Greek, you are allowed to be the authentic version of who you are. In addition to acceptance, the safety net, the partnerships and the brutherhood sustain a different level of merit, with a phamily attached that supports and pushes you out of your comfort zone. Importantly, the goal is to improve who you are on a daily consistence; and in the event you are propelled to do more in your community, you individually increase in value while also enhancing another who could potentially be less fortunate or needing of.

What I love most about wearing fire red and solid gold the representation of what our organization’s foundation stands firm on when we are called to action. We take pride in serving and servicing in our communities regardless of complaint or compromise.

Each member operates in their respected area as a force that makes an impact in their region.

“Iron sharpens iron so one person sharpens another.”

When you surround yourself with likeminded individuals who thrive on knowledge and growth, it’s inevitable for you to mimic. I’m grateful for the Leadership and Mentorship of My Big Bruh Winston. It’s an honor to see so many LGBTQIA Greek Orgs who continue to flourish and grow.

As our Dynasty grows, under our Lambda Nu Umbrella, there are the Beautiful Queens of Poise and Purpose, Lambda Alpha Kappa Nu Sorority Inc, The Kings of Valor and Strength, LAMBDA ZETA PHI NU FRATERNITY INNNCORPORATED, The Gatekeepers, Lambda Gamma Omega Nu Fraternity Inc, and the Watchmen, Lambda Beta Delta Nu Inc. we are THE DYNASTY. If you are looking for a home, and have always dreamed of pledging, tap in to our Vibe and learn more at LambdaNuDynasty.org. Got Phamily?

Lade Breez~

LOVE LIVES IN US...The Anniversary

The Winstons Winston and the Mrs. (E. L. and Roni)

Love lives in us…the Winstons and we want to share a little of it with you.

Dear readers, by the time you read this, the Winstons will be almost to their anniversary. We got married on the 4th of July and we are over the moon that we get to share it with you. The word ‘anniversary’ has its root in the Latin for ‘annus’ meaning yearly and ‘versus’ meaning turning.

Unfortunately, so many of us use versus in our relationships to do battle against one another. This root word should define our relationship based on its original meaning though. We need to use our relationship to be the place where we turn into one another; we count on one another.

The Mrs. Winston and I wrote our own vows for a wedding at the magistrate’s office. It was a wedding that almost didn’t even happen. When I realized the magistrate’s office was at our county jail house, I was thinking this might not come to be. I’m glad I did it anyway! I think even the magistrate was surprised we had written our own vows, but it was our moment and we were going to take it.

Part of my vows included a part about a puzzle piece and fitting the puzzle. It was absolutely a true sentiment. God had crafted us to be together and we have fit together ever since. In this day and age, there are so many of us trying to make a centerpiece fit into a corner and it just doesn’t work. Coming together should feel like that piece that creates the full and vibrant picture.

Don’t dim one another. This means that we have to be reminded that our homes should be places of peace. If you’re arguing constantly, the kids know.

If you do not support your spouse’s career choices, your friends know it. If you think your partner isn’t good enough, they know it. These are the things that disrupt a home. Your words have power.

Prior to Winston, I had never even made it to 5 years in a relationship. Part of those failings were because I was a dulled piece in my own puzzle. I didn’t know myself or really what I wanted. Now, I work everyday to keep doing the work to stay focused on the value in our relationship.

As we approach our anniversary, I am continuously reminded to turn in. Turn into the safe space of a loving relationship. Even as we grow and change, as human beings do, we check in with one another so that we can stay just as connected as that puzzle piece, no matter what the journey has for us.

Winston Our wedding day was both the funniest and most nervous day of my life. In my vows, I promised that our hearts would always beat in sync and they have every day since. What this marriage has taught me is to never take myself too seriously and remember that to keep what you have you have to keep working at it.

Communication is key and she has to be my best friend.

She is the one I turn to no matter what the situation. I've had to learn to step outside of myself to see someone else’s point of view and in turn I've been blessed with the most loving and rewarding relationship I've ever been blessed with.

All the things I wanted in a life partner I had to become if I wanted our hearts to beat in sync. I had to be able to hear hers so listening became imperative but not just listening I had to hear what was being said and be able to communicate what my heart felt and was saying back.

I had been in some long term relationships before the Mrs., but what they lacked was honesty, understanding and real respect. In order to have quality years with someone I had to first realize that quantity does not equal quality and just because you spend a lot of time with someone doesn’t mean they know you or vice versa.

Love is action and as we celebrate another year around the sun together, I’m just as committed to making sure our hearts beat in sync as I was the day we said, “I do”.

Thoughts to Leave You Our hope is that the love we share with each other has translated into what we share on the page. So often relationships fail because neither of us have ever seen healthy relationships or we are too broken to admit we’re the problem. Or they fail because they lack a supportive community. Our pieces that fit so well and the rhythm of our hearts don’t happen because they were easy to find nor easy to maintain, but the work is its own reward. Dig in deep, so we can all find the love that lives in us!

Happy anniversary to us!

Looking for a little more guidance on what life might bring you this month? Tarot cards, read by an intuitive reader, can provide us that guidance. While your personal reading may vary slightly, the readings here are directed for all of those born in the same month for the current month. For a more specific reading to your specific circumstance contact Doreen Scanlan on FB Messenger to set an appointment.

Tarot done specifically for you if you were born in :

July It is time to develop a relationship with your quiet self. Spend some time quieting your mind. It doesn’t have to be full on mediation but it does need to be away from the hustle and bustle that is your daily life.

You may surprise yourself how your mind can function so much clearer. You might even come to like it. You are about to go through a pretty major transition and it is important to give yourself time and space to process it. You may find that people will be more receptive to you when you return to “civilization”.

August: Summer is your time to shine . You may find that your mind is much clearer during the summer. Be prepared for whatever the Universe throws at you this month. Learning to roll with things can make whatever changes are coming a little more palatable. While it may seem like you are starting from scratch , the Universal forces are just trying to keep you on track. Let the autopilot work for a minute you overthinking things will only muck things up. Stay strong and strategically move forward when the time is right. Be more like a big cat. Sit back and observe to make sure you jump into action when the time is right.

September: If someone new comes into your life this month don’t let them rush you into anything.

Only you will know when you are ready to move into new territory. Mid month you get re energized and you become much more aware of your own emotions . From that place you are a better able to determine when you want to be social or when you would rather be alone. Honor both sides of yourself.

October: Relationships are set to go through a death and rebirth. Some of them may not make it through the challenge though. Whom ever sticks around definitely deserves your attention. The ones that can’t hang probably weren’t true friends anyway. The longer days give you more time to put out positive energy. Try not to overthink things as you could get stuck there. Start making plans to step out side your comfort zone as there are tons of things left for you to explore and experience.

November: Friendships are in the spotlight this month. Spending quality time with true friends is so important. There is a strong possibility that there may be an incident of betrayal that happens and it is essential that you know who has your back. Be careful who you accuse of anything though until you have proven facts. Don’t take blame for things that aren’t your fault. You are often hard enough on yourself you don’t need to take on other’s stuff. If your not sure who is responsible for things getting chaotic do your best to stay neutral and follow the facts. You may find that you have a very different way of looking at things by the end of the month.

December: Unlike most of the months above , relationships seem to add to your life this month. If you have the opportunity to meet new people, I would jump on it. You must have already cleansed your friends list and now are ready to fill some vacancies.

Unfortunately it looks like you are going to be very busy and won’t have a lot of time to nurture them. That doesn’t mean they won’t keep trying though. Try to find at least sometime to socialize. The career ladder will be much easier to climb with a smile on your face.

January: You may start the month feeling a little defeated. You actually have more resources available to you if you are able to look for them. There is a good chance that an old friend may show up and give you a hand. Share some of your burden with them if they offer.You May have to take a little break so you can recoup. Once you are back to being more yourself you can jump back in and take back your responsibilities. We all need help sometimes. Then when you can repay them by helping someone else in need. Pay it forward.

February: Just like your January friends you might start out July at a deficit. You too have friends from that past that step up. But for you they become a distraction from your problems which then put you in closer alignment to a solution. Once refreshed to can look at things through fresh eyes, declare how you choose to move forward and refuse to let small obstacles get in your way. Think beyond them and move forward.

March: You are going to have a very busy month. Work is going to be asking a lot of you. It looks like this may pay off for you as people notice the good job you are doing. There may even be a promotion as a result. Mid month May offer you the opportunity to travel. Wherever you go, take some time to feed your soul. Do some things that really speak to you. It may be something very active or very still. When you return it is right back to work but you may start receiving offers to do other jobs. Entertain all offers until to find one that feels right.

April: Looks like the Universe is ready for you to work on establishing your independence. This could come in a number of ways. If you are still living at home it may be time to come up with a plan to branch out on your own. If you are in a relationship that is less than satisfying and you don’t feel like you can be yourself, it is time to have a conversation about that and see if it can be resolved. If neither of those situations apply to you it might just be time to listen to your heart and move in a direction that uplifts you. Everyone needs to get out of your way , even you.

May: Time to get your rhythm back. You have definitely allowed something or someone to pull you off your beat. Pull your power back. Change directions as much as you feel you need to before you get so off course you don’t even recognize the path you are on. There may be people or situations that tempt you in their direction but if it isn’t yours then just keep it moving. Regroup for a minute then shoot for the stars again. You are in charge of you. Only you can recognize your dreams and visions for your life. Don’t loose contact with those.

June: If you are not satisfied with your current job , take that as a sign that it is time to make a change. You have so much potential that you haven’t even tapped into yet. Why stay where you can’t grow? I would never tell you to quite a job without something else lined up but truth is being in that desperation mode can be motivating. I would much rather she you inspired that motivated though. Inspiration comes much easier when all your basic needs are being taken care of though. But being stuck in a thankless , dead end job can drain the life out of you. Start looking for something new but if it gets too heavy leave it alone and take what you can until you can establish yourself and then start looking for something even better.

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