Blaque/OUT Magazine June 2023

JUNE 2023 ISSUE#033

YOU CAN'T STOP

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

10

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

LETTERS TO MY 14 YEAR OLD SELF

23

PRIDE & PASSION

29

ELEMENTAL VIBRATIONS OF MASCULINITY

CORI MOQUETTE

BRITTAN HARDGERS

25

BOLATTA THA BEAR

WANDERLUST

WAVE THE FLAGS! LADE BREEZ

03

EXCLUSIVE!

BLAQUEOUT FEATURE ARTISTS

COVER PHOTO: NICOLE BERMAN, ED OF ST. PETE PRIDE @ TALLAHASSEE DRAG QUEEN MARCH APRIL 2023 TALLAHASSEE, FL

18. KWESI FEREBEE 27. KADIJA ALLIGOOD 35. MALACHI ZION HUDSON ADVERTISING ACCOUNT MANAGER: DOREEN SCANLAN

JUNE 2023 | ISSUE# 033

20

34

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.

a word.

It's June ya'll... Happy Pride!

Although it definitely feels like we are slowly but surely slipping into the dark ages, as our cover says and is the unofficial Pride theme in my city, "You can't stop Pride". And you can't. The picture that graces our cover is from the Drag Queen March on the capital of the State of Florida as they fought against SB 1438. You can vilify us, pass laws to oppress us, you can try to kill us off, you can damn near outlaw us- but you can not stop Pride. Even the origin of our biggest party is a riot.

As a community- we will go down fighting.

This month we highlight Pride & Passion, Art & Beauty. But the most special to me personally are the incredible letters from our writers to their 14 year old selves. We are all afraid, but I can't imagine the fear of our LGBTQ youth right now. The future seems so incredibly uncertain.. These letters are our love letters to you. We made it and you will too. We fight for you. We will stand for you. Together we will get through this & then hand you a world to make the most diverse, fluid, accepting & inclusive that we have ever known.

Tamara Sanaa Leigh Editor-In-Chief

NEW YORK

Living in the

Sex work ain't for pussies! It's a means of "a way out' for many individuals who aren't afforded the opportunities as some, or lack adequate access to quality employment. I hope to bring some awareness to the challenges, discomfort, and trauma transgender women face around the stigma and experiences of sex work; or what I like to call, “Survival Work”! I myself am not, nor have I ever been a sex worker, but in my 19 years of community and primary healthcare experience I’ve worked closely with transgender patients who have been, and personally know a few trans women, mostly black trans women who had to use sex work to survive. Being a sex worker is dangerous whether you’re trans, cis, LGBTQ, or straight. But it’s especially dangerous if you are a trans woman of color.

Most traumatic experiences of transgender women include being robbed, being shot, sex trafficking ,experiencing homelessness, or being murdered for who we are. For those who have survived their trauma can lead to mental health issues, drug and alcohol abuse, or all of the above. These are just a few of the reasons why there’s an outcry to decriminalize sex work, because the Criminalization of sex work isn’t protecting the community. In fact, it’s doing the absolute opposite. Laws that criminalize sex work push the industry underground, which makes it more dangerous.

Unlike some white trans women involved in sex work who often end up selling sex online, Black and brown transgender women usually work on the streets, exposing them to more dangers of violence from the “johns” and even police.

Most sex workers are afraid of law enforcement for lack of respect for them as people, or the lack of respect for their lives. Instead of being the watchful eye they could be, the experience most trans individuals have with law enforcement is that of harassment, physical assault, or sexually taken advantage of by the officers who are sworn to protect them.

Writer: Javannah J. Davis Javannah Jasmeen Jjasmeend20 www.wavewomeninc.com

S e x

Trans people are often misgendered by law enforcement or don’t report attacks in fear of abuse, or being arrested while the “john” often goes free.

Jails and prisons often misgender them and most are housed in men’s facilities, where they are at higher risk of being assaulted, and humiliated. The punishment often doesn’t end there. Once they get out of jail or prison, a past conviction can prevent them from getting a job, housing, health care, or other services.

W o r k

Most of the 11+ known deaths so far this year were of Black transgender women. Many were sex workers.

As a trans woman of color this is disheartening.

Though I have not myself been a sex worker, I know what it’s like to experience the heaviness and fear of feeling like a target and afraid to call for help because of who you are.

M a t t e r s !

Now let me be clear, out of all the people I have spoken to regarding their participation in sex work, no one has ever said “I always aspired for this!” or “This is definitely what I wanted to be when I was growing up!” As previously stated, sex work is a lifestyle of survival. A variety of people that are in sex work have been rejected and kicked out of their homes at an early age, discrimination in the mainstream workplace, and fear of ridicule in most cis-hetero-dominated social circles. Trans people are more likely to be unemployed compared to cisgender people. Thirty-four percent of Black trans people live in poverty. Trans people without a college degree and trans people who have experienced homelessness are even more likely to engage in sex work. These are some of the reasons why sex workers are disproportionately Black or Latinx trans women.

So as a community healthcare professional, and a member of this community, it’s a duty to bring awareness to those in crisis, and to advocate for the sex workers and trans women of color who feel they don’t have a voice living in a criminalized world. As a community we must develop frameworks, and proper training for those civil servants who encounter trans people with civility, humility, and support the need for harm reduction in our community.

North Carolina

THE OLD MAN'S CORNER E.L. WINSTON This way of thinking has given me the confidence to step into things I may not have been qualified for, to never take no for an answer, or concern myself with the opinions of others. I pray that my children carry that confidence with them their entire lives. With all his faults, my father taught me through his actions that service is important. If you can help someone, you should. My mom didn't really have clear boundaries when helping others but my dad for sure had them. I wish I would have picked up that part of the lesson earlier but better later than never.

As I look back on these things my dad Rochelle J Photography

taught me, I can't help but to wonder if I'm giving my kids more tools than useless info

WHAT MY DAD TAUGHT ME

or worse harming them in any way.

Happy Father’s Day and Happy Pride Month!!! As I think

don't have this thing called life figured out

about my kids today, I can't help but think back on the things my dad taught me. I’ve shared before that some of the things the man taught me weren’t the greatest but there were alot of things he taught me that have definitely shaped who I am in a good way. My father instilled in me a work ethic. He would often say, “A man who don’t work, don’t eat”. I've been working since I was 14. I started out simple by helping my cousin clean houses. The work was hard, but I wanted something in my pocket, so I did the work. My hope as a father is that I have instilled in my children that same belief. I want them to know that nothing is free in this world and that you have to work for everything you want. My prayer for them is that they work toward their purposes and that they wake up everyday loving what they do. My father was a very proud man, so I learned to walk with my head up and a confidence that walks in the room before I do. I tell my kids that you come from royalty and to walk in a room like you already know that to be the case.

Fatherhood has taught me that I definitely and that sometimes I need to listen instead of speak. I’ve learned that all of my kids are not the same and I have to meet them all where they are. Fatherhood is not for the faint of heart. There are some sleepless nights, some long days, and hard conversations, but I wouldn't change it for anything in this world. Being a father has been one of the greatest blessings of my life. If you have ever had someone stand in the gap for you as a father figure whether they

are

biologically

related,

adopted

through circumstance, or found in your journey, then know that their love for you comes at a cost to them. So do this Old Man a favor and tell your father figure you love him because he definitely needs to know that his labor is not in vain!!!

to my 14 year old self.....

“Don’t work at Burger King!”

(And other things I’d say to my 15yr old self) “Don’t work at Burger King!” The first real job for most teenagers is a fast food restaurant and I felt like I had to be different so instead of working at McDonald’s for my first job, I chose Burger King. (Very different indeed lol.) I was 15 years old and extremely excited to join the workforce.

I learned very swiftly that the fast food industry was not for me. Not because I couldn’t do the work, but mainly, because I knew I was meant to do work more becoming of my personality and passions. I wasn’t cut out for the unbecoming uniform. I was a model for goodness sake and that shade of brown clashed with my skin tone and that horrible visor made my hair look terrible. I wasn’t cut out for being barked orders. I was an intellectual who questioned the way things “were always done” and provided more timely and cost effective practices that unfortunately the career BK manager of 15+ years who did it the way it’s always been done, didn’t appreciate. And finally, I definitely wasn’t cut out for mopping the floors and cleaning public bathrooms. Ewwww! Not in this lifetime. So my short lived Fast Food career was traded in for a position more becoming of my talents…Ladies wear at Marshall’s. I wish I had started there, it would have looked much better on my teenage model resume.

g! n i K er g r u tB a k r o w t ' n Do

“Stick with Tennis!” In my high school in Atlanta (yes, Atlanta) we had a tennis team. I was new to town and had never played but was game to try anything. Apparently I was “a natural,” instinctively competitive, and my height gave me an unfair advantage that I used well. I had a killer serve and swift feet that made my return brutal. I practiced regularly and stayed ahead in my classes to be able to play. Our team went to state championships (didn’t win but held our own.) I played just for fun all summer but sadly we moved and my new school didn’t have a team. I wish I had continued to play anyway, kept the discipline I had when there was a team behind me but at that age, it didn’t click that I could keep doing something I loved even if it wasn’t organized by others.

“Wear the heels!” I was the kid in high school, who wore business suits and kitten heels to class. I was a student assistant in the guidance office, as well as the person who came to get you when you were in trouble with the vice principal’s office. I was considered bougie, stuck up, a teacher’s pet, and all the other names the typical overachiever was called in high school. I was made fun of for always wearing “grandma heels” and dressing like I was going to court everyday. I was tall and I thought the smaller heels were all I should wear to not make people uncomfortable with my height. I got in the habit of trying not to be seen. I wish I had worn the heels that I wore when I modeled. They made me feel beautiful, powerful, statuesque, and most of all…seen. (S/N…I figured out in my senior year that not only would I wear the high heels, I’d pair them with a mini skirt and show off my fantastic, long legs and DARE someone to say something!)

At 51yrs old, I’d tell 15yr old me these 3 things. Don’t take a job you know isn’t for you just because it’s what everyone has always done. You know what you’re passionate about, do that, and get paid for it. Don’t stop doing something you love just because you’re not on the team anymore, that’s the time to do it for yourself. And don’t EVER make yourself smaller to make others more comfortable.

You were made to strut your stuff for the world to see and marvel at your greatness!

@ImmaniLove She/Her

Hey E, It’s me or should I say the older you so in saying that you know that we make it past this time in life. I came back to tell you some things I think someone should have told us back then. Our twin is going to be ok. The cancer doesn't win. I know you're feeling overwhelmed with dad dying, our twin being sick and mom…..well, we already know between drugs and grief we’re going to need to be the parent for everyone. I know right now your plate is full and you feel confused about life, about who you are. More times than not you're angry and scared, but I want you to know it’s not always gonna be this way. We are going to get through this. There are people who are about to enter our life who are going to help us navigate what is happening right now. We are gonna find our way and go on to impact lives in the way these people are about to impact ours.

We are going to marry the love of our life and become the father to 3 grown kids and one teenager and they all will change us from selfish bachelor to selfless family man. Yep, I said man. We finally found our way to who we are and we are flourishing in our transformation. Therapy is the thing that's going to help heal all the parts that are bruised and broken. I know what dad said about it. Put that out of your head though, he was speaking from a broken and scared place himself. We’re going to learn around our dyslexia. Incredibly, we start writing for a magazine and people all over read our articles! We will speak in front of groups of people about love, life, and relationships.

We survive to enjoy the best years of our life. We renew our faith in God and now we do outreach and ministry with our lovely wife. We really are blessed beyond what we would have ever thought possible.

Life isn't going to be easy but we already know that. What you don’t know right now is that it's very much worth living and that we don't only survive this moment in life but that we're going to flourish from it. Everything we thought would take us out, didn't! We are meant to be here. We have purpose and we are living in it loud and proud. There will be people who are coming not only to save us from this time in life but that will give us guidance and the tools for a future. Now some things we’re going to pick up and carry with us while some things we’re going take the hard road on. Just remember to give us grace and understanding. Don't be so hard on us, we’re battling what we've been taught and exposed to. We will learn what works and what doesn't from what we were taught and heal from what we were exposed to. I’ll leave you with this: Our parents loved us the best they knew how. They were flawed human beings like us. Our learning disability will not define us but it will drive us. We’re going to mend our relationship with our twin and If you can look up you can get up!!! I love you and we got this!

Let’s get it, let’s go E. L. Winston

Writer: Javannah J. Davis Javannah Jasmeen Jjasmeend20 www.wavewomeninc.com

June 1, 1992

Dear J***, Hey, It's me...you! I know, weird right?!

Just bear with me though, and listen. I know you're in an a difficult place right now. But I'm writing to you 30 years later to let you know that the long road ahead is going to be rough sometimes, but I promise you that those times will not last forever. In the meantime, don't let anyone keep you from being proud of who you are. Not even YOU! I know you are scared of what others might think, but you will be surprised. You know who you are. I mean, grandma already said, okay "You should have been a girl." So, it's to show her how right she was! There is only that's one true blessing in this world and we LIFE! It's up to us to do with it what though need to do to be happy. You'll see your When you realize it, it will change receive, life for the better. The gifts you begin when you accept yourself you will talked to find the “freedom” you always about you saw in others who chose to live their lives unapologetically. You will get there in due time. Stop telling yourself that you can’t

Writer: Javannah J. Davis Javannah Jasmeen Jjasmeend20 www.wavewomeninc.com

June 1, 1992 (con’t)

do something. Never be afraid to try new things, and use your voice to make clear what you need in YOUR life to be happy. You are worthy to be seen, you are worthy to be heard, and you are worthy to be loved. Make the change, be who you are. It will get easier day by day. Be proud of the woman you are and never hold your head down for it. You will definitely thank yourself later. I would also most encourage you to journal. Getting your inner mind thoughts and feelings on paper and out of your also is the best therapy you will ever receive. It will keep you from sending 4-page emails to those sorry negros you about to meet! (Insert eye roll) and I will leave you with this, be safe, be grateful, hold on to faith, and never stop dreaming big.

, s y a w l a e With lov Javannah

You!

Dear 14 year old Roni, Sweetie, you have struggled so much, but I want you to know that EVERYTHING you have gone through and everything you will go through is worth it. You get to live a good life. You will find happiness in your career, your family, a spouse, your friends, and you will even realize that you are worth every effort.

I know being an only child has been hard and you don’t really understand your mom. She loves you very much though and she even learns to take you as you are. You will learn to laugh authentically. You will still be a crier, but you will cry from the joy, love, and peace that fills your heart. The community/family that you are looking for will come your way. They will love you unconditionally and they will recognize the greatness within you.

There are a few things that I think you should be prepared for: You’re going to fall in love with the beautiful mind of “Johnny”. When he comes out to you as bi-sexual take the season with him as the fortuitous experience it is because he helps you to understand yourself better. Don’t lose that when he goes away to do his own thing.

When you meet “Alize” don’t obsess over her so much. She is just the first of many a beautiful woman you will find crawling into your heart, but she is not the person whose love will help heal you…that comes later.

There will be those who try to convince you that you are wrong in who you are, but your love and openness will help others achieve their best selves.

Roni, don’t be ashamed of your experiences because each one teaches you something about yourself. Accept the skin you’re in. You are beautiful inside and out. Don’t let anyone tell you different. Instead of leaning away from the things that frighten you, I want you to lean in. Lean in to being a queer person, lean into being as weird as you want to be, lean into love. Stop running to the altar every Sunday morning trying to be fixed. Instead seek God in earnest and let the love bloom in you. Let God’s love guide you through the days of being not so okay.

Now, there is nothing perfect because you live in an imperfect world, but you can and will enjoy your life. Roni, I know there are days when you think it would be better not to wake up, but I want you to know that you will get to a place where you really enjoy waking up everyday. You are precious, unique, amazing, talented, creative, and more than your weight in gold. Keep putting one foot in front of the other because it leads to better!

Love the Better Informed You, Roni

Dear Little Scared Girl/ Future man, So beautiful inside and out but overweight and angry because you can't accept yourself. So uniquely made and fragile. I know your ready to identify an out of box unprogrammed young adult but you are struggling so bad. How you want acceptance but are unable to find it, not sure where you fit in. You feel so uncomfortable and are tired of battling with your family about who you like, what clothes you want to wear, why your grades are troubling. You deal with the bullies at school all day and deal with fat jokes at home. You need additional support but have no LGBT advocates you know of. You desperately want to be loved because you see. every one at school with girl friends and boy friends. but you think its impossible for someone to look at you and see your worth. You run from every boy who looks your way because you know this body they see, that outside is fake and you wish every day you could. just pick out clothes from your closet meant for. men but you know your not able to make decisions. that easy for yourself because you live under your parents roof. This life you live isn't the life you. want but you can't change it so you pretend to be a. boy online and you have relationships with folks who. think your cisgender male because your reality isn't the ideal choice. You meet girls at school and say youre a stud and a lesbian because you wear boys clothing when you can and sometimes your parents find out and make you change, embarrassed by actions you don't want to do. You ask yourself why you can't be like your cousin Trey, why you don't have his mom or his life but you know those cards weren't dealt to you. You attempt to be a lesbian but your “stem” (Stud/ fem) life affects you so much. Your parents keep taking your men's clothing over and over again but you find ways and sometimes even where your too big fathers jeans and you know it is having a lasting effect on your mental well being. Little scared girl you don't know that the moment you find your voice, you change every aspect of your world and you not only survive but you thrive and you become the man on the outside and inside with purpose and passion and love. Enough love to fix that anger, to stop doubting you, to find self-love. Just keep growing this isn’t your end this is your years of hurdles for a reason. You are beautiful, you are him and parts of you will always be apart of my story.

Sincerely, Mel Howard

Dear Tam, It has already been a long hard road for you. You just made It through one of the toughest periods In your life. But It's hard to tell, because not very much of It has been easy. You actually just found a home and purpose In your new school and you'll learn so much about yourself there. You'll start to feel a part of something again after school felt like the enemy for so long. You'll make friends, some that you'll still have like 20 years later and you'll lose one of them right before she turns 30, but I'm not gonna tell you who bc I don't want that worry to change a thing about the time you'll spend together. Just know she will love you beyond words and stay apart of you even after she Is gone. You find your voice there. You've always been a nurturer and a writer and In that building you will learn to be a fighter! You will stage walk-outs and sit-ins and petitions and host rebellions and don't ever let anyone tell you It Isn't worth It bc that fight for people who need It will become the most Important part of who you are. You'll always be that "mom" of your friends, you will always be a writer and believe It or not, you'll find your greatest purpose In being an advocate and an activist. You will march and speak before crowds of thousands! Dare I say It but Tamara, you will go on to save lives, change minds and change the world. You know Mayors by first name basis, politicians will have you on speed dial and you'll pose for pictures with celebrities. Your dream was to write a column In a newspaper some day. Girl you've been the editor of a major magazine and now you own your own! There are so many things I want to tell you to prevent you from falling Into traps that set you back but I won't, because each of them has led me to exactly where I sit right now and I am so grateful for them and you. So what I will say Is you WILL survive every single mistake, setback and heartbreak. Show yourself GRACE. The earlier you start loving and encouraging yourself the happier you'll be. Look, your early life will effect you later In life In ways that will take you a long time to figure out. I'm still digging It out now. That trauma will convince you that you have to earn love to receive It. All you ever have to be Is you. It will make you chase perfection mercilessly which will make It hard for you to just relax and embrace your authenticity. You will never feel pretty enough or thin enough but I promise you you grow up to be more beautiful than you ever Imagined and you'll always feel like you aren't enough of something until you learn to love and embrace yourself for being you. Turns out Its all about confidence and vibes after awhile not your clothing size. You are VERY vibey and the right people will see It. And the wrong people don't matter. Don't beg anyone to love you. Not ever. Let go of situations and people that don't serve you or make you feel good about yourself. It truly Is their loss. You find love.... several times lol... but the greatest love we have experienced so far Is being a Mom. You have two beautiful sons that are the best thing that ever happen to you. Don't listen to the doctors, they are perfect and you raised them to be the best people I've ever met. So don't spend your life afraid. Just love them and follow your heart. Daddy never does get clean but know you made the best choices for you and your boys and I think he gets that eventually and you make peace with It and him. We do however get close with our sisters, find our brother (please cherish every single second with him) and have tons of nieces and nephews which you get to know better because we moved down south too. It was terrifying but the best move we ever made to get free. And now we live 5 minutes from the ocean and see palm trees every single day! And Jessi Farron, that awful girl you are semiobsessed with? Turns out you might actually be In love with her, yea I know, who knew? It happens again with this girl in college but STILL takes you a marriage and two kids to figure It out. But It turns out to be the most beautiful and empowering discovery of your lifetime and opens up doors to who you are and what you do for the rest of our life. At this age we are basically Queer for a living. Highly unexpected and Incredibly dope. You'll kiss your first girl and life will never be the same In the best way possible.

The most Important thing. Because of alot of complex factors, you will continuously end up In situations where you accept less than the love you deserve. You will want to love people back whole. You will want to fix them and save them and be attracted to the confidence you see In them that you don't have yet. You will want to prove your worthiness to them and get so attached to the Idea of loving them and them loving you, you will risk It all.

Don't let the thing you risk be you. Love you first, love you more, don't be afraid to walk away. Let-them-go.

Always know you are worthy to be loved, adored and protected. And If someone forgets that- don't ever let It be you.

-Tamara Sanaa Leigh

feature artist: Kwesi Ferebee City: New Britain, CT Pronouns: He, Him My primary focus is to create art that unapologetically celebrates Black folks' beauty and humanity.

I set my creative course at a very young age. In this journey, I continue to create art that is not only about having conversations around the “black experience” but is in service to fortifying the humanity of African Americans. Cultural critic bell hooks refer to “Loving Blackness” as a “Political Resistance.” However, I view this act as more of a spiritual practice. And in this reverie of “Loving Blackness,” I look to subvert the scourge of systemic racism and create narratives to transmute trauma into jubilation.

kwesimakesart.com

kwesi_makes_art

14 MAY 2023/ 7:45PM-8:41PM/ KNELL'S RIDGE SQUARE 2

BOLATTA THA BEAR

BY MEL HOWARD When did you start performing?

Where did the name Bolatta Tha Bear come from?

Mulatto, which is mixed person, Like in the south my grandfather from Layfette, Louisiana on my mom's side I’m half creole so it was an homage to my grandfather. I actually used to go

by Malatta Tha Great which was a self given name. Malatta is Mulatto but replacing all the vowels with a’s and “Tha Great” came from Alexander the Great, one of the most respected conquerors in history. As I child when I jumped off the porch everyone called me Malatta or Latta at the time I was very prideful so it was the Young Latta tha Lion. Overtime time I met a stud named Dolla and she was the first person to start referring to me as Bolatta and referred to us as “Bolatta Lotta Dollas”.

Coincidentally during that time, I realized how protective and calm I am. I was no longer connected to the pride of the lion but more so to the bravery of a bear. So boom you got Bolatta Tha Bear ‘cause I’m not just any bear I’m Tha Bear.

So I started writing music when I was about 10 years old and doing poetry and everything. When I was 13, I did my first performance. It was actually a drug-free rally at Cobalt Hall which is a decent size venue and I had butterflies out of this world, There were local radio stations, and other schools there and everything. That performance was the kickoff point. I have some points where I stopped doing music but I keep coming back to it so there’s love there.

Out of all the songs that have created what is your favorite song?

I have to say it's a song I have on my album, Emerge and it's called "Time".

That song is so powerful to me because I actually wrote that song when I was homeless. I was sleeping in my car at the hospital because at the time I felt like that was the safest place for me to sleep in my car. Every day I had to get up and hustle and make it so I could just eat for the day.

Every time I listen to that song it reminds me where I've been and how far I've come. Even with my mentality, it's not always financial progress sometimes it's mental progress you know so that's hands down my favorite song.

Who is Bolatta and where does he come from, where does he stem?

Bolatta is the bear and I know that’s kind of self-explanatory, but Bolatta is the best ever and rising and that’s what the bear stands for. I am a person that knows that I am great, and I plan on exceeding myself every day, I am my own competition, I am my own hindrance, and I’m my own help not saying there are not people in my life that haven’t helped me along the way but everything starts with me. Me knowing that has allowed me to grow as an artist, as a person, and as an individual. I would like to think of a great place for someone who is always continuing to look for places to grow and who encourages people to do the same. It’s all about helping my people at the end of the day. Yes, I make music and sometimes It may seem like “How are you going to preach this and do this talking about shaking a**” because I’ve seen every aspect of life and I get it, the person sitting at the trap house I’ve done been there so I can talk to him too, the person that’s going to church every day I can talk to them too I’ve done be there too, I can talk to every person because I’ve walked so many steps in life and I’ve never limited myself or keep myself in a box to confide myself to one audience.

Would you say your that same house that was in the Trap House?

Yeah, it never left me I could open a shop down the block if I wanted to and slap it out I know I could but that’s not who I am, that’s not what I want to show up as. I feel like everything is about balance and the fact that I am a hustler that’s a good attribute to have but is that something I really want to push? Is that the avenue I want to be known for? Nah I want to be known for other things I want to be known for hustling my music, my brand, my clothing line, my message. It’s so much more to hustle than something that can earn a quick buck and even a mindset that’s recent and in a work of progress or change. I’m not perfect I can only get better than I was yesterday.

B O L A T T A T H A B E A R

If you could inspire anyone else to be a performer or an artist, what would you say to them?

The first thing I would encourage them to do is not follow any path but make their own path because that’s something that held me back a lot of my career. I felt like I didn’t follow the trends but then I realized I’m a trendsetter so of course I’m not going to follow everyone else and if you have that mentality it will help you progress a lot further and you won’t be stagnant because you doubt yourself. Always believe in yourself and know you are the one and if you have that mentality, it will show.

People will start to feel that because it will reflect that energy.

As a TTMOC Monarch and being a performer what made you drive 16 hours from Detroit Michigan to perform at the Courage to Ignite Action Showcase?

To be honest with you, I saw it as an opportunity. I have always wanted to be a voice for the people who feel like they don’t have a voice and spread that voice to a place I have never been before and share my music. The event itself was a challenge for me because I never made a song on the troubles or the hurdles of being Trans and has always been something I’ve overlooked within myself. It was an eye opener. It was more than a performance, it was an experience. It was a journey and the journey itself was great and the destination was great too and everything went well.

Any Final Remarks?

As far as final remarks, I would ask that everyone search Bolatta Tha Bear and Bear Kave, which is my brother Red Bear and me on whatever they subscribe to because we have some heat dropping this summer. Stay tuned because I’m in your city next! Remember to always B Tha BEAR, Tha Best Ever, and Rising! TTMOC Monarch Out Peace!

The erful idea and possible for all of us.

Whosoever changes grows is a pow we make. If it happens is based on the choices difference between whether or not don’t need to change, then you are you t tha or ible oss imp is nge cha you think r ego which says you’re perfect you g din fee n bee e hav You ng. thi feeding the wrong are in ble of change. If that is where you apa inc ng bei to lf rse you ed ign res or you’ve of you. for you. God wants the best version your journey, then this is a message 4:23the blessings of others. Ephesians for o als but , you for t jus not it God wants ye put on the the spirit of your mind; And that 24 reminds you to “ be renewed in righteousness and true holiness”. in d ate cre is God er aft ich wh n, new ma

North Carolina

Whosoever Changes...

- Pastor Roni

PRESTIGE BY:

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PORTRAITS

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Pride and Passion The one of the things I have passion for is Love.

Love doesn’t always mean romantic, sometimes love is just a simple gesture.

Love can also be complicated depending who you’re referring to.

Me on the other hand, I root for love for everyone.

I don’t like to use the word hate often because there’s already enough of it from centuries ago.

I love you.

You can be my mom, a sibling, a friend, even my enemy, I still love you.

You could be failing in school and stealing lunch money, but I’ll still love you.

You could be on the other side of the street and not want to talk to me, I’ll still love you.

Somebody beat me up bad today, maybe I needed it.

I got slapped so hard with the words coming from their mouths that stung me like a bee would on a sunny day, but I still love them.

I may not give the best responses when it comes to brain storming or childhood trauma but just know that I love you.

You might’ve made plans with me, told me to get dressed, and to let you know when I was ready, so you can scoop me up.

So I did, I washed away the discomfort of the dreading words and got dressed with smiles and joy. As I texted you “ Im ready” you typed “ running behind schedule, be there soon”.

I did things around the house waiting for you to call or text but nothing ever happened.

The day went by and as I changed into my PJ’s my phone went off “ Hey I’m with friends, need to reschedule” I replied “ Okay, have fun & be safe, I love you” Regardless of how bad my day is going, I’ll forever make sure you know your loved by someone.

Not everyone is healed. Not everyone has been to therapy, but I have and therefore being said, I love you

Cori Moquette

California

Courtney L. My birthday trip was probably one of the favorites of ALL TIME because I went to a few cities in Mexico. I started off in Mexico City for a layover for about 8 hours and was able to get a driver to take me around the city for a bit. I really loved the architecture, city, museums, and more that I was able to see. The driver who took me around was very nice and we only understood about 15-20% of each other without Google Translate but it was a great experience. In fact, he was also my personal photographer for a lot of places that we stopped!

is a strong desire to travel.

I feel like that word describes me to a point with the add of and I actually do travel. I tend to travel at least 2/3 times a year with the hopes of doing even more.

Last year, I went to two countries and a couple domestic cities. The year started off in Jamaica where I went for a friend's birthday to Ocho Rios. This was my second time in Jamaica and the first time in Ocho Rios. My first time going to Jamaica was to Montego Bay for my 30th birthday. It was the first solo trip that has happened multiple times over!

The next trip was a fun-filled weekend for my cousin's 35th birthday celebration that her husband and sisters surprised her with and then we each came and surprised her as well.

We all went to Las Vegas for a 4 day weekend.

This weekend was packed with all of us in there about 20 deep gambling, eating, drinking, chillin by the pool, and clubbing.

It was an awesome experience because I got to hang with them and because I had a real Vegas experience.

The next stop on the birthday trip was to Mérida which is considered to be the safest city in Mexico! This was the main reason for the birthday trip. I have a goal of moving out of the country within the next year or two and I wanted to get the experience of Mexico to see if that’s the country I really want to be in. Merida is amazing and very beautiful. I stayed at the Villa Mercedes Merida, Curio Collection by Hilton! I am a Hilton Member and was able to get the hotel for $333.53 for 4 days and 3 nights. The hotel was beautiful and the staff was amazing! The area was walking distance to a lot from the downtown area to the Walmart a couple blocks away. On my exact birthday, I treated myself to room service breakfast where the staff ordered me a cake that said “happy birthday”. I also took an evening cooking class that I found on Airbnb experiences.

The menu consisted of cheese empanadas, Red Chicken, vegetable soup, homemade guacamole, and flan and they did a little something special for me. It was a wonderful experience and made my time in Mérida great!

Tulum was the next stop, so in order to get there I decided to take the bus and get there like the locals do. The bus ride was smooth sailing and took 4 hours to get there. Tulum is more southeast from Mérida. I honestly didn’t do much there other than relax. It really felt like I was in the jungles of Mexico! A lot of green and trees and everything seemed like an oasis!

The hotel was Coco Hacienda Tulum where I stayed there for two nights for $166.01. This was probably the most relaxing part of the trip as Coco Hacienda was amazing from the room to the pool and I got a free upgrade! I had an amazing time there!

The last stop on the trip was to Playa De Carmen where I took another bus from Tulum there and then a taxi. My taxi driver was very nice and told me about his hometown that I would love to visit called Tuxpan that’s east of Mexico City. We stayed at the Ocean Maya Royale for 4 nights at $512.60. Honestly, I would never stay there again. The only good thing was the pool. The food was horrible and the staff was just okay.

The resort, while all inclusive, wasn't as inclusive as I would have liked especially when it came to the food.

My friends joined me on this leg of the trip. We did get to go on a Mayan tour and see the chichen itza and cenote that we swam in and ride on Jet skis. Overall, this part was not my favorite experience of the trip, however my entire birthday trip was wonderful.

This birthday trip ignited more of a wanderlust than ever with the desire to do multiple cities in one swoop.

I have some plans of traveling starting in July with the determination of doing Mexico, South America and Europe! The goal is to go to at least 3 cities in each country and stay altogether for about 4-5 weeks.

Those places may change a little bit as well as the countries as more planning and tickets are brought.

feature artist: Kadija (Dija) Alligood Current city: Charlotte, NC Pronouns: she/her/hers "Hey! My name is Kadija (Dija) Alligood, born and raised in Rochester, NY currently residing in Charlotte, NC. I am the owner, creator, and operator of DijaDoes.

I am a visual artist who specializes in animated, urban and feminine painting styles.

My biggest inspiration over the years has been my tattoo artist, Ace. Watching his talents expand from tattooing, to airbrushing, to canvas art, motivated me to explore the many creative parts of myself! As a creative who dips and dabbles in many styles, my biggest goal is to have my own physical art space to not only showcase my work, but for other creatives to be able to explore their own talents.

Although canvas art is my artistic go to, my talents expand all over!

From hair (braids, crochet styles and faux locs) to nail technology and design, custom candles to custom coasters and almost anything in between…DijaDoes it ALL!"

Kadija Alligood

@dijadoes.ahn

Elemental Vibrations Of Masculinity I define radiance, for I am the burnt orange of each night, embracing the sun as it touches the earths core to say good night to me yet good morning to others I am the flashlight that beams across the dark as the sun rises. I am the unseen Rays shining light , giving guidance spreading peace and providing nourishment for all who seek the truth…. I am transparently clear not white .

Often my light seems white maybe it’s is yellow …..blurred lines of society provoking the reflection of the light. I thought I was color blind.

I am all forms of water from blue to green to tan. My goal is to be translucent in all atmospheres! I adapt freely, Yet consciously.. Did you hear me from blue to green to tan. I am the clear water! Sifting through day to day toxicity.

I do not live under solid rainbows; I live in true vibrations of unmatched combinations that you must ask my ancestors for. My masculinity is not defined in American History. My fore fathers are either dead and gone or silenced living in self liberation I am the invisible rays of fire as heat rises from the concrete upon the hot ground in which my ancestors thrived. I am the truth of their survival.

I am red! I carry the blood … wait I am the blood For I too am royalty!! It’s the scent of lavender lilacs. It’s the mood of the lightest shade of purple that frees me. It reminds me that the deeper I travel to the root. I will meet the true tone of royalty in the darkness and superiority of great. It sits beyond purple skies before meeting in the moonlight.

Greetings Moon…. My Golden Queen I am a man of all shades!! my blackness does not overtake the vibrance of my masculinity.

Nice to meet you.

B

rittan hardgers

@reallygreatsite

LOVE LIVES IN US...

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! June is pride month and darlings, we want to shout it from the rooftops. It is time to let the LGBTQIA+ flags fly! The 1978 version of the Pride flag was created with eight stripes that each had a meaning: Hot pink: Sex Red: Life Orange: Healing Yellow: Sunlight Green: Nature Turquoise: Magic Indigo: Serenity Violet: Spirit Sometimes in our relationships we need a guide to keep us going. Let PRIDE lead the way.

The Mrs. Winston and I have shared how much communication means to us, but there are days when couples forget this crucial element. They talk, but they don’t communicate. Cover every bit of it; hold nothing back. Sex is an important time to connect and share. We discuss EVERY aspect of it…likes, dislikes, desires, changes, every bit of it. I used to be embarrassed to even say the word sex, but Winston has shown me that I shouldn’t be embarrassed about any part of me, so he gets it naked and stripped down, in and out of the bedroom. It is the life we have joined together, so we think of one another in everything that happens.

We don’t focus on the traumas of our past, but the healing. As a matter of fact, in order to ensure our relationship would blossom, we had to put in some work to step out of the dark into the sunlight as individuals.

It is what meant we could naturally blossom and find the magic in love.

Our home is one of serenity and spiritual guidance.

I am proud of the work Winston and I did before we met and the work we have put in as a couple. We find power in vulnerability. If you are still

hiding behind the walls of your past, your hurts, and your reservations, then what does your pride look like? Is it creating rainbows of falseness and social media posts for a parade or is it the reality of digging in to create a colorful tapestry of a relationship that survives everyday? Winston makes my heart smile. He’s not perfect and neither am I, but I am proud of who we are everyday.

Winston There is nothing we can't talk about and nothing we won't talk about. For example, sex being something so many people have tried to minimize and cheapen when they talk about the LGBTQIA community, so we have to take back the narrative. It is a wonderful way to express how much I dig you on a physical level. Alot of us have been shamed into thinking that we shouldn't talk about or even express what we want or need in this area. Bump that! I have pride about all that I am and the freedom to allow my partner and myself to freely express our needs without shame or embarrassment. Life is the fantastic thing I get to show up for and share with this amazing woman God blessed me with. No matter what comes, we share in it all and I thank the Lord for the healing process because without it we wouldn't able to dance in the sunlight of the happiness we've created. I kissed a lot of frogs to get to the Queen. And we haven't stopped since.

Over the years as we grow and change, we have found new things to enjoy together even in nature. It has been this great and wonderful experience that we've gotten to share. Mark my words. I'm gonna get this woman to a treehouse or a yurt one of these days. One year for our anniversary, we rented a cabin in Kentucky that was very secluded. You had to drive an hour before you got cell service and it was the most beautiful and serene time. We found a place to just be. The magic of being able to live and love as your authentic self is that you start to see the beauty in the world around you. You connect to it, to yourself and to each other. I am proud of our spiritual connection. I never really understood the significance of being connected spiritually till the Mrs but there is something very intimate and pure about it. A praying wife is a blessing to a man's soul and we all know this old man is blessed. It is this kind of love we stand up for every Pride month because someone else deserves the kind of love we have found lives in us.

Thoughts to Leave You Pride is not just parades and dancing in the streets. Pride is what helped to move our love from the whispered secrets in back rooms and your auntie's "special friend" to an out, proud, doing the work- couple like us.

We don't exist in the same way without it.

So this Pride month hold one another a little closer, attend your pride events, pray for those in places who can't, but in all you do….remember to find the love that lives in all of us!

GEORGIA

Wave the Flags!

For decades we have united in solidarity to celebrate and bask in the authentic love of Us. Fly your rainbow flags high as we entree into pride month!

With the world in constant change, what does the community look like today?

LGBTQIA people and supporters fight the good fight to civically maintain just basic human rights to live in peace, but the lawmakers seem to keep constantly focusing on and diverting attention from real issues to shine negative light on drag shows; to push for discriminatory rights for trans people in schools and in medical fields, instead of the numerous mass shootings that continue to happen across this nation.

They’d rather preach about what they consider is indoctrinating children in a negative light but not how children are getting PTSD by going into school buildings; because in addition to their Tornado drills, they now have an active shooter drill.

“Give the teachers guns to protect their students, but “how dare you tell them about my grandparents, I mean CRT!”

depression are at an all time under 19; and our lawmakers think, a wear a dress instead of a suit, or a girl than to put on a pair of heels, or a drag what’s bringing about the demise of this

Anxiety, stress, and high amongst youths little boy who wants to who would rather die Queen reading a book, is nation.

You have got to be stopped.

Let’s focus on the real problems at hand. How many LGBTQIA people go missing yearly, and or are attacked? Why have suicide among LGBTQIA teens spiked because they become targets in school when teachers turn a blind eye because, “they don’t agree with their lifestyle”. How often is discrimination covered by, “well what about my right to freedom of speech?” While we have to stand and allow them the right to deny us our freedom to live without the threat of harassment?

Maybe let’s question why a document that was written in 1787 still used to govern lands that have grown technologically, and that has continued to evolve? Why are the old lawmakers who aren’t open to new concepts and ideas, still allowed to govern a land that they want to keep in the same condition; as long as their children don’t experience the horrors of what my history contains?

The fact is, we refuse to go back into anyone’s closet. We are human and we have the right to love, and to be loved. Our children, and our families deserve to be protected.

I stand proud to be a masculine of centered Lesbian! I’m proud to be a black woman. I’m proud to show pride! So, make sure that all of June, wave your flags high in pride! Love is worth it!

Lade Breez~

feature artist: Malachi Zion Hudson City: Currently Tracy, CA originally from St. Louis Pronouns: he/him/his Hello, My name is Malachi Zion Hudson, 25 years old, from STL. I am the CEO founder of Prolific VSN my photography/ videography business. I am also apart of a non profit, Tranz of Anarchii Inc, T.O.A. I’ve always had a passion for art, in numerous forms. That’s why I decided to share a few different kind of art pieces with you all. My Tupac tribute was done back in High school, that wasn’t the beginning of my thirst to create but at that time I was in a high school I could create in different ways. That’s school helped awaken the inner curiosity in artistry truly. From fashion design classes, web design, photoshop, even a film class. The next one was a letter to my younger self and how life has been but also how it’s not your fault that the world is a certain way. And the last one is just some of my journey and no matter keep going because the light will reach you even in the darkness situations. Art is my therapy and creating is my release

boom3x._

I love who I am NOW, and I now know what is in store for me because I believe it is possible. I had to wrap my mind around the amazingness inside that I couldn’t see or believe was there for most of my youth. It took years of pain, years of a heart filled with rage, and a failed attempt at suicide that pushed me forward. I am thankful for the therapy I had when I started my transition, happy for my name change, and I’m happy for my first binder because it started my path of acceptance.

Happy for all the support groups I attended despite being the only transmasculine person of color there because had I not gone I would have never gained the resources I needed to become the self-made man. I look back on my troubles as a young adult and how limited my voice was and see the scared queer kid dying to be themselves and a society that couldn't accept it. Many moments of sorrow felt like the walls were closing in on me and that my life didn’t matter, but that was my brokenness. I remember all the bullies who were in the closet, the queerness my Christian family hated, the weight I couldn't drop, and the friends I wished I could have but my clothes choices said I was a stem when really my parents kept taking my men’s clothes from me.

I became the man I am still. Everything became okay when I took my voice back and stopped caring about who didn't like my shine, who didn’t like my transness, who didn't like what my skin tone was because I was never entertaining the lightness vs darkness colorism around me. When I realized that I was enough and I didn’t need to put myself at risk to find love or money. That the men who loved my hole but didn’t love my existence couldn't pay me enough to deflower my body, that folks who didn’t understand my transness couldn’t misgender me and that lies told me weren’t mine to defend but peoples ways of limiting my shine. When I stopped allowing people to tell me who a man is because the only man I was and am going to be was or is my own.

When I could ignore the threats on my life because they don’t think Transmen of Color should exist, much less thrive.

My biggest flex was when I gained the power to love myself and that was my biggest hurdle.

I see myself as the TTMOC Monarch. I am those breaking points that prepared me to live through any obstacle that could come in the future. That pain gave me all the pressure I needed to ignite action and the courage to make it possible.

TTMOC MONARCH Mel Howard

BROTHER 2 BROTHER: REAL TALK ON REAL ISSUES E.L. Winston and Mr. Amari L. Leach Winston: We better recognize that it is happening all over the place. One part of society having their rights removed is not just an isolated part; it is evidence of a much larger problem.

Mr. Leach: The recent murder of Banko Brown is another example of how the system continues to fail us. A black man killed for needing basic human necessities. Living on the streets, barely able to find any help from a system who said his life wasn’t worth it. But every American ‘life’ is to be protected right?

Winston: You can say that again, brother. I keep saying that hunting season is upon us. When I look at what's going on in Florida, it is an all out assault on Trans youth and the LGBTQIA community as a whole. How is it that a state with a broken child protective system has the audacity to take Trans children from their parents because they support them in their transformation? Let's look at Missouri and the state attorney general who tried to not only restrict care for Trans Both: Hey, what's going on, brother? Like always, let's youth but Trans adults as well. All the time knowing full well he have some real talk about what’s going on in the didn't have the authority to do so. Don't get it twisted though, world. Let us shed light like only we can! the people in power in that state have passed bill SB49 which

Winston : Remember this time last year when I said the overturning of Roe vs Wade had far more implications than just women not being able to have abortions? Well, here we are. It has become hunting season on our community. We’re still playing checkers while everybody else is playing chess. We still have not grasped the true way in which the government works so we're always playing catch up instead of being ahead of what's going on.

Mr. Leach: Oh yeah, brother, it is always an end game to their agenda. It’s all in the power, control, and fear. Gotta get the masses to agree with their attacks on innocent communities and then it’s easy from there. They refuse to protect the children who are already here. They wanna throw in religion as their biggest weapon. What's crazy is everyone does not have the same beliefs, so how do they know what God doesn’t approve of? All I know is we were put here to live a free and blissful life.

There is no right or wrong way to do that as long as you don’t bring harm to anyone. What they fear and don’t understand or can’t control, they do everything in their power to destroy. SMH.

will limit gender affirming care for Trans youth and Bill SB39 that prohibits public and private schools including colleges in the state to allow students to participate in gendered athletic competitions that don't match their biological sex as listed on a birth certificate or government record, and/or competing against a team without such a policy. Now you tell me if our liberties are not being stripped at every turn? Where are we free? Where are we safe?

Mr. Leach:I did some research just to see the stat tracker of all of these anti-Trans bills.

These bills are withholding Trans people from receiving basic healthcare, education, legal recognition and ultimately the right to publicly exist.

543 bills in 49 states where 70 passed with 372 active and only 101 failed & I don’t see them moving this fast for any bills to protect these children from school shootings, in abusive homes, being hungry or unhoused!

It all ties together like you said. The overturning of Roe vs Wade was the tip of the iceberg, a distraction for a bigger agenda. It’s why it’s important for us as Black people to understand your black peers may look different, think different, or believe different. We need to stick together no matter what! We are stronger together.

Trans folks have always existed. Everyone deserves to exist! We have to continue the fight for liberation for us all & speak up for our youth. They are being used as pawns.

Families having to make those difficult decisions about relocating to Trans friendly states or removing care for their children. You have parents afraid that their children will commit suicide if they don’t support them, but scared they will be arrested or harmed for supporting their child. It’s just a shame, brother. We have to understand we are stronger together, which is why they keep us divided but once we know it; we will win!

Winston: Definitely agree. We've touched on a lot that needs to be addressed in our community. Where as a people do we go next? What needs to happen to heal a community that's broken and discouraged in a country that doesn't want us?

Both: We hope that this conversation has enlightened AND enraged you. We must move into action because action is truly what we need!! Action in the voting booth; action in your local government; action in the education of our communities. Action is now.

Hope y'all will come chop it up with us again as we continue to discuss important things…

Brother 2 Brother

CONGRATS

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 :

June You actually get a birthday bonus card. The nine of earth. This is the year for you to live your best life. Be open to good things coming your way this year. Things may be off to a slow start but the energy picks up quickly.

There are new people that are coming into your life this month that are going to be a good addition to your life. You are not going to have to work hard to build these relationships because they will just flow. Take time to invest in creative pursuits this month. You may find that something you have been doing gets a new face. Use your intuition to know what to add to refresh of upgrade.

July You also got a bonus card. The 4 of fire. This reminds you to think before you act. You may find that the way you used to approach things may not be as effective anymore. It is time to reap some of the rewards of the hard work you have put in. This is a plentiful time for you. Then it is time to look at learning something new. May just be an upgrade but may also be something completely different. Make sure you find some time to be alone and recount your blessings. The more you focus on the things you are grateful for, the less you will have time to focus on things that aren’t quite working out yet. Trusting that they too are possible is. As much healthier way to live.

August It is time for you to win. Focus your attention on things you know you can accomplish in the month of June. Perhaps you have been setting goals that require more than you are capable of completing. Shorten the timeline and congratulate yourself along the way. Your brain needs some rest. Don’t take on things that will be intellectually taxing. The brain power just isn’t there this month. Instead find things that bring you pure joy and allow you to smile.

September You will be caught in an internal struggle between the desire to nurture others or yourself.

Don’t let negative self talk convince you that you aren’t worth it. You are in a much better place to help others if you do some self care first. Be nice to yourself. Build yourself up spiritually so that it is harder for others to pull you down. Put your best foot forward but only after you get that mani pedi. You will carry yourself like the royalty you are.

October Get in alignment and then take on your stressors. That is the only way you won’t come out even more stressed than when you started. It may be time to redo your budget so that you regain control or at least you are aware of how it is glowing. It is also time to become creative whether that is in the arts or just coming up with creative ways to make things work better for you. Expect some new inspiration to hit you towards the end of the month.

November Your feminine wiles are going to be strong this month . Use this powerful energy to shine.

Networking at this time could prove beneficial. Start projects that have more longevity to them than what you have been doing. You may find that you getting passionately involved in them and won’t want to stop. Then decide what you want to continue.

December June is the month to either take your current relationship to the next level or find one that you can. Your partner and you need to be in sync this month. If you are not, you might want to consider letting go. Couples who are atuned to one another will be overly obvious. Love is definitely the key .

January You also get a bonus card this month. It says that a lot of things that have been uncertain finally come to the light. It is time for you to break away from things that aren’t working for you. In the process of all this you are going to become much clearer on people or situations that overwhelm you and you are going to start refusing to put yourself in them. Stay true to yourself . Speak your truth and let that be all you need to stand on.

February Time to make a decision about whether your income and expenses are realistic to the plans you have for yourself. Whatever insecurities you have about facilitating a change there need to be overcome. Things may be difficult at first but if you have faith , you will find that whatever you have recently let go of was a good decision. Don’t second guess yourself. This is the time to learn and use the things you have already learned to put some energy back into your dreams and make them your reality.

March Spend some time envisioning your path. You are being asked to find ways to communicate how you are feeling. There may be either a new source of income coming for you or a new place to live. This is not necessarily the time to act on it but start tapping into what you need to do to empower yourself to make moves when the time is right.

April It may feel like things are not going your way in the beginning of June. Remember to find appreciation for the things that are. Even if it is only the roof over your head. From that place you can start looking forward to the blessings that haven’t arrived yet. Before the end of the month you can see a complete turn around. Just because you didn’t see it coming doesn’t mean the Universal laws aren’t working.

May Lots of firsts for you this month. There is new inspiration coming your way. Trust the messages that you are getting. There are also new people are you going to be drawn to.

Make sure that they are ones that you feel comfortable being yourself around. It is time for you to shine so you don’t need anyone around you that dims your light.

@2023 BLAQUEOUT MAGAZINE