JUNE 2024
ISSUE#045
M A G A Z I N E
EXCLUSIVE
INTERVIEWS
PAIGE MAHOGANYPARKS GRACEDETREVARAH OF TRANSGENDER AWARENESS PROJECT
PRIDE is Body Positivity & INTERSECTIONALITY IS LGBTQPLUS
ALISSA
AKA @SHEBEREADINTHEMBOOKS
JERMAINE GREAVES
FOUNDER OF BLACK, DISABLED LIVES MATTER
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
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WWW.ISSUU.COM/BLAQUEOUTMAG WWW.BLAQUEOUT.COM
WANDERLUST CHRONICLES: TRAINS & PLANES, MY EUROPEAN JOURNEY
07
IN OUT NEWS BLAQUE/OUT WRITERS
LIVING IN THE LIGHT
24
JAVANNAH DAVIS
27
36
INTERVIEW: PAIGE MAHOGANY PARKS
INTERVIEW: GRACE DETREVARAH
BANNERS ON ARTICLES INDICATE WHERE THE WRITER IS LOCATED, BANNERS ON ADS INDICATE WHERE THE EVENT IS TAKING PLACE
COVER ART: TAMARA LEIGH, GRAPHIC DESIGN
EL WINSTON
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PRIDE IS BODY POSITIVITY COVER STORY FEATURING ROCHELLE J. PHOTOGRAPHY
TOP PORTRAIT, ROCHELLE J. PHOTOGRAPHY
COPY EDITOR: RONI WINSTON
BOTTOM LEFT, READER SUBMISSION: JAI A. FIGUEROA BOTTOM RIGHT, WRITER SUBMISSION: VICTORIA VON BLAQUE
ADVERTISING ACCOUNT MANAGER: DOREEN SCANLAN
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JUNE 2024 | ISSUE# 045
20
OLD MAN’S CORNER
a word. Happy m-fing Pride ya’ll!!
It’s crazy and incredibly exciting to say this is our 45th issue of Blaque/OUT Magazine and the 3rd Pride season we’ve gotten to celebrate together on these pages. Equity is always the center of what we do, but we wanted to do something a little different this year on our June cover by featuring Plus-Size & fabulous models specifically for Pride. We don’t always think about size as an aspect of Intersectionality but it definitely is. Pride is all about celebrating authenticity & being exactly who we are. That ties so closely to body positivity, fat phobia, fat-shaming and dysmorphia. We love you. Black, Brown, Queer, Trans fat, skinny & fabulous. Pride celebrations are not always Inclusive spaces for us but your people ARE out there. Seek out & support Black Prides whenever you can because they provide something so important for our community. And in whatever space you find yourself, remember Pride belongs to ALL of us.
Tamara Sanaa Leigh Editor-In-Chief
Special thank you to photographer, Rochelle J. Jackson LLC in North Carolina for doing multiple photoshoots to help our cover come together as well as the community members who shared their photos & stories to make It work!
BlaqueOUT columnists & contributors 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.
E.L. Winston of Fayetteville, NC (He,Him, His) Trans Community Advocate, CoFounder of Lambda Gamma Omega Nu Fraternity. Just your everyday introspective old man and 1 half of Team Winston
Ashanti S. Taylor-Alexander (she/her) is a life educated poet who believes in riding each wave of this world to the fullest. She is passionate about writing poems people can truly feel. Have a subject throw it at her and she'll make a master piece! Founder of Pulse Poetry Magazine.
Tina Marie Jones (she/her/hers) Founder of Uncover, LLC, mother of 4, activist, motivator, and columnist.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
Victoria Von Black, NYC (she/her/hers) A seductive, alluring, Black non-binary Trans femme. An Influential speaker on Equity, Inclusion, & LGBTQ competency. Author of Titty-Confessions.
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E D I R P wn, lack & Bro B e h t it f es, o Bene Proceeds t rans Writers, Creativ Queer & T rs & Contributors of he Photograp UT Magazine Blaque/O
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Blaque/O UT Cornersto re CAFEPRESS.COM/SHOP/BLAQUEOUT
IN OUT NEWS
Covering the news mainstream media doesn’t, because our stories matter
WHERE BLACK & BROWN QUEER CULTURE LIVES!
(May 10, 2024) - This week the Target Corporation announced they will be removing their annual Pride displays and merchandise from 1,000 of their 2,000 nationwide stores while keeping all of the products available online. This after reports last June that some stores received complaints and threats to stores and employees because of their product support of LGBTQIA+ related items & creators. Ironically, their public statement regarding this move reads as follows, "[Target] is committed to supporting the LGBTQIA+ community during Pride Month, which is celebrated in June, and year-round." It is said that they still plan to appear in and at local Pride events and, "curated [collections] based on guest insights and consumer research," will be available in select stores and online.
The retailer blames 2023 second quarter losses on the controversy around Pride products, apparently deciding it was anti-LGBTQ consumers that boycotted stores opposed to a poor economy, postpandemic sales dips, inflation prices on already expensive products, or LGBTQIA+ consumers who boycotted because of Target's solution to complaints being hiding their displays in the back of their stores. This news is especially disappointing as communities around the country are facing devastating and unprecedented Anti-LGBTQ legislation, a rise in hate-based attacks, and that in past years, Target sought out intentional partnerships with LGBTQ and BIPOC creators for their Pride and Black History Month products to seemingly be less performative in their allyship. Now one has to wonder if they should be considered an ally at all while they refuse to take a visible stand against Transphobia & Homophobia by the products they choose to carry in their stores but seem fully willing to continue making money off of the Queer community through their online catalog.
What do you think? Will you continue shopping at Target in general, and buying their Pride line specifically- or are you over their lack-lustre allyship?
(May 10, 2024) - Kita Bee, 46 was known as an Icon on the streets of Kansas City. She was born into a generation of women who had few options outside of sex work for survival & to fight back against the poverty, unemployability & housing insecurity that she struggled with for most of her life. Kita was sadly struck by a vehicle in the East Kansas City area & struck again by a 2nd vehicle. The second driver has been located. It was unclear from initial reports whether that driver would be charged or the 1st vehicle was still being searched for. There were witnesses on the scene which led to the discovery of the 2nd driver & description of the 1st as neither vehicle stopped after they struck her.
slowly trending down. The fact that the year isn't even half over & the numbers are already so high in 2024, is a frightening predictor of what lies ahead. Tay & Jazlynn had a whole life in front of them to be and do anything, to live as big as they could dream. We speak these babies names today, & pray they have found peace.
(May 25, 2024) - NBA star and daughter, Zaya Wade launch, "Translatable." The platform was reportedly the brain-child of Zaya who came out to the world as Trans-Feminine 4 years ago. Wade and movie-star step-mom, Gabrielle Union have been firm and constant supporters of their daughter and have become advocates throughout the country. The project was announced via a video on IG (https://www.instagram.com/p/C 7Ul-kTvYgf/?hl=en) and hopes to become a safe space for Trans youth from BIPOC communities to encourage expression through creativity and the importance of family and parental support which Queer and Trans youth often do not have. The family recognizes
that Zaya had support and resources not available to most youth and they hope this is a small step in closing that gap. Wade was awarded the Elevate Prize Foundation Catalyst Award and will use the accompanying $250k, monies from the Wade Foundation, HRC & The Trevor Project to support Translatable.
(May 26, 2024) - The San Francisco Queer community is mourning the murder of yet another Black Trans woman whose life was stolen way too soon. Michelle was stabbed to death and strangled in an altercation in a home on the afternoon of May 15th. A woman was arrested at the scene and charged with, “the unlawful killing of a human being with malice aforethought.” The SFPD reports this is still an open investigation and charges may change. Friends insist this was a Transphobic attack but the police department reports they have no reason to believe the homicide was the result of a hate crime at this time. We do not reduce people to numbers and statistics, but we would be remiss to not report that the sheer number of recorded
murders of Trans/NB/GNC people already in 2024 is astounding and terrifying. At only month 5, Michelle is the 15th and many of the murders of Trans people go misreported as they are so often misgendered by the police and media outlets. As with every year, nearly all of the victims are people of color and nearly 1/3 are Black Trans women specifically. After hitting a record number of homicides in 2021, the very high numbers were slightly decreasing in the last few years. The 1st quarter of 2024, indicate that may not be the case this year.another violent and senseless loss.
FLORIDA
Don’t forget….be on the lookout for a new series in BlaqueOut Magazine from me called, “LOVE LANGUAGE” or “THE LOVE DOCTOR” (I haven’t settled on a name yet, let me know which one you like better!) in the coming months, where you, our beloved readers, send in questions you’d like advice on. Nothing life or death please, I’m not a real doctor and will only offer responses that are light, heartfelt, and hopefully relatable to others who might be going through something similar. So if you have something you’d like to have me speak to, DM
MY BODY, MY IMAGE IMMANI LOVE “Hey Slim!” “What’s Up, Scarecrow?” And so many other catcalls that were meant to acknowledge my thin frame when I was younger were at the time a common way to greet me. I was tall and thin most of my life, barely breaking 125lbs at 6ft tall since middle school. I was a size 4 or 6, athletic, playing basketball, volleyball, and competing in track and field. I ate whatever I wanted with no consideration to its affects on my body because I never gained weight. I was a model much into my young adult life for swimsuit calendars, print magazines, and even a bit of runway, yet, I still ate double cheeseburgers and fries before a shoot. Because of my natural walk that apparently was deemed noteworthy, I was often compared to famous runway models like Naomi Campbell and told that I walked like Aaliyah in the movie “Queen of the Damned,” I reveled in the praise because it meant I was beautiful. As years progressed and my high metabolism slowed down, now after eating a large meal, I, like most of the world, gained weight. It was hardly noticeable to me, I never weighed myself, so there was no indicator but my 125 lbs had increased to 175 lbs over the years and more. I was no longer hearing “slim” or “scarecrow” but now being called “thickness” and “cute for a chubby girl”. The first time I was approached as a “plus-sized model”, I was offended and stormed off declining the offer in a huff. I was a size 12. How dare they call me fat? What right did they have to call me “plus-sized” anyway? I was still tall, when I looked in the mirror I saw the same “skinny girl” I had always seen. But then I looked at photos of myself and hated them. I started to notice the weight gain. I began to criticize myself at every turn. Chastising myself when I was hungry, even though I ate healthier meals and smaller portions. I stopped modeling and hid my body except when I was at home.
One day, my partner at the time introduced me to one of her dear friends from college. When she greeted me, she said something to me that literally changed my entire mindset about myself in just a few words. “Nice to meet you, you’re so beautiful and statuesque!” I was blushing at the compliment and being a lover of words, I was flattered at the use of that particular word ‘statuesque” to describe me. I had never seen myself as such until that day. The next day, I donned a 2 piece swimsuit for the first time in years and looked at my body with new eyes. I saw my curves as something to be proud of, comparable to those of the women in history known for their beauty that weren’t a size 6, more like Tyra Banks who embraced gaining weight with grace and style on the runways and on national television and like in today’s world women like Lizzo who scream body positivity from the rooftops through her music and her media. Today, 20 years later, I am a size 14 and have lounged on naturist beaches all over the world in nothing but my birthday suit and graced the cover of this magazine wearing nothing but my glistening skin draped in a Pride flag. I did so with excitement and selfconfidence because I finally embraced my body for what it was. I'm curvy, I have rolls, I have stretch marks, and most of all, I’m me. I’m proud of the skin I’m in. I am still compared to famous runway models like Naomi Campbell and I am still told that I walk like Aaliyah in the movie “Queen of the Damned,” and I revel in the praise because it means I AM beautiful.
PRIDE IS BODY POSITIVITY T. MCLAURIN, OHIO/NORTH CAROLINA WHAT DOES BODY POSITIVITY MEAN TO YOU? It means simply loving yourself and all that comes with it. It's apart of you..so love and embrace it . WHAT DO YOU DO TO KEEP UP YOUR CONFIDENCE AND FEEL GOOD ABOUT YOURSELF? I don't fall victim of what the world say that I should be or look like. I concentrate and focus on what my purpose is and what makes me happy. The rest is none of my business
I am a certified herbalist and owner of Royaal Rootz Herbs. Also soon to be a certified health coach, nutritional coach, and life coach this year. I'm also an aspiring actress, writer, and director. For more information i can be contacted by email at Teemclaurin98@gmail.com
E.L., CHICAGO/NORTH CAROLINA WHAT DOES BODY POSITIVITY MEAN TO YOU? Loving and being comfortable in the skin I'm in. WHAT DO YOU DO TO KEEP UP YOUR CONFIDENCE AND FEEL GOOD ABOUT YOURSELF? Definitely a lot of positive self talk. SONG THAT YOU CONSIDER THE SOUNDTRACK OF YOUR LIFE OR PERSONALITY? No Weakness by Dj Drama T.I.'s verse ONE STYLE ITEM THAT YOU THINK EVERYONE SHOULD OWN? a bucket hat QUOTE YOU LIVE BY? If you can look up you can get up.
OUR JUNE 2024 BLAQUE/OUT MAGAZINE FEATURE PHOTOGRAPHER I am the owner and founder of Rochelle J. Photography. I have been doing photography for 10+ years. I pride myself on being a safe space for LGBTQIA+ individuals to be captured without boundaries. Comfort & safety while making your memories. You can view my work at www.rochellejphotography.com I am also the owner & founder of INNERstood Therapeutic Art Photography. ITAP host therapeutic sessions for those of all ages, military & families. We lean into past hurts & express them via the lens & other craft materials. Learn more at www.ITAPFAY.com WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO BE A PART OF THE PHOTOSHOOT? I decided to host this shoot as an opportunity to highlight body positivity within the LGBTQIA+ community. What better time to do so than PRIDE?!
PRIDE IS BODY POSITIVITY “YOU WILL ALWAYS BE FOND OF ME. I REPRESENT TO YOU ALL THE SINS YOU NEVER HAD THE COURAGE TO COMMIT.”
“EMBRACE YOUR UNIQUE ESSENCE AND DEFY SOCIETAL EXPECTATIONS. BODY POSITIVITY EMPOWERS YOU TO CONFIDENTLY EXPRESS YOURSELF THROUGH YOUR STYLE CHOICES WITHOUT BEING INFLUENCED BY UNSOLICITED OPINIONS.”
VICTORIA VON BLAQUE
PRIDE IS BODY POSITIVITY
ZAY KING
PRIDE IS BODY POSITIVITY “I WANT TO CELEBRATE AND EMBRACE MY BODY THE AS IT IS. LET PEOPLE KNOW I AFFIRM MY WORTH AND BEAUTY!”
“BODY POSITIVITY MEANS EMBRACING AND ACCEPTING ALL BODY TYPES, SHAPES, AND SIZES. IT INVOLVES CHALLENGING SOCIETAL STANDARDS OF BEAUTY AND PROMOTING SELF-LOVE AND CONFIDENCE REGARDLESS OF ONE'S PHYSICAL APPEARANCE. FOR ME, IT MEANS RECOGNIZING THE VALUE AND WORTH OF MY BODY FOR ITS UNIQUE ATTRIBUTES AND CAPABILITIES, AND FOSTERING A MINDSET THAT PRIORITIZES HEALTH, WELL-BEING, AND SELF-ACCEPTANCE OVER EXTERNAL VALIDATION. IT’S ABOUT CELEBRATING DIVERSITY AND ENCOURAGING A COMPASSIONATE, INCLUSIVE ATTITUDE TOWARDS ONESELF AND OTHERS.”
CHÉ HUERTAS
TRANSforming Lives With Queen Mother
Paige Mahogany Parks B R E E Z N
I was excited
T H R U ’
W I T H
L A D E
B R E E Z
to sit down with “Mutha Of The Trans/Queer Liberation
profit organization, possibly Texas period. I been doing the work since 2003.
Movement,” Paige Mahogany Parks. She is originally from Oklahoma City,
In a Houston magazine. I was named Outsmart Magazine’s 2004 “Person to
Oklahoma, and currently continues her work in Florida.
Watch”. I received the Dean McKeller Award for “Transgender Person Of The Year” for my work with Hurricane Katrina survivors. It's been a journey and I
Mahogany Parks is the founder of T.A.P. (Transgender Awareness Project) and
have no complaints.
has been a Transgender activist in the LGBTQIA community for over 26 years.
Have you faced any negative blowback as a person of color, and/or as an
In 2005, she was recognized as “The Outstanding Transgender Person of the
LGBTQIA+ individual?
Year” by the Dean McKeller Award for her work during Hurricane Katrina for the
Hell yes, I have faced racism and Transphobia. This is Florida, hunni!
LGBTQIA community. Featured on NBC, ABC, FOX, CBS, Houston Chronicle,
Rewind to 2018, and 3 Black Transwomen were murdered here in
Houston Voice, and OutSmart magazine, Mahogany Parks continues to work
Jacksonville. The media was very disrespectful and deadnaming them and
as a Transgender activist and writer in Jacksonville. We were able to dive
playing with their pronouns. No one was speaking up for the victims. I
deep into her mission, her upcoming projects and her opinion on the current
reached out to media and cursed they ass out. Call JSO and let them have
state of LGBTQIA laws.
it about deadnaming the victims. Wow! Just thinking about the time when this city was being shook by a Black Transwoman who stands at 5'4 was
How do you identify? (Pronouns)
very courageous. I made news, then everyone from different organizations
I proudly Identify as a Transgender woman; and my pronouns are she, her,
got my contact info and wanted to learn about the Trans community and
and Mutha Of The Trans/Queer Liberation Movement!
me as well. I had put together a vigil for the victims, but that wasn't enough
What industry do you currently work in?
for me to really give those victims peace and introduce Miss Paige
I work in the non-profit sector. I published my first book, Lady Paradox:
Mahogany Parks to Jacksonville. I met Christine Kittle and Monique
Flawless
grassroots
Sampson at the vigil and I reached out to them and told them my vision
organization, TAP which stands for Transgender Awareness Project in June of
about having a Trans Lives Matter Rally. Hunni, the whole city showed up to
2017.
the rally for the victims; also my name was spreading due to me being on
Please tell us here at BlaqueOUT Magazine, what is all included in the
the news so much, so everyone wanted to know who was this, loudmouth
businesses you run?
ass, BlackTransgender woman? Remind you, during this time, a lot of
In 2017, I moved to Jacksonville and was looking for organizations that service
people haven't even known a Trans person, so coming to that rally was
Black and Brown Trans people but nothing existed specifically for the Black
their first time being in a space with Trans/LGBQI people. At that time,
and Brown Trans community. There was Jasymn but it serviced only teens
Jacksonville was known as the murder capital of the world for Trans
and adults up to the age of 27. Everywhere that I was going, I was getting
murders. The Trans community was on edge and we felt like targets were
bullshit and road blocks in my way. I kept on doing my research. I knew what
on our backs. There was a need in this city and that's how this journey
needed to be done because in 2004 while living in Houston, Texas, I was
began.
appointed Executive Director of an organization that was on its way out of
What was life like for you growing up as a Transwoman? What did you
existence. I am the first Black Transwoman In Houston, Texas, who had a non-
fear?
Imperfections,
in
2013.
I
founded
the
non-profit
I left home at 13, so the streets raised me. I went to the Feds at age 20, so the Feds raised me too; so I don't fear shit. What inspired you to begin your entrepreneurial journey to bring T.A.P. to the LGBTQIA community? This white Transwoman named Brenda Thomas, who was a Trans activist and took no shit. She and I became good friends. She asked me [if] I would be interested in taking over an organization that's going to vanish if someone doesn't step in and revamp the Board of Directors and staff. She knew I was the right person for the job because I was a beast in my advocacy and people liked me; and I could get the coins to get this organization off of the ground because I knew how to fundraise. Long story short, I assembled a new board and only had two part time staff who were my best friend, Kloey Douglas and Nadia Sins, who both are Transwomen. Kloey and I are Black, Nadia is Hispanic so we knew the need in each of our communities. We got CATS, which is Community Awareness For Transgender Support, off of the ground and it was a success. Who inspired/ inspires you to stay consistent? My Black and Brown Trans community inspires me to stay on this journey. Until we get equal rights and to be treated like first class citizens, I will continue to fight for my community. What was the greatest challenge you had becoming successful in planning these impactful events? My biggest challenges were getting my own community to believe in me and support me. Things are still shaky, but, hunni, Rome wasn't built in a day. I love my community [and] I will not give up on them. What is your opinion on the current climate in the LGBTQIA community with so many states attempting to pass biased laws against them ? The reason these politicians have and are changing laws to put even more barriers in the Trans/LGBQI Community way is because we as a community don't stand together like they did in the Stonewall era. The community have lost trust in the whole voting process altogether. We are promised so much during election season and once the candidates win they say, “FUCK, you! We got your vote, so we don't need y’all ass.” I still believe in the voting system. My number #1 focus with T.A.P. is voter registration and getting people to the polls. Y’all get up off of y’all ass and register to vote and if you are registered to vote, update your information at [your] local Supervisor of Election Office. We can't afford to FUCK off this election, our Democracy depends on it. Trump can't step his ass ever in the White House unless he giving out Monica Lewinsky treats.
To stay current with upcoming events:
Visit our website at https://www.transgenderawarenessproject.net or on Facebook at T.A.P. Transgender Awareness Project https://www.facebook.com/share/LyhykiQnyXrazcny/? mibextid=LQQJ4d
If you would like to make cash donations, you can do so at: Cashapp: TAPFLA PayPal: Transgender Awareness Project Zelle: Transgender Awareness Project Vemo: Paige_Parks
NEW YORK
Writer: Javannah J. Davis Javannah Jasmeen Jjasmeend20
REVOLUTIONARIES
Monica Katrice Roberts, born on May 4, 1962, in Houston, Texas, was a pioneering Transgender rights activist, writer, and speaker who left an indelible mark on the fight for Transgender visibility and rights. Roberts was known for her fierce advocacy, her commitment to truth, and her role in shifting how Transgender individuals are represented and discussed in media and society. Educated at the University of Houston, Roberts’s activism began to take shape in the 1990s after she transitioned. She became a beacon for Transgender rights after launching “TransGriot” in 2006, a blog dedicated to covering the lives and issues facing Transgender individuals, particularly Transgender women of color. The blog was named after the term griot which refers to storytellers in West African tradition. Through her work, Roberts sought to be a storyteller for the Transgender community, documenting not only the challenges they faced but also their triumphs and contributions to society.
Roberts’s work was not just about fighting against injustice; it was also about celebrating the lives and histories of Transgender individuals, making sure they were remembered and honored.
Roberts’s influence extended beyond her blog. She was a formidable speaker and advocate who worked tirelessly to ensure that Transgender people were accurately and respectfully represented in the media. She often corrected misgendering in reports, campaigned against violence towards Transgender people, and fought for broader legislative protections. Her efforts were recognized nationally when she was honored with several awards, including the Special Recognition Award at the GLAAD Media Awards in 2016.Her activism also included serving on the boards of various organizations advocating for LGBTQ rights, and she was a founding member of the National Transgender Advocacy Coalition.
Roberts passed away on October 5, 2020, but her legacy lives on through “TransGriot” which continues to be a vital source of news and commentary, and through the countless individuals she inspired. Monica Katrice Roberts’s influence continues to resonate across the Transgender community and beyond. Her life’s work remains a testament to the power of voice and visibility in the fight for equality and justice.
FLORIDA
NEW YORK
Issue: June 2024
Living in the Light Javannah J. Davis
Stepping into the Spotlight: A reflection of my stage debut performance in Ramona King’s “Steal Away” Directed by award-winning director David Shakes
Making my stage debut in Ramona King’s Steal Away, April 12th through April 21st of 2024, was a dream come true. As the lights rose to bathe the stage in a warm, inviting glow, a lifelong aspiration unfolded into reality. This moment was not just about performing in a play; it was the culmination of years of dreams, challenges, and a transformative journey of selfdiscovery that began with my youth and took a defining turn with my transition. From a young age, the allure of acting captivated me. I was drawn to the magic of storytelling, the transformation of actors into myriad characters, and the emotional resonance that a good play could evoke in the audience. However, despite this deep-seated passion, stepping into the limelight was a dream deferred by my own internal battles and societal expectations. The journey toward my debut was as much about finding my voice and confidence as it was about honing my craft. The decision to transition marked a pivotal chapter in my life, both personally and artistically. It was a step towards authenticity, towards aligning my external world with my inner truth. This transformative experience imbued me with a newfound confidence that transcended into every aspect of my life, including my passion for acting. Embracing my true self allowed me to approach acting with a vulnerability and depth that I had never accessed before.
CALIFORNIA
Trains & Planes: My European Journey Visiting six countries in 16 days was quite an adventure. What started as a vacation, quickly turned into a travel expedition and a much-needed retreat. I had been eager to visit Portugal for some time and finally decided in early January to make it happen. To fund my trip, I applied for a new Sapphire Chase credit card, which offered 60,000 points if I made $4,000 in purchases within the first 90 days. By October, I had accumulated enough points to cover my flight to Portugal. Initially, I planned to stay in Portugal and perhaps visit Spain for a few days before returning to LA. However, it evolved into a full-blown European journey, and I am excited to share it with you. My first stop was Turkey, where I had a long layover. I purchased my ticket using Chase travel points on January 16th and found a deal with Turkish Airlines that included a long layover in Istanbul on the way to Lisbon, Portugal. The flight lasted 14 hours, which initially concerned me, but I decided to take advantage of the layover to see Istanbul. My flight left on March 14th with an arrival in Lisbon on March 16th. I landed In Istanbul
Ion the night of March 15th, decided to sleep, and then explored the city until my next flight at 1:30 p.m. Turkish Airlines offers free hotel accommodation for layovers of 12 hours or more, including a tour of Istanbul. Navigating Istanbul’s massive airport was challenging, especially since few people spoke English, but I eventually found the hotel accommodation line. They put us up in the Kaya Istanbul, a fair and convention hotel that was supposed to be five stars. The hotel was nice but felt more like four stars. It was about 45 minutes from the airport, west of the city. Although it wasn't centrally located for easy touring, it was still a nice stay. Upon arrival, we were checked into our rooms and provided a complimentary buffet-style dinner with delicious Turkish food. I wanted to see Istanbul, so I asked the hotel about a morning tour before my 1:30 flight. They arranged a tour for 120 euros (about $130), which included the tour and transportation to the airport. I later learned that the hotel and tour were run by the same family and were somewhat
of a scam to get you to their shop. If you find yourself in Istanbul on a long layover, I recommend arranging your own accommodations and city tour. Uber rides are cheaper! My flight to Lisbon was at 1:30 p.m. I made it to the airport without issues. European airports differ from those in the US; you don't find out your gate until shortly before boarding. So, if your gate is far away, you might end up running because you only find out about 50 minutes before departure. In the US, I'm used to knowing the gate number right away and having time to get there, relax, and wait for boarding. Upon arrival in Portugal, the first thing I noticed was the small and hot airport. The security and customs process was easy and efficient. When I arrive in new countries or cities, I like to take public transportation to my hotel to get a sense of what the locals do and the lay of the land. One of the reasons I chose Portugal is that I was considering relocating, so I wanted to act as if I was coming home. I took the Metro from the airport, transferring from the red line to Alameda and the green line to Rossio, which was the hotel stop. I stayed at the My Story Figueira, a very nice four-star hotel in the heart of Lisbon. My room was small but fine for just me. The mirror on the wall doubled as a TV. I was on the top floor with a mini balcony, where I enjoyed morning coffee while checking the weather. My Story Figueira was housed in a massive courtyard in the city center, with easy access to buses, trains, the metro, and trolleys. There were museums, shopping stores, souvenir shops, and flea markets nearby. It was fun to walk out and be in the heart of the city.
IAll my days were tour days. On my first day, I went on a 4-hour walking tour. I had breakfast at Nicolau Lisboa, where I had the best latte of my life! I took the bus to the castle at the top of the hill and joined the walking tour at 3:30 p.m. It was an amazing experience to walk around the city, learn about Portugal's history, and hear political anecdotes from the tour guide. Portugal is a beautiful but very hilly city. You will definitely need good walking shoes. After the tour, I felt like I needed new lungs, but it was a great experience, and I met many people. On Monday, I booked a day tour to Cascais and Sintra, Portugal. My tour guide also stopped in Oeiras, which was a bonus. She stopped for an Instagram-worthy photo of a cave with water. Cascais reminded me of a Portuguese Santa Barbara with expensive beach homes and a laidback surfer vibe. If I ever move to Portugal, Cascais or Porto would be my vibe. Sintra, the last city we visited, looked like a storybook town with colorful buildings and castles. It felt like royalty stepping into this fascinating place with cobblestone roads and a fairytale atmosphere. Before heading back to Lisbon, we stopped at the National Palace of Pena, a monastery purchased by King Ferdinand for his wife, Queen Dona Maria II, who had thirteen children. She died in 1853 before the castle was ready for move-in in 1854. Ferdinand and his second wife, Elisa, lived there until his death, and Portugal purchased It In 1888, turning it into a national monument in 1910. The castle's exterior is somewhat of an eyesore, but it's worth the trip if you visit Sintra. On Tuesday, I took the train to Porto, where I stayed for two days at the Fontinha Porto. The train ride took about 3.5 hours from Lisbon. It's a common mode of transportation for locals, offering a spacious and smooth ride. In Porto, I was tired from the previous days of traveling and tours, so I rested a bit and took a mini-tour the following day. I also learned how to make Portugal's pastry, Pastéis de Nata, in a cooking class I booked on Booking.com. It's a sweet pastry the Portuguese enjoy at any time of day,
sex, resulting in low disease rates. Interestingly, many clients just wanted someone to talk to rather than for sex. The average client time is six minutes. The museum also displayed items clients left behind and stories about celebrity visitors. During my travels, I noticed few American things like restaurants or stores until I reached Amsterdam. There were more American stores and restaurants there, including Dunkin', which surprised me. The donuts in Amsterdam are better than in America! I stayed in Amsterdam for three nights and would consider living there if given the opportunity. The last city on my journey was Copenhagen, Denmark, the cleanest city I've ever been to, other than Washington, DC. It's a bike-friendly city with more bikes than cars on the roads. It's also home to The Little Mermaid statue, created from the image of the work by the original author, Hans Christian Andersen in 1837, as well as Nyhavn, a 17thcentury harbor with colorful townhouses, boat homes, and seafood restaurants. I stayed at the Hotel Mayfair, a modern, nice hotel five minutes from Tivoli Gardens, the second oldest operating amusement park in the world. The hotel room was very small, but the bed was comfortable. The Hop On/Hop Off bus and boat tours were amazing, allowing me to experience everything Copenhagen offered. The food was the most expensive of my entire trip, so be prepared to spend a lot on food in Copenhagen. It wasn't very diverse, and I felt out of my element, especially after Amsterdam's diversity. It's a small but clean city with many 7-Elevens that were much better than those in the US, offering more options and cleanliness. After leaving Copenhagen, I headed back to London to catch my flight back to the US. One tip I would give is to get Global Entry if you don't have it. It's amazing. I walked in and out with no long lines. It's $100 for five years and includes TSA Precheck. Glorious, I'm telling you—get it now. Sixteen days, six countries, eight plane rides, two trains, four Hop On/Hop Off bus tours, three boat tours, one tuk-tuk tour, museums, walking tours, a cooking class, the Red Light District, all the food in the world, a laundromat fight, and a carry-on bag. This was the best experience of my life so far. I look forward to many more trips and travels to write about in the future! Until we meet again, travel more—I know I will.
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Blaqueout columnist Javannah Davis had the pleasure of sitting down and talking to community leader, activist, and Senior Health Educator and LGBTQ Liaison at Osborne Association, the divine Grace Detrevarah. The following interview gives us insight to the tireless community work that she does which covers community engagement, policy advocacy, education and awareness, support systems, measuring impact, challenges, and barriers. This is the life of an activist according to a spiritual Black woman of Transgender experience.
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EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW GRACE DETREVARAH JD: Can you share some of the challenges you faced as a Black woman of Trans experience, and how it led you to be the dedicated community leader you are today? GD: My advocacy started in 2012 while being incarcerated through various correctional systems in NYS as a Black Transgender woman. While in custody I took the "brave" initiative to advocate for the small number of Gay and Transgender identified detainees/prisoners while in SingSing/Fishkill and other facilities, as a law clerk in the facility’s law library as a program as a prisoner. (required to have to determine their programing while in custody) After my own initial ordeal of being being raped by a fellow prisoner. I sought first, to save myself from additional harm. I filed a lawsuit through Legal Aid society, Mik Kinkead (see: article/op-ed for USA Today written by me on July 15,2021). As I begin to observe the overall mistreatment of Gay & Trans identified prisoners, I begin to be encouraged by my fellow prisoners to advocate to the prison officials, which I did ultimately do within the confines of the facility. (through prisoner initiatives: Prisoner Liaison committee--which NYS has). When I was voted by the prison population in a voting system...I was elected as a member of the facility Prisoner Liaison Committee. Once I was released back to society in 2012, I had accumulated a reputation with outside agencies: Sylvia Rivera Law Project, ACLU: LGBT Services, LAMBDA Legal and other organizations due to my "inside/behind the walls" work, especially for those Gay and Transgender identifiable prisoners. JD: Can you describe a pivotal moment in your life that defined your experience as a Black woman of Trans experience? GD: When I acknowledged that my survival as a Transgender woman was someone else’s journey as well. Recognizing that far too many Trans folk were not proactive in addressing or changing their "survival" or ability to .....simply exist. They just didn't know how or were only brave ...when trapped or last step efforts to just exist.. When I began to receive respect from those other than the LGBT community. How so: by seeking my words, thoughts on things from health, legal circumstances and our existence.
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW GRACE DETREVARAH JD: What advice would you give to younger Transgender people based on your own life experiences? GD: As the generations continue to learn: We must remember that our existence requires us to be proactive. Our allies can be helpful, our community can be a comfort. However, our survival will only surely come through ourselves...continues to be our saving grace. I would simply say...."Carry your existence through your participation in this LIFE. For oneself, and the overall community. JD: Looking back, what would you say has been the biggest victory or achievement in your journey as a Black woman of Trans experience? GD: Looking back...hmmmm. The journey has and continues to be bright, moments of stumble and flight..... Nevertheless, as we and I.... go forth with the challenges which the world will bring forth all of us must play a part. No people can survive at the hands of others determining their survival. So I am pleased that I've had the privilege, opportunity and initiative to be a light to where the world once said and continues to say: I don't matter. I know I do matter. My greatest achievement is changing the negative stereotypes which befall the Transgender community through being proactive in our existence, purpose and contributions to humankind.
book therapy
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I HAD THE PLEASURE OF SITTING DOWN WITH ALISSA AKA SHEBEREADINTHEMBOOKS AND DISCUSS BLACK BOOK TOK, ADVOCACY, AND THE FATE OF LITERACY AND OUR CHILDREN. OUR ENGAGING CONVERSATION SHOWS US THAT THERE IS NO CERTAIN MOLD FOR READERS TO FIT INTO AND THAT WE CAN CELEBRATE SCI-FI, FANTASY, AND BIPOC ALL AT THE SAME TIME! ALISSA HAS BEEN NOMINATED FOR THIS YEAR’S AAMBC (AFRICAN AMERICAN ON THE MOVE BOOK CLUB) LITERARY ACTIVIST OF THE YEAR AWARD, BUT SHE DOESN’T LET THE NOMINATION GO TO HER HEAD. ALISSA SAYS THAT SHE'S JUST OUT HERE TALKING ABOUT WHAT SHE LIKES TO TALK ABOUT AND BRINGING US ALL ALONG ON THE RIDE!! HER VIBE IS LIKE YOUR FUNNY, DOWN TO EARTH, BEST BUDDY OR COUSIN. I HOPE THAT YOU ENJOY THE INTERVIEW AS MUCH AS I DID AND I KNOW ONE THING FOR SURE: IF YOU FOLLOW HER SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNTS, YOU'RE GOING TO BE READING DIVERSELY AND STANDING IN LINE AT YOUR LOCAL BOOKSTORE.
Just take a moment and listen/ place your face to the green grass who's roots run red underneath the feet of sheep/ they released our shackles and attacked the mental intimacy of originality/ placed gold around lies/ laced diamonds of the devil/ To make hot shit shining for them ones who didn’t mind dancing on burning coal/ its the bling bling you seeking/ Of trying to be like the jones when their house is in foreclosure/ the shade under the oak tree was never this cold/ bold enough to yell Transpeople aren’t the problem when the church holds more pedophiles than the prison system/ utilize the media to do your dirty work/ don't shit matter as long as their propaganda don’t have you taking a gander at the real criminals in the judicial system/ The judicial system/ earthquakes in N.Y/ And didn’t nobody wonder why he had Kids islands shaped like puzzle pieces/ Talk about your Nickelodeon/ Like Diddy know a thing? But diddy stay trending unlike the deaths of transgenders who’s lives go missing like the real criminals when shit get real turn women into bitches in every song played/ Hollywood nightmares and the only laws being passed are against those who jus want the chance to live in their truth/ That will never make it to the big screen/ have daughters believing her body is the only advance placement in society/ Sons who only see dad behind metal bars/ or cars as they ride by/ pretending they don't exist/ And you ask yourself/ Why is the world the way it is?/ Simple/ We use to have a purpose beyond trying to impress the rest/ We use to leave an imprint for the next/
Brandy ”Lade Breez” Elam
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DANCING AROUND THE WORLD Jermaine Greaves
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Meet Jermaine Greaves, a Black, disabled, creative, and talented dancing machine who dedicates himself to activism and founded Black Disabled
Lives Matter. Jermaine aims to show that Black people are magical, gifted, talented, and full of love and light. He demonstrates how we transform culture by simply being ourselves. Jermaine Greaves, based in Brooklyn, New York, has lived with cerebral palsy since birth. Despite many obstacles from childhood, he has not let anything stop him from becoming who he is today. He credits his mother for instilling confidence in him and believing in his abilities. She encouraged him to aim high and never let his disability define him. She made him aware of his physical limitations but never stopped him from living his life with purpose. “She just believed in me and instilled in me things that, to this day, benefit me. It’s a blessing,” Jermaine says. Two years ago, Jermaine faced a medical setback with the skin condition hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), a painful, long-term condition that causes abscesses and scarring on the skin. He
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underwent two surgeries and extensive rehab. Now, he is regaining his strength and returning to his activities. Jermaine attributes his quick recovery to his mindset and determination to remember what he can achieve when he sets his mind to something. Being sick pushed Jermaine to work harder, especially since he experienced people abandoning him without help or solutions to ensure his safety. “Now the focus is getting my strength back up, just pushing myself to do what I have to do because I’ve realized that very few people will protect me and help me the way I want to be helped,” Jermaine explains. Sadly, a family member took advantage of his illness by stealing his SSI money, leaving him in debt and behind on rent. Jermaine also faced online bullying and skepticism about his illness, feeling the need to prove himself and his need for help. To counter this, he began making videos of his experiences, showing people his scars and documenting his surgeries and rehab.
“I think if I didn’t go through what I went through with my skin condition, I wouldn’t have known how people would treat me differently. When I could do more for myself, people praised me, but when I couldn’t, they shamed me,” Jermaine reflects. This experience showed him who truly cares for him and who does not. Although it is a hard pill to swallow, at least he now knows who genuinely supports him. One blessing for Jermaine is his long-term partner of nine years, Trequane Lee, who has been a steady source of hope and support. His partner has been very patient, caring, and understanding of Jermaine’s needs. Jermaine and his partner trequane lee met on Jack’d, a location-based chat and dating app for gay and bisexual men, nine years ago. They connected through their mutual location in Brooklyn, NY. Sparks didn’t fly immediately; instead, their relationship grew gradually. “He’s very smart, thoughtful, selfaware, and an inspiration to me because of how he perseveres. He’s someone who never gives up on himself,” Jermaine says.
While Jermaine has a wonderful long-term partner, his dating history hasn’t been smooth. “My dating experience hasn’t been easy with men. I’ve encountered all kinds of men, and many put me through the wringer,” he shares. Before meeting his partner, he dated men who lacked emotional depth or pure intentions.
“Dancing makes me very happy,” he says. Cue up Pharrell’s “Happy!” As a Black gay man, Jermaine dealt with men who only wanted money, made him uncomfortable, or had ulterior motives. Therapy has helped him understand his dating preferences and unlearn unhealthy patterns. As he gets older, he values a partner who listens, understands, and sees him for who he is, flaws and all. Trequane meets those needs. Jermaine believes we all need someone who pours into us and doesn’t let us give up on ourselves.
His mother has always been that person for him. “Sometimes we don’t see our gifts until someone else sees them in us,” he says. Now that Jermaine is regaining his strength, he is back to dancing on TikTok, creating dance videos again. “Dancing makes me very happy,” he says. Cue up Pharrell’s “Happy”! Jermaine has danced since he was 10 years old when a dance class instructor encouraged his love for it. He danced throughout elementary and middle school but became shy in high school and switched to communications. However, in college, the dance bug bit him again. He earned an Associate’s Degree in Theatre Arts and returned to his roots, adding performing and singing to his repertoire. “Doing creative things always makes me happy, but I also understand the significance of being in these spaces. It’s not often someone like me gets to be in a Beyoncé video or perform at Lincoln Center. Every time I step into these spaces where I’m not supposed to be, I make my presence known,” Jermaine says. Jermaine believes in commanding the room, owning the room, and leading by example. These beliefs have opened doors for him, allowing him to represent Black, gay, disabled people who may feel voiceless.
Images taken by Stas Ginzburg
Jermaine started Black Disabled Lives Matter in 2020 after his sister, Georgeanne Greaves, passed away in March at the start of COVID. His mother also became ill with COVID and now has long-term symptoms. These experiences, combined with attending an inaccessible protest, inspired Jermaine to start Black Disabled Lives Matter. Jermaine wishes people wouldn’t stare at him as a disabled, gay man and that there were more inclusive spaces for disabled individuals. He understands that curiosity often drives the stares, but he hopes for a more inclusive world. He strives to show up as his most authentic self. “As long as you show up as you, the right people will find you. You may lose some along the way, but the right ones will find and love you,” he says. Five years ago, Jermaine went viral with his dancing videos, landing him in various media publications. Interestingly, a week before his viral video, Macy’s fired him.
He attended an event called Live Like Nipsey Hussle, focused on reinventing purpose. “I was screaming about not being heard, not being seen, and oddly enough, the same outfit I wore at the event was the one I wore in the viral video,” he recalls. Being fired from Macy’s allowed Jermaine to realize that no matter where he worked, he would pursue his dreams and live his purpose. This moment led him to create his website and put himself out there without fear. “Don’t let your circumstances stop you from going after what you want,” he advises. Jermaine hopes Black Disabled Lives Matter will grow into an organization that helps homeless people, the disabled, the incarcerated, and even the disabled incarcerated. He wants to touch more lives and continue on his current path. For Jermaine, where he is now is a gift. The opportunities he has had, the various articles written about him, the many videos he has created, and the people he has worked with are all gifts. He doesn’t take any of it for granted. Not giving up has been key for him. “It’s not delayed or denied; it’s just not right now. Stay the course and don’t give up, especially in the middle of the storm. It will pass if you hold on a little while longer,” he says. “The LGBTQIA+ Black experience is special because we move the culture. Our sayings, our walk, our talk, our being are replicated and duplicated. We need to treasure our culture, from ballroom to style to fashion. Our fem queens and trans women deserve their flowers. Without them, we wouldn’t have some of the aesthetics we have now.” You can catch Jermaine’s exhibition at the Museum of New York, and it’s ongoing! If you find yourself in NY, please check it out. One of Jermaine’s happiest moments is seeing his legacy thus far. He’s excited to have opened doors for others to walk through. “The door is not just for me; it’s to pass on that legacy to others and let them know they can do it too,” he says.
Currently, Jermaine is trying to raise about $9,000 in back rent from his time in the hospital. If you feel inclined, consider donating to his GoFundMe. You can also give via Venmo (Jermaine-Greaves), CashApp (JermainePartyPlanner), and PayPal. Follow Jermaine on social media from TikTok to Instagram.