BLAQUE/OUT MAGAZINE March 2024 by Blaque/OUT Magazine

MARCH 2024

ISSUE#042

M A G A Z I N E TRANS VISIBILITY DAY

CELEBRATING BLACK QUEER HISTORY

THE NEW PRIDE AGENDA

TAMARA S. LEIGH, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

CONTENTS Celebrating Black Queer History Month 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

25 NEW PRIDE AGENDA

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

THE OLD MAN'S CORNER E.L. WINSTON

LIVING IN THE LIGHT

JAVANNAH DAVIS

INTERVIEW WITH RAQUEL WILLIS

CECILIA GENTILI

COVER SUBJECTS: NEW PRIDE AGENDA

IMMANI LOVE

37 COVER PHOTOGRAPHER: JERMAINE VALENTINE

BLACK FARMERS ARE COOL!

A VISIT TO GEGE’S HUT BLAQUE/OUT MAG TV COOKING SERIES COPY EDITOR: RONI WINSTON ADVERTISING ACCOUNT MANAGER: DOREEN SCANLAN

MARCH 2024 | ISSUE# 042

TRANS DAY OF BLAQUE/OUT MAGAZINE CELEBRATES

VISIBILITY TRANS RIGHTS ARE HUMAN RIGHTS PROTECT TRANS KIDS BLACK & BROWN TRANS LIVES MATTER PROTECT BLACK TRANS WOMEN TRANS LIVES MATTER

MARCH 31st, 2024

I recently interviewed the incredible Raquel Willis and she said something to me that resonates with me everytime I think about TDOV now. “Visibility is just part of it.” She talked about how visibility cannot just be considered the goal, because in so many ways it is important but also can come with so much risk. That the win doesn’t just come with doing- so the world can see but being able to just BE. Be happy, be whole, be seen, be authentic, be free, be healthy, be employed, be educated, be safe, be comfortable, be understood, be celebrated, be successful, be LOVED, be housed, be involved, be desired, be pleasured, be counted, be represented, be at the table, be whatever and whomever you want to be and are.

I’ll spend my last dying breath fighting for every one of my friends, family, loved ones and community members ability to BE. And what can be considered a more human right than that? Visibility is more than just a tag line, like TDOV is more than just a day. There are those amongst us that fight through the fear, the oppression, the exhaustion, the opposition and do more than

choose to be visible, they risk it all to lead. One of those amazing teams of folks is featured on our March ‘24 cover. I am honored to know, have supported and even broken bread with some of the dynamic folks pictured on our cover, New Pride Agenda out of NYC. As you flip through, you will meet their team, see some AMAZING shots from the newest photographer to OUR team, Jermaine Valentine, some video from my sit-down with Raquel Willis... a segment with our new resident Chef and of course the dopest writers on earth, my Blaque/OUT fam. This Is Black QUEER History Month. But I couldn’t close this month without a word about three beautiful souls that have left us In February. Ms. Ceilia- Thank you for your leadership, thank you for your work. Thank you for your HEART. May your journey serve as Inspiration through the ages. And your bad-ass, kick-ass legacy will live on through every life you touched. Nex- The only words I can think of is I’m sorry. I’m sorry we failed you. I’m sorry you didn’t get the chance to see how much better It gets. Your name- the one YOU decided, will be forever etched Into our hearts even If we never met you. Because you are every one of us. And through us, you and your name will live on. Nick!!! I am still completely and utterly In a state of shock. I’m just sad. You were way way too young. Love to my hometown Queer community. This one just hit hard as hell.

a word. Tamara Sanaa Leigh Editor-In-Chief

NORTH CAROLINA

THE OLD MAN'S CORNER E.L. WINSTON

“IT’S ALL BACKWARDS” quiet? You don't talk much, fam, unless you like the people around you. Ok, but I think that's more about you, fam, and you holding on to those experiences from growing up. Why do you feel like you have to rush to explain your thoughts in conversation? You should see yourself when you’re not fumbling your words and thoughts. It’s actually pretty dope to talk to you.

Hey, breathe….. Calm down, I know you're not stupid. I know that you are finding it difficult to explain yourself. Yes, I know it’s frustrating, but the more upset you become the less you're going to be able to explain what it is that's going on. So stop and breathe….. Now, try to picture the object in your head. Remember when you were a kid and you would spend hours tracing the letters over and over again hoping that you would see the letters like everybody else and then later in high school how you'd read the paragraph over and over until you felt like you understood what it meant. I know you're not stupid….. Remember, when they said it was because you were lazy, but you know better right? There's no way a lazy person could have maneuvered the system the way you did to survive so long without people realizing you had a disability. Ok, ok, no, you don't have a disability, you just learn differently. My bad. No, I don't think you're stupid or lazy. Why do we keep coming back to these words? It's not your fault those people were ignorant. Is that why you’re so

It’s a shame that they took so long to figure out that you have a disa….. That you learn differently. Maybe it would have saved you some hardship growing up but we're not going to dwell on that. You are thriving in spite of your learning difference. You write for one of the dopest magazines in the world. People read your words all over the world. How's that for a dude who sees backwards? Not only that, but you doubled down on that resilience by becoming the book reviewer for that same magazine. Now, that doesn't sound like someone stupid or lazy. You're welcome. I'm here to remind you that in spite of everything you’re a dope individual and that you've made lemonade out of lemons. Stay up, fam, you are just as you should be and the world needs to see more of that as much as you need to walk in it. I'm dyslexic. I not only see words backwards but have trouble formulating my thoughts into sentences. It is something that I've struggled with cont...

my whole life. I was in the 8th grade before I was diagnosed. I often heard things like I didn't apply myself or that I was lazy. According to a report from the Shadow Project BIPOC students are placed into special education at much greater numbers than their white counterparts. BIPOC students are also more often than not to be misdiagnosed, delayed in being diagnosed or not at all. The NAACP states that 1 out of every 5th person struggles with dyslexia.

THE HUMAN RIGHTS CAMPAIGN AND SHOWTIME® ARE EXCITED TO PRESENT THE FOURTH YEAR OF "QUEER TO STAY: AN LGBTQ+ BUSINESS PRESERVATION INITIATIVE", AN EFFORT THAT SUPPORTS, UPLIFTS AND PRESERVES SMALL BUSINESSES THAT SERVE THE LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY, PARTICULARLY MULTIPLYMARGINALIZED QUEER PEOPLE.

We, as adults, need to educate ourselves on what learning differently looks like and advocate for our children. Black and Brown children are made to feel like there is something wrong with them if they are different when in all actuality the things that make them unique can be used to give them more perspective than those who don't have the blessing to be a different type of learner. To those like me, do an old man a favor and pick your head up and walk in your power. You're not alone!

VIRGINIA

MEL HOWARD

A DEEP DIVE INTO TRANSTECH SOCIAL INTERVIEW WITH E.C PIZARRO TransTech Social is a Global Network of over 6,000 Trans and nonbinary folks, allies, and members of the LGBT+ community who are interested in tech and, ironically, aren’t Transphobic. As an organization, we have a community that fosters growth. No matter where you are in your journey, be it tech or your personal one, there are opportunities in the community to learn from and we are here to support you.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE CULTURE OF TRANSTECH? One of accountability, one of empowerment, one of grace WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT TRANSTECH? We are a Trans tech company run by Trans people centered to focus on Trans folx and founded by Trans folx.

DO YOU PLAN ON ADDING ONTO TRANSTECH, IF SO HOW? We’ll eventually be back in person a hundred percent. We have our programming with Grow or Google certifications, our Linux Foundation scholarships for Master Class, and we're working on programming for entrepreneurs and contractors. The foundation has been set and we are going to build off of that.

WHAT IS THE INSPIRATION BEHIND TRANSTECH? Angelica Ross started this organization and was able to teach herself coding and web design and graphic design through YouTube University (resource and knowledge free tutorials) and lynda.com which is now called Linkedin Learning and if it worked for her it was a road map for other Trans individuals.

WHERE DO YOU SEE TRANSTECH IN FIVE YEARS? TransTech being able to certify at least 100 Trans people a year in the field of Technology. I also see our summit happening more than once a year to really expand our demographic and provide more accessibility. TransTech being one of the largest LGBT Tech organizations in the world.

WHAT IS THE TARGET AUDIENCE OF TRANSTECH? We believe that removing the barriers for the most marginalized make opportunities accessible and Equitable for all.

WHAT ARE THE WAYS TRANSTECH ADVERTISES TO HIT THE TARGET AUDIENCE? I mean our mailing list, social media ads, and podcasts. We use all types of media to market.

@transtechsocial

Upcoming events: Summit March 28-March 31,2024 members are free (Must sign up by March 15, 2024)

HTTPS://TRANSTECHSOCIAL.ORG TRANSTECHSUMMIT.COM

NEW YORK

CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF...

Nickolas Wells

JUNE 18, 1992 - FEBRUARY 26, 2024

BLAQUE/OUT SITS DOWN WITH MEDIA STRATEGIST, ACTIVIST, AND AUTHOR RAQUEL WILLIS TO DISCUSS HER WORK, HER JOURNEY AND HER NEW BOOK, “THE RISK IT TAKES TO BLOOM: ON LIFE AND LIBERATION.”

WATCH ON YOUTUBE

RAQUEL INTERVIEW W/TAMARA LEIGH

WILLIS

NORTH CAROLINA

BOOK BANGERz B O O K

R E V I E W S

B Y

E L

W I N S T O N

The Gilded Ones by Namina Forna is the first book of a trilogy and I can say that this book did not disappoint. If you like action, then this is definitely going to be a book for you. We are introduced to Deka, a dark skinned young girl who has reached the age of the sacred ritual. Young girls of the village are cut and if they bleed red, then they are deemed pure, but if they bleed gold, they are considered impure. Impurity means the Death Mandate. These impure girls are almost-immortals called alaki and Deka is one of them. She's very different from the other alaki, although she feels it, revelation comes later. Deka is selected to fight in a special army made up of alaki soldiers. Deka’s option is not really an option because her ‘choice’ is to be in this army or stay in her home and face the Death Mandate. What a choice right? This is a Young Adult Fantasy, but it is definitely a good read for adults of any age. It makes you look at racism, sexism, violence toward women and toxic masculinity, as well as colorism. Not only are the young ladies that naminaforna.com

are deemed impure and looked at as unworthy, all women in this story are treated like second class citizens. The men speak to them with disregard, but you see the underlying strength of the alaki. It makes you question what everyone else is looking at.

The book is fast paced from the beginning and pretty hard to put down. You will become invested in Deka and the friends she makes along the way. It does have some pretty violent scenes that deal with some heavy topics of murder and torture, so if that makes you squeemish, then this series may not be for you. The author’s attention to detail takes you on an amazing ride to what could only be some of the most beautiful places on earth. Her attention to character development has you feeling like you've known these people your whole life. All in all, I give this read 5 stars, I’m deep into the second book of the series, The Merciless Ones. I’ll be sure to let y’all know how that shapes up in comparison.

book therapy

W I T H W I N S T O N & T H E B O O K B A N G E R Z B O O K C L U B

JOIN US FOR CONVERSATION ABOUT OUR BOOK OF THE MONTH ON THE 15TH OF EVERY MONTH ON FB LIVE @BLAQUEOUTMAG

march 15th 7pm HAVE ANY QUESTIONS FOR WINSTON ABOUT THE BOOK? EMAIL: WOLFDOMMY@GMAIL.COM

T H E

N E W

P R I D E

A G E N D A

FOUNDED IN 2019, THE NEW PRIDE AGENDA (NPA) IS NEW YORK’S STATEWIDE LGBTQ+ EDUCATION AND ADVOCACY ORGANIZATION. OUR MISSION IS TO ADVANCE THE ECONOMIC, HEALTH, RACIAL AND GENDER IDENTITY JUSTICE NEEDS OF LGBTQ+ NEW YORKERS. FORMER AND EMERGING LEADERS CREATED NPA WITH THE FOCUS OF PROVIDING ADVOCACY FOR AND BY THE MOST MARGINALIZED MEMBERS OF THE LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY, INCLUDING BLACK & BROWN TRANSGENDER, GENDER NON-CONFORMING, NON-BINARY, AND INTERSEX (TGNCNBI) PEOPLE. SOME OF THE NEW PRIDE AGENDA’S RECENT ACCOMPLISHMENTS INCLUDE INCREASING FUNDING FOR LGBTQ HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES PROVIDERS, SPEARHEADING A MULTI-MILLION DOLLAR PUBLICLY FUNDED TRANSGENDER & NON BINARY WELLNESS AND EQUITY FUND, ORGANIZING ONE OF THE LARGEST TGNCNBI ADVOCACY DAYS IN ALBANY, AND THE PASSAGE OF THE SAFE HAVEN FOR TRANSGENDER YOUTH AND FAMILIES ACT.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE EXPERIENCE YOU'VE HAD AS A PART OF NPA?

Executive Director with the org since

July 1st 2021

ELISA CRESPO

she/her

WHERE ARE YOU FROM? New York City Girl, through and through. All boroughs except Staten Island. Currently living in the Bronx.

THE SONG YOU HAVE ON REPEAT RIGHT NOW?

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST WIN YOU'VE HAD AS A PART OF NPA?

Fast Car by Tracy Chapman

The Lorena Borjas Trans and Non Binary Wellness and Equity Fund. A state funded grant making initiative that provides funding to trans led or serving organizations across New York state. It is named in honor of the late Lorena Borjas, a legendary trans Latinx immigrant woman from Mexico, who passed during the height of COVID. Lorena was a social justice warrior and inspiration to many in the Jackson Heights community and beyond.

WHAT QUOTE DO YOU LIVE BY? Do unto others as you wish done to yourself.

WHAT WOULD SURPRISE PEOPLE ABOUT YOU? That I am slightly introverted and that I can be really goofy in private

WHAT IS THE ISSUE YOU ARE MOST PASSIONATE ABOUT?

I am most passionate about protecting our Trans siblings who are incarcerated and working to decriminalize consensual sex work between adults in New York. I am also passionate about empowering TGNC youth and making sure they understand they are divine and that the world is their oyster.

My favorite experiences are events such as our annual Summer BBQ, where we get to let our hair down and have a good time over some good food with our community. I also enjoy advocacy days or trips to Albany, especially when we are able to bring up community members who have never been to the Capital before. It's a joy and honor to watch them experience that and step into their power as they share their stories with law makers in an effort to create change for our people.

CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THE WORK THAT YOU DO? I have the honor and privilege of leading New York's premier statewide LGBTQ+ education and advocacy organization. The NEW Pride Agenda provides education, empowerment and advocacy on behalf of Black and Brown LGBTQ+ New Yorkers. We mobilize our community to create system level change and bring visibility to our stories. WHAT MAKES NPA SPECIAL? What makes NPA special is that we are a truly rooted in the communities we serve. We are a team of Black and Brown Queer and Trans people who have direct and lived experience in the issues we are advocating to change or improve.

Director Of Advocacy and Community Engagement with the org since

December 2022

BRITTAN HARDGERS he/him/sir

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST WIN YOU'VE HAD AS A PART OF NPA? "Our journey has been marked by numerous significant achievements, and the memories of our inaugural Towards Equity LGBTQ+ Advocacy Convening continue to resonate profoundly. This landmark event brought together a diverse coalition of community members, organizers, leaders, elected officials, and allies from every corner of the state, fostering an unparalleled synergy. Additionally, witnessing the rapid expansion of the NPA Empowerment Center has been truly inspiring. With its clothing closet, pantry, and computer lab, the center has become a transformative space where individuals transition from merely surviving to actively thriving every day.

WHERE ARE YOU FROM? Born in California, Raised and Currently Live in Rochester, NY WHAT QUOTE DO YOU LIVE BY? “I am the most beautiful creation of my past”- Brittan Hardgers (Uniquely Made By You Affirmation Journal)-Available on Amazon

WHAT MAKES NPA SPECIAL? The NEW Pride redefines statewide presence by implementing virtual programming accessible throughout the state, ensuring comprehensive care connections, and providing political education. We strengthen community foundations through direct engagement, embodying our commitment by being actively present within the communities we serve.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE EXPERIENCE YOU'VE HAD AS A PART OF NPA? I have so many it hard to chose, honesty I just love when we are all together as a team. We are more than colleagues we are family. WHAT WOULD SURPRISE PEOPLE ABOUT YOU? I am an amazing cook. The song you have on repeat right now? Meek Mill (Feat. Nas)- Maybach Curtains

WHAT IS THE ISSUE YOU ARE MOST PASSIONATE ABOUT? Currently GIRDS- the Gender, Identity, Respect, Dignity Safety Act is at the top of my list. If passed, this bill would protect TGNCNBI people’s right to gender-aligned housing in New York jails and prisons, and protects their right to be free from transphobic discrimination by jail and prison staff and prevents the misuse of involuntary protective custody, which is just like solitary confinement, against TGNCNBI people. There would also be a huge change regarding gender affirming commissary for TGNCNBI people in custody. Queers For Housing and the NEW Pride Agenda is working on building a coalition for LGBTQ+ folks directly impacted by the lack of housing resources throughout NYS. We know that 'Housing is a HUMAN RIGHT'. If I start talking about the youth I will go on forever. My passions are the driving force in the work I do daily. I may not be here to see the end result of the work being done, yet I am intentional in my contribution to the fight for a more equitable world for us all. I believe one day we will all have the opportunity to live in our own self defined liberation.

Director of Programs & Strategic Initiatives with the org since

January 2022

Kei F. Williams

they/them

WHAT QUOTE DO YOU LIVE BY? "All that you touch, You change. All that you Change, Changes you. The only lasting truth is Change. God is Change." – Octavia Butler WHAT WOULD SURPRISE PEOPLE ABOUT YOU? As much of an organizer I am (and known for), I actually prefer my solitude and own company more often than not. THE SONG YOU HAVE ON REPEAT RIGHT NOW? "Float" by Janelle Monae WHO INSPIRES YOU? Nikki Giovanni is my greatest inspiration. As a poet, culture maker, mother, and being an out Black lesbian. In her 80th year of life, she still has fire and rage. And she has a catalogue that deserves all the flowers, and she deserves all the rest. (Generally speaking), I am inspired by the future. The babies are alright, and they got this much more than we think they do.

What is the issue you are most passionate about? Safety. And I mean that beyond the provisions of the state, though I believe that protections in policy is necessary because we know what happens when they are not in place. Harm happens without any care of reprieve. But we also need resources that address our community needs with cultural consideration and acknowledgement of our unique experiences as TGNC people. New York considers itself to be a progressive state, yet we are years behind the basics of providing safety. We can be at the forefront of the future of a liberated world and TGNC people belong at that table in every single way.

CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THE WORK THAT YOU DO? In my role, I lead up the organization's programming from design to implementation. It's important to me that our two teams work across the field, meaning that what we are advocating for in the community organizing realm matches what we are offering our community through programming. Developing our Ambassadors program is likely the highlight of my work here, though we also do other things like fireside chats, speaker series, financial literacy. There is something about educating community in taking care of themselves that is dear to me.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE EXPERIENCE YOU'VE HAD AS A PART OF NPA? There are so many – I've literally never worked at an organization where I feel this level of respect, appreciation, and trust for my presence. The two that stand out the most are fairly recent but speaks to the measures of success here at NPA. First, the Towards Equity Convening that took place in Albany, NY on February 6, 2024. This historic event brought together LGBTQ+ New Yorkers, allies, and key stakeholders to hear directly from community & to build better together. The key feature of this event was to "bridge the gap", to ensure that upstate and downstate trans, queer, and gender non-conforming New Yorkers heard from each other equally. The build up to and the aftermath of the Convening led to excitement about NPA's 2024 Community Agenda. And without transformative policies, we would continue to slip through the cracks of legislation. Second, the opening of New Pride Agenda's Empowerment Center in Manhattan on January 25, 2024. When Elisa first brought the forth the possibility of NPA having it's own offices, I was skeptical about the need for it. After our move-in in November 2023 and over the next couple months, things started to fill out and it started to make more sense. As is the case for many folks from our community, there's something very grounding and powerful about not just having a "space" but rather to have a home – 210 West 29th Street, Floor 4 provides that for us.

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT with the org since

October 2022

JAMES

he/him

CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THE WORK THAT YOU DO? There is no task too big or small, if it needs to get done I take it upon myself to make sure it gets done. We are a small grassroots organization and we tend to need all hands on deck. My strengths tend to be working on the logistical side of things, making sure everything operates smoothly and everyone is where they need to be. At times it can be really stressful yet rewarding at the end.

What makes NPA special? To me what makes our organization special is that we come from the same marginalized groups we serve. We operate with a sense of empathy and a fresh vision. With that, it allows us to champion for those who don't have the voice to speak up for themselves.

WHO INSPIRES YOU? My younger sister. I often am an overthinker and try to asses every possible outcome in a scenario, so taking a leap of faith is hard for me to do because I dwell on the negatives. 3 years ago she quit her 9-5 of 15 years to pursue opening her own business. Not only is she successful, but has been able to provide and sustain for herself.

DURING YOUR PHOTOSHOOT YOU EACH CHOSE A SPOT FOR YOUR INDIVIDUAL PICTURE THAT HAD SPECIAL MEANING TO YOU. WHERE WAS IT AND WHY DID YOU CHOOSE IT? I chose an area in our lounge area. It's an area when designing the space we tried to make it feel as homey and comfortable as possible. It's an area where we host our social groups and brainstorm as a team. As cliche as it might sound, we're a family here over at NPA so that's an environment we try to foster for community. WHAT IS THE ISSUE YOU ARE MOST PASSIONATE ABOUT? Everything encompassing Trans rights ! They shouldn't be treated as sub human and expected to continue to live at the margins. STI DECRIM is another big one. Were enroute to ending the stigma so this is definitely a mindset of the past.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE EXPERIENCE YOU'VE HAD AS A PART OF NPA? I think overall what I enjoy in general about NPA is like I previously mentioned, the logistical planning that goes into our events and how rewarding the end result is. For me, as crazy as it might sound, I enjoy being able to plan an event and stress about all the details and moving pieces. Theres's something rewarding in successfully planning an event and being able to bring community together. From clothing drives, ballroom showcase series to our annual BBQ, my time at NEW Pride Agenda has definitely been an enjoyable experience. WHAT WOULD SURPRISE PEOPLE ABOUT YOU? I am extremely shy in new situations/environments and I have a plant collection of 120+ plants. THE SONG YOU HAVE ON REPEAT RIGHT NOW? HISS - Megan Thee Stalliion. Female rap is my guilty pleasure. A MOMENT YOU WOULD DO-OVER? Go back to High School and be "out". I didn't come out until I was 19, even though it was a different time, I think I would've enjoyed just being myself instead of always worrying if I was masculine or straight passing enough. FINISH THE SENTENCE? NEW PRIDE AGENDA IS..... A force to be reckoned with. We come, rattle chains and demand change !

N E W

P R I D E

A G E N D A

family

A FORCE TO BE RECKONED WITH. WE COME, RATTLE CHAINS AND DEMAND CHANGE !

Community

I S . . .

transformative A SHINING EXAMPLE OF THE POWER OF TEAMWORK.

program coordinator with the org since

January 2021

Jocelyn Milan

she/her/hers

WHAT QUOTE DO YOU LIVE BY? "Be Yourself, everyone else is already taken." -- Oscar Wilde

WHAT WOULD SURPRISE PEOPLE ABOUT YOU? I went to Aviation High School and know how to fix a carburetor on a 747 engine. THE SONG YOU HAVE ON REPEAT RIGHT NOW? Nicki Minaj - Barbie Dangerous WHO INSPIRES YOU? The late Octavia St. Laurent

A MOMENT YOU WOULD DOOVER? Study abroad in Paris! It was a once in a lifetime opportunity.

NEW PRIDE AGENDA IS..... Family.

DURING YOUR PHOTOSHOOT YOU EACH CHOSE A SPOT FOR YOUR INDIVIDUAL PICTURE THAT HAD SPECIAL MEANING TO YOU. WHERE WAS IT AND WHY DID YOU CHOOSE IT? During the photoshoot, my individual photo was taking near our clothing closet. I chose this because I have a passion for fashion and understand the importance of clothes making the person. Whether its gender affirming garments, clothes to keep you warm in the colder climates or finding something nice to wear to your next interview or special event, clothes can raise our confidence/spirits, make us feel like ourselves and provide us a barrier to the harsh climates of New York.

CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THE WORK THAT YOU DO? I am in charge of coming up with fun, innovative and educational programs. I run our bi-monthly support group called Crystal Queer that is a safe space for community. I also facilitate the Paris is Still Burning Ballroom speaker series, which catalogues the rich history of Ballroom House culture. The team at New pride also started throwing our own Kiki Ball during our annual BBQ on Labor Day to wrap the summer. I assist in curating the event with the teams support.

WHAT IS THE ISSUE YOU ARE MOST PASSIONATE ABOUT? I am passionate about the stop the violence in the sex trades act. Period! WHAT IS THE BIGGEST WIN YOU'VE HAD AS A PART OF NPA? The transgender and gender nonconforming equity fund of $4 million dollars has been our biggest win so far. WHAT IS 1 THING THE PUBLIC CAN DO TO SUPPORT YOUR MISSION? Follow New Pride Agenda's instagram to keep up with us.

Community Health & Outreach Coordinator with the org since

February 2022

Jaszi Johnathan Alejandro he/him/his

WHERE ARE YOU FROM? Bronx, New York WHAT QUOTE DO YOU LIVE BY? When my biological father, George, gave me my golden medallion, on the backside of mine, he encrusted a quote that reads “To Thyself Be True… –Pa 2009”. And since then, it’s been a quote that I definitely live by. Wise advice: Always be true to yourself, and for each of us that can mean different things, but always remember that if you’re being true to yourself, you can never go wrong! It’s never too late to start being true to yourself either. WHAT WOULD SURPRISE PEOPLE ABOUT YOU? It may surprise people that I turn 38 years old this March 2024, Pisces season. People usually think I am younger. THE SONG YOU HAVE ON REPEAT RIGHT NOW? Master KG – “Jerusalema” (Featuring Nomcebo) I consider it my healing music. It always uplifts my spirits & gives me strength

WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING THE MOST FORWARD TO? Experiencing Parenthood. Becoming a parent and having my own baby is my life long dream to be honest. I actually hope to have and raise 2 kids of my own. I have some nieces and nephew that I adore with all my heart but to them I am an uncle. So In the future I look forward to fathering and raising my own human children, god willing. I matters to me a great deal and when I first became HIV positive I thought I'd never be able to but in this day and age, it's totally possible to be HIV+ and biologically birth healthy newborns. I've just got to find a suitable biological mother to reproduce with. Any volunteers?

WHO INSPIRES YOU? My Nephew Xavier inspires me, and usually does so without even knowing it, especially in these last few months. He know that in life there can be many battles but he's confident he will win the war and so am I. X is in his early 20’s, with 3 babies of his own and a future full of accomplished dreams that awaits him. He’s such a smart, in-tuned and thoughtful young man with a great sense of humor. My Older Brother Senica and X’s mother, GiGi raised him well. Unfortunately, last year both of Xavier’s parents met a tragic, unexpected, sudden death and as the year ended, our families were heartbroken. After spending the last few years down south, he moved back home to NYC as 2023 closed, with the aspirations of creating a new and better life for himself and his family. Since his return, he’s been such a bright light in my life and has been inspiring me in so many different ways.

WHAT MAKES NPA SPECIAL? Besides our accomplishments? What makes NPA Special? I'd say: The Team. I’ve been in this non-for-profit field of work for many years, at different agencies within the city, and I can honestly say this team of staff at NPA is quite special. There is no "I" in the word TEAM. From our 1st retreat we played this "stranded on an island game", and it was our first task to figure out as a team and metaphorically, it was like magic happened during that group exercise and granted all those who staff here a super power. And each addition to our team has only made us better. We are a rather small team of staff but we learn to work well together in my opinion. The NPA team is an effective squad and a great group of interesting people, strategically put together to fulfill NPA’s mission. I can honestly say, I am happy to come to work everyday. It’s a good environment for me to work in right now. I think that this team that Elisa Crespo put together always produces exceptional results, her included, because she’s a great leader and a reasonable boss. I think that we each bring something to the table that adds a thicker layer of richness and success to this “agenda”; Our individual beliefs, professional skills, real life experiences, and collective knowledge bring us each here, for whatever reason at this point in time in our lives, for a great purpose and right now we are all on this journey together, learning together… for the betterment of our communities, to not just just survive but actually thrive in the future… We are kind of like a queer superhero team. We’re definitely the cool kids on the block!!! At least that’s how I’d like to see it. But there's lots of room to improve. It won't always be just the 7 of us. I hope as we continue to grow in staff members, so does the beautiful team energy as our team expands.

policy counsel with the org since

October 2023

Faris Ilyas

they/them

WHERE ARE YOU FROM? Raised in Staten Island and now live in Brooklyn

CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT THE WORK THAT YOU DO? I help the NEW Pride Agenda's Advocacy Team educate about and promote pieces of legislation that concern the community in New York.

WHAT IS THE ISSUE YOU ARE MOST PASSIONATE ABOUT? Criminal justice system reform.

WHAT QUOTE DO YOU LIVE BY? If I didn’t define myself, I would be crunched into other people’s fantasies for me and eaten alive. Audre Lorde WHAT WOULD SURPRISE PEOPLE ABOUT YOU? I'm a well-trained martial artist. THE SONG YOU HAVE ON REPEAT RIGHT NOW? Soy El Único by Yahritza y Su Esencia

WHO INSPIRES YOU? A close friend of mine who is as compassionate as she is brilliant. WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING THE MOST FORWARD TO? I have a couple of surf trips to Mexico and California planned out over the next few months.

WHAT WILL YOUR FOCUS AREA BE IN 2024? The impact of the criminal justice system on our communities; learning how to enact disenfranchised people's vision of society.

WHAT MAKES NPA SPECIAL? NPA is a truly community-led organization: we make our work democratic and transparent by inviting community members to weigh in on our priorities, and each of our staff is from New York and has insights relevant to the issues we tackle through our advocacy. FINISH THE SENTENCE? NEW PRIDE AGENDA IS..... a shining example of the power of teamwork.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE EXPERIENCE YOU'VE HAD AS A PART OF NPA? When we exchanged Secret Santa gifts and holiday notes with each other in December. DURING YOUR PHOTOSHOOT YOU EACH CHOSE A SPOT FOR YOUR INDIVIDUAL PICTURE THAT HAD SPECIAL MEANING TO YOU. WHERE WAS IT AND WHY DID YOU CHOOSE IT? I sat in the conference room with my typical two-screen work setup. I haven't seen the photos yet, but I'm hoping the conference room setting made me look more like someone with a master plan than a weary office worker. WHAT IS THE BIGGEST WIN YOU'VE HAD AS A PART OF NPA? I'm still new, so I would say that my biggest win so far has been (almost) seamlessly hitting the ground running as soon as I joined the team.

FEATURE PHOTOGRAPHER

Jay_valentinoo

T . C

(He/Him)

A Self Taught Photographer & Creative Director of 7 Years, Valentine started working alongside family as a young teen and in short time transitioned his hobby into a business. Working in Fashion, Events, Studio work and now a Magazine! Over time, after working alongside many people, Jermaine joined the Ballroom Scene. The Ballroom scene was founded by Black Trans and Queer individuals. Participants walk, compete, perform, dance, lip-sync, and model in different categories having a good time & competing for bragging rights and cash prizes. Valentine came in as a photographer connecting with many people like him who accepted him fully and found a home. Capturing the heart and art of Ballroom on film is magical. Now the Journey continues!

NYC

PHOTOGRAPHER

Jermaine Valentine

Winston Singing: she’s my best friend, she’s my best friend. How in the world am I so blessed to have my wife as my best friend? Like, I can't remember what it was like not being able to share all of who I am with the person I share my life with. It is this amazing feeling to be able to be exactly who I am all the time without fear of rejection or judgment. There is something freeing about our friendship. She is my biggest cheerleader and my most honest critic. She’s not gonna tell me what I want to hear, she's going to tell me what I need to hear and most times in the most lovely way because she loves me, but not just because I’m her better half but because we're best friends and you always want the best for your friends. It’s also beautiful to be able to enjoy the things I enjoy with and without the Mrs. and that it not be a thing for either one of us. I always find it funny when people say stuff like, “oh you get to go out by yourself” or “you let her go out with her friends''. Honestly, I wonder what’s wrong with them. Who wants to spend all of their time together? Now, don’t get me wrong, we spend a lot of quality time together which we both love and enjoy, but we also have friends, hobbies and interests that we encourage each other to pursue. Isn’t that what friends do? Encourage and support you to be the best version of yourself, to live life fully, if not what’s the point? There’s always so much more we get to share with each other when we come back from our time apart. I don’t know about you. but my best friend is definitely better than yours!

Thoughts to Leave You Lil Jon and the East Side Boyz: Sometimes I wanna be your lover Sometimes I wanna be your friend The difference is that real love finds us as partners and as both friend and lover. Remember that the relationship with your partner should be the one that you protect fiercely and value greatly. If you have not found these things in a partner, then what are you doing to work on building this type of relationship? Create space for your partner to have safety, love, peace, and comfort. Show yourself to be a friend to have a friend. Don’t take each other for granted because you need to remember that love lives in us!

LOUISIANA

GAMMA ALPHA PSI FRATERNITY, INC. "Traveling helped me broaden my worldview. I meet new people, learn about different cultures, and explore various aspects of each destination."

y name is Cicely Moore and my journey commences in the idyllic, yet unassuming town of Iowa, Louisiana. Though I've spent almost two decades in Baton Rouge,

Louisiana, my roots in the Southern heartland continue to deeply influence my life's tapestry. Among the many roles I play, I take immense pride in being one of the four visionary founders of Gamma Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., an organization that holds a special place in my heart. My motivation springs from an innate desire to shine a resplendent spotlight on the indomitable spirit of masculinepresenting lesbians. Gamma Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. was founded by 4 women who attended McNeese State University in Lake Charles, LA. We wanted to give lesbian women an opportunity to pledge and interact with other women of the same lifestyle and to feel comfortable and supported while doing so. As part of the recruitment process, we look for women with high standards, professionalism, leadership skills and integrity. Our purpose is to create a positive presence of dominant lesbians through community service and mentorship.

My association with Gamma Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. allowed me to join forces with remarkable women who shared my journey. As an only child, I cherished the experience of becoming part of a sisterhood/brotherhood that resonated with my identity. However, this sibling relationship, like any other, came with its own set of challenges and rewards. As our fraternity burgeoned in size, we embraced an ever-diverse array of members, eventually tallying up to approximately 8590 individuals (though not all were actively involved). My commitment as a founder and president entailed establishing a profound understanding of each member on an individual level. I have always held the belief that understanding their backgrounds, triggers, and upbringing would guide me in effective leadership. This comprehension of each member's unique narrative enabled me to navigate the complexities and forge harmony within the fraternity. My guiding principle has consistently been rooted in mutual respect, ensuring that despite our differences, we could accomplish remarkable feats as a united front. Navigating these intricacies while preserving unity among different personalities became a cornerstone of my leadership style.

CICELY MOORE

NEW YORK

R E M E M B E R I N G

C G ECILIA

The Transgender and Gender Non-Binary community of New York was left in tears this past February due to the passing of an iconic advocate for equality and inclusion, Cecilia Gentili. Cecilia was an Argentina-born Transgender activist, artist and author who first lived in Miami and moved to New York City in 2003. She was well known for her impactful work advocating for the rights of Transgender individuals, sex workers and undocumented immigrants throughout New York State.

Cecilia was very open and honest about the life struggles she endured. From surviving sexual abuse as a child in Argentina to being an undocumented immigrant forced into sex work while struggling with homelessness and an addiction to heroin. In her advocacy work, she used her experiences as a way to empower herself as an advocate and a champion for the marginalized. She was always open, honest, vulnerable and charismatic, and I once heard her quip that "I have a master's degree in being a Trans woman, a sex worker, an addict, and an immigrant”. She was multi-layered.

GENTILI

TEE DOUGLAS

Among her many accomplishments, Cecilia founded Trans Equity Consulting in 2019, which advises companies on equity issues and advocates for Trans women of color, sex workers, immigrants and incarcerated people. Cecilia was also crucial in helping to pass the New York State Gender Expression NonDiscrimination Act, which became law in 2019. She helped repeal the Walking While Trans and she successfully participated in fighting against the Trump administration when it tried to roll back Trans protections of the Affordable Care Act. Cecilia also founded the COIN Clinic. COIN stands for Cecilia’s Occupational Inclusion Network and is a free health clinic for sex workers in NYC. Until her death, Cecilia had been working to decriminalize sex work through another one of her organizations, DecrimNY. Outside of Cecilia’s advocacy and mentor work, She was a talented storyteller, actress, author, Mother and friend. In 2022, Cecilia released her debut book Faltas: Letters to Everyone in My Hometown Who Isn’t My Rapist and in October 2023 she debuted her onewoman Broadway show called “Red Ink”. Cecilia also created the first all-Trans music festival Transmissions Fest in New York City and appeared in Season 1 of the hit FX TV show, Pose, portraying Miss Orlando, a glam New York City woman who performed discounted plastic surgery. Cecilia, had just celebrated her 52nd birthday surrounded by friends, loved ones, and community,”about a week before her passing. Friends said that Cecilia repaid the city she loved by fighting for the rights of Trans people and sex workers. They also remind us that Cecilia made such an impact on this community, city and beyond. Her legacy will be felt for years to come. One thing is for sure our community will continue to remember, honor and celebrate the life and legacy of Cecilia Gentili.

NEW PRIDE AGENDA

ELISA CRESPO

That Cecilia was a bad as$ Trans Latinx immigrant sex worker who overcame so many obstacles and became an inspiration, a mother figure and mentor to many. She planted seeds in all of us. Her legacy will be felt by generations to come. She was full or radical joy and helped me understand that I dont have to compromise my values to be an effective advocate for change. She had a profound impact on my life and supported my through several career milestones. There would be no Elisa Crespo without a Cecilia Gentili. May she rest in power for eternity.

BRITTAN HARDGERS Thank you for showing us set by step how to continue on in this work.

FARIS ILYAS Cecilia Gentili redefined motherhood.

KEI F. WILLIAMS Cecilia Gentili was a powerhouse, a solid force of advocacy, and full of affirming love for her community. She was the most vulgar, real, and unapologetic woman who lived a life full of divine power. I'll miss Cecilia's integrity more than anything else.

JASZI ALEJANDRO Cecilia, thank you for being the difference you wanted to see in the world, thank for for always being yourself in any arena and thank you for uplifting me when you didn't even know I needed it. Or maybe you did know. I am just so grateful to have known you and to be able to continue on your legacy. Long live the legend of Santa Cecilia! "La Made de Las Putas"! (As referred to at her funeral at St. Patrick's Cathedral) I say that with love.

History History is not only a part of who we are but it's a part of our why It's the reason for our freedom of speech and our boycott ways It's the reason we are no longer legally slaves History runs through our veins For it is the people in our History that paved the way With every lash of flesh and bone and every tear they weep Some paving the way with their decaying body 6 feet under our Nike shoes and Burberry belts I wish sometimes that we can feel the pains that they felt That way we can understand what it felt like to be born bound Born being able to speak but not allowed to make a sound What did it feel like to speak up and get shot down To have to sneak around to eat the food you worked hard for How did it feel? When they declared us as free but still killed us like we were owned property How did it feel? To walk the street and be hungry but not be able to walk in any ol’ restaurant Questions I ask every day But the answers to these questions, like my ancestors, are ….. HISTORY

Ashanti Taylor-Alexander