BLAQUE/OUT MAGAZINE March 2024

M A G A Z I N E

TRANS VISIBILITY DAY

CELEBRATING BLACKQUEERHISTORY

THE NEW PRIDE AGENDA

TO

BLAQUE/OUTMAGAZINECELEBRATES

TRANSDAYOF VISIBILITY

TRANSRIGHTSAREHUMANRIGHTS PROTECTTRANSKIDS

BLACK&BROWNTRANSLIVESMATTER PROTECTBLACKTRANSWOMEN TRANSLIVESMATTER

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.

Tamara Sanaa LeighEditor-In-Chief

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

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

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

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

Angelique Davis (she/her), Pastry chef turned teacher I who enjoys empowering the youth of inner city communities.

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.

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!

AT ER CK PLE TO REMEMBER

In honor of Black History Month, it is important to pay homage to the many queer pioneers and unsung heroes for their significant contributions to US History,

Bentley, an American blues singer, pianist, and entertainer of the Harlem Renaissance was born August 12, 1907, in Philadelphia, PA, to a Trinidadian mom and Black American father. Gladys, was the eldest of four children, in a low-income area in PA She spoke of the hardships felt in her early years and the feeling of being unwanted, as her mother desperately wanted Gladys to be born a male. Bentley said that she was born different because she always wanted to wear masculine clothing and dreamed about her female teachers in school At the age of 16, she moved from PA to Harlem, NY, where she heard a speakeasy was hiring for a male pianist. It was at Hansberry’s Clam House. She honed her skills there and became “Bobbie Minton” Her performance included singing, playing the piano, comedy, and openly speaking about her female lovers. After a successful career in NY, she moved to California where she later died of pneumonia.

Many have recently watched Netflix’s depiction of Bayard Rustin’s life, released on November 3, 2023. Rustin, an openly gay black man, was also an activist and advisor to Martin Luther King Jr He was born in 1912 in West Chester, PA, the ninth of his parents’ twelve children. Rustin was raised by his relatively wealthy grandparents and was eventually accepted into the prestigious Wilberforce College. He later received his doctorate from Cheyney University of PA After moving to Harlem in 1937, one of Rustin’s first accomplishments was assisting in the defense of the Scottsboro Boys, nine Black men who were accused of raping 2 white women in Alabama. Rustin was also a huge force in the movement to desegregate interstate bus travel In 1942, he purchased a bus ticket and rode the bus from Louisville, KY, to Nashville, TN, on the second row of the bus. Despite being asked to move several times, Rustin refused. Only 13 miles from

Gladys Bentley 1907-1960

Bayard Rustin 1912-1987

Nashville, the bus stopped, and Rustin was arrested He was beaten and taken to the police station but was released with no charges being filed. Later, in an interview with the Washington Blade, Rustin took his moment and announced that he was a homosexual. This announcement drew a connection between his sexual orientation and his experiences as a Black man He explained that there was a child on the bus who touched his tie and was instructed by his mother not to touch a “N-word”. He shared that he could have moved to the back of the bus, but he knew this child would have remained oblivious to the injustice being faced by Black Americans The same injustices were equally being faced by Queer Americans, so remaining quiet made him complicit to the prejudice.

Four years later, the Supreme Court ruled against discrimination in interstate travel. Rustin worked with others to test this ruling with the Journey of Reconciliation, one of the first Freedom Rides In 1956, Rustin started working with Martin Luther King, Jr. King was organizing the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the next year, they organized the Southern Christian Leadership Conference. In 1960, Rustin and King planned a march near the Democratic National Convention Due to rumors of Rustin’s homosexual relationships, an arrest occurred in California for lewd behavior with a man in a parked vehicle. This resulted in a 6 day stint in jail and pressure from political and religious leaders. Rustin received no public accolades for his part in the development of the March Rustin was an activist for civil rights, union and social democracy, foreign policy, and gay rights In the 1980s, Rustin testified in favor of the NYC Gay Rights Bill, where he said “Today, [B]lacks are no longer the litmus paper or the barometer of social change. Blacks are in every segment of society and there are laws that help to protect them from racial discrimination The new "niggers" are gays It is in this sense that gay people are the new barometer for social change... The question of social change should be framed with the most vulnerable group in mind: gay people.” After giving his life to struggle on civil rights and equality, Bayard died of appendicitis in August of 1987

Loraine Hasberry 1930-1965

Loraine Hasberry, born the youngest of four children in Chicago, was the first Black playwright to have a play performed on Broadway. When Loraine was eight, her father, a successful real estate broker, purchased a home in Woodlawn, an area predominantly occupied by white people Their neighbors tried to force them to leave the area which resulted in the Hansberry vs. Lee 311 U.S. 32. The family was eventually forced to leave.

Loraine Hansberry attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison for a time, then she went on to Mexico studying at the University of Guadalajara In 1950, Hansberry moved to New York and attended The New School. By 1951, Hansberry was hired at Freedom, a distinctly left-wing newspaper, where she worked with W.E.B. DuBois. Hansberry worked and wrote about the struggle against white supremacy and civil rights She also wrote about global struggles, such as the Mau Mau uprising in Kenya, Africa, and the female fight for equality in Egypt. Hansberry wrote for the Daughters of Bilitis’ magazine, The Ladder. In 1959, Hansberry wrote “A Raisin in the Sun”, later that year the play opened on Broadway In 1961, the play was turned into a movie, starring Sidney Poiter and Ruby Dee. Hansberry died at the young age of 34 of pancreatic cancer.

Other greats that we should never forget:

Lori Lightfoot became Chicago’s first Black female mayor and its first openly LGBTQ mayor

Andrea Jenkins, in November 2017, became the first Black Transgender woman to be elected into political office.

Phil Wilson is the founder of the Black Aids Institute.

Ron Oden, in 2003, became the first openly gay Black man to be elected mayor in an American city

DD Nicole Smith was the first nonbinary person to be on Project Runway.

Bob the Drag Queen - my favorite drag queen - was the winner of season 8 of RuPaul’s Drag Race.

Let’s remember these people, say their names, and keep their accomplishments alive!

CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF...

Madison St. Claire Madison St. Claire

THE OLD MAN'S CORNER

“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

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

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!

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

LET US LIVE

Tamara Leigh

Much is said by the media and pundits and TikTokers and late night comedians about the state of Florida... and the state of Florida. And everything they say about racism and homophobia and Transmisia is true- of this state and of every other single state in the Union We have a STRONG American problem with all three, every single place you go I keep finding myself in the strange position of defending Florida in conversation because, since moving here, I have realized how distorted my visions of the South were as a lifelong New Yorker We (New Yorkers) think we have it all figured out and are the epicenter of culture and diversity when in reality we just hide our cracks better and down here they sort of sit their sheets on the table instead of hiding them under the bed

Now, this Is NOT to say that every single speck of human decency and act of inclusion hasn’t been challenged in this state for the last few years These are a people who seek to live mostly off the grid and mind their own business, as they expect others to mind theirs too. They don’t pay much attention to the news or politics. Most people who’ve been here for a long time came here to escape all that It’s only upon the influx of outsiders with their Evangelical values and mega churches or revenue generating plans and business models that all the sudden it became VERY necessary to pay attention to the news and the media because they might just have taken away your right to exist while you were sleeping This is not to say racism and Transmisia didn’t always exist here Because this state and the South were built on it and has bred a legacy of it It just means that it suffers with the same wrongs the rest of the country does Now, I am no pundit or political science expert in any capacity whatsoever But I do believe whomever pulls DeSantis’ strings and funds Trumps monstrous campaigns had an agenda that little by little, slowly but surely took root in this state and played on some cultures’ deep desires to assimilate,

some folks’ tragic ignorance and lack of education, the palpable fear of some to what losing the global majority might mean and the deep desire for others with “traditional values” who didn’t understand how changing pronouns fit in the English language and just wanted to keep things the same. So like it always does, hatred, bigotry and ignorance boiled down to fear And for a people built on staying to themselves and building a life in their own corner to escape the trappings of poverty and enslavement that still exist- to a large degree they chose denial Until what was happening here became too hard to ignore So some people (entirely understandably) took off running and some folks were shook into awareness by fire and stayed back to fight.

That’s no new story and not the one I came here to tell But I think it is an important framework for the real story

On February 28th, 2024, folks came from all of the corners and crevices of the state to meet and march on Tallahassee, the capital of Florida and say ‘no more ’ I think it’s important to also say that they were called to rally there by a beautiful, intelligent and deeply charismatic Afro-Latine’ woman who just so happens to also be Transfeminine, Angelique Godwin

There was yet another bill on the House floor that threatened the life and liberty of the Trans community As we gathered to begin marching, we heard that although the bill would be voted upon and likely passed by the Florida House, it would NOT pass the Florida Senate and would likely die there In committee

We also learned while there, that of the 22 Anti-LGBTQ bills that were Introduced and sponsored in the 2024 Legislative Session, that ALL but 4 had been killed or stalled out In committee, which means they would not cross DeSantis’ desk to be signed into law And the 4 that remained, only had a few days left In session to go for a vote No more And all the sudden we realized, we might just be winning There are more Black folks and Queer folks in the South than any other region of the country and when we band together, when we rally, we are a FORCE And for two overlapping sets of people who still somehow managed to live and prosper even though any and everybody has tried to take us out- that says something Why else keep us oppressed and fighting each other if not for the feat of what will happen if we join arms? But I digress

We marched and cheered and chanted. It was awkward, you could tell many folks had never done it before. My New York Black Lives Matter sensibility made me cringe a bit We were half getting run over by tanks in the streets in 2020 and the chants stayed long and strong when the crowd was many or when they were few But it didn’t matter, damnit “we were here, we were Queer and we were FABULOUS ”

There were speeches on the capitol stairs by a collection of BEAUTIFUL and engaging Black Trans Women who had been out here (some for years, some for decades) doing the WORK that the government and big money orgs should have been doing and never would There was a collection of REALLY supportive and excited politicians, some Queer themselves who delivered messages of hope and solidarity They had been doing the work of fighting off the wolves in the House & Senate and as much as I typically don’t care to allow politicians to speak at rallies, It

did feel like they were probably the ones out there fighting the good fight. There was one woman who gave off strong AOC vibes which was refreshing to see deep down in Florida and a Black man who represents Miami Gardens that I had to Google to see if he was Queer and he was I know there is hope

The capitol staff was less than inviting and I opted not to speak with any legislators that day Oddly, it didn’t feel like that was what I came for. But what I DID want to mention was the nearly constant cheers, honks and applause that came from the street in front of the Capitol while we walked and while folks spoke The majority of Floridians believe In LGBTQ+ Rights & Trans Justice just like the majority of Americans believe in Abortion Rights And I guess that’s what my constant defense of Florida is about It’s not to deny the clear and present danger here, it's to just remind people that there are so, so many Queer people, Black and Brown Queer folks down here. There Is a BEAUTIFUL Queer culture flourishing and that all of Florida isn’t DeSantis’ Florida I find myself constantly frustrated that Northern states aren’t more invested in working together with our sibs in the South to fight for liberation We don’t need you sharing scary headlines and clickbait and talking about how awful it is If you have it all figured out up there, awesome, connect with these states down here that have heavier lifts. If you have a blueprint, share it. The West Coast has resources that the East and South could never imagine How have you pooled or shared those to assist In the fight? And my Southern friends, we CAN NOT effectively win this battle by dismissing the North because they don’t have problems like we have problems They may be fighting for- while we are often fighting against- but it is THE SAME FIGHT Collectively, we can do this We can take this country back, but I fear that we can’t do it in silos. I know that we can’t.

Eventually, my crew packed It up and headed back toward the west coast of the state, which I dare say is the most LGBTQfriendly and which makes me even more appreciative of where we live There is still literal shit tons of work to do here as well, but I was riding in the car with the ED of the biggest Pride In the South, damn near, with two Black Queer org leads and lil ol’ me big mouth, big ideas and spewing DEI in a state they say has outlawed It. As we bent hour two of the drive back home, Muni Long blasted through the speakers and my friend and I performed a full on concert, the overwhelming feeling of we are gon be alright flooded me At different points it was Tupac- Rocky’s playlist Is the United Nations of musical selections so there was a fair share of Britney Spears In the mix, an Ariana Grande moment, some Nicki for good measure and Jay-Z’s “Can I Live?” bumped through my own mind in any of the breaks of silence. I am after all, Black first, Queer second but a New Yorker ALWAYS lol

Like the drive and the apropos walking uphill (literally) to the Capitol- the fight Is EXHAUSTING We drug ourselves home tired, stomachs grumbling, stiff from sitting for so damn long and weary knowing we all had to be up early again the next morning because it was only Wednesday Somehow it was the perfect metaphor to this journey But we MADE IT HOME To where Intersectional Pride flags line damn near every commercial street and on many, many residential front porch poles In St Pete And I think we might be the ones that actually make America great again or at the very least, liveable

E S S E N C E O F A W O M A N

Columnist: Javannah J. Davis

Javannah Jasmeen

Jjasmeend20

wavewomeninc

www wavewomeninc com

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

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

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

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.

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

Nickolas Wells Nickolas Wells

BLACK FARMERS ARE COOL!

(

…and other things I recently learned) by Immani Love

The first time I saw a Black person working on a farm I thought, “That must suck to have to do that all day in the sun!” I was 8 years old at the time and on a school field trip. The next time I saw a black person working on a farm I thought, “That must suck to have to do all of that hard work and be paid so little.” I was 15 years old and I was learning about agricultural jobs with the 4C program in high school. The 3rd time I saw a black person working on a farm, I was in my 30s and I was visiting my younger brother Jalal at Sweet Freedom Farm in upstate New York. There were dozens of people of color working the farm, tending the animals, harvesting the vegetables, and generally being the coolest people I had met in a long time! This time I thought, “It’s got to really suck to not know that Black owned and operated farms like this exist in our country.”

Now we’ve all seen the community garden projects in our cities and even the agricultural programs in our schools and colleges, but when was the last time you actually went to a farm? A farm with cows, chickens, horses, pigs, and other livestock. Where quadrants of the farm were neatly plowed and brimming with various vegetables, fruit, herbs, and flowers, and even a grove of maple trees for the most amazing maple syrup you’ve ever had! A barn not only for the tools of the trade but for an artist’s retreat and a workshop space for educational tours and seminars. How amazing is that? Now, add to the fact that these are all young, educated, people of color working together in harmony to feed and educate a community. Pretty dope, huh? How about you enhance that concept by having a mission statement like “Grow Food, not Prisons.”

Cool, right? The neighboring farm, Soul Fire Farm, was just as amazing with predominantly women of color running the show. Their mission? Uprooting racism and seeding sovereignty in the food system I was in awe. I left there wondering how more people didn’t know about farms like this. Fast forward to just a few years ago, the OWN Network launched a wildly popular TV series called “Queen Sugar '' based on a Black family in the South and their journey to accept their heritage as sugar cane farmers. It was unapologetically Black, dramatic, sexy, and had the whole country glued to their televisions every week! Social media platforms were full of “no spoilers” pleas from those who might have been so unfortunate as to miss it on the night it aired. With stories of racism, bad crops, hurricanes, and other things that affect Black farmers in the South, it was captivating. It was so refreshing to see real stories of Black farmers on mainstream television, and it rekindled my hope that this sparked awareness of them in America.

The thing about seeing representation in the farming industry is not only does it allow for our youth to see that there is a place for us there, but that the current state of the world needs us there. It allows those who have the passion to work with the land to see the food they eat come from the work they do. It provides the opportunity for small farms like Sweet Freedom Farm and Soul Fire Farm to not only provide for their communities but to further their respective missions of freedom from prison pipelines, education of BIPOC farmers, and uprooting racism In the food Industry. These are just a

couple of farms that I personally know of but just think of how many more farms and cooperatives there must be in your community. There are several organizations that support these farmers like The National Black Food and Justice Alliance (NBFJA) and Black Urban Growers (BUGS) and several others that I’m sure a quick internet dive can provide but these organizations need support. With a growing need to boost our immune systems and live healthier lifestyles in general, these farms and organizations are crucial.

The next time you go to your local farmers market, try to pay attention to the people you are getting your fresh veggies and fruit from. Take note of how many are people of color and if you’re lucky enough to find a farm owned by minorities, TALK to them, find out more about them, and most of all SUPPORT them. They need you as much as you need the food they provide.

For more information, please visit… Sweet Freedom Farm -

https://www.sweetfreedomfarm.org/ Soul Fire Farm- https://www.soulfirefarm.org/ The National Black Food and Justice Alliance (NBFJA) - https://www.blackfoodjustice.org/ Black Urban Growers -

https://www.blackurbangrowers.org

Follow me @immanilove she/her

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.”

RAQUEL

INTERVIEW W/TAMARA LEIGH

WILLIS

BOOK BANGERz

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.

naminaforna.com

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 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

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 July 1st 2021

with the org since

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?

Fast Car by Tracy

Chapman

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.

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

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 communityand beyond.

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.

with the org since

Director of Programs & Strategic Initiatives 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?

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

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.

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

with the org since

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT 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?

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

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.

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 !

f a m i l y

with the org since

program coordinator 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

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?

NEW PRIDE AGENDA IS.....

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

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

with the org since

policy counsel October 2023

Faris Ilyas they/them

WHERE ARE YOU FROM?

Raised in Staten Island and now live in Brooklyn

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

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 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

Jermaine Valentine

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!

REVOLU REVOLU REVOLUTIONARIES TIONARIES TIONARIES

CECILIAGENTILI

January31,1972-February6,2024

Cecilia was born in Argentina in 1972. During the early days of her transition in her hometown of Galvez, Santa Fe, Argentina, she was constantly beaten or verbally abused on the streets, often by the police. It wasn’t until 1999 that Cecelia found the courage to leave Argentina for America to seek the safety and opportunities otherwise denied her in her native country. However, living in the United States didn’t come without its challenges. Cecilia became a sex worker to survive because there was no real means of “mainstream” income for Transgender women and men at the time. Gentili also battled drug addiction and fought to become a legal citizen of this country for 10 years.

As the years marched on, Cecelia began to formulate a name for herself in the LGBTQ+ community, while pulling herself out of the hardships that more than not come against Transgender people. The lived experiences and trials that she had gone through sparked a fire within to not only better herself, but to also begin her fight in the

protection and betterment of life for others. In 2012, Cecilia started her community work working for The LGBT Center in NYC, and in 2019 she founded the Transgender Equity Consulting. Gentili also cofounded Decrim NY, an organization that fought against the decriminalization of sex work.

Besides her career as a community advocate and activist, Cecilia was an exemplary actress having landed a recurring role in the TV series Pose. She also completed her off-Broadway debut of her one-woman show “Red Ink”. In 2022 Cecilia published her memoirs appropriately titled, Faltas: Letters to Everyone in My Hometown Who Isn’t My Rapist.

In all that Cecilia was in life, whether she was a leader, a teacher, a healer, a friend, an artist, a sister, a mother, etc. Overall, Cecilia was a survivor and fought hard for all of us, especially those of us as Black and Brown Transgender people, to be able to survive and be allowed the freedoms to be the best version of ourselves. Cecilia Gentili was a powerhouse in the LGBTQIA community. Though Gentili’s spirit has crossed over to be with the ancestors, the legacy she has left behind will be an inspiration and guiding light for all to live in their truth with dignity for generations to come.

Wr J J Davis Javannah Jasmeen Jjasmeend20

S

S

T H E Y ’ R E S O F T E N E D T H E N W E S E A S O N W I T H Y O U R C H O I C E O F A L L P U R P O S E S E A S O N I N G ( T H E S E

T H E B R A N D S I L I K E T O U S E ) A L O N G W I T H S O M E G I N G E R , S E A F O O D S E A S O N I N G A N D T U R M E R I C . T H

Y O U A D D I N Y O U R H E A V Y W H I P P I N G C R E A M T O T H I C K E N Y O U R S A U C E . A D D S O M E C A J U N S E A S O N I N G ,

I T A L I A N S E A S O N I N G B L E N D A N D O L D B A Y ( D O N ’ T A S K F O R M E A S U R E M E N T S B E C A U S E W E S E A S O N

U

Nex Nex Benedict Benedict

The Winstons

WINSTON AND THE MRS. (E.L. AND RONI)

Love lives in us…the Winstons and we want to share a little bit of it with you. When people say that their spouse is their best friend, what do they mean? Do they mean that they spend all of their time together? Do they mean that they can’t imagine their lives without that person? They could mean that their life is dictated by a relationship that both controls them and fulfills them. It is said that friends come a dime a dozen, so what does that mean about your spouse/best friend?

TheMrs.

WhenWinstonandImet,IhadfoundsomeoneIcouldtalktoaboutwhateverquirky andcrazythingcametomind.Istilldothatwithhim.Heevenwillgoalongwith whatevernew,brilliant,shortlivedhairbrainedideaIcomeupwith.Ikeepit interesting

Inrealitythough,WinstonismybestfriendandthatmeansIshareeverythingwith him.Ifyoutellmesomething,I’mgoingtotellhimunlessitissomethingsharedwith meinthestrictestofsecrecy.I’mbeinghonest.TheworldmakesmoresensewhenI shareitwithhim,sotheconcernsyoutellmeaboutaresolvedbythepeaceinthe Winston’sworldItisbecauseWinstonismysafeplacetoland,myadviser,my comforter,mylisteningear,andmycalm.Thesearethequalitiesthatmakehimmy bestfriend.

Wedon’tspendallofourtimetogether,butweliketospendtimetogether.We enjoyoneanother,butweenjoytimeonourown.Wearebestfriends,butwehave otherfriendsWeseetheworldthesame,butweseeitcompletelydifferentlyHeis mybestfriend,notbecauseheismyspouse,butheismybestfriendbecauseIcan trusthimwithmyheart,mysecrets,andmyself.WhenIlookathim,IknowthatI amsafefromjudgmentandbelittlement.Mybestfriendisbetterthanyours!

Winston

Thoughts to Leave You

Singing:she’smybestfriend,she’smybestfriend.How intheworldamIsoblessedtohavemywifeasmybest friend?Like,Ican'trememberwhatitwaslikenotbeing abletoshareallofwhoIamwiththepersonIsharemy lifewith.Itisthisamazingfeelingtobeabletobeexactly whoIamallthetimewithoutfearofrejectionor judgment.Thereissomethingfreeingaboutour friendship.Sheismybiggestcheerleaderandmymost honestcritic.She’snotgonnatellmewhatIwanttohear, she'sgoingtotellmewhatIneedtohearandmosttimes inthemostlovelywaybecauseshelovesme,butnotjust becauseI’mherbetterhalfbutbecausewe'rebestfriends andyoualwayswantthebestforyourfriends. It’salsobeautifultobeabletoenjoythethingsIenjoy withandwithouttheMrs.andthatitnotbeathingfor eitheroneofus.Ialwaysfinditfunnywhenpeoplesay stufflike,“ohyougettogooutbyyourself”or“youlet hergooutwithherfriends''.Honestly,Iwonderwhat’s wrongwiththem.Whowantstospendalloftheirtime together?Now,don’tgetmewrong,wespendalotof qualitytimetogetherwhichwebothloveandenjoy,but wealsohavefriends,hobbiesandintereststhatwe encourageeachothertopursue.Isn’tthatwhatfriendsdo? Encourageandsupportyoutobethebestversionof yourself,tolivelifefully,ifnotwhat’sthepoint?There’s alwayssomuchmorewegettosharewitheachother whenwecomebackfromourtimeapart.Idon’tknow aboutyou.butmybestfriendisdefinitelybetterthan yours!

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!

GAMMAALPHAPSIFRATERNITY,INC.

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

My 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.

My journey has always been underscored by themes of representation, solitude, philanthropy, and a deep-seated belief in human idealism.

My mission has revolved around creating safe spaces for individuals like us while introducing them to resources and experiences that enrich our lives. My advice, deeply rooted in personal experiences, centers on always showing up as your authentic self. I encourage individuals to surround themselves with like-minded souls who genuinely support their growth. My mantra is to be the role model I wished I had as a child – to embrace the needs of my inner child while nurturing a youthful spirit that delights in playfulness, laughter, and the invaluable lessons life offers.

Gamma Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc was founded in 2006. Alongside me as founders, we have Kendra Randall, Veronica Pikes and Markita Williams. It

has been an honor to serve both our communities and each other as members of the organization. We have entered a phase in life where most of us have undergone some life changing experiences such as marriage, childbirth, transitioning of parents/siblings, etc. We have been able to bond and also be family to each other in the midst of anything life may throw at us. I’m proud of the organization that we’ve built and I’m extremely excited to see what the years to come will bring. We just chartered our organization in both Texas and Georgia in January 2024.

If you would like to find out more about our organization, follow us to see what we have going on or if you’d like to contact us for any collaborative service events, please feel free to follow and contact us.

Gamma Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.

gammaalphapsi06

FIGHTING TO L I V E

I wish I could say I'm surprised that an entire school system and police department failed to protect or hold accountable those responsible for the death of Nex Benedict I wish I could say that I m surprised that in their death Nex has been misgendered and disregarded by those who should have been their protector, but I’m not Let’s be real, the names on the TDOR list increase every year without fail It’s as if the right to live is conditional and if you don't meet the conditions your life doesn’t matter

The very people whose salaries are paid with Nex’s parents tax dollars were in charge of their education and safety failed them and us It goes back to what Malcom X said about our enemies teaching our children The same goes for keeping them safe According to US Today, Nex’s friends, who were too scared to be identified, shared that Nex had been bullied for an entire year How is that not injustice to every parent with a child in that school? How is everyone involved not in handcuffs and or fired? How is it that a woman who spews hate on the internet is employed at this school without any repercussions, but if it was an Only Fans account she would be deemed unfit to be in the presence of children Vice President Kamala Harris shared on X, "My heart goes out to Nex Benedict's family, friends, and their entire community To the LGBTQI+ youth who are hurting and are afraid right now: President Joe Biden and I see you, we stand with you, and you are not alone " Right now???? When have they had the luxury of not being afraid? My question is no longer what will it take for this to not be a thing My

question now is who is ready for the fight?

To those family members who say they accept us but don't accept our rights as human beings, vote for unsupportive politicians, help to put people in power who are trying to disregard us and create spaces they very well know could result in the ending of our lives, I say to you: You are no better than those who take our lives without any regard for our humanity I have no space in my life for that Almost everyday someone misgenders me and I have to correct them with the knowledge that standing in my truth may very well end my life Where do the hunted go for safety, peace, love, compassion? My mind and heart hurt for the courageous soul that’s been lost It’s not easy to walk in these shoes Tonight, hug those you love When you vote this month, Vote with Love in your heart and remember that Nex needs a voice now more than ever

WRITER’S RETREAT

2024

Immani Love

I can’t begin to express the gratitude I have for being able to experience the BlaqueOut Magazine retreat! The opportunity to spend a weekend, fellowshipping and learning about some of the other writers from this magazine was a blessing. From the beautiful space that we shared to the various activities, I felt like we truly have the privilege of working with extremely creative professionals. There wasn’t one thing in particular that was my favorite, because everything we did was beautiful. We learned about ourselves and each other in the creative writing workshop, we ate amazing food from a private chef, we had a peaceful meditation followed by a fantastic brunch and massages, and then wrapped up the weekend with a fancy dinner at the pier. I felt connected to these wonderful writers and photographers and especially our amazing editor who planned everything for us. It’s an experience I won’t forget and I can’t wait until the next one!

Winston

When I say that I had just about given up on going to retreats, I mean it. They have been leaving a slightly bad taste in my mouth for one reason or another. This retreat redeemed that feeling from all the previous retreats and that is an understatement. It was awesome to spend time with my fellow writers and to bond. I think it was something we all needed. The chef and masseuse was needed because it gave you that opportunity for us to take care of ourselves as individuals as well. You never really know when your self care meter is hitting low until you're in the midst of refilling it. The best part of the retreat for me was the writing session with Slam. She opened my creative mind up with the different writing exercises and I feel like with her help my writing is going to go to another level. All in all, it was a great experience and I can't wait until next year!!!!

Roni Winston

I could absolutely gush on and on about this year’s Writer’s Retreat. Blaque/Out did our thing. An opportunity to bond with some of the other writers, an opportunity to focus on the product we engage in creating, and an opportunity to stand wholly in the title of writer made it a magnificent experience. My favorite part of the retreat was the eye-opening workshop with Slam, but I also very much enjoyed being reminded that we are not just writers for a magazine…we are writers impacting our world. It reminded me that it is our passion for our community that keeps us using our voices to speak. Some days you’re not sure if anyone cares, but this retreat felt like something major is on the horizon. We are refreshed and rekindled, so here we come, world!

Javannah Davis

My experience during our first BlaqueOut Magazine team retreat was one for the books! I can’t say that there was anything that needed to be changed my plane first touchdown in Tampa, FL, without me being the airline, I KNEW it was going to be a great weekend! I e any idea as to how wonderful of an experience I was going start at the accommodations, the house was gorgeous, stocked even came with a few alcoholic beverages The team also had which was a huge win because a girl loves her quiet time

ike sleeping on a cloud every night, and I couldn’t ask for of folks to spend this weekend with We had workshops almost not your typical annoying team building workshops, these elaxing, informative, and reflective workshops taught by est people I could have met. The personal chef was also our se, who not only cooked us the most amazing meals, but whose as magical. SHOUT OUT TO CHEF NELLI!!!

arrived to the time I got back on the plane to come home, I felt nothing but relaxed, welcomed, and free to be myself standing individuals. Thank you to our Editor-in-Chief ing it all together. I can’t ait to see w f

C ECILIA GENTILI

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.

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.

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.

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

Cecilia Gentili redefined motherhood

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

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

Whosoever Shakes...

Most of us do not like to be shaken awake. It makes us feel nervous an We feel like all of our good rest has gone out the window. Earthquakes our peace have us giving places like California the side-eye. Involuntary itself just is not our jam, but there are some moments when shaking is negative we give it. Jesus told his disciples, “ And whosoever will not r when ye go out of that city, shake off the very dust from your feet fo against them” (Luke 9:5). As we enter this month of LGBTQIA+ Histo see Jesus’ advice in modern action because whoever shakes finds a pla

Jesus’s words instruct us to release the negativity of an ineffectual en may have been in places where you have felt unloved, unaccepted, and That does not define you though. When the disciples were traveling fro town, they may have the dust on their feet that was like taking a pie community with them, but Jesus told them to leave it behind. Some o carrying pieces of communities with us that do not deserve our energy off those remnants, you are refusing to carry that negative energy wit next dream, passion, or life in general.

Now is the time to take Jesus’s advice. Be it your family, exes, or fri not for you, then you need to shake off those words of destruction, d hatred. Leave it behind. Those things do not feed into your growth an okay to allow yourself peace. When you give yourself permission for th then you make room for God to fill you with a sense of belonging, a you ’ ve never had, and a healing that makes whole your brokenness. ever asked, “why have I been abused, mistreated, or wronged”, then for a blessing. You have seen the negative elements of shaking witho permission. This is your moment. Take all of that and shak take it with you. Whosoever shakes has surrendered thems icons of the LGBTQIA community have done it for years. T to shake off the families who wouldn’t accept them, comm that shunned them, and conventions of society that didn them. Now is your time! Shake it off of your feet!

- Pastor Roni