2023 | Volume 2, Issue 1: Embracing Love and Sucess.

2023 | VOLUME 2 , ISSUE 1

BE PROUD OF WHO YOU ARE.

CONTENT

How to Support LGBTQIA+ Businesses and Hobbyists

Letter from the Editor and Chief

1.

2.

Queer Business Matter 2023 Queer Picks

Emotional Heartbreak!

An Activity to help you move past the pain.

3.

4.

Queer Love Seven steps to Embracing Self-Love and Dating Etiquette: 5 Tip's for same-sex & opposite-sex couples.

5.

Beauty, Culture, Health & Wellness Events EMBRACE YOUR OWN STANDARD OF BEAUTY!

Note From The Editor

Queer Personal Growth & Success "What would you do if you were not afraid?"

In a world buzzing with questions of courage and personal growth, we often hear the age-old inquiry: "What would you do if you were not afraid?" While this query holds profound significance, as queer people, it can also overwhelm us with countless possibilities due to our inability to fully live in our truth within

"Imagine, for a moment, a version of yourself untouched by the weight of being boxed in by society."

Envision the person with all the necessary resources, a supportive family, and unwavering encouragement to nurture their dreams. Close your eyes and picture this person—how they feel, behave, and embody their mindset.

When someone told me this version, I instantly thought about my queer expression, weight, and finding love. These thoughts are what guided me to create this year's magazine.

this society because of the trauma that comes with that. A more refined approach lies in delving into the depths of our past and present selves, uncovering the influence of our experiences, and envisioning the person we were truly meant to be if we were free to do so from the moment we were born.

The 2023 edition will explore a wide range of queer love and success topics, including how to support LGBTQIA+ businesses and hobbyists, tips for nurturing genuine connections, and dating etiquette.

Additionally, there will be a focus on moving past the pain caused by heartbreak/heartache and finding ways to thrive in life and love.

Join us on this journey of Inspiring queer personal growth and success as we challenge societal notions within our world and inspire you to unlock the pathway to finding the best version of your life.

Deeran Anderson-Hooper

Meet the team

2023 | VOLUME 2, ISSUE 1 EMBRACING SELF LOVE AND SUCESS

EDITOR IN CHIEF MAGAZINE LAYOUT

Deeran Anderson-Hooper Queerification Team

CONTRIBUTORS M y k e l l B a r l o w , S a y ' w o n H u g h e s COVER AND FEATURE SPREAD Photographer Artistic Director Cinematographer M a k e - U p

Raymond Williams Nia Johnson Maryam (Nazzy) Bayyan London P

PHOTOGRAPHERS Tsukiko-Kiyomidzu on pixabay.com Sharon McCutcheon on pixels.com Pavel Danilyuk on pixels.com www.Queerification.co 05

JUNETEENTH

FREEDOM DAY LET US CELEBRATE AND NEVER FORGET!

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QUEER SUCCESS

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REPOST, LIKE, AND COMMENT With almost half of the Queer community not feeling welcomed on social media, one of the best ways to show your support is to Harness the power of social media to amplify LGBTQIA+ businesses and Hobbyists. Engage with their content by reposting, liking, and commenting on their posts.

By actively participating in their online presence, you increase their visibility, broaden their reach, and attract more supporters. Sharing positive feedback and encouraging messages can go a long way in creating a welcoming and supportive community.

CONNECT THEM WITH RESOURCES Networking plays a vital role in the growth of any business or hobby. Make the connection if you know someone who can provide valuable guidance or resources to LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs or hobbyists.

Introduce them to individuals or organizations that can help them expand their network, access funding opportunities, or provide mentorship.

Your efforts can open doors for new collaborations and possibilities.

According to NPR.org, 40% of LGBTQ adults, as well as 49% of transgender and nonbinary people, do not feel welcomed and safe on social media.

OFFER YOUR SERVICES Consider offering your skills or services to LGBTQIA+ businesses or hobbyists. Whether in graphic design, marketing, event planning, or any other area where you excel, your assistance can be invaluable.

Offer to lend your expertise for a specific period, such as two weeks to 30 days for free or a discounted rate, to help them overcome any challenges they might face. Your support can ease their workload and allow them to focus on their strengths.

PROVIDE GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES Invest in the growth of LGBTQIA+ businesses and Hobbyists by gifting them something that can enhance their development. This could include tickets to a business workshop or conference, a coaching session with an expert, or a service that aligns with their needs.

Empowering them with resources and opportunities, you contribute to their professional and personal growth, strengthening the LGBTQIA+ community.

According to the Movement Achievement Project (MAP), a NEW ANALYSIS FINDS NEARLY HALF OF the LGBTQ-OWNED SMALL BUSINESSES THAT APPLIED FOR LOANS WERE DENIED FINANCING.

BUY PRODUCTS OR SERVICES AT FULL PRICE We have heard of financial freedom, but for the queer community, the odds are stacked against us. So When you come across LGBTQIA+ businesses, show your support by purchasing their products or services at full price. This provides them with financial backing and helps establish a solid customer base.

By valuing their offerings and paying fair prices, you demonstrate your commitment to their success and help them sustain and grow their ventures.

QUEER SUCCESS

Supporting LGBTQIA+ businesses and hobbies is essential to creating an inclusive and diverse society. By actively engaging, making purchases, connecting with resources, offering your services, and providing growth opportunities, you can uplift these ventures and contribute to their success.

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Let's stand together as allies, fostering an environment where everyone's talents, passions, and identities are celebrated and supported.

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Annuel Fathers Day Letter

Happy Fathers Day We know not everyone has a supporting and loving father in their life. This statement is sadly a more shared experience among the queer community than most other groups. So for this fathers Day, we are encouraging people to write a letter to a father figure who is unique to them, letting them know how much they mean to them. The intent behind this exercise is not for you to send it to them or tell them. However, please give them this letter if you want to. We know sometimes it is just nice to get things off your chest and out of your head.

Dear

,

Love, www.Queerification.co

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Having one dad is cool and all but

Two Dads Give Twice the Love!

y a D s r e h t a Happy F ! s d a D r e e u Q e h T l To Al

Queer Business Matter

Q -PICKS

SUMMER

Summer 2023 is here, and it's time to party but also practice self-care. Some of you may have a goal this summer to be more social, take a trip, get areas of life right, or simply step up your apprentice overall. Whatever your goals, our Summer 2023 QPicks of queer/queer allied businesses each have products that are sure to aid you in having the best summer ever.

@lovebomingthebook @mara_hall

www.LoveBombingTheBook.com

EMOTIONAL HEARTBREAK! Do this activity to help you get over emotional heartbreak.

PHOTO: TSUKIKO-KIYOMIDZU | PIXABAY.COM

Deep within the colorful tapestry of our vibrant community, a silent storm rages—a tempest of heartbreak and shattered dreams. LGBTQIA+ individuals have endured a landscape of emotional turmoil, facing the heartache of rejection, discrimination, and lost love. This can be caused by our parents, children, friends, or past lovers who refused to embrace or see us for who we truly are. But it is time for us to gather the fragments of our broken hearts, for within the rubble lies the foundation for our ultimate triumph: the pursuit of love and success.

Love, in its purest form, knows no boundaries or limitations. It is a force that transcends gender, sexuality, and societal expectations. Yet, too often, our journey toward love is overshadowed by the remnants of past heartbreaks. Rejection echoes reverberate within us, casting a shadow on our ability to fully embrace and trust again.

Our community has faced the anguish of unrequited affection, the betrayal of love disowned, and the sorrow of relationships that were forced to hide in the shadows. We have been denied the joy of public displays of affection, the simple bliss of holding hands without fear, and the opportunity to express our love openly and proudly. It is a heartbreaking reality that has left many wounded souls behind.

With its activity on the following pages, we will start building a future where heartbreak is a stepping stone in the past on the path to fulfillment. Let our stories inspire others to find solace in their hearts, for in our shared experiences, we discover the strength to rise above the ashes of heartbreak and embrace the boundless love and success that await us all.

PHOTO: TSUKIKO-KIYOMIDZU | PIXABAY.COM

HEARTBREAK "MOVE PAST THE PAIN"

Heartbreak, a universal experience etched into our memories, has the power to hold us back. Its grip keeps us from embracing new opportunities, connecting with unfamiliar faces, and making bold choices. It can stem from loved ones, friends, and even those closest to our hearts. Rejection, fear, and despair are its haunting manifestations. I may not be an expert, but one thing I know for sure: Heartbreak runs deep. It penetrates the core of your being, leaving cracks in your soul and unsettling your entire being. It manipulates your emotions and breeds insecurities that otherwise would remain dormant. Therapy has revealed to me that enduring such trauma is akin to having your soul chipped away, bit by bit, with a merciless hammer. It can lead you into a profound and dark abyss, a place some struggle to escape from. They call it the sunken place, but I prefer to call it true heartbreak. Yes, heartbreak exists in varying degrees, just like anything in life.

Heartbreak spans a broad spectrum, stretching across time and distance, and until I confronted it head-on, I couldn't determine where I stood. I realized that to move forward and heal from heartbreak, I needed to change and transform every aspect of my life. It's not enough to change one area while leaving the rest untouched. That would be like changing my pants but wearing the same unwashed underwear. For true change to occur, every part of me had to transform. I understand that change can be daunting, and many of us struggle with motivation and laziness to some extent. But to truly progress, you must embrace the idea of complete change. If you find yourself lacking the drive, turn to prayer or meditation and consistently seek that transformative path. Even if you're not quite there yet, reading this book and confronting your pain is already a monumental step forward. You must recognize the significance of this! Before change can occur, you must genuinely desire it. For instance, someone leaving a toxic relationship must first make the decision to depart.

And if they're not yet in that headspace, they must step back and want to want to leave. Each day, actively strive towards change. Overcoming heartbreak is arduous, but it becomes more manageable as you commit yourself to it.

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Activity Directions

Queer Love

SEVEN STEPS TO EMBRACING SELF-LOVE A GUIDE FOR QUEER INDIVIDUALS.

Loving oneself is a journey that everyone embarks upon, and for queer individuals, it can be an especially transformative and empowering experience. Embracing your identity, overcoming societal challenges, and fostering self-acceptance are essential steps toward loving yourself fully. In this article, we will explore some practical and empowering strategies to help you cultivate self-love as a queer person. www.Queerification.co

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Queer Love 1. Acknowledge and Celebrate Your Identity

3. Challenge Internalized Homophobia or

Recognize that your queerness is a beautiful

Transphobia

and integral part of who you are. Take pride in

Society's negative messages can lead to

your identity and celebrate it. Surround

internalized homophobia or transphobia,

yourself with a supportive community of

which can hinder self-love. Challenge these

friends, family, or fellow queer individuals who

harmful beliefs by examining them critically

understand and appreciate you for who you

and questioning their validity. Remind

are.

yourself that your identity is valid, worthy of love, and deserving of acceptance.

2. Educate Yourself Knowledge is power. Take the time to educate yourself about queer history, culture, and the struggles and triumphs of the LGBTQ+ community. Learning about the experiences of others can provide validation, empathy, and a sense of belonging.

" Love takes off the masks we fear we cannot live without and know we cannot live within."

-James Baldwin

4. Practice Self-Compassion Be kind and gentle with yourself. Understand that you are human and will make mistakes like anyone else. Treat yourself with the same compassion, understanding, and forgiveness you would offer a dear friend. Embrace self-care activities that bring you joy, such as taking walks, reading, practicing mindfulness, or engaging in creative outlets.

5. Surround Yourself with Positivity Create an environment that fosters self-love.

Surround yourself with positive influences, whether through supportive friends, uplifting social media accounts, or empowering queer literature, movies, or music. Distance yourself from toxic relationships or environments that undermine your self-worth.

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Queer Love Loving yourself as a queer person is a powerful act of resistance and liberation.

Embrace your identity, celebrate your uniqueness, and challenge the negative messages that society may impose upon you.

Surround yourself with love, support, and understanding, and remember that you deserve to be loved unconditionally. Through self-acceptance and self-care, you can embark on a journey of self-love that will empower and nourish you on your path toward happiness and fulfillment.

6. Set Boundaries Establishing and enforcing healthy boundaries is crucial for self-love. Clearly communicate your needs, desires, and limits to others, and respect yourself enough to uphold those boundaries.

Surround yourself with people who appreciate and support you for who you are, without expecting you to change or conform to their expectations.

“I fell out of the womb and landed in my mother's high heels.”

-Leslie Jordan

7. Seek Professional Support If you find it challenging to cultivate self-love on your own, consider reaching out to a therapist or counselor who specializes in LGBTQ+ issues. They can provide guidance, support, and tools to help you navigate the unique challenges you may face and develop a deeper sense of self-love.

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Queer Inspiration!

“The most important thing you can do on this planet is become the realization of your own imagination” RUPAUL

Queer Love

DATING ETIQUETTE: 5 TIP'S FOR SAME-SEX & OPPOSITE-SEX COUPLES

by Deeran Anderson n light of the "Marriage Equality Bill" passing, we thought it might be helpful to give dating tips for those now looking to date in the hope of marriage. Before we give you tips on dating, we decided to provide background context to help you better understand the etiquette tips and why they exist.

First, Opposite-Sex couples: Traditionally, the man is the assertive person during the courting period. The man would typically be the one to take the lead and set the tone during this time while getting to know each other.

Secondly, Same-Sex Couples: Typically, for same-sex couples and more modern-day Opposite-sex couples, gender is not a factor when dating and courting another person.

Instead, what matters most is the ideal position you want to hold in a relationship and the type of relationship you would like to have. For example, women can be Alpha, men can be Beta, or both partners can be Gamma (which we will get into next).

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Queer Love Tip #1: You can never go wrong with entertainment and dinner.

It is still romantic to go to the movies and dinner but also think about live theater, stand-up comedy, or the ballet. This is always a great way to see how the person you are taking out interacts in different environments naturally. This also can help you with conversational topics during dinner/drinks if you are not a person who enjoys small talk.

Tip#1 for a Alpha Person During normal conversation before your date, ask (don't make it obvious) the person you are pursuing or would like to start pursuing their favorite type of food, the kind of music they enjoy, and their taste in movies or live entertainment. Plan a date according to their preferences, even if they are not yours. This shows that you are flexible, attentive, and caring.

Usually, an alpha-beta dynamic is when one

Tip#1 for a Beta Person

person calls the shots (Alpha). At the same time,

When conversing with your suitor/suitress, if you

the other follows along and/or submits (Beta) to

have an inclination that they are asking questions for

oversimplify it. This relationship would fall the

a surprise or date, do not jump the gun and call them

closest to a traditional opposite-sex relationship

out. Follow along and allow the dominos to fall in

where the man would usually be considered the

place, even if you see them a mile away.

Alpha and the woman the Beta. However, A Gamma is a person who has both alpha and beta traits, and they flow together harmoniously within that one person, no matter the sex or gender.

Usually, Gamma's have an equal level of masculinity and femininity. They can also be comfortable expressing both simultaneously or using each when needed.

Sometimes this can be confusing, and that is why we have provided tips on dating no matter if you are an alpha, Beta, or gamma person in a same-sex or opposite-sex relationship: .

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Tip#1 for a Gamma Person After having several conversations with a person, decide if you want to be the suitor/suitress of the person in question. Remember that this can always change and fluctuate as time goes on. First impressions are everything; therefore, how you introduce yourself and the actions you take in the beginning will lay the foundation and expectations in the other person's mind.

Be careful to avoid becoming stuck in a role when you prefer to share both. However, do not bate and switch on a person meaning do not start out as an alpha, then out of no wear switch to a beta or vice versa with no conversation had beforehand.

Queer Love Tip #2: Don't just plan a date; Make them feel

Tip#2 for a Gamma Person

magical in small ways.

To avoid being strictly placed in a box of Alpha or Beta,

You don't have to rent a horse-drawn carriage and

ask for input on the date. Collaborate with the person

make reservations at a 5-star restaurant to impress

and plan a date that both of you would enjoy very much.

the person you are with. Small gestures and

Keep in mind that etiquette would dictate that the

thoughtful acts go a long way and sometimes are

person who initiated the date is the person who is

more memorable than elaborate ones.

expected to pay unless other arrangements are discussed. You can alternate who pays for the dates,

Tip#2 for a Alpha Person

one person can pay for the tickets to the play, and the

It is extra romantic when you allow room for a

other person can pay for dinner on the same date. If the

surprise if the person is ok with that. Tell them to be

person offers to pick you up or orders you a car service,

ready by a specific time and save the rest of the

buy them their favorite flowers and give them to them

details. This will keep them on their toes the whole

on the date. This can show them you appreciate what

night and give you room to pivot during the date in

they did and make them feel valued simultaneously.

case your plans do not go as planned. You can also offer to pick them up from wherever they choose or order a car service (uber, Lyft, etc.) to pick them up and drop them off.

Tip#2 for a Beta Person Be sure not to complain during the night and have an attitude of gratitude. Choose " yes" instead of "No, But." If a person is taking you out, usually, they have thought about it even if it does not feel like it or they got everything wrong. If the night is not what you expected, that is ok; focus on the significant parts of the night (there is always something) and complement that. For example, if the person you are going out with takes you to a restaurant and you do not like the food, but it is an excellent establishment and atmosphere, focus on that. So if you are asked, "Are you enjoying the night so far?" you could respond, "yes, because of this beautiful establishment you chose," versus "No, but the place is nice."

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Queer Love

Tip #3: A great time is in the details! So plan ahead.

Nothing is more awkward and, to some people, frustrating than going out with someone and nothing is planned out, which results in a lot of wasted time. Have you ever been with someone and both of you are asking each other, "what do you want to do?" then you end up doing nothing or something that was very underwhelming? That's usually because plans are not made ahead of time.

Tip#3 for a Alpha Person It is 100% your responsibility to ensure the night is prepared ahead of time. You can use apps like open table to find excellent local restaurants specializing in particular foods. You may also call the establishment of choice to see if they offer

On the other hand (and this may seem like a double

accommodations such as special seating, a

standard, but such is life), if the other person is

serenade, a special dessert, etc.

running a little late, it is ok; be polite and understanding about it. If they are running late to a

Most of the time, you can buy tickets to the movies

place they are meeting you at, such as dinner, wait

and live entertainment ahead of time (be sure to

at the bar if they have one, and have a drink while

think about travel time and traffic when going to

taking in the establishment.

multiple locations). Then, after making your reservations, call the day of to confirm everything is

Tip#3 for a Gamma Person

set.

Call your date to confirm everything is set. A good time to call is between 6 - 4 hours ahead of time to make sure they still plan on going, as well as to see if

Tip#3 for a Beta Person

the time is still good, no matter if you were the one

Be on time, if not a little early; if you are asked to be

who made the reservations or not. Usually, four hours

ready or somewhere at 7:00 pm, plan for 6:50 pm. It

before a date, a person has an idea if they will be on

is considered rude and disrespectful if someone is

time.

taking you on a date, your presence is the only thing requested, and you are not on time.

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Queer Love Tip #4: Small boss moves are impressive.

Take some time to think about how you would like

is behind. If they are 40 minutes or more behind for

the date to go ahead of time. Once you put these

reservations, take your time (not too much). You can

intentions out, couple them with small actions about

take a quick stroll and talk about the event you just

your date that will ensure its success.

left, go to a bar nearby for a drink, etc... These will

Tip#4 for a Alpha Person

make the night feel like it flowed well without all the

If you have made reservations for entertainment

wait time.

that requires you to have physical tickets make sure to print them off ahead of time if they state that in

Once you get to the restaurant, discreetly give your

the fine print. If you select an option to pick the

credit card to the host or waiter and have them ring

tickets up at "will call," go ahead of time and get

up your food automatically and bring the bill when

them before picking up your date to avoid standing

requested. This way, you come off like a boss and

in line.

just sign and leave versus asking for the bill, giving them your credit card, and waiting for them to

Excuse yourself about 30 minutes before the

return the check to sign it.

entertainment is over. Then, step outside to call the dining establishment to check your dinner reservations. This will help you avoid waiting in the restaurant's lobby to be seated if the establishment

Tip#4 for a Beta Person Give yourself time (extra time) to get ready. Put extra effort into picking out your outfit, and go the extra mile when getting dressed. Have a glam or sexy playlist playing with a scented candle (we recommend premium candles from Beauty By Raiven) You should also pick a lovely fragrance to wear that you feel they would like. Then, think about your whole ensemble, like your hair, skincare routine, nails, and feet, brushing your teeth with banking soda and peroxide or whitening gel, etc. Small details like these, when they come together, create a masterpiece. You will walk, talk and feel like a boss because you have now given yourself space to be sexy like one.

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Queer Love

"There's this illusion that homosexuals have sex and heterosexuals fall in love. That's completely untrue.

Everyone wants to be loved."

-Dr. DaShanne Stokes

Tip#4 for a Gamma Person Take small moments to show the other person that you appreciate them even during the date, even if they are the ones who planned it. For example, if you go to the movies before dinner and they pay for the tickets, pay for the snacks at the bar, and allow them to get whatever they want.

Let them know you are doing it to show you appreciate them and not because you are trying to step on their toes (say it in your own words, of course). You can also buy drinks from the bar while waiting to be seated to cheers a fantastic night. These things show that you are a person who can receive but also give back as well. All in all, look for small and not overpowering ways to show them you appreciate them also.

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Queer Love Tip#5 for a Beta Person As the date comes to a close, do not feel pressured to do anything you do not feel comfortable with at the moment (i.e., leaning in or accepting a kiss, accepting an invitation to the person's place or hotel after, etc.). A friendly hug and "thank you for the evening" are perfectly fine. If they text you to make sure you made it home safely, reply to the message promptly, regardless if you had a good time.

The next day send them a text saying how much you enjoyed the date and what it did for you (did it make you feel special, was it magical, etc.) If you think you would not like another date which is perfectly fine, let the other person know and do not string them along.

You should always be kind, considerate, yet truthful when letting them know this. You should still compliment the date and be honest about how you feel

Tip #5: The follow-up is everything!

to avoid wasting time.

As they say in the business world, "Not following up

Tip#5 for a Gamma Person

with your prospects is the same as filling up your

As stated before, ask for a hug instead of a kiss on the

bathtub without first putting the stopper in the

first date. Do not do anything you do not feel

drain." the same applies when dating. Especially if it is someone you like and hope to continue seeing.

comfortable with at the moment (i.e., leaning in or accepting a kiss, accepting an invitation to the person's place or hotel after, etc.). Make sure they made it home

Tip#5 for a Alpha Person

ok via text or message, and the next day send them a

As the date is nearing the end, ask the person if they

text and offer to plan the next date or take the lead on

need anything and how they feel. This will allow you

the next outing if you did not pay for the first date. If

to gauge if your efforts were well received.

Asking for a kiss on the cheek may seem romantic; However, some may see this as invasive and a bit forward if it is the first date. This should be held off until the second or third date. If you are on the first date, it is just as lovely to ask for a hug to seal the night. Once they are home or about an hour after, send them a text or message to make sure they made it home safely and to let them know you enjoyed their company.

they accept your offer, see if you can solidify the following date and offer ideas you can agree upon.

All of these tips are great and should be applied when dating; However, life is not black and white, and you should always use common sense along with these tips. Whether you are an Alpha, Betta, or Gamma, the basic notion in this article is to be considerate and thoughtful with your actions. Some tips described above can be used for all three personality types, and some should not because they can give off the wrong impression. Always use discernment when using helpful advice and "chew the meat and spit out the bones," as the old folks would say.

2023 | VOLUME 2, ISSUE 1

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