The Unleashed Voice Magazine 2017 September-October Community & Culture Issue

1 TUVMAG.COM | September+October 2017

AIDS/ HIV NEWS

After my diagnosis, it took me a while to accept the fact that being HIV-positive is not the end of the world: It’s just the beginning of a whole new way of life. The first meds I was prescribed gave me some bad side effects.

But I worked with my doctors to find a new one that was better for me. Now I feel great and my viral count is undetectable. That list of things you wanted to accomplish before you were diagnosed? It’s still possible if you stay in care and work with your doctor to find the treatment that’s best for you.

2 TUVMAG.COM | September+October 2017

“I’ m here.

I’ m living.

I’ m happy.

So take that, HIV.” Cedric

Living with HIV since 2012.

HIV

TREATMENT

WORKS

Get in care. Stay in care. Live well. cdc.gov/HIVTreatmentWorks 3 TUVMAG.COM | September+October 2017

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06 #TAKEEMDOWN901

By Davin D. Clemons, DMin, Editor

08 MEET THE MOORES 14 RAYCEEN’S COMMUNITY ADVOCATE AWARDS 19 WEDDING ANNOUNCEMENT

10 EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW Dr. David J. Malebranche

By JaCarlos & Britton

20 HEALTH & FITNESS

By Gordie Holt

21 MSM: WHERE DO I FIT IN?

By Eddie Wiley

22 THE JOY OF LOVE

12 LITTLE BOY BLUE

By Beth Trouy

By Donta Morrison

23 IN IT TOGETHER

By Dr. Darnell Gooch, Jr.

THE

V

TUV Mission

NLEASHED

26 MEET CHRISSA JACKSON 27 WHERE IS THE LOVE?

OICE

MAGAZINE

“ ...It’s more than a magazine-It’s a Synergized Movement.”

By Renae Taylor

30 ONE TO WATCH NEW YORK

The Unleashed Voice Magazine will cultivate the stories of LGBTQ people with engaging and empowering conversation to people of the world about the multicultural LGBTQ Community.

TUV Vision

The Unleashed Voice Magazine (TUV Magazine) will aid the LGBTQ Community and its allies in redefining how the diverse LGBTQ person wishes to be viewed or spoken about. TUV Magazine will be the optimal print and media hub for the affluent LGBTQ consumer and those who want to be included in the “Unleashing” movement.

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32 PLANNED PARENTHOOD

By Aimee Lewis

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TEAM TUV

Shawn M. Clemonsor Administration/ Fashion Director

De’Mario Q. Jives Shawn M. Clemons

De’Mario Jives Creative LayoutQ.Designer Administration/Fashion Direct Creative Layout Designer

Whitney D. Johnson

WhitneyEditor Johnson Chief Editor

Renae Taylor

Renae Taylor oject Manager Transgender Correspondent Transgender Correspondent

Eddie Wiley

Eddie Wiley Editor/Contributor

AIDS/ HIV Correspondent

Ravell Slayton

Ravell Slayton Project Manager

Monick Monell New York Correspondent

5 TUVMAG.COM | September+October 2017

6 TUVMAG.COM | September+October 2017

| EDITOR’S LETTER

#TakeEmDown901

I

was deeply disturbed and saddened by the narrow-minded and destructive actions of the KKK, White Supremacists, and Neo-Nazis displayed in Charlottesville, Virginia on Saturday August 12, 2017.

These acts are unsympathetic to our shared values as Americans and are the products of this nation’s original sin, which is slavery. They have no place in our hearts or on our streets. Together we must stand up for equality, respect, and inclusion, and work together to lift up every member of our community. The Unleashed Voice Magazine wants to assure you that our magazine is committed to being justice seekers and will work to support the fundamental principles of America which are: life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness for all.

In Memphis, TN we are currently in the midst of a battle to remove the statues of KKK member Nathan Bedford Forrest and Confederate president Jefferson Davis from the eyesight of our city #TakeEmDown901. The violence that these individuals embedded in society was on demonstration in Memphis, TN during a protest on August 19, 2017. Black and brown people are angry and frustrated with the systematic oppression of the United States of America and the individuals who are in power to keep the people under their controlled submission. The blood, sweat, and tears of my ancestors built this country and have made countless white individuals rich from the wholesale mistreatment, exploitation, and abuse of black slaves’ bodies.

Dr. Davin D. Clemons, DMin.

I know many of you are wondering how a black gay man can focus on standing up for the movement against racism in America that #45 has brought to the light. Well, that answer is easy for me… I am black FIRST! The first thing the people see is my blackness; my gayness comes later. So as a black man, standing up for my Pro-Blackness is my duty. And by the way, “YOU CANNOT BE PRO BLACK AND HOMOPHOBIC.” This is the time for all black and brown people to gather and fight against this system of racism, transphobia, xenophobia, homophobia and any other phobia that oppresses black and brown people.

We are in a time now of facts and feelings, so the question is: how do we channel the facts of oppression, discrimination, exploitation, marginalization, and racism that many of our black and brown sisters have experienced? The next question is: how do we channel the feelings that sometimes bring us joy and pain? Let’s collectively work together to accomplish the mission of bringing these hateful systems of oppression and prejudice down. We must fight like our ancestors did, and even harder, to gain our rights and existence in this great land of America.

Now, to all of my black and brown LGBTQ sisters and brothers, join the movement in your city and let your voice be heard. Become “The Unleashed Voice” in the movement for equality in your city.

7 TUVMAG.COM | September+October 2017

Cover Story |

| Cover Story

Moores

Meet The

T

he motivation behind the “Changes of Love” book series was for Tonya and Linda to tell their story themselves. Since their family tree was different from others and their children were only one, three, five, and nine-years-old when they got together, it was important to them that their legacy understand -- through their voice instead of through hearsay -- how the tree had changed over time. Now the children are grown and having children of their own who may also want the answer to questions like how they fell in love and how the last name “Moore” originated.

“Our Beginning Years”, the first book in their “Changes of Love” series, focuses on the events that brought them together. They both graduated from the same high school in 1988, and while Tonya was praying for a family, Linda was the daughter of a Baptist Minister and struggling with feeling unable to act on her desire to be with a woman. Now Dr. and Mrs. Moore have been together for almost 20 years, and their books will discuss their challenges as an LGBTQ couple during times when laws weren’t conducive to their love for one another and their families weren’t in their corner. Since Major and Mrs. Moore were together when she was commissioned as an Officer in the U.S. Army Reserves, they also had to endure discriminatory policies like “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”. Among their insights are scenarios that forced them to come out of pocket in areas that heterosexual couples can take for granted -- such as when they had no access to a family healthcare plan when Tonya convinced Linda to be an at-home mom, and when Tonya was unable to place her family on her military orders when they moved almost 3,000 miles away. Despite all the challenges, they continued to love each other and to provide for their four children to the best of their ability. By sharing their stories

8 TUVMAG.COM | September+October 2017

and reflections, they hope for their readers to understand that relationships can endure any number of challenges -- but if you want something bad enough you’ll be willing to fight for it!

In addition to homeschooling their children for the majority of their K-12 education, Linda also continued her own education and is currently finishing her doctoral degree as well as earning an Executive MBA. Tonya, who has completed her doctoral degree, is currently a dean and professor with over 25 years in the U.S. Army Reserves. Besides co-authoring their Changes of Love book series, together they are also owners of another business, DEMO Consulting LLC. As LGBTQ relationship consultants and speakers, their mission is devoted not only to their legacy but also to giving hope to other couples, especially within the LGBTQ community.

As the couple continues their movement, they know the importance of following their purpose outlined by God. They know that without Him, their life together could never have come this far!

Purchase the first book in their “Changes of Love” series directly from the publisher: https://w w w.createspace. com/6979452 and find them on Facebook and Instagram using the name Changes of Love.

TAKE THE LEAD

Take an active role in your health.

Ask your doctor if an HIV medicine made by Gilead is right for you.

onepillchoices.com GILEAD and the GILEAD Logo are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc. © 2017 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. UNBC4619 06/17

9 TUVMAG.COM | September+October 2017

HIV & AIDS |

Dr.David J. Malebranche,

MD, MPH

Associate Professor of Medicine | Morehouse School of Medicine | Department of Medicine

10 TUVMAG.COM | September+October 2017

| HIV & AIDS Physician and sexual health activist/researcher Dr. David Malebranche shuts down rampant myths, misconceptions, and misinformation underlying sexually transmitted infection (STI) stigma.

What are the most common myths about AIDS/HIV that continue to prevail?

People thinking you can get it from kissing somebody, sharing utensils, the toilet seat, stuff like that. The second myth is that it’s an automatic death sentence, although since HIV is still an incurable disease, it can progress to death if someone doesn’t get on treatment. So I can recognize that people understand the seriousness of the condition in trying to avoid it. I guess the next myths concern biomedical stuff like pre-exposure prophylaxis, or PrEP. People have misconceptions about that one way or the other — that it’s a cure-all for everything and is 100 percent effective, which it’s not… or that it’s a ploy by the pharmaceutical company and you can use condoms instead and be just fine, which is also erroneous. And then a lot of people don’t understand treatment as prevention and how effective that is — that if you’re in a relationship where one partner is positive and one partner is negative, then if the positive partner is on meds and undetectable then the risk of transmission is basically zero. There’s this fear that everyone with HIV is the same level of risk, and that’s not true. The level of risk is dictated by whether someone is in medical care, on HIV meds, and undetectable. If they’re not undetectable, yes, there will be a higher risk of transmission. But if they are undetectable, then most studies indicate that there’s zero chance of transmission. But I don’t think people get that.

How do you typically advise people to go about their sex lives beyond any STI diagnosis, especially one as complex and elusive as herpes such as in the controversy surrounding Usher?

It’s hard to lump them together because they’re so different, but the advice I give everybody begins with the fact that you have to be healthy. Still it’s very much a sex positive message, reminding them that sex is supposed to be pleasurable and then just kind of breaking down what they need to do based on each disease. For HIV, I tell people that it doesn’t always have to come down to penetration. HIV isn’t transmitted from oral sex. Do other things you enjoy with your partner. Don’t make foreplay just a precursor for intercourse. Enjoy other things you can use, like role playing or toys, whatever you need to do to make your sex more pleasurable.

With herpes, it’s trickier because there’s so much uncertainty with it. If someone comes back and says, “My partner tested positive for herpes antibodies in their blood. What’s the risk they’re going to give it to me?” My answer would have to be that I don’t know. Because I don’t. You can’t put a number on it. You can’t predict it.

“What’s the risk that, if I get it, I’ll give it to someone else?” I don’t know. “What’s the risk that if I get it, I’ll have a break out?” I don’t know. “What’s the risk that my partner is going to have a break out?” I don’t know. You can’t put a numerical value on those with herpes. “What percentage of protection are condoms going to give me?”

You can’t really put a number on that because transmission is skin-to-skin. Someone could not have a break out and still shed it from the skin, so you can still get it from them.

From a counseling perspective, as a physician, HIV is a lot more straightforward, and a lot easier to counsel, than herpes. Herpes is just a beast, and it’s not uncommon in the realm of sexual health and counseling and medical providers to spend a half hour to forty-five minutes counseling on all the angles of herpes and all the questions that people are going to have. And that’s part of the reason people don’t use it as a screening test for STI. If you get tested for STI, usually herpes antibodies, blood antibodies, are not on the panel.

Why isn’t herpes usually on the panel for STI screenings, considering that people would obviously want to know if they have it?

It’s not an official recommendation by anyone to get routine herpes testing because if you were to do random blood draws of a hundred people in certain major cities, you would find that 60-80 percent of them will test positive for herpes type 1 — and that just means they’ve been exposed to it at some point in their lives. You still don’t know what’s actually going to happen beyond that point. You can’t track down who gave it to them, and you can’t track whether any symptoms or transmission may or may not come about. And it’s frustrating for us as health experts when we see the media just screw it all up. Just because someone says, “I tested positive for herpes, so I know so-and-so gave it to me,” doesn’t make it so. The first question becomes, “Well, is so-and-so the only person you’ve ever had sex with?” And if they say yes, then there may be some validity to their claim.

But the majority of people are going to say no. And at that point, you have to say, “So how do you know it was them?” If you’re 25 years old and you’ve had 20 sexual partners, and you’ve been sexually active since you were about 17… that’s 8 years, 20 partners… and you get a herpes break-out at 25… you can’t say for sure that it’s your last sexual partner who gave it to you. You could have actually been exposed during your first sexual encounter, never gotten tested, never had symptoms, and all of a sudden during a stressful point in your life, when you were 25, your immune system got kind of weak and allowed the outbreak. We can’t know. So when that many people are going to test positive then it’s not going to be a great screening test because all it does is foster a lot of fear and more questions that you can’t really give people concrete answers about, especially when you can’t even say with certainty that taking this medication or doing XYZ will keep someone from having a break-out.

So what have you found most frustrating in the conversations surrounding the Usher/HSV controversy?

On the Internet and on social media when this whole thing exploded, it was so obvious that people didn’t know what they were talking about. People were like, “Well there’s DNA testing, and you can test what kind of strain it is.” Sure, you can in a research laboratory, but we’re not doing those tests routinely in clinical settings.

Can you imagine testing everyone for herpes antibodies and 60% of the population came back positive? Are we supposed to do these very expensive DNA probes to test what type of virus it is? So we can track down who gave who what? For 60% of the population? To do that would break the healthcare system, which is already a mess as it is. But people insist you can find out who it was. In what clinic? You just don’t know. You can’t always tell. People who think it’s that easy haven’t worked in the medical profession. Because I wrote the article for Cassius, all these medical professionals were saying thank you. The only people coming against me were people just wanting to say she is a victim and he is a perpetrator. They were saying it so conclusively based on their subjective reading of social media and no facts. We are in a state of being right now in the United States where facts don’t matter anymore. Expertise doesn’t matter. One girl actually tried to argue with me because she had done a Google search. I’ve been doing this for 17 years! When you’ve had to sit down and counsel an 18-yearold little girl who has oral herpes and tested positive for both herpes 1 and 2… and she has a new boyfriend… and you have to counsel her for 45 minutes by herself about what she’s going to do while she’s sitting in there crying… and then you have to bring her boyfriend in and counsel both of them at the same time… when you have actually done that one time, then let me know your thoughts.

But just so much of the controversy is overblown, and the problem I’ve had with the conversation is the hypocrisy. Because the people who were saying so conclusively that he gave it to her are probably people who have never had herpes antibody testing in their lives. And if they did, from a pure numbers perspective, the majority of people critiquing Usher would test positive for either type I, type II, or both. Folks love to sit behind a computer and critique people and judge others from behind the anonymity of the Internet, but if they actually were faced with having to deal with their own herpes status and it came back positive, and all those unknowns I mentioned are unknown — would they tell all their sexual partners, even people they were just kissing? I doubt that even one of them would.

So there’s nothing a person can really do from a preventive standpoint besides abstain?

If you’re worried about herpes, then you wouldn’t kiss anybody, much less have sex with them. Even your relatives. Even your grandmother. Because they could give it to you. It’s skin-to-skin. So you can put your self in a bubble and live like that for the rest of your life, or you can just do what you need to do and be okay with it, and go from there. Sexual health is not just preaching about condoms and judging folks who don’t use them.

It’s about giving folks the knowledge about how various STIs are transmitted, and counseling them through their behavioral decisions so they can keep sex pleasurable, but be aware of what they could be exposed to depending on the behavior. The more we as medical and public health providers realize that human beings make grown ass decisions of risk/benefit with behaviors, and our job is to give them education and guidance, not moral condemnation based on our own personal lives - the better off everyone will be.

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COVER FEATURE |

“It is crucial that we learn the lesson Queen Sugar is trying to teach. An object as simple as a toy will not steer a child down a certain sexual path.”

By Dontá Morrison

LITTLE Boy Blue 12 TUVMAG.COM | September+October 2017

I

am a die-hard fan of Queen Sugar and believe it to be one of the best shows on network television. The storyline is thought provoking, powerful, and sheds light on how a lot of Black families interact and handle crisis. What I have found to be most impressive is how the writers seamlessly interweave controversial subjects into each episode; one of which is the love between young Blue Bordelon and his beloved Kenya, a silky haired Barbie doll. It is an endearing situation that has ruffled some feathers and forced us to revisit discussions about what behaviors are and are not appropriate for young boys.

I recall growing up in a house filled with hyper-masculine men. My uncles were immersed in the gang culture and I witnessed some very corrupt things. It was expected that because of my association within this highly aggressive and testosterone charged environment I would become one who consistently clutched his male parts and had sex with random women throughout the neighborhood. My ideas about what a man is and does came from observations which led me to believe that the only way to be respected was through violence and antagonistic behavior. I synergized masculinity with brute force and the ability to perpetuate fear. I, unlike so many other young Black men, did not have the proper role models to guide me through adolescence and as I grew older, had much to unlearn.

Each week I tune into Queen Sugar to not only watch the challenges faced by the Bordelon family but to also witness the interaction between Ralph Angel -- a young single father whose masculine nature meets societal expectations -- and his charming son Blue. It is anticipated that a man of his character would be less understanding of his son’s connection to a doll but he has proven otherwise, and it is refreshing to witness. After being asked, Blue explained his reasons for befriending Kenya. She is a listening ear and source of support. Basically, she is a coping device that he uses to deal with his hurdles in life. In the absence of his parents (father in jail and mother on drugs) she filled the void and provided the comfort he needed. Imagine if his source of support were taken away because of appearances. How would that affect him mentally? Would he still be the same well rounded and loving young boy? More than likely he would become withdrawn and detached, constantly seeking something to replace what he cherished. I am certain that there are individuals who question the parenting skills of Ralph Angel and are eagerly awaiting the moment when he rids the doll from his son’s life. But the bigger question is ‘why’? Why are there such strict guidelines as to what objects are gender appropriate?

| COVER FEATURE It is safe to say that many of our stances and views about human sexuality and gender fluidity are the result of ideologies passed down from our elders, who were mostly advised by ill-taught religious leaders instructing from biblical misinterpretations. When will we stop behaving out of ignorance and a lack of in-depth knowledge about the complexity of human sexuality? In addition to the many heterosexuals who find fault in Blue’s obsession over a doll, there are quite a few homosexuals who are equally offended. Some believe Kenya to be a gateway to a much larger problem, some sort of entry into a feminine world that will lessen him as a man. Others think the father is setting his son up for future ridicule and judgment. As someone who works with youth, I have noticed that those who have the full support of their parents (on whatever controversial path they are on) are the most secure and stable. They do not allow the criticisms of the world to affect them as negatively. Yes, there is a sting, but to know that they have a safe and supportive parental/familial system makes all the difference.

It is crucial that we learn the lesson Queen Sugar is trying to teach. An object as simple as a toy will not steer a child down a certain sexual path. No child will become gay for playing with an object designed for the opposite sex.

There are countless gay men who grew up playing with items specific to their gender, none of which steered them closer to or further from heterosexuality.

It is time that we step back and re-examine how we deal with human sexuality. As society continues to change, so does its views on sexual behavior.

Relationships that were once shunned and shamed by the masses are now receiving deserved support. I believe that the next generation will frown upon the way we’ve handled things. The quick manner in which we box people suspected of being gay is disheartening. They will reflect on how we marginalized those who deserved to be at the table and willingly pull out a chair for them to sit.

A change is coming, and the story of Blue Bordelon is what we’ve been needing to see. All of our families have a Blue, but how many have a Ralph Angel? Are we preparing our youth (regardless of sexual orientation) for a better life, or setting them up to become statistics? Queen Sugar successfully spins the narrative, and viewers walk away with being more than entertained. They are educated, enlightened, challenged, and dared to learn the lesson and change the world.

My childhood did not consist of me playing with dolls or doing double-dutch.

I had an affinity for riding dirt bikes followed by a good game of pole-to-pole football with the other kids on my block. My activities were enough for adults to conclude that I was straight -- which explains why my family was surprised, or at least acted surprised, when I shared my desires for the same sex. In their mind, boys did things like play sports, fight, spit, and get dirty. Any actions outside of those were questioned. I recall a friend being reprimanded and spanked for partaking in activities designed for girls. As we played in the streets, he stood on the side and did hopscotch. The funny thing is that none of us (the kids) thought anything of it, but the adults frowned at the conduct. As it turns out, that same little boy grew up to be a fully functioning heterosexual with a wife and kids. Many would argue that it was a result of proper child rearing and that the ‘girly’ behaviors were beat out of him. I do not agree with those claims, but it is what it is.

13 TUVMAG.COM | September+October 2017

UNLEASHED DC |

2017

Rayceen’s Community To celebrate the theme of Family and Community, I have the privilege to honor some people who are having positive impacts on their communities. For this inaugural round of Rayceen’s Community Advocate Awards, I have chosen to focus

on three young people in Washington, DC. I have known all of them for several years and I have watched them become beacons of light in the LGBTQ community. I love them all like family and I am privileged to be their Auntie Rayceen.

Rayceen Pendarvis, HRH Photo Credit: Hugh Clarke

Shaan Michael Wade BROWNFXCK

Shaan is a multi-talented artist, activist, public speaker, and the founder of BROWNFXCK (@brownfxck), a queer/trans sex and pleasure education project dedicated to the celebration and exploration of queer and trans bodies of color and sexual diversities. With this organization, founded in 2016, Shaan creates safe spaces for people to learn, educate, and explore through workshops, monthly dinners, Twitter chats, and other events. Shaan focuses on community healing, pointing out that, “For so long, activism has focused on addressing our oppressors. That’s necessary, because they have the most power to change things, but it’s also vital to focus on our community.”

A Howard University graduate who grew up as “military brat,” Shaan has lived in DC since 2013. Shaan discusses BDSM, kink, and other taboo topics with a fearlessness second only to that of myself! Classism, racism, misogyny, gender constructs, identity politics, social justice, HIV, and much more are addressed in the work that Shaan does. I see Shaan as one of the young people carrying the torch lit by the activists who came before us.

Photo Credit: Shaan

14 TUVMAG.COM | September+October 2017

| UNLEASHED DC

Advocate AWARDS Shareese C. Moné

José Romero

Since becoming a member of the team at The DC Center (thedccenter.org) in the autumn of 2016, Shareese has made a lasting impression. In addition to hosting their monthly Trans and Genderqueer Game Night, she organized The DC Center’s first ever event for the International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers. Shareese can be seen hard at work both inside The DC Center and at various events where she shares information and interacts with the community.

When The DC Center’s exhibitor table was next to that of Team Rayceen at this year’s Trans Pride, Shareese was one of the few people to get there as early as our project manager, Zar. It’s no wonder that when asked about Shareese, The DC Center’s executive director David Mariner said, “She brings enthusiasm and energy to every project she takes on.”

José is the man behind the immensely successful DCHOMOS, which can be found on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and dchomos.com, where you can buy pride pins and other items – but more on that later. His Twitter account, @DCHomos, has over one hundred thousand followers and has been recognized as the Best Twitter Feed by the Washington Blade’s Best of Gay DC readers’ poll for two consecutive years, since the category’s inception. (While @RayceenFans was also nominated, I was glad that he won.) José regularly uses @DCHomos to disseminate information, share news stories, and highlight the work of various organizations and community leaders. He has taken on the role of investigative journalist, exposing the racism, bigotry, and bias of social media personalities, online groups, and local LGBTQ businesses. He uses screenshots and GIFs as his weapons against homophobia, transphobia, and all those who choose to belittle and demean members of our community.

Shareese was born and raised in Boston, Massachusetts, and has lived in DC for over twenty years. I admire all the work she does for trans rights, decriminalization, community empowerment, and much more. I was honored when she asked me to participate in this year’s End Violence Against Sex Workers event on December 17. Visibility is important, and my city is lucky to have such a strong advocate at the forefront of our community.

Proceeds from sales of rainbow pins and other merchandise on dchomos.com have enabled José to raise money for Casa Ruby, The DC Center for the LGBTQ Community, and The Ask Rayceen Show. Since moving to DC in 2008, José, who was born in El Salvador and grew up in Maryland and Miami Beach, has made quite an impact on our community, online and off. I look forward to supporting his future endeavors.

The DC Center for the LGBT Community

@DCHomos

Photo Credit: Jeff Salmore

Photo Credit: Jeff Salmore

15 TUVMAG.COM | September+October 2017

YOU MATTER AND SO DOES YOUR HEALTH

That’s why starting and staying on HIV-1 treatment is so important.

WHAT IS DESCOVY®?

DESCOVY is a prescription medicine that is used together with other HIV-1 medicines to treat HIV-1 in people 12 years and older. DESCOVY is not for use to help reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 infection.

DESCOVY combines 2 medicines into 1 pill taken once a day. Because DESCOVY by itself is not a complete treatment for HIV-1, it must be used together with other HIV-1 medicines.

DESCOVY does not cure HIV-1 infection or AIDS. To control HIV-1 infection and decrease HIV-related illnesses, you must keep taking DESCOVY. Ask your healthcare provider if you have questions about how to reduce the risk of passing HIV-1 to others. Always practice safer sex and use condoms to lower the chance of sexual contact with body fluids. Never reuse or share needles or other items that have body fluids on them.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

What is the most important information I should know about DESCOVY? DESCOVY may cause serious side effects: • Worsening of hepatitis B (HBV) infection. DESCOVY is not approved to treat HBV. If you have both HIV-1 and HBV and stop taking DESCOVY, your HBV may suddenly get worse. Do not stop taking DESCOVY without first talking to your healthcare provider, as they will need to monitor your health.

What are the other possible side effects of DESCOVY? Serious side effects of DESCOVY may also include: • Changes in your immune system. Your immune system may get stronger and begin to fight infections.

Tell your healthcare provider if you have any new symptoms after you start taking DESCOVY. • Kidney problems, including kidney failure. Your healthcare provider should do blood and urine tests to check your kidneys. Your healthcare provider may tell you to stop taking DESCOVY if you develop new or worse kidney problems.

• Too much lactic acid in your blood (lactic acidosis), which is a serious but rare medical emergency that can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: weakness or being

more tired than usual, unusual muscle pain, being short of breath or fast breathing, stomach pain with nausea and vomiting, cold or blue hands and feet, feel dizzy or lightheaded, or a fast or abnormal heartbeat.

• Severe liver problems, which in rare cases can lead to death. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get these symptoms: skin or the white part of your eyes turns yellow, dark “tea-colored” urine, light-colored stools, loss of appetite for several days or longer, nausea, or stomach-area pain.

• Bone problems, such as bone pain, softening, or thinning, which may lead to fractures. Your healthcare provider may do tests to check your bones.

The most common side effect of DESCOVY is nausea.

Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effects that bother you or don’t go away.

What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking DESCOVY? • All your health problems. Be sure to tell your healthcare provider if you have or have had any kidney, bone, or liver problems, including hepatitis virus infection.

• All the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Other medicines may affect how DESCOVY works. Keep a list of all your medicines and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist.

Ask your healthcare provider if it is safe to take DESCOVY with all of your other medicines.

• If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

It is not known if DESCOVY can harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider if you become pregnant while taking DESCOVY. • If you are breastfeeding (nursing) or plan to breastfeed. Do not breastfeed. HIV-1 can be passed to the baby in breast milk.

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit www.fda.gov/medwatch, or call 1-800-FDA-1088.

Please see Important Facts about DESCOVY, including important warnings, on the following page.

Ask your healthcare provider if an HIV-1 treatment that contains DESCOVY® is right for you.

16 TUVMAG.COM | September+October 2017

17 TUVMAG.COM | September+October 2017

18 TUVMAG.COM | September+October 2017

| WEDDING ANNOUNCEMENT

J

aCarlos M. Davis and Britton J. Washington met two years ago at a 24 Hour Fitness Gym in Houston, TX. They exchanged numbers on that night and have been inseparable ever since. One year into their relationship, Britton took on the noble position of serving the country and joining the United States Army.

He was gone for five months, and to JaCarlos’ surprise would return unannounced and ready to propose.

The two went on to make a great team and even enrolled in school together to obtain their master’s degrees in Counseling. When planning their wedding, they both thought it would be amazing to get married on the first day of LGBTQ Pride Month. They felt that it would be an awesome way of showing the world that “Love Wins!”

Their wedding planners, Darnell King Pledger and Daniel Brown, both spent long days and nights ensuring that the wedding was a success.

June 1, 2017 at 7:00pm was the day of the wedding at Chateau Crystale in Houston, TX. IG: @b_jwash and @callme_los

JaCarlos & Britton

DAVIS-WASHINGTON

19 TUVMAG.COM | September+October 2017

HEALTH & FITNESS | Why not just Pump It Up?

BACKSIDE

PRIDE

ACHIEVING GLUTE GREATNESS

By Gordie Holt

Although plastic surgery has come a long way, it is still a growing science.

In addition to being expensive, it does not work for everyone’s body. I’m sure you’ve seen a few people who have tried to do the basement bargain butt lift. It’s not cute. Without maintenance, it can have an artificial look and cause harmful effects to the body. Not to mention that once you’ve gotten plastic surgery, you still have to hit the gym to be sure that the shape and firmness of the surgery last.

So what is there to do in real time to get a long-lasting full firm backside?

I’m so glad you asked.

Adding the following exercises to your leg routine may yield you the results you seek.

Squats: Most would consider squats to be the bread-and-butter for achieving shapely glutes. You can do them with the barbell, dumbbells, or with no weight at all. There are also variations of squat hops, sumo squats, and deep pulse squats. I would caution you, when doing squats, not to let your bum drop below your knees. This can result in prolonged damage to your knees and the ligaments that hold you upright.

Lunges: Lunges are underrated and are great for the overall quality of leg aesthetics.

Lunges are knee-friendly, and there are countless variations to include: dumbbells, barbell, lateral lunges, pulse split squats, kick lunges, and the runner’s lunge.

When doing lunges, be sure to keep your knees away from your toes. To translate: keep your knees at a 90 degree angle.

O

f all fitness fads that are hitting the mainstream, having the perfect round firm ass has become an obsession. Everyone wants a J Lo, Beyonce, Kim Kardashian kind of donkey bum.

So how does one grow the bump to get Backside Pride?

I’ve got the answers, and I’ll also help you weed through the myths and fantasies that are floating around the web. First let’s kill the most common assumptions: It’s easy and can happen fast. False.

The glutes are a part of the leg complex -- and being the largest muscle group in the body, legs are also the slowest to show progression. The body takes time to change, but done properly you can see results within six weeks. This takes a combination of consistent training and proper nutrition. To really see results in a timely manner, you want to work your legs and glutes three times a week leaving one day in between for rest and recovery.

20 TUVMAG.COM | September+October 2017

Running : When I speak of running, I’m not talking about running for miles and miles on end. Think about a track star’s workout: performing wind sprints, running hills, and including interval training that consists of running and jumping will ignite the glutes and assist the growth that you seek. If you’re not for running outdoors, you can always perform these exercises on a treadmill.

Barre: Barre is the fundamental for all dance. Think about the ballet bump.

Because of its long-lasting effects on strengthening the legs, it has become a fitness explosion. If you don’t like the gym or your typical weight training, this is a great way to strengthen your overall leg complex and to allow your glutes to grow. Although summer is coming to a close, and you may not have had a chance to rock those short shorts or fill out that swimsuit just right, you still have a chance to get that donkey you desire. Be consistent, eat right, and be safe with your form. With the right combination, you too will get that Backside Pride. Good luck bum babies. I will be looking for your progress.

| MSM

WHERE DO I F

fit in?

By Eddie Wiley

or decades, black LGBTQ folks have had to hide in the shadows. We’ve had to fear the shame of being “outed” to our friends and family.

Some of us have gone as far as to lead two lives. I know I have.

Know that this article is not to shame someone who feels they cannot live out and proud. However, this article is to celebrate those of us who have courageously chosen to live our boldest lives. This article is for all of us who have had to wonder, “Where do I fit in?”

I remember going to family functions and nearly being forced to go outside because all the boys were supposed to be out there. (Luckily my mom didn’t want us to get dirty anyway).

I remember having to sneak and gyrate my little hips to the groove of the blues. I also remember having to hold my hands a certain way because otherwise that wrist would just be flouncing whenever I talked.

others have wrapped a t-shirt around their head as a wig.

So don’t act like you haven’t had even an ounce of the same feelings. (Don’t worry, there’s no shame here. Embrace your past. Lol.) I remember having to sit quietly at the function because I didn’t want to get fussed at for some of my “feminine ways”.

Hearing stories from the community, I’ve been heartbroken to hear some of the lengths of inconvenience that a lot of our people have had to suffer just to find somewhere to fit in. I’ve heard such horror stories that no one should have to endure.

“I remember having to sit quietly at the function because I didn’t want to get fussed at for some of my ‘feminine ways’. ”

For a long time, I wondered why I had to hide these actions.

I wondered why was it wrong to feel and do what it was that I naturally wanted to do. My mom and dad taught me and my sister that we should be individuals and not to let anyone boss us around. So why was it suddenly wrong in these scenarios to do what they’d told me to do -- to be myself, an individual?

Eventually I grew up and believed that I had to hide these natural urges to “go in” and “let have”. I know some of y’all have had the same belief. Some of my good Judies have talked about wanting to sing the “boy parts” of the song or rap a verse instead of singing the hook with the girl. Some

But, I have noticed a change.

There are many longer roads ahead that we will still have to pave, but I do believe we are treading a path for future generations that won’t have to go through the same struggles.

I’ve been at gatherings and seen the kids just being kids. I’ve seen little boys belt out Disney songs that I would have gotten smacked across the lips for singing.

Granted, some of us still live in certain fears and may not have an outlet to express our full selves. But I can’t begin to tell you the amount of joy I feel when I see a little black boy glowing in his femininity. I can’t tell you the energy I feel when I see a little girl experiment with clothes she finds in the “boys section”.

Sometimes I see them sneaking in a glance, and I’ll wink just to say, “I see ya bew!” Encourage that little brotha or sista that you see. A wink. A nod. Something! Don’t you wish you’d had someone like you when you were younger?

21 TUVMAG.COM | September+October 2017

SPIRITUALITY |

The

O

JOYOF LOVE

dd animal pairings are some of the most popular pictures on the Internet. Authors have written books devoted exclusively to abandoned animals left alone to fend for themselves, who forge relationships with unlikely friends – a dog and an elephant, a cat and a crow, a tortoise and a goat. These accounts strike a chord in us.

We sympathize with the abandonment and rejection of a young innocent creature; we suffer thinking about their vulnerability in facing a world all alone. Seeing these irregular pairings reminds us that all that really matters in the end is finding someone who accepts us just the way we are.

For the LGBTQ person, abandonment and rejection early in life has often been our reality. Finding acceptance without compromising our identity has proven to be a life challenge. In 2009, the Family Acceptance Project™ studied the impact of family rejection on the overall health and mental health of LGBT children, and the results were heartbreaking. Highly-rejected LGBT young people had low self-esteem and were: 1. More than 8 times as likely to have attempted suicide 2. Nearly 6 times as likely to report high levels of depression 22 TUVMAG.COM | September+October 2017

By Beth Trouy

3. More than 3 times as likely to use illegal drugs, and 4. More than 3 times as likely to be at high risk for HIV and sexually transmitted diseases.

When our family rejects us, we often reject ourselves.

We embody feelings of worthlessness and engage in risky behavior because we don’t place enough value on our lives. If our own family can discard us, then we might as well treat ourselves as trash. On the positive side, families can reverse this trend by validating and accepting their LGBT members. Finding an accepting community within one’s church, workplace, and neighborhood further erases the scars of rejection, replacing them with stability and hope. Our Godgiven gifts emerge when we are rooted to an affirming foundation that nurtures us.

The Catholic Church has focused for years on the importance of family and community. Though the Church still has a long way to go in fully accepting LGBT persons and their non-traditional families, it is making progress. In 2016, Pope Francis called bishops from all over the world to meet and discuss a broader vision of what makes a family. The bishops also affirmed the ongoing need for open and ongoing discussion on this topic. Why? Because families are more complex than in times past. They have needs that go beyond the traditional family structure. The Church and its pastors

recognize the need to evolve and learn to minister to ALL its members and their unique problems. Churches have long rejected the LGBT community as a whole, but we see the times are changing. The 2016 bishops’ meeting ended with Pope Francis writing a 264-page document entitled Amoris Laetitia (The Joy of Love).

This document closely examines the love within family units and the importance of the Church being a supportive community with “ . . . a place for everyone, with all of their problems.”

For those of us who have found our roots in nurturing families and welcoming Churches, we have work yet to do. We cannot wash our hands of the rejection that still permeates many families and other communities saying, “It’s not my problem anymore.” We must not abandon those who continue to be rejected. We must also hold those accountable who justify hate in the name of God. Until families, Churches, governments, and neighborhoods embrace “other” and welcome all, always and without exception, until then . . . we cannot be truly free.

| SPIRITUALITY

By Dr. Darnell Gooch, Jr. Cathedral of Praise Church of Memphis, Inc.

Pastor/Founder

T

he story of Jesus is one that is rooted in the Gospels. It is centered on the ministry of Jesus and his community after the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 CE. In this context “the ministry of Jesus” references Jesus’ spiritual journey of spreading the Good News. But for this conversation I want to speak of Jesus’ ministry as it relates to family (Father-Son relationship). This Father-Son relationship is in no way discriminatory or misogynistic but rather serves as a prototype for humanity to follow.

There is no doubt that family and community is one of God’s most precious gifts to humanity. It is a shared relationship that is nurtured and cared for by our culture and spiritual heritage perpetuated by our values. Often times we forget how important relationships are when it comes to family and community. Thus, we must emphasize its importance.

According to John’s account, when growing antagonisms occurred between those who believed in Jesus and the synagogue, powerful Jewish leaders instigated Jesus’ arrest and execution by the Romans during a Judeo-Christian tradition. There was great opposition to occur. But the Word of God brings inspiration to those who hear it, and it encourages a courageous witness by individuals who face intimidation and danger. It is through Jesus that John argues the belief that Jesus is the Logos (Greek for the Word of God) made flesh. And therefore, Jesus comes to offer new life in God even after hatred, rejection, homophobia, transphobia, discrimination,

inequalities, unfair housing, unemployment and no healthcare has been offered by No. 45 and his administration.

Dismantling the progress our nation has made is not what makes America great again. Rather it is how we honor the strides we’ve made that makes America great. Not all families and communities are a representation of a husband, wife, two or three children, a white picket fence, and a dog. Some families and communities are single parented, adopted, fostered, LGBTQ, African American, Hispanic, Native American, Asian, interracial, and so forth. It is because of these diverse families and communities that other institutions are created. And without all of these types of families and communities we would not have a large social structure and diverse society. So for the record, to No. 45 and those White Supremacists, everything cannot be “racially superior.”

It is the responsibility of all families and communities to raise up the next generation to live, better themselves, and better the world around us. In John 14:12, Jesus speaks of the greater works that we shall do, in his dialogue with Philip and Thomas. And this work must be one of progression and not regression. We, as a people and nation, have made tremendous progress over the years and to regress into history where individuals were slaves, beaten, lynched and martyred because of the color of their skin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, etc. is an indictment against those who have fought so hard to pave the way to make life better for all families and communities. It is such stories as those of Jesus, the Samaritan woman, Martin L. King, Jr., Baynard Rustin, Harriet Tubman, Rosa Parks, former President Barack Obama, former First Lady Michelle Obama, and U.S. Representative Maxine Waters that helped to transcend barriers to make this all possible. We must continue to work together to promote and maintain healthy families and communities -- and that work includes support, protection, sense of belonging, open communication, respect, progressive values, love, and care for all individuals.

23 TUVMAG.COM | September+October 2017

PPM-Focus-QuarterPgAd-mech.pdf

@AskRayceen @TeamRayceen @RayceenHRH

The

AskRayceen TeamRayceen RayceenPendarvis

Ask Rayceen Team Rayceen Rayceen Pendarvis

TEAM RAYCEEN PRESENTS

Ask Rayceen Show Monthly community festival & live entertainment hosted by Rayceen Pendarvis

C

M

Y

#AskRayceen

FREE

CM

First Wednesdays March - November 2017

Open to the public

CY

Doors open @ 6pm Showtime: 7pm CMY

AskRayceen.com Arrive early for free food sponsored by:

K

Live Music, Competitions, Panel Discussions, Burlesque, and more!

Cash Bar sponsored by:

Washington, DC’s International LGBTQ Film Festival

Free exhibitor & vendor space available

and

CO-PRESENTING SPONSOR:

MY

HRC EQUALITY CENTER 1640 Rhode Island Ave NW Washington, DC

(Near intersection of 17th Street & M Street) Metro Stations: Farragut North & DuPont Circle

24 TUVMAG.COM | September+October 2017

PROMOTION:

1

5/25/16

3:40 PM

| ONE TO WATCH

P E r P K L TA PrEP is an HIV prevention option. When taken daily it can greatly reduce your risk of getting HIV. You can protect yourself even more if you use condoms and other prevention tools.

There are more HIV prevention options than ever before.

Learn more about PrEP to decide if it is right for you. www.cdc.gov/StartTalkingPrEP /ActAgainstAIDS /StartTalkingHIV @TalkHIV

25 TUVMAG.COM | September+October 2017

CULTURE |

MEET CRISSA JACKSON aka “ACE” 13th Female Harlem Globetrotter

Eat, breathe, sleep, and dream basketball... that’s what someone may presume my life to be like. And they would be right, but only to a certain extent. You see, with all “odds” against me (being short and a woman) I dedicated my life to basketball. And in return, basketball has given me a “Life.” What I mean by that is, basketball mapped out every milestone of my life because every decision was ultimately based upon my commitment to the game. I did whatever I needed to do to become a better basketball player and achieve the goals I set for myself. It shaped me into the person I am today: a fitness nut, a mother to a beautiful daughter named Olivia (and hopefully one more child in the future), wife to an amazing, ambitious, and loving woman named Alexis -- and a professional basketball player. But all of this did not happen overnight. It took me 27 years to get where I am today, and it was not easy. There were plenty of bumps, hurdles, bruises, and scars caused by people judging me for being short, a woman, and a lesbian. But I couldn’t allow their ignorance hold me back. So I pushed, and am still pushing, because I believe in myself: my future, success, talent, and ability. But I believe there is always room for im26 TUVMAG.COM | September+October 2017

provement. So I continue to push myself to be better in all I do because I realize no one should ever become complacent.

All my drive and dedication paid off. I now travel all over the world playing basketball and putting smiles on millions of people’s faces. I get paid for doing something I worked hard for and love doing. I feel as though I do not even work, because I am doing what I love. Wouldn’t you love to do what you love and have a passion for? Well, you can! There are so many people in this world living a lie, unhappy, confused, and just hopeless (at least that’s what they think). People find it easier to follow the crowd, be “normal,” have others think for them. Why live this way when the results of these decisions cause depression and self hate? That doesn’t seem easier to me. Why not be true to yourself, and happy? Yes, it is easier said than done, but nothing in life comes easy. You must work for what you want and become the person you want to be.

This is why I began my YouTube channel: YouTube.com/ CrissaJackson. My YouTube channel provides nothing

but positive messages, good vibes, and training options. I’m in a position to change the lives of hundreds, thousands, hopefully millions of people in this world.

The mission for my channel is to be a getaway and a motivation for those who may need some guidance.

If you need advice or have questions, workout tips, or just want a peek into my Life, my channel is where you should go.

YOLO! This means “You Only Live Once.” Why wouldn’t you want to live that one life to its fullest potential, while being true to who you are? So live without regret -- which includes subscribing to my YouTube channel!

| TRANSMOVEMENT

Where Is The

I

know you have probably heard me say many times that Love and Shame cannot exist in the same space. How can you Love someone and be ashamed of that Love? By failing to embrace that truth, we often hurt those we claim to Love the most.

There is no shame in loving or being with a Trans Woman. And we need to shed the narrative of the Deceitful Trans Woman because let’s be honest: ain’t nobody being tricked. This is 2017, and people have known their sexual attractions since puberty. Yes, I said since puberty, dreaming about that special girl with something extra.

Meanwhile, it’s a safety issue for trans women to know when and how to disclose to potential partners. Because of societal notions of the existence of only two genders, many trans folks are marginalized and literally struggling to survive -- physically, mentally, and financially. 19 percent of trans folks experience domestic violence from family members and intimate partners. This must stop!

By Renae Taylor

Love

And if you book a date with an escort, pay them. Trans women are struggling to survive as it is, and sex work is one means for that survival. (And yes, sex work is work and needs to be legalized!)

On top of all these already existing dangers and challenges, because of “toxic masculinity” and The Stigma of being perceived as gay for dating trans women, some men have knowingly resorted to violence as a coping and avoidance mechanism rather than own up to their attraction. So the mere threat of violence keeps a lot of trans women from disclosing immediately after meeting a guy. That said, it’s reasonable to presume that just getting to know each other while going on casual dates or out to dinner does not require disclosure. It is only when intimacy is involved that disclosure becomes a requirement.

Honestly, a lot of times, trans attracted men already know before they even approach a trans woman. But if trans women aren’t who you’re into, what gives you the right to take a life? If you aren’t into trans women, just say no and keep it moving. No harm done. As for you trans attracted

men, stop acting ashamed and running when you’re found out. Stand up and be unapologetic in the fact that you are secure in your attractions. You should be quoting from the Book of Luther -- if loving me is wrong, you don’t want to be right.

Some men aren’t as gender specific as you think in their sexual experience, and that’s okay! It’s time to stop shaming Trans Attracted Men for who they are attracted to.

Trans women are women. If you are attracted to women, then you can be attracted to all women. Gender starts in the mind, so I let people self-Identify; you are who you say you are.

Trans attracted men, come out of the shadows and into the light! Be the change you want to see. Be bold enough and be strong enough to show us trans women the love and respect you know we’re worth. #Translivesmatter #Blacktranslivesmatter #Transattractedmenmatter #stoptheviolence I can be contacted at Renae@transcendmemphis.com I am currently seeking speaking engagements.

27 TUVMAG.COM | September+October 2017

TRANSMOVEMENT |

TRANSGENDER ARTIST

Lucas Charlie

Rose

By TUV Staff

Moments before hitting the stage in Montreal to perform for PRIDE Canada, Lucas Charlie Rose reflects on overcoming career challenges, embracing mental illness as a superpower, and loving the life he’s chosen.

28 TUVMAG.COM | September+October 2017

| TRANSMOVEMENT What inspires your music, and what is it that you aim to give your listeners?

I grew up looking up to singers who were singing transphobic lyrics because I didn’t really have anything else. So whenever I think about my platform, I picture myself as a young person in the crowd and think about what I would have wanted to see on the stage that would’ve helped me feel better. I want to make people who have never had any representation feel like they’re not alone. And even when it comes to cis people, I want to show people that you can be more free, that you don’t have to define yourself the way society defines you, that even if you’re a cis person, you can look at your gender and say, “Oh, I’m not a man because I have a penis, I’m a man because I feel like a man.” When people see me perform onstage, I just want them to see freedom.

How would you describe the tone and content of your music?

I’ve had people describe my music as trap soul because I have this trap sound and I like to turn up — but I also portray feelings with my music, so that’s where the soul comes from. I’m never trying to sound like anybody but myself, and the fact that I grew up listening to French hip-hop instead of American hip-hop, along with the fact that I spent part of my childhood in West Africa with the music there, all of this influences my sound. I also have borderline personality disorder (BPD), so the way I experience feelings and emotions is different than most people.

I feel like the best way to make them understand and connect is to translate these emotions into music. And when you have BPD, you have these dissociative moments. It’s like your brain has you somewhere else. So when I make music, that’s kind of what happens to me. I feel like there’s nothing around me. Like I’m just in an empty room. I can complete an entire song in 30 minutes because when I’m making it, it’s all dark and it’s just me and the music. If I didn’t have BPD, my music wouldn’t sound the same. It wouldn’t be as good.

How did you arrive at such a positive outlook about your mental health in spite of your diagnosis?

I know a lot of people see BPD as a curse, but I see it as a power. It’s a blessing for me. Having mental illness is like being a superhero — but just like with any power, if you don’t know how to control it, then it can be destructive. But if you do know how to control it, then you can do a lot of good with it. Depression makes you more compassionate toward other people, and being so empathetic is powerful because your compassion can change people’s lives. So like with Spiderman, “With great power comes great responsibility,” at the beginning when he doesn’t know how to control his powers and he’s just webbing everybody around him?

It’s the same thing. When it comes to people who survive cancer, everybody says they’re heroes. How come nobody says that about somebody who’s survived a suicide attempt? It’s time to change the narrative and see that we are heroes instead of victims. I’m so proud to have survived all that I’ve survived because I’ve been through so much, a lot of abuse as a child, abuse in adult

relationships, and honestly what I’m the most proud of is that I’m still alive and still striving and still doing what I intended to do with my life. I don’t feel like anything can stop me because I’ve tried to stop myself many times. A lot of people wouldn’t have been able to endure what I’ve had to endure, but I did it and I’m still smiling. So I’m just proud to be alive, and for me every day is a celebration of that.

What did the journey to the decision to transition look like for you?

I knew when I was a child that I was a boy. I told my mom when I was three years old, and I took on a boy’s name everywhere I went until eventually my parents would pick me up from somewhere and have to explain, “Wait, what? No, we don’t have a little boy.”

So it’s always been a thing, but I didn’t know that I was allowed to until I was 18 years old and met another trans guy. Once we started talking, I realized transitioning might be something I wanted to look into. But he committed suicide not long after I met him, which kind of traumatized me and led me to attempt the same thing. He exuded so much confidence and seemed so happy. He had two lesbian moms, so he was surrounded by all this support, but he still ended up dying. It made me feel like being trans was a death sentence, so I kind of put it in the back of my mind until I was 22 and met a trans guy there who was surprised to hear me say I wasn’t trans. I was on the way home when it hit me, “Hold on, I AM trans!” So I started taking the hormones and everything, even though I was still scared. I knew that I wasn’t going to be happy until I came out and started living as my true self, but I also knew that my world was going to change and everything was going to be more difficult. Because of my BPD, I wouldn’t have been able to hide who I was anyway because I have to be myself as loudly as I can — so I have no choice but to stay true to myself. Not letting myself be who I was… that was its own death sentence anyway, so I figured I might as well live as my true self and figure out how to make it better.

When I go on tour, people think I’m rich. I’m like, no, I’m taking 28-hour bus rides and I’ve slept on couches full of bedbugs just so I could perform in another state. But I love what I do so much.

There’s nothing else I see myself doing.

What was involved in your decision to be out as a trans artist rather than try to fly under the radar for your career’s sake?

If I was doing it for myself only, then yeah I would’ve hidden the fact that I was trans, would’ve just performed as a cis person, would’ve just gotten the money and the opportunities and run with them. But I’m not doing it just for me. I’m doing it because I want to be the person I never had growing up. I want to really make a change. I sincerely believe music is going to change the way people see trans people. If you have a trans person at the level of Drake or Rihanna, for example, these are people that you never know, never met, but you are going to empathize with them because you feel so close to them since they’re sharing so much. And I feel like if there was a trans person at that level, then people would have no choice but to humanize them, to listen to what they have to say. So I want my people to be able to benefit from what I’m doing and be able to do the same thing — not have to be like, “Oh, if I want to make money then I have to hide the fact that I’m trans.”

What’s next for you as far as upcoming projects?

I’m working on my second album called Gender F***boy that should be coming out in the fall. And also in the fall, we have the Philly Trans Health Conference. And we have a few surprises, Trans Trenderz, in October, something special on Halloween Day. I’m not going to say anything more about that yet, but that’s going to be really exciting.

What impact has transitioning had on your music, its reach, or your career trajectory?

People don’t book me as much. People don’t pay me as much.

Even though my music sounds better now than before. I wasn’t nearly as good of an artist before I was trans because I wasn’t confident. I was a little awkward. The production value of my music went up so much after my transition, and how I felt about myself had so much to do with that. So if I got booked more then than now, that’s clearly because I’m trans. So I just book myself and organize my own shows because I know that I have fans, and I know my talent is there, and I’m confident in my art. I know that if I wasn’t trans, I would already be at the mainstream. When I perform in front of cis people they’re always looking at me weird and silent and just kind of staring at my crotch wondering what’s happening down there. I know once I get past that moment and people stop looking at me like that it will be much easier, but right now there’s not really a trans artist in the mainstream.

So the first person to make it to that level is going to have to go through the lack of opportunity and break down those barriers.

And I really don’t feel like there’s anything holding me back.

Available on iTunes, Spotify, Tidal, Shazam, 8tracks and everywhere else!

Buy on iTunes: http://apple.co/1XsU4iq

29 TUVMAG.COM | September+October 2017

ONE TO WATCH |

C

andyce “Marsh” John is an artist native of New Haven, CT, passionate about empowering others and using her art as a key to unleash creative minds confined to social faux pas.

Although she was born with a natural tact for art, she was reborn after having a life changing epiphany that followed the passing of her grandmother. When her grandmother, who had played the role of a second mother from the time Marsh was born, passed away in 2013 a dark cloud lined in sorrow seemed to cover the artist’s life.

Art became a means of escaping the pain of mourning, yet an expression of everything she felt about life.

On August 16, 2015 she entered her first art show, Freeminds Company Presents: Exhibition of Arts. Suddenly, she felt alive again. She felt a sense of purpose and destiny -- a reason to continue to live. Acting on her newfound passion, she enrolled in art school at Gateway Community College in New Haven and began exploring ways to expound upon her natural artistic abilities. At 25, she enrolled in school with the initial intention of simply becoming an expert tattoo artist, but eventually fell in love with painting. She went on to present her work at an array of events and exhibits on the East Coast, some of which include: Art and Rhymes (2015-2017), Read’s Art Space (2015-2017), Artist Vibes (20162017), Art House Presents: The State of The City (2016), Rainbow Fashion Week (2016), The Grind (2017), and The Nasty Women Exhibit (2017).

“Art allowed me to put my emotions and mental distractions on canvas, forcing my mind to surrender. Art will always remain my outlet, my love, my life, and without it I’d probably be insane.” ~Marsh

Meet Candyce

Marsh John Follow Marsh: @ marshunart @marshunart 30 TUVMAG.COM | September+October 2017

@marshunart

Marsh is also the founder of the The LinQ, a virtual interactive outlet for artists around the world, encompassing an online magazine, smartphone application, and hardcopy edition which will be available in 2018. The platform serves as a tribute to her belief in underground artists, and as a promising outlet for visual artists, writers, poets, dancers, and musicians to amplify their voices in one sound place of creative expression. However, The LinQ is not Marsh’s only expression of love for other artists. She also founded Juice Box and Paint in the summer of 2015, for aspiring artists between the ages of 2-7, to cultivate young minds in her community with a passion for art.

“I was a child once, and I understand the need for a child’s voice to be heard. They need outlets of free creative expression just as much as anyone else. I want to teach them a way to vent and explore the world constructively.” ~Marsh Marsh attributes much of her inspiration to artists including Jean-Michel Basquiat, Pablo Picasso, Jasper Johns, Renee Cox, and Samella Lewis. Yet Marsh also believes much of her success coincides with lessons from her mother, a single-parent, who gave Marsh the edge and confidence to chase her dreams and be her own boss -- a lesson that Marsh is honored to share with the world.

Marsh creates custom designs for clothing, sneakers, and hats. She also designs custom tattoos and creates custom art pieces including portraits, paintings, and drawings. For prices and booking email: marshunart@ gmail.com.

| CULTURE

Combining her passions for food, entertainment, and helping others flourish, Ashanti Middleton created Taste & Toast as a web series devoted to exposing viewers to the noteworthy restaurants, dishes, and drinks that she features. She enjoys sharing the success of the series with her life partner, Tiqua Middleton, who assists with the show’s social media management.

Middleton aspires for the show to someday be featured on a network such as VH1, BET, Centric, OWN, or the Food Network. “There isn’t anyone like me doing this,” she says. “I’m a young African-American lesbian woman… I’m a super minority! And I’m so happy with who I am.”

Ashanti Middleton Host and Executive Producer Taste & Toast with Ashanti Middleton 347.295.9444 Ashanti@TasteAndToastWithUs.com Instagram: @tasteandtoastam

www.tasteandtoastwithus.com 31 TUVMAG.COM | September+October 2017

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s a health care provider, educator, and advocate, Planned Parenthood Greater Memphis Region (PPGMR) understands that LGBTQ+ people often come through our doors with unique healthcare needs, in addition to experiencing greater obstacles to obtaining sexual and reproductive health services. Those with layering identities — whether as a person of color, a person who is low income, and/or a person who is undocumented — can face even more barriers to care. At Planned Parenthood, we take pride in providing high-quality, compassionate healthcare for everyone, including vital healthcare services like cancer screenings, STI testing and treatment, and birth control — regardless of sexual orientation, gender expression, or gender identity.

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Gay and bisexual men, along with transgender women — particularly those of color — continue to be disproportionately impacted by HIV. At PPGMR, we provide free HIV testing and links to care, and have expanded services to include pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), a daily drug regimen that helps prevent HIV when taken correctly, as well as post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), an emergency treatment to reduce the risk of HIV after possible exposure. Through our program Free Condoms Memphis, we distribute free condoms and other safer sex supplies at locations throughout Shelby County. You may find out more at FreeCondomsMemphis.org.

Planned Parenthood now has two health centers to serve even more people in our community: our Midtown location at 2430 Poplar Avenue

and our new location near Summer Avenue and I-240 at 835 Virginia Run Cove. You may schedule an appointment for any of our services by calling 901.725.1717 or by visiting us online at www.

PlannedParenthood.org/Memphis.

We also know that LGBTQ+ youth often lack access to accurate and queer inclusive sex education.

PPGMR strives to offer such programs, as well as to provide safe and supportive environments that allow youth to get the information and support they need to make healthy decisions and feel comfortable in their identities.

In the past two years, there have been truly appalling bills and rhetoric targeting transgender and gender nonconforming people. Planned Parenthood believes that these senseless “bathroom” laws invent a nonexistent issue and lead only to discrimination and harassment – and that everyone should be able to use the public restroom that corresponds with their gender identity.

LGBTQ+ people, young and old, have found the courage to stand up to oppression year after year, and to push this country forward. Planned Parenthood stands firmly against those who would seek to deny rights or services to LGBTQ+ people simply because of who they are or who they love.

We are proud to reaffirm our commitment to your rights and your health.