APR 2023
NYC FASHION WEEK
THE ONE AND ONLY LEE SOULJA TAKES NYC ON A BLACK QUEER JOURNEY THROUGH FASHION AND BLAQUEOUT CAME ALONG FOR THE RIDE.
ISSUE#031
TAMARA S. LEIGH, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
CONTENTS BLAQUE/OUT MAGAZINE IS A MONTHLY DIGITAL PUBLICATION CENTERED FIRMLY IN BLACK & BROWN QUEER QULTURE. BLAQUE/OUT FEATURES WRITERS, ARTISTS, PHOTOGRAPHERS, CREATIVES AND INFLUENCERS FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD. WE ARE WORDS. WE ARE ART. WE ARE FASHION. WE ARE CULTURE. WE ARE MUSIC. WE ARE PROTEST. WE ARE WHERE BLAQUE QUEER CULTURE LIVES. FIND US ON FACEBOOK, IG, TIKTOK. TO SUBSCRIBE TO BLAQUE MAGAZINE, VISIT: HTTPS://ISSUU.COM/STORE/PUBLISHERS/BLAQUEOUTMAG/ SUBSCRIBE
FOR ADVERTISING, EMAIL ADVERTISING@BLAQUEOUTMAG.COM FOR SUBMISSIONS, EMAIL TAMARALEIGH@BLAQUEOUTMAG.COM
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WWW.ISSUU.COM/BLAQUEOUTMAG WWW.BLAQUEOUT.COM
NYC CENTER FOR BLACK PRIDE FASHION WEEK EDITORIAL
04
BLAQUEOUT MAG CONTRIBUTORS
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LIVING IN THE LIGHT JAVANNAH DAVIS
39
HOW I LEARNED WHAT BLACK PRIDE WAS
TRANSISM SERMON: UNITE US FOR US
IEXCEPTIONAL EXPECTATIONS LADE BREEZ 03
EXCLUSIVE!
BLAQUE/OUT MAG 2023 BLACK PRIDE SPOTLIGHTS 09 RVA 28 BOSTON URBAN PRIDE
COVER PHOTOGRAPHER: NZARI USIKU COVER MODEL: SHAWNTEL K. BONET
ADVERTISING ACCOUNT MANAGER: DOREEN SCANLAN
APRIL 2023 | ISSUE# 031
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BlaqueOUT contributors
Javannah J. Davis (she/her) resides in Rochester, NY where she has worked in healthcare for 19 years, is a self-published author, Founder/President of W.A.V.E Women Inc & CEO/Owner of Linjé Enterprises LLC. Javannah is passionate about healing, self-love, self actualization & helping others to live the best of their lives in a healthy way.
Benjamin Griffin III; (he/ him/his). Enjoys bringing laughter to those he encounters and a major collector of Diecast School Bus models. In addition, he has a heart for education & children! Lastly, he is 1 half of "A Moment w/ The Griffins"
Lade Breez (He/Her/Them) is an award winning 3x published author, publisher, philanthropist, humanitarian, motivational speaker, life coach, event host, youth tutor, artist developer & spoken word artist. Owner & founder of Express Me Poetry Business Services & Events, & Educated Blessyns LLC, improving this world one stage at a time. ExpressMePoetry.com
E.L. Winston of Fayetteville, NC (He,Him, His) Trans Community Advocate, Co-Founder of Lambda Gamma Omega Nu Fraternity. Just your everyday introspective old man and 1 half of Team Winston
Immani Love, (she/her) A Lesbian Erotic Poet, Author, Ordained Minister, Freelance Writer, Real Estate Agent, and overall witty, seductress with the voice of a Siren. An educated Vixen in sunny St. Pete, Florida.
Roni Winston aka The Mrs. aka Pastor Roni (She/Her/Hers) Fayettevlle, NC. Minister, educator, entrepreneur, couples' coach, writer, mom, and grandma. Half of Team Winston.
Tina Marie Jones (she/her/hers) Founder of Uncover, LLC, mother of 4, activist, motivator, and columnist.
Mel Howard (he/him) Resides in Newport News, Virginia where he worked in finance industry for over 5years, is a columnists for BlaqueOUT Magazine and Founder/President of THRIVING TRANSMEN OF COLOR. Mel is passionate about community, self acceptance and forgiveness. David Maurice Griffin (He, Him, His) Columbia, SC; Providing the gift of massage is what he does, but spreading awareness of HIV/AIDS is who he is…1 half of "A Moment w/ The Griffins"
Tamara Leigh (She/Her)) Editor of Blaque/OUT Magazine. Lead Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Consultant with Blaque/OUT Consultanting with a focus on Intersectionality. Activist, Educator and Advocate. Mom of 2. From NY, In FL.
In February, Blaque/OUT got the honor of covering the NYC Center for Black Pride "Spotlight on Fashion" Show for Fashion Week. Lee Soulja gave us an enchanting walk through Black Queer Fashion, and this month we get to take you along for that journey. Our photographer, Nzari Usiku got so many incredible shots, we struggled to decide which to publish. We passed them around, we voted and they broke even. They were all amazing. At the end of the day I chose to highlight, not one of the models or designers but the performer that night... Shawntel K. Bonet out of Brooklyn.
a word. Tamara Sanaa Leigh Editor-In-Chief
Our Cover Girl ... Shawntel K. Bonet Booking: Manager (646) 217-8791 Email: shawntelauroramunroe@gmail.com Shawntel K Bonet ShawntelKarsdashianBonet
Right now Trans lives and thus Drag performers are under attack in our country. They have delighted and dazzled us for generations. They are Art, they are Fashion, they are the Show, they are Qulture. Activism is by nature performative. You speak up to make noise, to draw attention, to create change. Here at Blaque/OUT we try not to respond to crisis , to defend based on need or follow the headlines. We try to show up every day, in every way for each and every member of our Black & Brown LGBTQ+ community. But just in case you forgot, BLAQUE/OUT SUPPORTS DRAG QUEENS today and every day.
THE OLD MAN'S E.L. WINSTON CORNER
I've been blessed though to cross paths with some really genuine guys who are out here doing the work and living their best lives. They are on Team Encourage all the way and that’s the circle I’m looking to build not only for myself but for the community as well. It is so needed right now. It is unexplainably difficult navigating Rochelle J Photography
By the time you guys read this, I will have participated in the 100 Masc Suits, a healing retreat and panel discussion with masculine of center people. Most of the brothers that are attending are Trans like myself but it is open to anyone of masculine center. It is important that brothers of Trans experience start to create real spaces where we can be free to be our authentic selves. Spaces for us to be recognized and recognize one another. The need for more spaces where brothers can gather and show each other love and support is needed more than others know, but maybe even more than we acknowledge ourselves. There is so much foolishness out here with buckets of misinformation and people who mean us no good. With all of the sillines, you can only imagine what kind of damage it does. All of that brings me to this place where I've been thinking alot about my guy circle. I must admit it’s kinda small, but I’m out to change that. The misconception that men don’t share space well because competition is always in the atmosphere is a false narrative and I want to help dispel this myth.
my Trans experience without having trustworthy brothers to share it with. So I’m
super
excited
about
the
relationships that I’m currently building. Hopefully, we can make it grow out. Be the change we want to see. It is a blessing to sit at the table with men who have dreams and aspirations like my own and we’re able to genuinely support and love each other. We hold each other accountable and grow as men. It is so refreshing yet it is a thing I didn’t know I needed. The beautiful thing in my Trans journey is I’m in total control of what kind of man I am; I get to pick the circle of brothers I want to pour into along the way; and who I want to pour into me. Do an Old Man a favor and surround yourself with those who are meant to feed into and not those that would come to drain you. Build yourself a circle!
Writer: Javannah J. Davis Javannah Jasmeen Jjasmeend20
QUEER REVOLUTIONARIES
In the 1960s and 1970s the pageant world was overwhelmingly integrated – for women of color, lightening your skin with makeup was the norm for a chance at winning. In her early years, Crystal worked, competed, and made a name for herself during the 1960s Manhattan drag circuit. She was a fur fanatic who was an epitome of glamour and poise. Ultimately, she went on to win the title “Miss Manhattan”, an achievement which would land her a spot in future affluent pageants.
Unbeknownst to her, she would make history on a cold Monday evening - February 13th, 1967. On this night, the Miss All-America Camp Beauty Contest was held at New York City's Town Hall. Announced as the third runner up & coming in fourth place, Crystal unleashes her long overdue rage at judges and walks off stage. In that moment, she realized the standard of beauty was solely based on race. The winner was announced as a much younger, less than-glamorous White woman. The unforgettable events of the evening would be captured on film in the Iconic 1968 documentary The Queen. Sick and tired of being overlooked, Crystals good friend Lottie convinced her to start her own pageant. Crystal was the pioneer of civil rights, equality, and integration of pageants. In 1972, Crystal & Lottie LaBeija presents: “The 1st Annual House of LaBeija Ball” at Up the Downstairs Case in Harlem, NY. It was the first of its kind to welcome those from their community, people who looked like them, people who lived like them, people who were them – people of color! The House of LaBeija is the first ballroom house and was the first to host benefits to raise awareness during the 1980s HIV/AIDS epidemic. In ballroom, a “house” is a safe- haven for queer people of color and a home with a family for those who don’t have one. As with any traditional home, it is structured with a Mother (the head/leader/financier of the house) and Children (younger members of the house). A staple that is still implemented today. There is little information surrounding Crystal’s death in the mid-90s from organ failure due to her extreme hormone regimen, however her legacy lives on.
References: The Royal House of LaBeija
BLAQUE/OUT
BLACK PRIDE '23 SPOTLIGHT Black Pride RVA, a program of UGRC, came into being to celebrate the unique intersection of identities experienced by all Black LGBTQIA+ people, to promote equality for Black LGBTQ people within the broader Richmond community, and to work towards health equity for the Black LGBTQIA + communities of Richmond and Virginia. Who is the voice behind Black Pride RVA?
Co-Founders: Luise "Cheezi " Farmer, Zakia McKensey, and Rev. Dr. Lacette Cross.
How did the Black Pride RVA come about?
In 2016, sitting at a roundtable in Tarrant's, Rev. Dr. Lacette Cross brought together several Community Leaders to discuss how to create space when our voices were not being heard and space was not being developed at the table for black and brown people. After several meetings and discussions, Cheezi, Lacette, and Zakia decided to move forward and created Us Giving Richmond Connections, Inc., a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.
What is the difference between UGRC and Black Pride RVA?
Us Giving Richmond Connections, Inc. is the name of the non-profit organization and Black Pride RVA is a program of the organization. Tell me your story is there a reason you became a visionary, minister, and founder? As Cheezi Farmer I have 30+ years of giving back to the community, and 30+ plus years of bridging the gap between black and brown communities of color.
What message do you want to leave the community with? Us Giving Richmond Connections: Values: EQUITY…INTEGRITY….VOICE There is beauty in diversity! UGRC/Black Pride RVA welcomes everyone.
April 22nd - Community Health Fair April 22nd - Legacy and Jay Whit Live (fundraiser) April 29th - Dinner in the Dark (fundraiser) June 17th - LGBTQIA Prom (17 & up) July 14th-16th -Black Pride RVA weekend
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- Pastor Roni
PORTRAITS PRESTIGE BY:
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Whosoever Fears...
The impact and influence of African Americans on popular culture around the world can be experienced through food, music, fashion and in their vernacular. This fact is even more true for Black LGBTQ people. Lee Soulja, the Executive Director of The NYC Center for Black Pride wanted to find a way to showcase this and decided that New York Fashion Week (NYFW) would be the perfect time. He partnered with The LGBT Center and created the NYFW event, SPOTLIGHT ON FASHION to present the collections of three designers, Douglas Says, Michael Leon and Larry Underwood's House of Underwood. These designers are veterans of the fashion industry with over 30 years experience. Douglas Says' resume is very impressive. He's noted for creating calculated timeless collectables which can be easily rolled up and tucked away for travel. Michael Leon, a transplant from Philadelphia has made an imprint on the world with his art, style and fashion that is reflective of his persona and spirit. To describe Michael the words Bold, Elegant and Sophisticated comes to mind. Larry Underwood started his House of Underwood collection in 1988. His garments are truly timeless treasures because they combine avant garde silhouettes with traditional fabrics in classic styles. Everything Larry touches is made with the finest Couture techniques.
Lee Soulja
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APRIL
Nzari Usiku FEATURE PHOTOGRAPHER, darkartist2113@gmail.com
NYC
LOVE LIVES IN US...
The Winstons Winston and the Mrs. (E. L. and Roni)
Love lives in us…the Winstons. And we want to share some of it with you. “Hey dear, your slip is showing.” “Don’t air your dirty laundry.” “Don’t throw your pearls before swine.” “Our business is our business.” Your momma warned you about ensuring that other people only knew what she wanted them to know. Somehow we have stopped keeping that same energy. Now, we want to tell our buddies/girls about everything wrong with our mate. Oversharing is not the way to go. Keep you and your spouse some business!
The Mrs. I love my friend girls! They help me to get through moments of crisis. They celebrate the wins with me. They are absolutely amazing and I don’t know what I would do without them, but they are not my spouse. I can’t tell them everything whether it be the good, the bad, or the ugly. If I do share with them, then these are the friend girls who realize that any complaint is not grounds for divorce or who love the way Winston loves me rather than harbor resentment towards my happiness. I have these good friends because I have shown myself to be a true friend, so shouldn’t I give my mate the same energy. I wanted a loving, committed, communicative relationship, so I had to demonstrate that I could be that type of woman myself. At the end of the day, no one should be able to tell you anything about your spouse that you don’t already know. If we have a problem, I need to talk about it. If I have an opinion, I should share it. If something bothers me, then I must open Pandora’s box. The work of a well-balanced relationship means I know who I am, I know who my partner is, and we share all of the ebbs and flows. Stop letting your slip show!
Winston I really hate it when people do that whole If I were you I would…. BUT you're not me and I won’t be following any of that stuff you’re saying. I've always been of the mindset that I’m not gonna share anything with another person that I haven't shared with my spouse and I don't share with people who don’t have my relationship’s well being in mind. Often when someone is giving their many opinions on how you should do all of these things they've failed to do them in their own broken relationships. Today’s age of content creation and video transparency with over sharing is at an all time high and people have forgotten that everything is not meant to be shared with everyone. If you're talking to anyone other than to your spouse about any concerns, be they big or small, you’re doing your relationship a disservice and a great harm. You can not be overwhelmed with the opinion of friends and family because they did not take those vows and they don't have to be concerned about any outcome. My wife is my soulmate and partner in crime. I always come back to those points when I do share something with my boys about a situation. Remember some things need to be just for us and about us.
Thoughts to Leave You
Friends are wonderful and being open with them is wonderful, but if your partner is not your closest friend and greatest confidante, then something is broken. All of your best secrets should be hidden in the heart of the one you see as a lifetime partner. The fullness of your relationship is developed by the love that lives in us, so why would you share your most intimate self with anyone else? Your love is precious, so stop spreading it in the streets!
BLAQUE/OUT
BLACK PRIDE '23 SPOTLIGHT As a response to numerous conversations within our QTBIPC community many acknowledging the predominantly white LGBTQIA+ spaces in Boston, Curtis Santos and Eilakeisha Spencer founded Boston Lesbigay Urban Foundation a 501c3 community-led, nonprofit organization, and subsequently, Boston lesbigay urban events (B.L.U.E.).
June 29, 2023 - July 3, 2023 Boston Lesbigay Urban Events mission is to produce an annual festival (Boston Urban Pride) that uplifts the voices within the QTBIPOC community in the inner city of Boston and surrounding areas. We focus on strengthening cultural connections through diverse urban events while promoting unity, nonconformity, health and wellness resources and family activities for all to enjoy. We party with a purpose
Team Members: Founders / Organizers of Boston Urban Pride Eilakeisha Spencer and Curtis Santos We partner with the following on events during Urban Pride weekend that also make up our team: Koya, Charne, and Ari (Secret Society) -Ive attached photos of them to be added Vionet (Buenas_Ent) -Ive attached photos of her to be added Star & Prince (Island Pride) -Ive attached photos of them to be added Diggity Dom De'Zyre Cassadine Dupree Brand Ambassadors: Tena (Manager) Mika Diggity Dom CJ
ANGUISH I CAN SEE THE WALLS CAVING. AS I PRETEND I AM FINE. THEY CAN SEE ME FAKING. I FORGOT HOW TO BEHAVE. NOTHING WARRANTS MY ATTENTION. I THOUGHT I WAS DREAMING AND THEN I STOPPED BREATHING. I CAN FEEL MY INTELLECT BREAKING. MY SANITY IS FRAILTY. THE WALLS AROUND ME ARE ENCROACHING CLOSER. I KNEW I WAS NOT DREAMING WHEN I COULD FEEL THE OXYGEN STOPPING. I TOIL MENTALLY. I COULD SCREAM RIGHT NOW BUT I AM TOO BUSY GASPING FOR AIR. I CAN SEE THE WALLS CLOSING IN. THE DEMONS GAINED A VICTORY RIGHT NOW. MY WORLD IS ON FIRE RIGHT NOW. HAZE ALL AROUND MY WORLD. I AM SUFFOCATING RIGHT NOW. I DETEST MYSELF RIGHT NOW. I PASS OUT. THE SPRINKLERS GO OFF. I CAN HEAR THE DOCTORS AROUND ME. A SERENDIPITOUS ENCOUNTER. I OPEN MY EYES NOTHING LOOKS THE SAME. FRAGMENTS OF WHAT HAPPENED SHIFT LIKE A KALEIDOSCOPE. THE MONITOR BEEPS. I CAN SEE THE EXIT SIGN. -MEL HOWARD
New York
Living in the light:Spotlight Interviews w/Javannah J. Davis Presents
KAMRYN JERREL (She,Her)
Community Leader, Activist, Advocate
JD: Tell us about yourself? (childhood, coming out experience, etc.) KJ: I am a Transwoman from the 80's. I grew up here in Rochester for most of my life. My childhood is a bit bleak, as I became aware of my Trans status at a very young age. Growing up in a hyper-masculine household didn't afford me the freedom I needed to flourish. So I buried my identity for decades. I became a professional wrestler to offset my "tendencies" as labeled by my father. I hid my sexual identity and Gender identity as best I could. All the while damaging myself along the way. I came out as Trans and Pan at 33 years old. I gave up my wrestling career as I was sure it would be taken otherwise. I was terrified but ready.Things have not been terrible since then. The newfound love I have cultivated for myself was worth the loss. JD: How did family and friends react to your decision to be your authentic self? Were you supported in your decision, if so, by whom? KJ: My family “othered” me, almost immediately. I still have to explain to some of them how their thought processes regarding trans existence are archaic and borrowed white oppression. To no avail. So I am in the midst of making my own family. Blood does not necessarily bond us. JD: What was/is the BEST thing about your transition? KJ: The release of the resentment I had towards myself. Lifts more and more each day.
Kamryn is the host of 'Tranos and the Lived Experience' podcast, a Co-Owner of New Queer Order network, and a LGBTQ+ advocate working towards radical intersectional justice for transgender people. She has spoken out for and educated our community on Black and Trans justice and is the Founder and Board chair of The League for Equity Of Gender In Our Neighborhoods (LEGION), a Black Trans run organization for the defense of gender expansive people in the Rochester area. JD: What was the HARDEST thing about your transition? Is there anything you’d do differently? KJ: I would have done things sooner. Realizing now that the things I feared losing I lost so they were not worth waiting to figure out. Not a single lost friend or family member was a shock to me. I heard how they treated my kind for decades. I was under no disillusion that I would be spared the homophobia or blatant transphobia. I was not Strong enough to see it then, but I am now, but that isn't how time works. JD: What prejudices/discrimination/racism have you experienced as a transgender individual in the Rochester, NY community? If so, what happened? KJ: I have been physically attacked on several different occasions. I once worked a single job for about 16 years. Since coming out I have had to quit 9 times due to hostile environments. And have been fired 7 times, but never for my job performance. In Rochester if you are aware of your rights as a queer person of color you are a liability. Rochester is one of the most Racist, Homophobic, Transphobic, Ableist and somehow still very segregated work environments in all of New york.
JD: What prejudices/discrimination/racism have you experienced as a transgender individual in the Rochester, NY community? If so, what happened? KJ: I have been physically attacked on several different occasions. I once worked a single job for about 16 years. Since coming out I have had to quit 9 times due to hostile environments. And have been fired 7 times, but never for my job performance. In Rochester if you are aware of your rights as a queer person of color you are a liability. Rochester is one of the most Racist, Homophobic, Transphobic, Ableist and somehow still very segregated work environments in all of New york. KJ: The community here is not as strong as it would make itself out to be. The LGBTQIA movements here are too often white centered, over saturated with programs run by white queer counterparts who speak over POC activists. It borrows too much from white respectability. At times it feels like a popularity contest centered around clicks and altruistic agendas. It leans heavily on black and brown LGBTQIA peoples and then values are contributions based on popularity and assimilation. Rochester is the literal Factory where Performance Art Allyship is made. A majority of the time the bigotry starts inside the community, leaving very little actual safe spaces for all LGBTQIA people. JD: What is your BEST and WORST experience in a healthcare setting? KJ: Trillium has often been a source of problematic care for trans people of color, but no one is as dangerous as the University of Rochester. Don't believe me, research the history of complaints between them and the Unity health system.
KJ: I have been both sadly. My experience has been that there is no infrastructure built to combat either of those issues. We are very aware of how trans people are treated on job sites. We are even more aware of how brown and black people are treated at the same sites, but there is no structure to battle either issue here. Especially nothing that protects Trans people of color. JD: What would you like your community to know about you as a transgender person in your community? As a black or brown transgender/GNC person in your community? In the Rochester, NY community? KJ: Resilience is a gift given to me by experience, but it is not the only gift I attained through this revolutionary love I cultivate for myself daily. JD: What advice or guidance would you share with the trans youth in your community? KJ: Unify, destroy the bias within this community, for the sake of us. No more tip toeing around it. Down with respectability and the constant centering of oppressors.
Follows Kamryn's Podcast/Social Media: Instagram - @Tranoslives TikTok - @TranosPod
JD: Have you ever been homeless and/or unemployment due to being Transgender? What were your experiences during these times?
To check out the FULL video interview with Kamryn, visit Blaque/OUT TV at: https://youtu.be/HwbJqdU-xRE -or -
www.wavewomeninc.com
Tranos Lived Experience AND THE
PODCAST Ka mr y n ( p r o n o u n c e d Ka m- R y e - e e n ) E h l e n Ma h a r e t J e r r e l ( s h e / h e r ) i s a t r a n s w o ma n o f p o w e r . S h e i s t h e c r e a t o r a n d h o s t o f ' T r a n o s a n d t h e l i v e d E x p e r i e n c e . A p o d c a s t o n t h e Ne w Qu e e r Ne t w o r k , a n d c a n b e f o u n d a n y w h e r e p o d c a s t s a r e s t r e a me d . S h e i s a l s o t h e f o u n d e r a n d c u r r e n t c h a i r o f ' L e a g u e f o r E q u i t y o f Ge n d e r i n o u r Ne i g h b o r h o o d s , a l s o k n o w n a s L E GI ON. A B l a c k T r a n s l e d n o n - p r o f i t o r g a n i z a t i o n f o r t h e b e t t e r me n t a n d f i n a n c i a l e q u i t y o f T r a n s / Ge n d e r e x p a n s i v e p e o p l e i n t h e Ro c h e s t e r area.
WAVE WOMEN INC.
HEY!!
'WAVE ROUNDTABLE '
MEETINGS ARE BACK AND
IN-PERSON!
THE ‘WAVE ROUNDTABLE’ HAPPENS THE LAST SUNDAY OF EVERY MONTH EITHER IN-PERSON. EACH SESSION WILL ALSO BE AVAILABLE VIA ZOOM FOR
THOSE
WHO
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PHYSICALLY. WE WILL BE ABLE TO CONNECT WITH OTHER WOMEN
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Last Sunday of every month 4:oopm - 6:00pm Contact us for location details!
Meeting ID: 575 092 2011 Passcode: 7T3c0h
For more info:
Javannah@wavewomeninc.com
www.wavewomeninc.com
How I learned what black pride was Immani Love S
ummer of 2014 …I was in London with my wife (now ex-wife) while she did research for her dissertation at Cambridge University. I had just released my first CD of Erotic Poetry on iTunes and it was selling better in the UK and France than it was in the US so I took our trip as an opportunity to do some research of my own. I went to networking events and social nights and met some amazing people. Through those connections I gained a few opportunities to actually perform a few times while in London. I was even able to march in the Pride in London Parade! The day after the parade there was a Pride Festival in the Park to close out the Pride weekend and we went to enjoy it.
he park was a huge green space in the Tmiddle of London called Vauxhall Gardens. As we walked through the park we saw people laying in the grass listening to music, watching drag shows and other entertainment. It was very laid back,very sparse, and very for lack of a better word… WHITE. There was a long line of vendor booths and then as if walking through a cosmic portal the scenery changed and I immediately noticed the difference…there were mainly Black and Brown people on this side of the park! The music changed, the sounds and smells changed and I felt immediately more at “home” on this side of the park. I had no idea that Pride was somehow unofficially segregated!
W
e had stumbled upon a separate event that was partnered with Pride in London that was appropriately called UK Black Pride. There were 3x as many people on this side of the park, the smoke in the air was heavy with spices of Caribbean food that filled our nostrils and made our mouths water. The stage and performances were curated with Poetry, Afrobeats and Deep House music, dancing and was fantastic, energetic, and full of color! And not just vibrant costume colors, there were PEOPLE of color and every ethnicity under the rainbow, literally. It was amazing and I knew I HAD to be a part of it! I met this powerhouse of a woman by the name of Lady Phyll Opoku, who I later learned was a co-founder of UK Black Pride and introduced myself. She was ridiculously busy but gracious enough to listen to me and tell me how to be involved the next year. I had no idea that this woman would soon become someone I call my dear friend.
around that space and fell in Love with the beautiful faces I Isawwalked that all had one thing in common…they were LGBTQ+ and People of Color who wanted to show their Pride and be seen among one another. They didn’t see themselves in the traditional Pride celebrations and parties. They weren’t typically represented in Pride’s media, they weren’t booked to perform on traditional Pride stages, and although their money was just as hard earned and spent to support Pride, they felt the need to create their own Pride celebration and support the people who looked more like them and I was here for it. The next year, I returned to tour throughout the UK and Europe and made sure to be a part of UK Black Pride and performed before the largest crowd of POC fox I had ever seen! It was exhilarating! My sign language interpreter was a statuesque Queer Arabic man name Yusef, wearing jeans, a button down shirt and the most fabulous pair of gold heels I’d ever seen in a size 13! I did my performance and spent the afternoon mingling and taking pictures with the crowd. I met Lady Phyll again and thanked her for having such an incredible event and allowing me to be a part. She thanked ME for sharing my gift and told me I was welcome anytime I was in London. returned to perform again and again and watched as the event grew from 3,000 people to last years record breaking over 25,000+ people having outgrown 3 very large outdoor venues to become named The world’s largest celebration for African, Asian, Middle Eastern,Latin American and Caribbean-heritage LGBTQI+ people by the Federation of Black Pride. I think Lady Phyll said it best, “Every time I see this it shows even more the importance of why we need a Black Pride that our communities need to occupy places they haven’t historically occupied,” she said. “They have to take pride of place and understand that Pride is political. It’s a protest, it’s a movement and seeing this, I’m just blown away and overwhelmed.” UK Black Pride was the first Black Pride I had ever attended and it has forever influenced me to seek them out, support them, and remind myself and other People of Color that our voices matter, our presence matters, and until it’s no longer a necessary statement, REPRESENTATION MATTERS.
I
@Immani Love She/her
Transism Sermon: Unite Us For US Mel Howard We were born to stand out as us for us. Why? Fitting in is too easy, and following social structures and rules is too uncomfortable. We were meant to be the exception to every rule that makes them question who they are. Our bodies shift through the laws of nature while our minds think outside the world’s definition of a normal box. Each one of us is uniquely made different by our own design yet we find camaraderie through our battle towards social equity. On our grind, trying to make it past surviving to go to our next phase of breaking barriers built to limit us. Sometimes they think we rush our process because they are not ready to see who we are inside and out. When we live out loud it frightens them because they are still living in fear of how powerful we might become when we accept our light. Our transition is never ending and everything happens when the time is right. Whether they are ready to call us the right name or gender or see us as we see ourselves. They do not define us but give us more reasons to find ourselves. We pay fees to change our names to match whom we are living as or to change the gender on our id. Things we applaud the community for they take for granted could be the same reason why they would have the right to not accept us into places. Is it not ironic we pay to be who we are living as mentally? We understand those changes can be the difference between employment or life or death.
Our oppressors would rather we attack each other and turn the battle on one another than battle the antitrans bills they attempt to sneak into office. They would see us fight each other and attempt to pass bills to track us or monitor what bathroom we use or stop parents and allies from helping our youth crying out for help. They would rather see us jump through loops than see us thrive. stop the police from killing us and go on paid leave afterward. They would rather see us fight each other, Transmen and Transwomen alike, than create real change that demands public officials resign when they ask what genitalia is in between our legs. Oppressors, would rather we stop working together as a community, so our brokenness can grow larger. They are hoping for a bigger divide that leaves room for them to attempt to hold us back or for the children to follow in our footsteps. Our existence is important and the likelihood of living to see true acceptance is scarce if we keep turning on one another. We exist from both femininity and masculinity, but those two entities are often at war. We shift through life being born and named before we can show the world we are, and we decide who we will be along the way. cisgender people wish they had that bravery. That's why it is easier to publicly condemn us than for our allies to shield us from the hate.
Invisible “he” The invisible he is the invisible me hidden inside a wall waiting to break free The pain in my heart lies a broke soul that’s stuck where my eyes can’t see If you would paint a picture on what i see you would see the cracks in the canvas cause society sees me as broken. The invisible he hides behind the shadows of others cause the visible he is to scared to be seen. The invisible he is frightened by what the world can’t see. The pieces of him that are externally whole but internally not free. The invisible he continues his unseen life, filled to the brim with dishonest evil and ignorant, who will never see who he is because they are blinded by a masked created by society that's still sees she, battered and defeated by the very word piercing his ears he retreats into the shadows afraid back into the safety of this invisibility until ....she assured him that it was okay and that its time to show the world his true form his true greatness and splendor, apprehensively he slowly emerges peering out very cautious the reassurance of her fading voice pushes him forward, he completely emerges staring at the world he had escaped for so long now he has entered ever so strong and in all his handsome splendor a last it's short lived someone walks thru he is still invisible But soon enough the invisible he will not be me! BENJAMIN CLAIBORNE HE/HIM COLUMBUS GA
Looking for a little more guidance on what life might bring you this month? Tarot cards, read by an intuitive reader, can provide us that guidance. While your personal reading may vary slightly, the readings here are directed for all of those born in the same month for the current month. For a more specific reading to your specific circumstance contact Doreen Scanlan on FB Messenger to set an appointment.
Check out what your cards for April are based on your astrological sign. Aries You have come along way standing up for what you believe in. Now it is time to put your plans into action. Follow your intuition to know when it is time not only to speak up but to act. Keep in mind you are not out to offend but to convey a message. This is a great month to put your money where your mouth is and show others that you are serious. Keep the greater good in focus when making your decisions. Taurus Expect some opposition this month. It is time to bring something’s to a close and people around you aren’t so good with change. Try to find understanding for that when your decisions have an impact on others. Mid month it is okay to splurge and take a trip. Take some time to be with yourself and give yourself some self care.
Gemini Hard work pays off early in the month. A little more concentration than usually definitely makes a difference. When you finish a big project make sure you talk about it and soak up some of those accolades. Take credit for your part in it. Others may be a little jealous of the attention you are getting but assure them with that same concentrated effort they can achieve good things too. Cancer It is time for you to shine. Bring a sense of adventure and wonderment into everything you do this month. Do the right thing if you are called upon. You want to be able to walk proud but without your ego taking over. There is someone in a position of authority that is paying attention and it definitely works in your favor. When they need to find the right person for the job you will be in the running. Leo This stands to be a challenging month for our lionhearted friends. It is going to be harder to stay focused and not get pulled into other people’s drama. You can be kind and compassionate while politely bowing out. Finding the strength to keep that up consistently may be harder than you think it is. There may be times when you think no one is on your side. That is why you have to be your own best friend. Virgo Some of the aggravation Leo is experiencing flows in your direction as well. You may be called upon to mediate . The respect that is lacking from some is balanced by the respect you get from others based on your ability to be fair. Try to lead by example. Don’t get so involved in helping others that you let your own responsibilities slip through the cracks. Libra That new idea you have been thinking about is ready to be put into motion. Get the plans out of your head into something you can touch. Don’t let this be just another one of those ideas that never came to fruition. Talk about your ideas so others can hold you accountable. Find people that aren’t going to let you off the hook. Scorpio The first part of the month you need to find some time to be alone. You have spent too much time focused on other people. Time to turn the focus back on you. This is the time to turn the tables on things that no longer are working for you. If you have gotten too serious , find time to laugh. If you are faced by a lot of stressors , find the courage to step above them.
Sagittarius Your creativity is going to be heightened this month. Find a creative outlet for it. Learn something new that can expand your understanding. Your intuition is going to be stronger mid month so trust the gut feelings you are getting. You don’t have to stay in tough places. Perhaps it is time to think about taking the next career step .
Capricorn Reap the rewards if the work you have put in. Don’t waste time looking back at what could have been but instead look at who you have become and what there is yet to explore. Find some time to be in the comfort of your own home with loved ones. As the month comes to a close new ideas will start following . Follow your vision.
Aquarius Talk up your career goals with friends someone they know may be real helpful in getting you there. You may also connect with a very significant person. This relationship will feel like home. Spend time getting to know one another. You won’t be sorry. Romance could be in the air by the end of the month.
Pisces Take the “L” and move in. There are better days ahead. Present your best self to people and show them that “lessons” make you stronger and smarter. Find a positive outlet for your emotions that resets your momentum and gets it going in a positive direction.
National Poetry Month The month of April, I hold quite dear to my heart because April takes the time to recognize the passion I love so much, POETRY! A few of my favorite artists, Audrey Lorde, Nikki Giovanni, Zora Neil Hurston, Queen Latifa, Janae Monet, Alice Walker, Dr. Telesa Hart, Tierica Berry, Theresa The SongBird,and to me, Lade Breez. I know you read Queen Latifah’s name and thought, “but she isn’t a poet?”, which, in my opinion, isn’t true. Any lyricist starts out by being a poet, they just add music to it. Thank you for the History! Inspired by how successful Women’s History month in March was accepted, In 1996, the Academy of American Poets petitioned and established that the month of April would be deemed National Poetry Month; not only to pay homage to the dynamics of how poetry had the ability to incite thought, or to make you angry, but to also make you love and express the power of words. Poetry’s intricate purpose to present to the people words that entertained you, however you decided to interpret, had a need to be recognized. To push the movement further, In 1998, the Academy of American Poets joined the American Poetry & Literacy Project. The combined two would go on to give away over 100k books of poetry across the nation for free in the month of April of that year. In 2021, we celebrated 25 years of National Poetry Month. National Poetry Month’s importance to me has always been to use my gifts so that I don’t abuse my gift. So every month of April I write a daily poem to pay respect! Poetry saved my life over 30 years ago, so I will always be grateful for the amazing and phenomenal women who paved the path for me and my brothers and sisters in rhyme today, and those to come. My contribution for 4/1/23, I will share with you!
-Lade Breez
EXCEPTIONAL EXPECTATIONS Pulling up to the house smiling big with all ya teeth showing/ Thinking, you are getting ready to walk into your place of peace to use it for all it’s worth/ Excited to step inside to see what?/ them!/ And in your mind you thinking that as soon as your feet hit the door/ There they are standing/ and waiting/ Impatiently waiting to grab you by the face to plant a big wet one on ya/ You know the juicy kind/ Heck cuz in your mind they should be just as happy as you are too, with the same big grin/ Like Why wouldn’t they be? Then boom/ Nope, it wasn’t nothing like that happening there!!/ but/ the trash can tipped over and left on the floor, that the dogs knocked over to ramble thru and left for you to clean up instead/ That you now have to step over, to put down your things/ Clean it up and resume your irregularly scheduled impromptu celebration things/ Either way/ you come with gifts/ Your high expectations of The celebratory embrace of comfort after months of stressing and wondering/ Oh this is going to be a good one/ You roun the corner To finally see their face/ And To your dismay/ They just sitting there/ That’s it! Just there/
Actually no bodily contact was offered, shared or made/ Lookin at you like why you lookN stupid just standing there waiting/ Man Those self set expectations/ Now ya feelings hurt/ Oh you deep off in them/ and in your mind you want to cry/ you didn’t know that your pre plan to celebrate would have hurt in its place/ Now you got questions/ Hol’ up?/ Why you not happy like me?/ Why you wasn’t up, hyping me up, I know you seen when I got here/ Like, so what you telling me is, we not really friends/ So you really not tryna hype yo Bestie up/ Well what the fu/ what!?/ Instantly that hurt turns to anger, then the anger to rage/ you wanna fight/ you didn’t expect to end up feeling neglect/ Mentally rammed between what the what is happening and where did I go wrong/ ain’t no way, this isn’t way I expected to come home / So I pause for a second/ I had to stop for a moment to think and truly process this like I’m supposed to/ Let me back this up right quick/ Man, her i was getting ready to be really rude/ It’s my own expectations, not the communication that had changed my mood.
-Lade
@2023 BLAQUEOUT MAGAZINE
