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
15
WWW.ISSUU.COM/BLAQUEOUTMAG WWW.BLAQUEOUT.COM
CELEBRATING OUR ICONS COLLECTION
12/32 QUEER REVOLUTIONARIES JAVANNAH DAVIS
27
THE OLD MAN'S CORNER E.L. WINSTON
18
ETSI HEALTH CLINIC
YOUTH RIGHTS ALLIANCE, UGANDA
LOVE IN THE CLUB IMMANI LOVE
03
EXCLUSIVE!
FEATURE LGBTQ DJS FROM ALL AROUND THE US
10, 26 & 31 COVER PHOTOS CREDIT: ZAIRE DOWNS @ZEENO.N.Y. AND TAMARA LEIGH
AUG 2023 | ISSUE# 035
14
28
ADVERTISING ACCOUNT MANAGER: DOREEN SCANLAN
BlaqueOUT columnists
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.
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.
Tina Marie Jones (she/her/hers) Founder of Uncover, LLC, mother of 4, activist, motivator, and columnist.
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"
Courtney L (she/her) designer, developer, business owner, who loves to travel. When she is not doing that she loves to write poetry, a bit of a nerd, spend time with family and friends and help people learn technology. She lives in Los Angeles, with her dog.
a word.
The last week or so has been rough. A B-List comedian managed to spark a controversy centering around the use of the term cis- that extremely unnecessarily became a topic of the week on every social media, chatroom and conversation. After tons of thinking and arguing with the interweb, I really believe the reason so many Black cis-women chose to jump on that conversation Is because It allowed them to express their latent or not so latent trans and homophobia. It was In their minds, an acceptable way to express what they always felt. It's the reason you see Black women "sis" and "yesssss" and "slay"-ing a gay Black man to death and then catch them laugh reacting or affirming an Anti-LGBTQ post three days later. This week they did to the Trans community what white women have for generations done to them. Dismissed their experiences, questioned their humanity and used dog whistle rhetoric to affirm their own superiority. Sad thing Is, many people who may not have been doing that were so misinformed and undereducated that they didn't even know that that was what they were doing. Saddest thing for me Is most of them were Black just like us and understand how that hurts and many were also Queer. I live a life dating women, Transmen or whomever I may fall In love with and will defend my right to do so always. So how can I possibly not fight as hard for everyone else to live as authentically as I'm fighting to. I'm also a Black woman. So how can I ever supress the humanity of anyone when we fight to be acknowledged with equity every single day? But I don't want to give that conversation anymore life than It's had for days on end. I'd rather talk to you, our reader, about you heart. The consequence of conversations like this that happen all too often these days and a bi-product of living In the US In 2023 Is constantly hear people questioning your right to exist. No matter HOW strong you are, It takes a toll. Please make sure you are logging off, practicing selfcare, surrounding yourself with love and feeding your soul In any way you can. Drown out the noise! We love you and you aren't alone.
Tamara Sanaa Leigh Editor-In-Chief BLAQUEOUT MAGAZINE 05
YOUTH RIGHTS ALLIANCE, UGANDA T he following interview is of one of our Transgender sisters from Uganda. Mukisa (aka Clara) still currently resides in Uganda where she faces ongoing backlash against
the entire LGBTQIA+ community. Instead of cowering in fear, Clara has decided to stand up for the community by creating the Youth Rights Alliance. The Youth Rights Alliance participates in a number of community activities by organizing connections to Trans health services, shelter for the homeless Trans youth, as well as, documenting human rights violations and providing safe sex items. This is Clara’s story in her own words with small corrections for clarity and/or grammar:
What inspired you to start the Youth Rights Alliance?
What do you want people to know about Uganda?
For a long time I had [the] passion to work and serve my community to the best I can and for a long time I have worked to organize. There was always a gap left when it came to the issues and needs of Transgender persons, mainly in the Eastern region of Uganda. [It is] full of rural areas where levels of advocacy, awareness and sensitization on human rights of the marginalized are still low. Given the fact that I come from a rural area too and [was] once a victim, I saw the need to start up an organization to bridge the gaps faced by my fellow Transgender persons in access to health services and legal services as they were being left out.
I would love people to know that the president of Uganda assented to a deadly bill that’s now a law that makes the LGBTIQ community members live like criminals in our own country. Given the penalties of the law that even denies an LGBTIQ person shelter as it says there is a penalty for a landlord found housing an LGBTIQ person. Uganda now has become [a] perpetrator in violating rights of the LGBTIQ community in Uganda. What is the employment situation like for LGBTQIA+ people in Uganda? In Uganda its very hard for an LGBTQIA+ person to get employment mainly the transgender persons given the levels of stigma and discrimination and biases people have over the LGBTQIA+ community. Does the community take care of each other? In what ways? Yes the community does care for each other in ways like: When one is arrested, they are there to offer all the kind of support needed to see you free. When sick, referrals are given in order to get better medication. We always gather to celebrate good times and bad times together.
BLAQUEOUT MAGAZINE
06
Is there any type of governmental support? If so, in what ways? Partly I would say yes as there is access to health services from health facilities. [It is the] only sector at which the government is trying to respect the health rights of individuals no matter how you identify. What is it like in the religious community? Do you have churches where LGBTQIA+ people can worship? Before the bill we had an LGBTQIA+ inclusive church for our community where we would go and worship. After the bill became law it's now hard for church to happen as also the council of religious leaders were part of the people supporting and pressuring the President to sign the bill.
The president of Uganda assented to a deadly bill that’s now a law that makes the LGBTQIA community members live like criminals in our own country.
What do you believe other misunderstood about Uganda?
people
Do you have a quote that motivates you? What is it?
Uganda being a country of democracy where all citizens exercise their rights is something I believe people misunderstand about Uganda because even the fundamental rights are not respected and protected as stated in the constitution of Uganda.
A quote that motivates me most of the time is that “ To overcome fear, you need to face fear” . It really helps me to remember that I need to face things I fear to overcome them otherwise [I] will keep on fearing them forever.
If you had an opportunity to move out of Uganda would you? Why or why not? Honestly speaking, if I had that opportunity, I would move out of Uganda as its no longer safe for any LGBTQIA+ person to be staying in Uganda [because of the law] that criminalizes us, mainly us Transgender persons. [I] would still wish to continue with my activism, share my story to the world but also lobby for my community in terms of advocacy for its betterment.
What is dating like in Uganda?
What of your personal story do you want to share with our reader?
Here dating is something community members are doing but in hiding where people cannot see given the many homophobes we [have] in Uganda. LGBTQIA+ people who are dating try to pretend whenever they are in public places given that it's still illegal for same sex relationships.
Mukisa Clara is a 23 year old Transgender person under hormonal therapy coming from a rural area in the Eastern region of Uganda. [I] am the first Transgender woman to come out in our area and also being under hormonal therapy. Given it’s the area where I come from, I have had so many challenges with my family with
Do you see representation of our community on television or movies? What are those like? In Uganda, I don’t see any representation of our community on television or movies because even the documentaries we do cannot be aired out on televisions given the stigma and discrimination we still have in Uganda. In addition, personalities, movie actors will fear to come out given the terrible conditions faced by our community in Uganda. Now that you’ve had the opportunity to read Clara’s words, you have the opportunity to help her. Due to the tenuous situation in Uganda and Clara’s community activism, she is at risk in every area. Her employment and housing situations have become unstable. If you would like to donate to Clara, download the Remit App and enter the following information to donate directly to her. She is a woman of great courage and a big heart, let’s help her continue to do her good work. Airtel number - +256740551720 Names - Kakooza Davis Address - Mpererwe, Kawempe City- Kampala Country - Uganda
BLAQUEOUT MAGAZINE
07
LOVE LIVES IN US...
The Winstons Winston & the Mrs. (E. L. and Roni)
Love lives in us…the Winstons and we want to share a little of it with you. Maya Angelou once said, “Someday we’ll be able to measure the power of words. I think they are things. They get on the walls. They get in your wallpaper. They get in your rugs, in your upholstery, and your clothes, and finally into you.” Love and how we define it is infused into our very being, but if we don’t share its meaning with our partner, then love may look like pain, apathy, or isolation. Speaking the same language, not about giving gifts or personal touch, but actually defining the words we use to express our emotions is one of the first things we must do for a healthy and long lasting relationship.
The Mrs. Winston and I built a foundation on what we call ‘The Rules of Engagement’ which ensure even in a disagreement, there are specific things we do and don’t do. For instance, there are no raised voices or speaking in broad strokes like ‘you never’ or ‘you always’. The rules help us to understand the way in which we like to communicate and keep us from misunderstanding one another’s intentions. I think sometimes couples don’t clarify what love, hurt, joy, anxiety look like for them as individuals because they don’t know for themselves. I had to put in the work. Winston knows that I used to spend a lot of time fearful of judgment of my creative works, so he also knows that giving constructive feedback would go awry if I didn’t understand the meaning behind his words. Our communication style required that he understood how I felt about my creativity and that I understood how he felt about being a supportive spouse. We are individuals combining lives, but with that comes a lifetime of experiences both good and bad. If we don’t share the shades of meaning to our partner, then we cannot expect them to read our minds.
Winston Words mean things and can build or break a relationship. That's why it's important to have those Rules of Engagement. I never want my words to harm or not be understood as we learn how to speak to each other in love. We build much needed communication skills. We often get into the thought process that our partner should know what we're thinking or what we meant which is a mistake. It’s not true or realistic. It is the work that we put into our daily conversations that ensures we are successful in not doing harm with our words. This thing called relationship takes work and application. I’m blessed to being doing that work with the Mrs.
Thoughts to Leave You Communication is about the message we want to convey and the message our listener receives. Disagreements in our relationships happen more often than not because the message has either been unclear in its delivery or convoluted in its receipt. Take the time to share with your partner what certain words and phrases mean to you based on your experiences. Explore the roots of your emotional inner workings. Find your triggers and your peace. It is a responsibility you owe to the success of your relationship. Recognize the meaning of the love that lives in you.
BLAQUEOUT MAGAZINE.
08
LGBT+
MEL HOWARD
VIRGINIA
Society norms built us in spaces that could never hold us. But displace the true essence of why they hate us so much. Free thinkers that overcome adversity and urge people to view life through an uncompromised lens. Who often get viewed as “the unwanted population”. A population so in touch with what has been out of touch for far too long We make our rules instead. In order to ask for eyes to be opened and minds to be exposed to what is so apparently clear. We would rather vibrantly stand out than have to fit in a world that has oppressed us. See they have attempted to silence us since before the stonewall riot. So worried the L G B T + will spread like wildfire but we just attempt to live. We thrive in spite of what they throw in our ways and we break through and rise. See we have so much personality and with every breath we take we illuminate the world around us. We wear a smile proudly when our basic essentials are met. By a system that means to make sure we struggle. Encompassed with infractions. Buried in limitations but never eliminated. It is easier to give up than create the friction needed to fuel the turmoil to conquer. Drowned in fear so aware that if we don’t live no one will. So familiar with failing that winning is shocking. See we idolize the ball players and rappers. See praise cisgender straight divas when they feed off our cunt. They want our tips to flourish. We are the chosen ones. They imitate us to embellish on their vanilla. We live on to thrive another day, hearts heavy most days, and weight on shoulders but always eyes forward.
BLAQUEOUT MAGAZINE.
09
FEATURE DJS Keshia (Kaos) Banks
My Most Hype Song: Tití Me Preguntó My Dream Gig: P!nk’s Birthday Party (My favorite artist)
TheeKeshiaBanks
KeshiaKaosBanks
Keshia Kaos Banks
HOMETOWN: ROCK ISLAND, ILLINOIS CURRENT CITY: SAINT PETERSBURG, FLORIDA
There’s nothing like the feeling of hearing an old song with new ears, speaking through lyrics or controlling energy through frequency. This is what I do. I make the hidden connections that aren’t always visible. I’m a DJ, KJ (karaoke jockey) & host based out of Tampa Bay, FL. I’m 36 years old. You can typically catch me at a multitude of events throughout the week. Including DJing your local bar, DJing & hosting music bingo, KJing karaoke, and the one stop shop for your DJ, Karaoke, and hosting of private parties and events. I’m pretty new in the game but my energy is unwavering. I can’t wait to experience where this road takes me. L’Chaim!
BLAQUEOUT MAGAZINE.
10
PORTRAITS PRESTIGE BY: PHOTO
ative God. There are days when the neg to or hon and ute trib a is es lov r Whosoeve es to hear anything else. There are tim le ugg str we t tha d lou so be can self-talk to help n when we are struggling. We try eve ers oth for re the be to try we when somehow we think that this and h oug thr ng goi are y the g hin them through everyt ? On these days, if we have not ugh tho est hon be we n Ca d. goo is what makes us our best. We are giving from an ing giv not are lly rea we n the , given to ourselves ome dehydrated. When Jesus says bec ally ntu eve we ans me t tha and empty place Lord thy God with all thy heart, and the e lov lt sha ou “Th , 39 372: in Matthew mind. This is the first and great with all thy soul, and with all thy or as unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighb like is ond sec the d An . ent ndm comma the key to the instructions is love. t tha w kno st mu we n the f”, sel thy read the are willing to love others, but if you We understand loving God and we or as you love yourself starts ghb nei r you ing lov t tha lize rea you directions, then ks, your level of intelligence, or loo r you ut abo lf rse you ult ins you with self. When to your ability to fully love anyone up ng livi not are you n the es, tak your past mis by to love yourself. You were created d nee you ans me d Go e lov To ng. or anythi e the things in your life that you hav of all For le. uab val is life r you God and through, you deserve the very best. e gon and e, don d, nce erie exp ed, surviv an ere we just ask for stuff. Prayer is wh p lam ie gen gic ma a not is yer Pra place where we shed off our the is it ans me at Th d. Go h wit k opportunity to tal It is the place where we learn love. ce. pea our d fin we ere wh ce pla pain. It is the e for others resides. Dig into it for lov and d Go for e lov ere wh ce pla Dig into the others, offer it to yourself. All of the to er off you ss ene giv for the of yourself. All extend to yourself. All of the kindness you it er off , ers oth to er off you n sio compas to others, extend it to yourself. the es God. God, the Creator of you and lov ly tru elf ms the es lov r eve oso Wh fully and unabashedly. Dance universe, wants you to love yourself the beat of your drum. Cast to the song in your spirit. Walk to love into your life. It is so your cares upon God and manifest rself that Jesus tells us it important to God for you to love you mandment. as part of the second greatest com Take the instruction.
North Carolina
Whosoever Loves...
Love, Pastor Roni
BLAQUEOUT MAGAZINE.
11
NEW YORK
Photo: AP Photo/Justin Sutcliffe
Photography by Val Shaff
BLAQUEOUT MAGAZINE.
12
"Sylvia Rivera at the 25th Anniversary of Stonewall." Photograph. 1994. Digital Transgender Archive, https://www.digitaltransgenderarchive.net/files/jd472w71f (accessed July 31, 2023). Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera, ca. 1989-1990. The Rudy Grillo Collection, Rudy Grillo / LGBT Community Center Archive.
BLAQUEOUT MAGAZINE.
13
VIRGINIA
ETSI HEALTH CLINIC ETSI Health Clinic, a 501C-3 non-profit organization based in Hampton, Virginia, has been at the forefront of providing culturally competent HIV/AIDS preventive care and linkage to care for the past three years. With a mission to empower transgender, non-binary, and gender non-conforming individuals and improve their overall quality of life, ETSI focuses on communities that often reside in high-risk environments for HIV/AIDS infections. To support its operations, ETSI secures grant funding from various sources, including Gilead Sciences, Sentara Healthcare, The Virginia Department of Health, Youth and Adult Opportunities, and Destination Tomorrow. These funds enable ETSI to offer a range of critical services, including HIV/STI testing, COVID-19 testing and vaccines, and gender-affirming care. ETSI's comprehensive services encompass HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention, HIV testing and counseling, outreach services, and gender-specific care to address community stabilization, domestic violence prevention and shelter, substance abuse, case management, and mental health support. Additionally, ETSI extends its assistance to individuals both living with and without HIV/AIDS by providing housing support, sexual abuse education, vocational training, employment readiness, domestic violence support, and mental health education through partnering agencies. The dedicated team at ETSI consists of competent and compassionate professionals, including community health workers, substance abuse counselors, case managers, part-time medical physicians, clinical compliance managers, therapists, phlebotomists, outreach specialists, client navigators, HIV educators, and testers. These staff members receive mandatory HIV and counseling training as required by the Virginia Department on a quarterly basis. ETSI is expanding its services by establishing a full health clinic in Portsmouth, Virginia, located in the southeast region of the state. Portsmouth, the 9th most populous city in Virginia and part of the Hampton Roads Metropolitan south side area, has been selected as the site for this expansion due to documented disparities in HIV healthcare within the city. With a population that is 52% Black or African American, Portsmouth exhibits significant HIV rates, particularly among African American women. The city also faces challenges related to domestic violence, homelessness, substance abuse, and survival sex work. By opening the Portsmouth Health Clinic, ETSI aims to provide vital HIV/STD testing services to address these pressing issues and serve the community in need. BLAQUEOUT MAGAZINE.
14
While most of the world finishes their celebrations of Pride, Blaque/OUT is taking a moment to pay homage to two of the women by whose sacrifice & fearlessness saved countless lives & gave us the ability to celebrate Pride at all. Our photographers recreated some of the most iconic shots of Marsha P. Johnson & Sylvia Rivera as they fought for our liberation. Re-imaged by Tamara Leigh & Zeeno.NY, featuring the beautiful Nicole Levy & Jay Miah. BLAQUEOUT MAGAZINE.
15
Sylvia Rivera July 2, 1951 - February 19, 2002
Marsha P. Johnson August 24, 1945 - July 6, 1992
Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera are two names that left an indelible mark on the history of the LGBTQIA+ community. These women stood for who they were regardless of their families’ opinions, societal acceptance, or personal struggles. To honor their contribution, NYC has announced that there will be a monument dedicated to the work they did. Nicole Levy and Jay Miah did Blaque Out Magazine the honor of recreating some of Marsha and Sylvia’s iconic images in a powerful photo shoot. Each then gave me the pleasure of interviewing them. BLAQUEOUT MAGAZINE.
16
BLAQUEOUT MAGAZINE.
17
BLAQUEOUT MAGAZINE.
18
L L A W E N O T S
BLAQUEOUT MAGAZINE.
19
BLAQUEOUT MAGAZINE.
20
BLAQUEOUT MAGAZINE.
21
BLAQUEOUT MAGAZINE.
22
BLAQUEOUT MAGAZINE.
23
Jay Miah’s interview about the historical significance of Sylvia Rivera and the opportunity it has given Jay Miah to just be Mi is one of thoughtfulness. Jay Miah has appeared on national television programs, shared their talent in their community, and blazed their own trail. The significance of faith, family, friends, community, and the long term love of their kitty keeps Jay Miah pressing on with the action of activism. Jay Miah’s interview is full of insight and passion. Enjoy our conversation!
Jay Miah @ZeenoN.Y.
as Sylvia Rivera
BLAQUEOUT MAGAZINE.
24
Nicole
Levy
as Marsha P. Johnson Nicole sat down for our interview to reflect on her thoughts of Marsha’s influence as well as her personal experiences. Nicole has journeyed in her 40+ years as a force to be reckoned with. She has had the foundation of her diverse family (who taught her to be proud of who she is), the support of her loving fiance, and the embrace of her faith to motivate her. Nicole is unapologetically herself. Check out our conversation and the nuggets Ms. Nicole has to share.
@Tamara Leigh
BLAQUEOUT MAGAZINE.
25
FEATURE DJS Aiko Finesse
My Most Hype Song: Lil BoosieSet It Off My Dream Gig: A Celebrity Wedding
Aiko Finesse
www.aikofinesse.com
Dj Aiko Finesse
HOMETOWN: NEWBERRY SC CURRENT CITY: COLUMBIA SC
I’ve always had a passion for the arts. I use to write as a kid. Stories, poetry, spoken word. Music is my biggest passion. I picked up rapping in middle school. I studied music production at the Art Institute in 2008. Due to funding, I had to quit. 2014 I picked up djing. As I learned the craft and invested, I started making a name for myself. I’ve been all over, South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, and Houston, TX. My drive is I just love seeing people enjoy themselves, enjoy life. All from the music I play.
BLAQUEOUT MAGAZINE.
26
North Carolina
THE OLD MAN'S CORNER E.L. WINSTON Effective mentorship can also have a positive impact on mental health and wellbeing. Mentors can provide emotional support, encouragement and a sounding board for their mentee. This can help the mentee build resilience, manage stress and overcome challenges. These are the reasons I have been on a personal search for a mentor. I have craved the help of someone who can assist me as I assist my community in more effective ways. People assume because I've been doing this work for a while that I know how everything should go. That just isn’t the case. I believe you never stop learning and there is always someone who can show you something you didn't know. On my journey it has been a mixed bag of
Rochelle J Photography
results. I’ve met a lot of people and although some have been working in the
MY SEARCH FOR A MENTOR
community longer than I have, it's hit or
Mentorship is a powerful relationship in which a more experienced and knowledgeable person guides and supports a less experienced person to achieve their goals. A mentor can be a valuable asset to anyone looking to develop their skills, grow their career or personal life, and gain new insights and perspectives. One of the main benefits of mentorship is the opportunity to
learn
from
someone
who
has
experience
and
knowledge in a specific area. A mentor can achieve this by sharing their own experiences and providing guidance and advice. This can help the mentee develop their own expertise and become more confident and capable in their field.
one’s network. A mentor can introduce the mentee to contacts,
industry
professionals
and
potential
employers, which can help the mentee expand their opportunities
much as I do or they aren’t willing to share their knowledge. I pray that my love for community will always be as strong and as passionate as it is today. That at some point I’m able to share what I have learned along the way with the new guy on the block. Until then I’ll continue my search for knowledge
and
ways
to
help
the
community to stand up and be counted. Maybe my future mentor is reading this right now. Only time will tell, but as always you all will be on the journey. So do an old man a favor and each one teach one. As
Another benefit of mentorship is the ability to expand new
miss with them. They either know about as
and
build
relationships
beneficial in their future endeavors.
that
can
be
you continue to grow and learn, do not be shy about sharing your knowledge with someone else. Do not let information die out with you. And no matter how old you are, remember that we can all learn from someone else.
BLAQUEOUT MAGAZINE.
27
FLORIDA IM
LOVE IN THE CLUB MA
NI
LO
VE
(S
HE
/H
ER
)
“I LOVE MY JOB!” YOU WORK 3 NIGHTS A WEEK, THE PAY IS GREAT, AND THE PERKS ARE UNLIMITED! CLUB TABOO IS APTLY NAMED BECAUSE WHAT HAPPENS BEHIND THESE DOORS STAYS BEHIND THESE DOORS AND YOU HAVE THE PRIVILEGE OF WORKING ON THE BEST NIGHTS OF THE WEEK. THURSDAY NIGHT IS AN OPEN MIC...
BLAQUEOUT MAGAZINE.
28
-poetry night, where the inspired verbalists share their innermost thoughts and passions in front of perfect strangers. Friday night is Old School night, for the Grown and Sexy crowd, 25yrs and up, the upscale ballers, and Saturday night is Ladies Night! By far it’s your favorite night of the week for more reasons than one. The lights and sounds of the club on a Saturday night always have been like a beckoning symbol to me. The allure of “ladies in free before 11pm and drink free all night” draws you in like a moth to a flame. As a woman who loves women, your job as a DJ here only gets better on nights like this because by midnight, you have not only had my fill of drinks, but you’ve also had your choice of women to “keep you company” in the booth while you keep the crowd hype. They flock to you like sheep led to slaughter and there’s always a variety…tall, darkskinned, big breasted, or curvy, long- haired Italian, to the favorite, the short, petite, thick in the ass, brown-skinned with locs diva. By the end of the night you’ve been engulfed in scantily clad honeys and chosen your victim for the after hours studio session at your place. Tonight was no different but very different in many ways. You spent the usual time letting the short skirts and low cut dresses of the beauties serve as an appetizer to your feast of flesh scheduled to begin when the club closes. The parade of pretty little things continued throughout the night but tonight there wasn’t really a standout treat that made you wet enough to pursue yet and as the night waned you had almost resolved to end the night alone. You were focused on your soundboard when she glided by the booth and were only alerted to her presence by the distinct scent of her perfume, Rapture, one of your favorites. The thick cloud of white from the smoke machines made her presence even more intriguing as you had to wait for it to clear to see her. You were pleased by what you saw! It was like she was channeling Apollonia from Purple Rain! She was light skinned with long, wavy hair, plump round perky breasts only covered by a low cut hot pink halter wraparound dress. It clung to her upper body as if painted on for effect but flowed loose around her thighs as if making sure every turn offered a false chance to peep at the round ass that was sure to be underneath. But most captivating of all was her face; perfect porcelain skin,
well-glossed full lips, deep dimples, pearly white teeth, and most of all big brown eyes that slanted when she smiled to acknowledge that she knew you were watching her. As if being summoned by your smile of approval, she made her way back to the booth and stepped up to your perch. Unlike the usual women who made it to your side, she didn’t swoon at your booth setup, nor did she tell you how much she “loved to come hear you spin.” She simply said, “my name is Diana, I want you to remind me why I love hip hop. Play something for me.” Then she stepped down, headed to the dance floor in front of you and danced to the music that streamed out of the speakers overhead as if dancing to tantalize you. You played a mega mix that had everything from Rakim, Biz Markie, and Curtis Blow to Jay Z, Kanye, and Eminem and she danced so seductively that you gained insight to what Michael Jackson was talking about when he wrote “Dirty Diana!” When you were through she walked away as quickly as she came leaving you craving her. Just as you thought she was gone she glanced back and nodded challenging you to follow her as she headed towards the VIP rooms upstairs. What the hell! You were due for a break…You needed to “check the sound quality upstairs” anyway. You put on a track that would cover you for 30 minutes and slipped upstairs to find her. There were 5 VIP rooms upstairs and all were very classy. Each with plush semicircle couches, clothed tables, candle votives, and champagne buckets separated by simple sheers to divide them; All overlooking the dance floor while still allowing for conversations to ensue without being drowned out by the music. It was in the 3rd room that you found her, sitting on the edge of the couch with her long slender legs slightly gapped as if an invitation. You glanced at the rooms on either side of hers to check for occupants as you began to salivate at the thought of tasting her and to your relief they were uninhabited. You slid the table away from the couch to give yourself enough room to play and moved towards her with full intent in your eyes. She answered your approach by sliding back on the couch and extending one leg towards you, which you grabbed and placed on your shoulder as you knelt in front of your meal. You licked up her inner thigh and slid up to her neck, bypassing your expected route. BLAQUEOUT MAGAZINE.
29
You couldn’t skip the bliss of sliding your hands inside the halter of her dress exposing those ripe, round breasts and burying your face in them, licking and sucking her pert, eraser sized, nipples. In response, she threw her other leg on your shoulder to prepare for your impending descent between her legs to which you replied with grasping her thighs and spreading them to welcome you. Her neatly trimmed pussy was calling you, and the glint of moisture on her “other set of lips” begged to be tended. It was just as you expected, she tasted as sweet as honeysuckle on your lips and as you slid your tongue in deeper, your tongue ring danced with her clit to the beat of the track that was covering for your absence. Diana dug her nails into your shoulders and threw her head back with moans of pleasure as you let your fingers do the walking in her honey pot while your tongue continued to manipulate her clit. She began to gyrate her hips as if dancing as the finger walking evolved to fast paced relay race. She bucked and moaned as your fingers changed angles and moved in and out, faster and harder. You glanced up briefly while she pinched at her firm nipples and then continued to indulge as you lapped at her now well lubricated cavern. You continued to work her out until the sound of your fingers splashing in her well gave way to the sound of her stifled climax and the quivering of her body as the waves of electricity ran through her limbs. As she slid back on the couch you said, “I gotta get back to work.” She chuckled and said, “What happens in Club Taboo, stays in Club Taboo.” You smiled, licked your fingers, and kissed her as you jetted back downstairs to your post while she composed herself for her descent onto the main dance floor. There was only an hour left before the club closed and you waited to see Diana come downstairs again. You figured she was just like all of your other encounters and would soon join you back in the booth for the last hour before leaving with you for the night to finish what we started. Just a typical Saturday night, but tonight was no different but very different. You never saw her come down the stairs, and as the last drunken
patron stumbled towards the door, she wasn’t waiting by the bar for you to pack up. You were really disappointed when you loaded up your truck and she wasn’t lingering in the parking lot. “Damn! She left!? 30 minutes is all I got of that? I’ve never ended a night like this… unfulfilled! She got hers and dipped! I didn’t even get her number.” Weeks and then months went by, night after night you found yourself looking for her until the memory of the night began to fade. You were back to your routine and life was normal. Typical Saturday night, Ladies night, ladies get in free until 11p and drink free all night. But every once in a while, you’ll catch the faint scent of Rapture, see a thick cloud of white smoke, and let your mind wander back to that night. Replaying memories of a simple request in the DJ booth and an encounter that begged to be finished. “I want you to remind me why I love hip hop.” A familiar voice snapped you out of your reminiscence and brought an instant sense of arousal. She whispered, “Play something for me,” her slender, curvaceous frame beckoning you to come closer as she slid you her address and phone number.
BLAQUEOUT MAGAZINE.
30
FEATURE DJS My Most Hype Song: A mash up I created using OutKast's beat and Beyonce's "Love on Top" My Dream Gig: Traveling with Missy Elliott as her concert DJ or even an opening act
DarLuz the DJ
darluzthedj
DarLuz the DJ
HOMETOWN: MT.CLEMENS MI CURRENT CITY: RIVERVIEW FL
I always say, "Motown raised me, MTV made me." I attribute my eclectic musical passion to artists such as; Stevie Wonder, Anita Baker, Whitney Houston, Missy Elliot, Justin Timberlake, Grover Washington Jr., Bob Marley, Jimi Hendrix, Prince, Janet Jackson, Nas, Jay-Z, and Queen. I've had the opportunity to create music mixes for New York Fashion Week, provided music at Florida mayoral events, DJed for the Women's Conference of Florida, the Sunscreen Music Fest, 2022 AKA Boule, Macy's, Marriot Resorts, US Air Force, and even provided DJ services for Ben & Jerry themselves, during their grand opening celebrations.
BLAQUEOUT MAGAZINE.
31
BLAQUEOUT MAGAZINE.
32
BLAQUEOUT MAGAZINE.
33
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.
Tarot done specifically for you if you were born in :
August Partnerships are extremely important this month for you. Take a look at who you consider as your closest associates. When was the last time you actually put an effort into showing them your appreciation? Too often we take our friends for granted. Just like anything worth having, relationships take not so much effort but dedication. Use your intuition to get an understanding of what your friends need from you. Is it time? Is it a listening ear? Is it some friendly advice? Then do what you can to determine if now is the time to offer those things. Relationships take at least two people so recognize your needs as well. Learning to ask for them can truly be a challenge.
September: Time to get serious about where you are on your career timeline. You have gifts and talents to utilize in this lifetime. Unfortunately, there are times when we get stagnant in our careers. Sometimes we just get comfortable where we are . Other times we just get lazy. The problem with this is that our grow also gets stunted. Now is the time to evaluate where you are and where you could possibly go if you were to be using all your skills. Maybe you are there. Maybe you aren’t. Don’t let your unwillingness to strive keep you from thriving. This is the month to make moves. Only you know how that applies to your situation . It is time to remember that you are the creator of your reality so what do you want it to include? Change what you can. Don’t hand your power over to anyone else. Become self empowered to live your best life. October: Use your best judgment this month when it comes to the atmosphere you surround yourself with. Does your living situation suit your needs? Does your work space reflect your personality and your goals? Do the people your surround yourself with encourage you or hold you down? You need to create the right atmosphere to be able to continue to grow . You will find yourself at a crossroads this month. The decisions you make at this crossroads , set the tone for the next phase of your life. Are you ready to set the basis for how you want to move forward? It is time to shove off any deadweight so you can rise. That could be people, obligations, financial burdens or just mindsets. Then start surrounding yourself with likeminded, supportive people. Things might not turn around immediately but you will have started the wheels turning. November: This whole month is based on communication for all you November babies. The first door of communicating that you need to open isn’t with other people but with your inner being. The force within you that is your higher self. Take some time to quiet your mind so that the most important line is open. Doing this helps you to align yourself with your highest emotion which is Joy. Move away from the things that stress you out for at least a little while and find a way to experience true joy.Once you have experienced that, set that as your emotional goal. Start to recognise when you are drifting too far away from it. Trust that your authentic self knows the difference. The next line of communication needs to be with anyone that is getting in the way of who you really are. It may be time to break those ties so you can continue to rise as you. The final communication comes with sharing your climb with others that may also be looking for ways to connect with their authentic selves. Share your experiences in the hope of encouraging someone else. Their road may look different but hope is the commonality you share. December: It is going to be more important than ever for you to be able to roll with the punches this month. In order to prepare for that it is going to be important to have a strong spiritual basis to draw from. Your best defense is going to be knowing where your spiritual strength lies, whether that is in prayer, mediation , yoga , nature or church. You need to be able to draw on any or all of those when things get challenging. You are going to be in a
very different place at the end of this month than when it starts out by no fault of your own. Believe it or not though these changes will be for the best. It may not feel like it at the time but if you stay true to yourself you will definitely be moved in the right direction.
January: Are you doing the work you want to be doing? Is there a skill you have that is untapped? Now is the time to start looking to upgrade. Start looking for opportunities that better suit your skill set. Then go for it. Even reach for things that you might not qualify for on paper. If you are not happy, do what you can to change that. If you are truly on the correct path you would be happy to take on tasks that allow you to show what you can do even if it is a challenge. Your path is lined with happiness. Are you on it? February: You, like many of the others born in some of the months above, are in for some changes this month. It is a matter of deciding if you are going to be the one directing the changes or whether you are just going to be the one reacting to them. Changes are definitely coming either way. Wouldn’t you rather be the one holding the baton? The key for you is to align yourself with people that have similar goals and dreams as you. Find the people you feel you can really relate to and band together. Then ride out the storm together. It is time for a chapter in your life to close and for you to move forward. Who do you want to be in the lifeboat with? The Universe has something very special in line for you but you may have to detach from some things in order for them to float in your direction. March: Time to find the courage to step at least one step outside your comfort zone. That is where growth occurs. You have been holding yourself back what is meant to be yours to experience. It is time to look at where you are now and compare it to where you are meant to be. You deserve to be happy. To be living a life that perpetuates that happiness. Start by finding friends that want the same things that you want. Spend more time supporting their dreams so they can support yours. Brainstorming together will initiate a new mindset of success and happiness. April: The path you have been on is about to start paying off. You have definitely paid your dues. Things are about to swing more in your favor. Keep standing in your truth . You may come to a crossroads towards the end of the month that opens up some new information for you. How you process that information is up to you. You can let it get you down or you can use it to your benefit and get new inspiration from it. If you choose the second approach you may be pleasantly surprised.
May: The scales of justice are tipping in your favor. Some belief you have held strongly to finally rewards you. Don’t gloat too long though because that gives too much unnecessary power to the injustice that was active before. Instead use your creativity to make something of the opportunities in front of you. Start walking in the direction of the things that make you happy. Diversify your interests to keep that positive flow coming in your direction. June: Having strong faith is going to be very beneficial to you this month. That faith is however you define it. It is also what is going to help you take an objective look at your current situation and make note of the things that you have allowed to hold you back . This will include your own insecurities. You have a great deal of potential that is right outside your reach. It is time to start stretching those success muscles. Set new goals for yourself to achieve this month and the months to come. Make some definitive guidelines so you can track your progress. Make them reasonable so you don’t get discouraged but big enough that it takes some action on your part. Each time you achieve one of them, give yourself permission to celebrate. Then get back to work.
July: Now that your birthday month has passed, it is time to ask yourself what you are going to do differently this year. It is time to get this new you moving in the direction of what is important to you. There are areas of your life you have for some reason been avoiding. Make this year the year to push forward. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. The help can come from an agency or organization that has been established to help people in your same situation. Don’t let your pride get in the way of you getting the help you need. Create a support system of friends and family whether they are related to you or not. You don’t ever have to feel alone.
Text Doreen at 585-615-8494 to schedule a more in depth, personal reading
MAGAZINE
TRANSCENDING HATE: NATIONAL VIRTUAL TOWN HALL NOV 20TH
6PM EST HOSTED BY: TAMARA LEIGH, EDITOR OF BLAQUE/OUT MAGAZINE
ON TRANS DAY OF REMEMBRANCE BLAQUE/OUT MAGAZINE SITS DOWN WITH TRANS COMMUNITY MEMBERS, FAMILY & FRIENDS FROM ACROSS THE NATION FOR A 3-PANEL VIRTUAL EVENT DISCUSSING LIFE AS A COMMUNITY UNDER ATTACK
6PM TRANS-FEMININE PANEL 7:30PM TRANS-MASCULINE PANEL
REGISTER AT:
https://TDORTownHall. eventbrite.com BLAQUEOUT.COM/TRANS-DAY-OF-REMEMBRANCE
DO YOU RUN A TRANS-CENTERED ORG OR GROUP? WE ARE INVITING OUR COMMUNITY TO HOST TOWN HALL WATCH PARTIES ON TDOR SO YOU CAN SHARE TOGETHER, TALK TOGETHER, SUPPORT EACH OTHER AND PARTICIPATE IN THIS CONVERSATION ABOUT LIFE, EQUITY, RESOURCES, EXPERIENCES AND JUSTICE- TOGETHER!! IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN HOSTING A PARTY, EMAIL E.L. WINSTON AT: WINSTONSWORK4IT@GMAIL.COM SO WE CAN PROVIDE IDEAS, RESOURCES AND MARKETING MATERIAL TO SUPPORT YOUR EVENT.
MAGAZINE
TRANSCENDING HATE: NATIONAL VIRTUAL TOWN HALL NOV 20TH 6PM EST
GET MORE OF THE BLAQUE/OUT YOU KNOW & LOVE
@blaqueoutmagtv
WWW.BLAQUEOUT.COM
@2023 BLAQUEOUT MAGAZINE
