'PERIOD.' Issue II

In the first six months of this year, NEW Pride Agenda has hit the ground running to pave new roads. While we may be experiencing some of the most challenging and politically consequential times in our lives, we are rising up, acting up, and fighting back with you. Though never easy, it is always worth it. And when we give our all, we can take stock of our wins and how far we ' ve come from where we were. All of us should be proud of our collective wins this year – from winning an additional $3million for the Lorena Borjas Trans Wellness & Equity Fund, passing the LGBTQ+ & HIV Longterm Care Bill of Rights to protect our elders, and making New York State – the home of Stonewall–aSafeHavenforTransYouth&Families once and for all We did that communuity, and we did it together. So, let's celebrate because, in the words of Miss Major, we ' re still here. This issue of 'Period' is meant to be exactly that: a celebration of our joy, creativity, and resiliency. I look forward to bringing that energy out into the streets with you all this month and beyond.Cheers!

–ShéárAvory LeadStatewideCommunityOrganizer

Greetingscommunity-family,HappyPride!

FEATURED ARTICLE: THE FIRST OF MANY: REFLECTIONS ON NEW YORK’S FIRST EVER OFFICIAL TGNCNBI ADVOCACY DAY

Harriet Alexander (She/They)

ItwasearlyTuesdaymorning IwassoreandrippedoutofREM sleepbymyalarm ThecoolwetspringairfilledtheroomasI reachedtomysidetonoticehewasalreadygone.Irushedtoget ready,takingdelicatetimetocareformybody,domyskincare routine,adornmyself,andstepintoaflowingwhitedress,with hatandheadscarftomatchmymission.Weweretraveling.A coalitionoffreedomfightersbussingnorthtofightfortherights ofoursiblings,ourselves,andfuturegenerations.Itookmyseat onthebustothewarmeyesofMs.June,theleaderofNYTAG (NewYorkTransAdvocacyGroup).Sheradiatedwithgraceand joythatmovedmytiredsorebodyuprightandready.Iglanced furtherdownthebustoseehim,wanderingdowntheaisleofthe buscheckingpeopleininhisnewsuitandblackMichealKhors backpacktocompliment.Withahandsomesmileonhisfacehe approachedmeandcheckedmein.Asmyeyescontinuedtodart aroundthebusInoticedthejoyandloveIsatinthepresenceof, thebenevolenceofwarriors.

Ashoutrangoutfromthefrontofthebus.Thepassengerstook asecondtoquietdownandfocusonShear,ourorganizerfrom TheNewPrideAgenda.Shearstoodelegantlywithconvictionas theyprepared,fed,anddirectedusthroughourbusridetothe stepsofthestatecapitolbuilding.Thereweunraveledthe largesttransflagI’veeverseen.Shearbegantospeak.They madeouragendaclear.Wespentthreehourstravelingforone thing,justiceandabolition,buttogettherewefirstneeda frameworkforequitythatdemonstratesaninstitutional dedication,toaddressingthestateofNewYork'sfailureto guaranteegenderdiversepeoplebasichumanrights,alongwith accesstohealth,dignity,andwelfare.Specifically,weaimedto advocateforbillstopromotetherightsofincarceratedgender diversepersons,sexworkers,

transyouthandtheirfamilies,andmorefundingdedicatedtothefightfor equityforgenderdiversepersonsacrossthestateofNewYork.

ElisaCrespo,theexecutivedirectoroftheNewPrideAgenda,tooktothe podiumasweralliedbehindherforthepressconference.Istoodatthe frontholdingmylittlesignwatchingthecameras,assemblymembers, interns,andotheradvocacygroupspassbehindasElisabegantospeak. Elisaradiatedwithferocityandpower.Withconvictionandcharismashe movedthecrowd Aseachspeakersteppeduptothepodium,werallied withenergyandpassionreadytotakeactiontothefloorsofthecapital Westeppedawayfromthepressconference,ateaquicklunchandmoved intoouradvocacymeetings.Webrokeupintodifferentgroupsandwent totalktovariouselectedofficials.Atthetime,althoughIwasenergized,I feltnervousandscared.Isawhimandlookedhimintheeyes.Couldthis work?Navigatingblacktranslovealongsiderevolution.

Theydon’twanttoseeuswin.Theydon’twanttoseeourjoyand liberation.Ilookedawayandtearswelledupinmyeyes.

Isteppedintomyfirstbreakoutsession.Wespoketothesenator’s secretary.Theysatpoisedintheirchairsasweallfiledin.Iopened mymouth.“Ichosetowearwhitetodaytorepresenttheinnocenceof transkidsthatareunderattackacrossthiscountry.”Whitethecolor ofpurity,light,innocence Whatweallowwhitetorepresentisa paradoxbydesign Mindsareobscuredtobelievethattheillegibility andvulnerabilityofdarknessisthetrueenemyandterror Lightlives amongstthedarkifyouchoosetoseeanddefineit.ThatiswhereI wasborn.Aqueerchildinaworldthatrefusedtoseemylight.Nowas Icapturethatlighttoletitshinethroughmyfashion,love,care,and powerothersseektostampoutmylightintodarknessandcalltheir violencepureandholy.Whathypocrisywechosewhenwediminish thesparksthatlightourfireasaspecies.Genderdiversepeopleare holy.Ourtruthandsurvivalisasuccessfulmanifestationofourlives.

Wearethetulipsinthegardeninfrontofthestatecapitalthatday, butatleasttheyhavewaterandsignsthattellpeoplenottopickthem orsteponthem.Transequityisaframeworkformanifesting transformativejusticeforpeopleandnationsacrosstheworld.These werethethoughtsandfeelingsthatIsharedandwereevoked throughmethatday.

Iwalkedoutofthesenator'sofficefeelingconfidenttospeaktoan assemblymanadvocatingfurther.Iknockedonmyfirstdoorand askediftheassemblymanwasin.Thesecretaryrespondedno,but thatshecouldtakeamessage.Ibegantoeagerlyandpassionatelylay outourlegislativeagenda,andspokeonthevaluethechanges proposedwouldhaveonmylife.Namely,makingNYCasafehavenfor transyouthandtheirfamilies.Itoldherthestoryofmychosenname Harriet.IchoseHarrietbecauseittellsthestoryofablacktransgirl whofledthesouthtotransitionandseekliberationinNewYorkCity, andfightfortheliberationofmysiblingsinthestruggleforjustice.

Forme,remaininginNewYorkishavingthebestaccesstogender affirmingcareinthecountryandhavingaccesstoalargecommunity ofgenderdiversepeopleinthecitywhohelpprovidesupport,spaces, communityandmutualaidtohelpmethrive.SinceIhavemovedto NewYorkIhavestruggledtonavigatetransphobiainthejobmarket andtomeetmybasicneeds,evenasahighlyeducatedwomanwith workexperience AlthoughlivinginNewYorkisbetterthanlivingin thesouthasablacktransperson,itisnobetterthanlivinginthe NorthduringthelateeraofJimCrow.

Icouldseethesecretary’seyeslightupassheheardmystory.Ilefther officetoreturntothegroup.WewerewrappingupandIsawhimagain. Ilookedathimdifferentlythistime.Iwasnolongersad,Ihadthoughts ofhope.Thoughtsofloveunending.Somethingworthfightingfor.A worldwithoutblacktranspeopleisaworldwithouttheradicalbeauty ofblacktranslove.AsIconcludedthedayIfeltmoved.Afirewas roaringinmyhearttokeepfighting.AsIleftAlbanyIlookedoutthe windowaswecrossedbackintoNewYorkCityovertheGeorge WashingtonBridgeasthesunset.Everyonewaslaughingandcheering, sharingstoriesoffriendsandchosenfamily.Lovefilledthespace,and asIsteppedoffthebusIgavehimabigwarmhugandlefthimwith threewords Iloveyou

I found this interview with Sylvia Rivera. She was speaking of Pride becoming a capitalist event benefiting the Cis Straight community The time of the interview is unknown, but Sylvia Rivera sadly passed away in 2002. This means the interview must have taken place several decades ago, and still is an issue today. If anything it has become even worse. Below are the words of wisdom Ms. Rivera gave us.

“This movement has become so capitalist. It is a capitalist movement. I see this movement becoming a ‘straight gay’ movement. That only believes in that almighty dollar. Now whatkindoflogicisthis?

I don’t understand. We do not owe the straight community a damnthing,sowhyshouldwebegivingthemourmoney?Ifeel highlyoffended.So,whatisthepurposeofus….notus,because thisisnolongermypride Igavethemtheirpridebuttheyhave notgivenmemine Butwhatisthepurposeofthemcelebrating their pride and giving straight people who still really don’t acceptthecommunity:thegayandlesbiancommunityforwhat theyarebuttheywantthatalmightydollarofours.“

JavannahDavis (She/her)

SEX WORK MATTERS!!

Sex work ain't for pussies! It's a means of "a way out” for many individuals who aren't afforded the opportunities as some, or lack adequate access to quality employment I hope to bring some awareness to the challenges, discomfort, and trauma transgender women face around the stigma and experiences of sex work; or what I like to call, “Survival Work”! I myself am not, nor have I ever been a sex worker, but in my 19 years of community and primary healthcare experience I’ve worked closely with transgender patients who have been, and personally know a few trans women, mostly black trans women who had to use sex work to survive. Being a sex worker is dangerous whether you’re trans, cis, LGBTQ, or straight. But it’s especially dangerous if you are a trans woman of color.

Most traumatic experiences of transgender women include being robbed, being shot, sex trafficking ,experiencing homelessness, or being murdered for who we are. For those who have survived, their trauma can lead to mental health issues, drug and alcohol abuse, or all of the above. These are just a few of the reasons why there’s an outcry to decriminalize sex work, because the Criminalization of sex work isn’t protecting the community. In fact, it’s doing the absolute opposite. Laws that criminalize sex work push the industry underground, which makes it more dangerous.

Unlike some white trans women involved in sex work who often end up selling sex online, Black and brown transgender women usually work on the streets, exposing them to more dangers of violence from the “johns” and even police

Most sex workers are afraid of law enforcement for lack of respect for them as people, or the lack of respect for their lives. Instead of being the watchful eye they could be, the experience most trans individuals have with law enforcement is that of harassment, physical assault, or sexually taken advantage of by the officers who are sworn to protect them.

Trans people are often misgendered by law enforcement or don’t report attacks in fear of abuse, or being arrested while the “john” often goes free. Jails and prisons often misgender them and most are housed in men’s facilities, where they are at higher risk of being assaulted, and humiliated The punishment often doesn’t end there Once they get out of jail or prison, a past conviction can prevent them from getting a job, housing, health care, or other services.

Most of the 11+ known deaths so far this year were of Black transgender women. Many were sex workers. As a trans woman of color this is disheartening. Though I have not myself been a sex worker, I know what it’s like to experience the heaviness and fear of feeling like a target and afraid to call for help because of who you are.

Now let me be clear, out of all the people I have spoken to regarding their participation in sex work, no one has ever said “I always aspired for this!” or “This is definitely what I wanted to be when I was growing up!” As previously stated, sex work is a lifestyle of survival. A variety of people that are in sex work have been rejected and kicked out of their homes at an early age, face discrimination in the mainstream workplace, and fear ridicule in most cis-hetero-dominated social circles. Trans people are more likely to be unemployed compared to cisgender people. Thirty-four percent of Black trans people live in poverty. Trans people without a college degree and trans people who have experienced homelessness are even more likely to engage in sex work. These are some of the reasons why sex workers are disproportionately Black or Latinx trans women

So as a community healthcare professional, and a member of this community, it’s a duty to bring awareness to those in crisis, and to advocate for the sex workers and trans women of color who feel they don’t have a voice living in a criminalized world. As a community we must develop frameworks, and proper training for those civil servants who encounter trans people with civility, humility, and support the need for harm reduction in our community.

Glennifer Braker (she/her)

*** Woman

Even though it was God’s will To assigned me a dick the ancestors sent me to the world as woman, the mind and spirit of woman, That nurturing, that wisdom, the intuition and The bomb ass black femininity that carries scents of lavender, peppermint and hemp seed mixed together,

I present to you me, With Imperialism disguised as discoloration on my skin

I am woman.

I am not a man

Not confused

Not alien

Not other.

A woman

If I wear facial hair or this face is beat and smooth I am a woman.

If I wear Christian Louboutins or payless shoes one day And Jordan's or adidas the next

I am woman

I do have curves

But even if I'm built like a refrigerator I am a woman

I decided to keep my sexual organs, My feet are size 13

Yes I am a woman

I like baggy clothes and basketball shorts

I still may keep my chest and body hair in a blue moon, But don't worry, I am still a woman.

You may see that I have a haircut I may not wear a wig for a while! You were hoping it's just a phase right? Hmmm, no.

I'm still a woman.

Stop giving me your white patriarchal boxes

Of what a woman is suppose to look like I just ripped them up, it's only cardboard I'll snatch some things that may resonate and keep it moving.

Clock me all you want with your fear and uncomfortability that you allow to make you sick And turn into dust.

Just make sure you pay your bills, wipe your ass, clean your couches an make sure your kids aren't starving from your ignorance.

I have done and am doing too much self work

My heart is too open

My melanin is too bronzed

My voice is loud and fierce

My soul

my intellect

My bones

Are All In tune like a choir guided by a preacher that doesn't preach but loves and gives wisdom

Too many trans women who have been lynched

Dismissed

Have been treated like witches

Their spirits, are touching and gently pushing my shoulder and whispering “go bitch, go!”

The resistance and resilience of my trans ancestors

That hold and flows so deeply in my blood cells

Made it possible for me to stand on my own two feet, look at you and say,

Fuck you! I am a woman.

dOurpresenceisourresilienceisabolddeclarationof efiance and power that illuminates how Jamaican queer and trans folx have turned their passion for fashionintoanexhilaratingformofactivism.

fInformedandinspiredbystylemagazinesandthefight EorjusticeforblacktranslivesinJamaicaandbeyond, mani Edwards, Kyym Savage and their team have tcreatedimagesthatspeaktothefaithandfiercenessof akingupspace. Mostofmyknowledgeaboutfashionis self-taught. Being trans, I haven’t always had thefsupportofmyfamily,soI’vehadtofindopportunities wormyself.Iwantedtocombinemyinterestinfashion ith my desire to do something positive for trans people.

aIusemycreativedirectionasastylisttoexpresswhoI vmandhowIwanttolivemylife.Iusemyworktogive isibility to marginalizedgroups, including the t non-binaryandLGBTcommunities.

G.I.R.D.S. IS A T

My name is Zenith Imhere a 32 year old PROUD tr man. I used to be big on s ‘I AM ME’ because of how the LGBTQ+ and TGNC community is stereotyped in sooo many forms and fashions, especially the roles placed on how one identifies and portrays their own self identity. That’s the same struggle as the social norms put on men and women for what they can/cannot, should/should not, are expected/not expected to do. I knew that I never identified as a girl, even though I was assigned female at birth (AFAB), so being ME was fine. At least fine by me, but it didn’t stop those that proceeded to judge me and attempt to tell me how to live my life. However, if I am to say that I wish there were people like me to talk to and witness their growth, that means I have to acknowledge who I am to capture it from the next identifying individual.

… HERE’S WHY

At the age of 19, still pretransition, I was sentenced to prison and served 9 years. There were many trans men that Im glad to have met, spent time with, and learned. Everybody has HISSTORY. Some of these men I previously knew from another prison we transferred from, so when we met back up, they were post HRT. So now new stories have developed that are a constant means of imminent danger if not reconciled. I’ve seen and heard the struggles and pain of trans men incarcerated in female facilities with no rules or regulations that REQUIRE the requisite gender affirming materials, commissary items, and clothing, housing, etc.

A domestic dispute led a trans brother to jail in another state. I talked to him every other day until he was released 3 months later.

From the outset, he says they never asked him where he preferred to be housed. They misgendered him. They kept him locked 23/7 because they didn’t know what to do with him at first, but never gave him the option nor bothered to ask. Next Generation Men Of Transition (NGMT), a nonprofit organization whose “mission is to support trans masculine folx mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Building and connecting communities for folx with shared lived experiences.”, which I am a part of, helped to place this transman in general population instead of keeping him secluded.

Being trans means not identifying with the sex assigned to you at birth; not that you are trying to be something that you are not. That would be a copycat. However society has deemed trans folks as trying to be the opposite sex, instead of seeing people of trans experience outside of gender roles. I got picked on a lot for being too masculine. I dealt with a lot of big feet jokes and all that entails for men. Not in a good way for me though because I obviously wasn’t born with male anatomy. Men and women COs have both talked down to and ridiculed trans brothers. Abuse of power is real in correctional facilities whether it be jail, prison, or shock incarceration.

WHY

One day, a transman in my unit walked past the correctional officers (CO) desk and the CO, who wasn’t a regular, watched him for a minute. This brother definitely “passes”, meaning his gender wouldn’t be questioned in society, by heterosexuals;however, we were in a female facility at the time. He walked past the CO again and I heard the officer ask the transman to put a bra on. The trans brother stated his gender and that he didn't have to wear one, which the officer should have already known.

To house transmen, but not have proper training or any training at all on how to engage with us, all while being under department of Correctional and Community Services (DOCCS) custody is frightening. Most importantly, who's going to believe an inmate when they say all the injustices being done behind those walls Not even anothe help add

The prison healthcare system needs to be held accountable for the neglect, misinformation, uninformed/untrained, individuals who take care of trans men. The Gender Identity Respect, Dignity, and Safety Act (GIRDS) would definitely train the healthcare system on proper treatment of those of the LGBTQ+ and TGNC community. Same as knowing how to properly engage and treat elders, kids, or persons with disabilities. Incarcerated trans folks have had trouble with receiving their HRT on time and for unhealthy time periods. Some trans folks are not prioritized when they first become incarcerated or when they transfer. Proper rules regulations should be put in place for trans individuals to feel, be, and stay safe during their sentence.

Black Black Black MusicMonth MusicMonth MusicMonth

MUSIC IS A LOVE LANGUAGE

Janelle Monae'- Float

-Yoga

(Janelle's music puts my passion for joy, wellness & spirit together) Reenah Golden

Playlist

Little Simz-Venom

Doja Cat-Venom

(Doja honestly portrays alot of things I think myself, through her music)-Zackk

Rissax Nahkiyah- I want you

Rum.Gold-Hazel Chandeliers

(The artist Delonte Drumgold projects a sort of silky warmth through the lyrics of this song”-Lilianna

Damaged-H.E.R

-Melo

Bebrave

Naked-Ella Mai

Rema- Mara (Rema talks about how he is forever committed to his significant other and their love story)-

Ekeh

MáximaRodas (he/she/they)

In a world that evolves and change every second, fast and without any pity, we have to embrace ourselves in a deep sentiment of contemplation and appreciation of the life itself. We already survived hatred, beatings, humiliations, bigotry, harassment and prejudices. We would not have come this far if we had not fought for our dignity, for our lives and happiness. So, this is our chance, the present, to make a difference and continuing with the hard work of countless activists, leaders and volunteers that worked and keep working non stop for a betterment and for a future with love, comprehension and togetherness for the next generations. Us, we have the power to defend our vulnerable community, to teach, to give, to help, because our paths where paved as well before our existences, so we have to do the same.

Priority? Don ’ t let the system and part of this hypocrite society take our pride , lives, integrity and essence. Let ’ s be all in one, making our visibility stronger and permanent, and let us always be vigilant ready and awake in case they come after us.

We were here a long time ago, we are now, and we will be here, we will not leave.

Brittan Hardgers (He/Him)

I define radiance, for I am the burnt orange of each night, embracing the sun as it touches the earths core to say good night to me yet good morning to others

I am the flashlight that beams across the dark as the sun rises. I am the unseen Rays shining light , giving guidance spreading peace and providing nourishment for all who seek the truth…. I am transparently clear not white .

Often my light seems white maybe it’s is yellow …..blurred lines of society provoking the reflection of the light. I thought I was color blind.

I am all forms of water from blue to green to tan. My goal is to be translucent in all atmospheres! I adapt freely, Yet consciously.. Did you hear me from blue to green to tan. I am the clear water! Sifting through day to day toxicity.

I do not live under solid rainbows; I live in true vibrations of unmatched combinations that you must ask my ancestors for. My masculinity is not defined in American History. My fore fathers are either dead and gone or silenced living in self liberation

I am the invisible rays of fire as heat rises from the concrete upon the hot ground in which my ancestors thrived. I am the truth of their survival. I am red! I carry the blood … wait I am the blood

For I too am royalty!! It’s the scent of lavender lilacs. It’s the mood of the lightest shade of purple that frees me. It reminds me that the deeper I travel to the root. I will meet the true tone of royalty in the darkness and superiority of great. It sits beyond purple skies before meeting in the moonlight.

Greetings Moon…. My Golden Queen

I am a man of all shades!! my blackness does not overtake the vibrance of my masculinity.

Nice to meet you.

54 Years After Stonewall Riots, Pride is Still a Living Protest

As we approach the 54th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots, its commemoration comes -not as a memory from the past- but as an active struggle. Pride is still a living protest. While there has been gigantic progress when it comes to securing legal rights from localities up all to the Supreme Court, there is a long road ahead

This year, has been the worst ever in United States with the highest record number with more than 550 anti-LGBTQ bills being introduced by right-wing, Republican politicians across the country. There is a war waged onto our community, and it’s no longer just a mere tactic to “distract”. Their violent and transphobic rhetoric is not only moving attention away from the need for gun control and other issues, but it is becoming actual legislation in states like Texas, Tennessee, and Florida

Beyond the battle in courts and state legislatures, equally damaging and devastating has been the culture war on TGNC and LGBTQ identities Our community knows that advancing legal rights or increasing visibility alone isn’t enough. That to the contrary, this progress oftentimes doesn’t always translate into safety, justice and better living conditions, particularly for the most vulnerable.

This Pride, it’s a moment to recenter ourselves and reimagine how we want to move forward as a movement Here are three recommendations history has thought us that are imperative to improve our present:

Samy Nemir Olivares

(He/They)

54 Years After Stonewall Riots, Pride is Still a Living Protest

1) We can’t repeat the mistakes from the past. Our movement MUST focus and redress the marginalization of transgender, gender nonconforming and nonbinary members of our community (TGNC), particularly of color, and those living with disabilities, HIV or engaging in sex work.

There are many reasons for this anti-LGBTQ crusade in most part fueled by the hatred, fear and bigotry of right-wing, Republican lawmakers, white supremacists and, hate groupsthat feel threatened by the rise on acceptance and visibility to LGBTQ people. However, a small but very important element comes due to the historically marginalization of the T within our own LGB movement. In New York State in 2002, the leading LGBT group, Empire Pride State Agenda, supported passing a nondiscrimination bill, SONDA, but excluding gender identity And nationally, when a major civil rights nondiscrimination bill was introduced in Congress in the 90s, ENDA (precursor of Equality Act) major LGBTQ leaders and groups, supported efforts to pass it without including the trans community (gender identity). But it failed, and 30 years later, we haven’t been able to pass the Equality Act and suffering the consequences of our movement leaders focusing on fewkey issues while abandoning the most vulnerable. Incrementalism can’t be the answer if it leaves out the most vulnerable. It’s all of us or none of us.

2) Our liberation depends on freedom not assimilation. We must lead with an intersectional lens that prioritizes economic, racial, social and gender justice.

The Stonewall Riots were not about accommodating society or even marriage equality

While that was a huge and much needed victory, our movement spur from the battle to exist as authentic selves and basic needs. Stonewall riots, and the handful that preceded it in other places like Compton Cafeteria, stemmed from criminalization and persecution of LGBTQ people from the state as a tool of power and enforcing heteronormativity. Since then, the fight of folks like Sylvia Rivera and Marsha P Johnson as well the central message of the first LGBTQ March On Washington were focused on getting access to jobs, housing, and healthcare Most LGBTQ people live in poverty and overly represented in homelessness, criminal legal system and health disparities. Our fight for liberation should be as connected with dismantling vulture capitalism, racism, housing justice, abolition, as well healthcare as human right, feminism, environmental and disability justice. Example of that is how corporate America is ditching us at the first shaky winds.

54 Years After Stonewall Riots, Pride is Still a Living Protest

3) Finally but central: Our movement needs to lead from a space of love, hope and joy, not cave in to fear and despair.

That requires we address the need for personal and collective healing, intentionality and intersectional community building. Our community is carrying so much trauma, pain and deprivation from love, support and affirmation that often end up giving up to the current of fear and terror they try to instill in us. As we learn from the Civil Rights movement, we should stand and come firm from a foundation of love, faith, strong community, and grassroots organizing and shared values, not further division, hatred, or scarcity. It might bedifficult to turn our anger, pain, and sorrow into positive action, but activism and organizing provide us a platform to channel and transform that. And for this to happen, we need to have real access to healthcare as a human right, mental health services and prioritizing wellbeing, self/community care and solidarity as anchors of our work.

Continue to fight back against the anti-trans, drag and LGBTQ legislation across the country, providing support, building solidarity and channeling resources. Pass the Equality Act in Congress and ensure there are civil rights protections codify into federal law providing a nationwide framework of LGBT rights to challenge and supersede the patchwork of anti-LGBTQ legislation at state level.

Moving forward, we should:

Increase funding for TGNC-related work And this tactic must be two-fold, funding directly TGNC-led grassroots groups and organizations, as well within the programmatic work of larger LGBTQ organizations. Expand our allies base. And this might come with great level of commitment, patience and compromise. Not pleasant but necessary.

We should organize locally and descend upon state legislatures as well to Washington with the 4thNational LGBTQ March on Washington and filled the streets with our joyful and loving resistance and let lawmakers and the country that we are queer, we are hereand we are not going anywhere

This Pride, when you take the streets, remember all of this and bring it with you, as it is only when we touch hearts and minds, that change happens.

In Memory Of Davon "Nino" Davis

At 7AM on March 19, 2022, 23yr old Davon Davis was struck by a SUV & killed while riding his bicycle in the town of Brighton The driver was found to be under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident. The family has been given very little information or been included in the legal case to get #JusticeforDavon but was informed this week that the Grand Jury failed to indict and the driver will not be prosecuted. Davon was a proud TransMasculine man who worked hard, loved and supported his family and those that grieve him are DEVESTATED by his loss.

Blaque/OUT Magazine was born in 2020 after I had spent a summer marching in the streets for Black Lives Matter. At the beginning of the year yet another senseless murder of a Black man by the police shook our nation I had been an advocate and activist for many years but what we did that summer was different. My fight had been in courtrooms, boardrooms and on paper. That fight was covered in sweat, tears, soaked in anguish. It was hoarse from screaming and bruised beneath the batons of angry officers It burned from pepper spray and smoke hovering over top of us.

In that space surrounded by Black love and Black bodies there was no peace for many reasons. We had yet to find the justice we were so desperately fighting for but there was also a deeply rooted homophobia and transphobia that bubbled just under the surface as it does in many Black, Brown and immigrant spaces A life of Intersectionality often means never truly feeling at home anywhere, even with the people who look like you and are fighting the same oppression

As a part of my job before that time in my life, I was the editor of the longest continuously published LGBTQ publication in the country. Coming in as one of the only Black staff members and the only Black editor in its fifty year history, the work of diversifying that magazine was beyond a challenge but we built something beautiful.

At the crossroads of many intersections in the collective consciousness of the nation as well as in my own life, I decided to create a space where Black and Brown Queer folks could find a home. If we could only create a stage, give our people a voice it could maybe create a safe, sacred space that was for and by us And that’s how Blaque/OUT was born.

We are now a proud 35 issues and nearly three years in and each vibrant cover and amazing page drips in Black, Queer excellence We have Black, Queer and Trans writers, photographers, artists and creatives from all around the country and have told the stories of melaninated entrepreneurs, activists, icons and celebrities from around the world. We are a digital, monthly magazine. We transitioned to subscription at the beginning of the year in order to help enable our commitment to pay our contributors Black and Brown Queer folks MUST be paid for their energy, talent and work. With growing subscriptions, our advertisers and generous grants- each cover photographer and writer receives an honorarium for their submissions If you are interested in becoming a contributor, advertiser or reading issues of Blaque/OUT Magazine, visit: www.blaqueout.com

Tamara Sanaa Leigh

Paris Whitfield

RikersIslandhadn'tchangedmuch;theYoungAdult("YA")building 74wasstilldirty;theco'swerestilldisgruntled;andthebullpens smelledofoldbologna,stalecigarettes,andurine.Butonethinghad changed,thequeeryouthweremorevisible.Giventhedatebeingso closetoNYC'sPride,Iassumedtherehadbeenasweepdowninthe Village.Whileinthebullpen,theyhadallhuddleduptoforgean earlyallianceforwhichtheirverysurvivalwouldcometodepend.I wasfreshfrom"uptop,"butmyopenlybeingqueerhadme sandwichedinabullpenwithmymuchyoungerpeers:sitwiththat asthatbitofironysettlesinyourmind.Thesequeeryoutharenot seenasyoungandvulnerablebythelawwhentheyareBlack/Brown andqueeryouth.Hourstickedonforthetimeittakestobeprocessed throughtheintake,andthisprocessisregardlessoftheintake officershavingcompleteaccesstomycompleteupstatecorrection facility'sfile.I,liketheseyouth,mustsubmittoaurinalysis,whichis acommunalaffairaftertheonewhoisselectedtohaveuseddrugs less,ornotatall;aHIVscreening,whichissaidtobeelective,butis pointedoutbyyournothavingtheyellowslipshowingyou'veatleast takenit;bythetimemeandmyadoptedchildren,mybeingthe eldest,hadseenthepsychologist/triagenurse/all-clear-to-beplaced-in-a-housing-area-person,wehadsomewhatbonded After fieldingtheirtopquestionsmainlyregarding"rape,gangs,and fights,"theygenuinelywantedtoknowwhattheyneededtodoto "staysafeandgethomequicker."ItwastwoquestionsIwasstill grapplingwithafter10yearsofalreadybeinginthesystem.Ididnot knowbecauseeachdaybroughtnewchallengesforincarceratedYA queerpeople.

I made a comment, soliciting some eye-rolling, but then each of the three youths answered. Jalen, from the Bronx, reflected that "being on RikersIslandisbad,butwhatisworst:havingmymom'sboyfriendbeat on me because I am gay. At least in here, I can get a break from him hurting me and her allowing it." 'Bricks,' aptly named so because he is from Newark, NJ (which is commonly known as "Bricktown"), told me, "Everybodywholovesmeisinhere,Idon'tknowalotofpeopleinNew York,andIsleepintheparkwhenI'mnotonRikers.ButwhenI'mback in"Jersey,"I'mturningtricksformyfostermom'sdrughabit."

"Nina," the more flamboyant one shared, "I made a mistake... it was foolish of me, but when you get attacked on the streets for just being who you are, it will cause you to 'strike' first when you feel threatened. It was a grown #%$ man who came after me, ain't nobody till this day asked me was I alright" So I did; I asked Nina if was she alright Her eyeswelledup,andsheshookherheadintheaffirmative Icommented again, and they thoughtfully indulged my question before rolling their eyes this time. But, you must know they still rolled their eyes. I asked, what if we could find alternatives to prison and look for solutions so people can find better pathways, community, and access to education? ItoldthemImightneverseethemagain,butIwoulddoit,thinkabout eachofthem,andletwhattheysharedwithmeguidemywork.Youth's anger and rage are rarely interpreted as their response to fear, trauma, and betrayed hopes. For some Black/Brown queer youth, messages of rejection are everywhere. Given this political and social climate, even more so. New York State Senator Zellnor Myrie and Assemblyperson Danny O'Donnell propose bill Number S5749, the Youth Justice and Opportunity Act. If passed, this bill will give assuage some of the harmful messaging of rejection, which is too often imbedded in socalled liberal-progressive-policies that appear, at first glance a respite, a beacon, but soon is realized as nothing more than a Pipedream. Borrowing from New York state Senator Kevin Parker, he asserts, "Programs in prison to prepare individuals to become contributing membersofsocietyuponreleasebeginsrightnow."

Thisbillshouldpassfortworeasons:

1.)"Violent"convictionsdonotalwaysaccountforthosewhodidnot participateintheviolentact,seetheNewYorkstatefelonymurder law,whichaffects87%ofBlack/BrownNewYorkers,toincludequeer YAs YoungAdultswillbeleftoutofaccruing"goodtime"

2)Asitstands,thereislittletonoincentiveforthoseYAstopartakein mandatory/volunteer,therapeutic,oreducationalprogrammingthat canenrichtheirlives,whichhasbeenproventolessenone'schanceof recidivismoncereleased.

Yearslater,NinawouldbeplacedintheadultpopulationatAuburn CF.Iheardheryell,"Momma!"fromacrosstheyard.Myheartboth leapedwithsurprisetoseeher,butalsofromfearofwhatIknewcould happentoher.

Forthemostpart,NinaremainedfocusedandIwashell-benton seeingthatitstayedthatway.But,aswithany'parent,'quicklycomes tolearn:there'salwayssomethingmoretuggingatthechildtheylove.

Tothisveryday,Ninawouldneveradmitit,butshewasmadeinto anyone ' s"gun-mule,"ajailtermforsomeoneholdinganother's weapon(s).Intruth,itneverreallyisafriendly"ask,"tobequite honest.Ihadtofightmywaythroughthe"friendly"extortions,thesocalled"friendly"asks,and"friendly"favors.Iknowwhatshewasup against,butforNina,shestillcaredaboutherfriends,whoweren'ther friends(buthowmanytimesI'veheardmyownmomtellmethat),and sheputherfreedomatrisk,callitnaivetyorfear:eitherone,orboth, couldhavebeentrue

IwastransferredfromAuburnCF,andNinafollowedsoonafter.When Isawher,shehadlostnearlyallthesparklesheonceheldinhereyes, likeavetreturninghomefrombattle.ItwouldbeafewdaysbeforeI asked,"howshewasdoing."Again,shetoldmeshewasfine,ashereyes filledwithwater.

Her following words betrayed her attempt at adult bravery, "My grandmom died, Paris; I was almost home before I caught that new charge."Iassumedshewastalkingaboutthechargestemmingfromher obliging that "friendly ask" by her friends to hold their weapons. Most queer people in prison live in a sort of Jim Crow society. Queer people are excluded from many job programs; limited to housing areas; and mostly shut out of participation in coveted spots that help with socialization, e.g., the puppy program (which is not afforded in every prison, to be fair) or other favorite programs. Sure, it is not sanctioned, butitisnolessaccurateandhappening.Thosebraveenoughtoliveout and proud are often the target of violence, sex, and extortion. If passed, this law will help those queer youth I spoke to that day in the bullpen and others who face rather tricky realities while in prison. They, too, usually come from complex home lives. The gritty fact is most politicianscanneverunderstand,orknow,whatsomeoftheseYA'slives are like on a daily bases: some have been physically, emotionally, and sexuallyabused;thrownoutoftheirhomesforbeingqueer;andbullied for being or perceived to be different. I'm often asked if I have experienced many things I talk/write about regarding young queer people in jail/prison? Yes and no I think I had a sense of who I was because I was raised in a big family, a loving family, and a family that equally valued my voice. I'm not claiming "I knew who I was, " even simultaneously:IknewwhoIwasn't.AndasafraidasIwastofightback against some of the people's perspectives of me in prison, I was more afraidofwhoIwouldbecomehadInot.MassincarceratingYAsdoesn't prevent crime; it sets up generations for a lifetime of failure; for example, incarceration for this demographic ensures a criminal record; unemployment; and lack of education or skill. Bill and Hillary Clinton, no matter how anyone feels about them personally, set the stage in the 1990s for how youth crimes were given adult penalties. Hillary Clinton remarked, "They are not just gangs of kids anymore... they are often the kinds of kids called ' super predators': no consciousness, no empathy. Bill Clinton directed "the FBI and other investigative agencies to target gangs that involved juveniles and violent crimes and to seek authority toprosecute,asadults,teenagerswhomaimandkilllikeadults.”

Nina didn't "kill" or "maim" anyone. She is a young transgender teen defending herself from being harmed by a grown man. Yet, the justice systemsentencedhertonearly10years.

Dr. Laurence Steinberg, a developmental psychologist at Temple University, says the United States legal system criminalizes "normal" adolescent behaviors. He also claims the prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain that controls self-control and anticipation of future consequences/decision-making, needs to be developed in YAs, ages 19-26. With 850000 juvenile arrests a year, we must have the foresight to see how chunking our YAs in human kennels serves minimal societal benefit. This bill starts the conversation, but more is needed to solve the problem of youth living in poverty, which is largely why youth are subject to harsher scrutiny for their otherwise risky youth behaviors. But this bill, if passed into law, can generate restorative justice insomuch as people's families can be restored to all the pieces of that society-family, which allows youth to express, openly and safely, their gender.

Carrying on the Spirit of Stonewall: Leadership across Generations for Justice, Equity & Safety

By Grace Detrevarah

At 60 years off in my m child till I w body, mind such freedom

I knew I had gotta Get ou I would find and …… in m the safe war York City w Nevertheles who I am To system, tran arrival to NY left to devices of The Duece: 42nd Street & Time Square area. Stealing, Sleeping in abandoned buildings, Individuals I'd meet: their couches or floor. I avoided the shelter system. I ultimately would obtain a criminal history, some musto as to how to survive the streets of NYC at a turbulent time: the late 80’s and early 90’s. I would receive my 1st arrest to Rikers island. This would be 1984. I would have several items of knowledge, a high school diploma and a knack for representing my fellow detainees. I began to speak up, for others: regarding humane treatment. Then, I discovered: the Law Library. My advocacy would begin. As one of many “jail-house preparer or lawyer” only I was an “out feminine drag-queen” (Transgender language or identity was not being Termed or used in those days) I was tolerated by my so-called cis-gendered fellow prisoners and civilians.

Yet, I would become “known thru the years ” throughout years of "arrest” and “stays” on Rikers island. I became a “ go to detainee” for prisoner rights even back then. The late 80’s and early 90’s. I would receive my 1st NYS prison sentence in 1986. I would always be placed in Law Libraries, Teachers aid or Clerical positions which Prisoners are usually required to have: in NYS facilities. These placements would lead to my physical and sexual assault by officers and prisoners. Where I ultimately would be diagnosed HIV+ in 1988. The diagnoses would linger personally (I didn't address my diagnoses for 6 month, out of shame, stigma and fear) My last time in NYC/NYS Correctional Services would be 2016. Upon departing NYS-DOCC I would return to the NYC area and LGBQ-TGNCNBI community: w/ (4 certifications in several trades, (2) Associate’s Degree (General Education & General Liberal Arts). (Certification: HIV General Training, Testing and Advocacy through state-sponsored initiative: PACE I would return equip to serve and advocate at a level, which is common but most importantly in my observance and opinion: Passion was absent. What I've come to recognize is “leadership” was and continues to be “ a problematic” observance. Let me explain:

The mere definition of Leadership: has and continues to hinder a community: Trans ,Non-comforming & Binary. Leadership has levels. The individual who can speak to and with power or to those over-seeing marginalized folk, rather in custody or in the LGBTQIA+ community in general. The most sought-after and considered relevant on Leadership: are those who are respected: The safe, educated and appropriate in visibility to those in the realm of making change. The grass-root activist - advocate who is limited In education, contacts and support are usually tolerated to be ignored, ultimately. There is no collaboration regarding those educated to those that are usually the “authentic” or grassroot - like. Unfortunately, Therefore, since my return back to NYC in 2016. Its has been my “life’s work” To speak up, speak for and collaborate my years of lived- experience on HEALTH Disparities, Legal representation as well as how Trans Folk in particular are treated, sentenced and when in custody or involvement with the NYC - NYS prison industrial Complex. Leadership ….is relative. Regardless of the level.

Today, as I work at a bronx -area agency which provides services for those LGBTQIA folk affected by the criminal justice system, health disparities. I am currently a registered Author and motivational and impactful speaker. Which my motto:

“Saving lives to save my Own” Leadership can start by simply …….. Speaking up.

Ironically it can have the possibility of awakening a future leader. On any level.

Ashe’

-Grace Detrevarah

Doron (He/Him)

RoseMournighan (She/her)

Assimilation is not the answer. Star Trek envisions a future where we achieve peace by realizing we are all more alike than we are different. This is a future seen by those who have the least to lose from assimilation. This path does not remove from us what they want to get rid of, that we are different; we just hide it better. We will never be them, we will never be what they want us to be while still being what makes us special. No matter how hard you try to fit in, you will never be enough for them, you will always be too different. So don’t. Wave your flags loud and proud, tell all these cops, politicians, white supremacists, and all who wish to see us gone that we are different, we do not fit in, and that is the point. We are who we are and nothing can change that.

SinceTheBeginningofTime

In IndiaandBangladesh,thehijrascanbe consideredtransgenderwomen,butmany preferthetermthirdgender. Traditionally, hijrasheldsemisacredstatusandearnedtheir livingblessingnewlywedsandinfants.Theprecolonialbeliefwasthathijrascouldblessone’s homewithprosperityandfertility.After colonization,theylosttheiradmiredspacein society,leading tohijrasbeggingformoneyon thestreetsorprostitution..

Inpre-colonialAmerica,genderwasso expansivethatindividualtribeshadtheirown classificationforwhatisnowconsidered“twospirit”TheOmahaandPoncatribesreferredto theseindividualsasMixu’ga,meaninginstructed bythemoonEarlywritingsbycolonialists marveledatthefactthattribesnotonlyaccepted “two-spirit”members,butalsohadspiritualand shamanicrolesTheyoftentookrolesaschief, healer,andconductedspiritualceremonies

LosMuxesinZapoteindigenousculturesates backtopre-colonialtimes.Bornmalebut dressedaswomen,theMuxestookon traditionallyfemininetasksuchas embroideryorcraftsmanship,throughwhich theypreservedtheirculture. Additionally, therewerenon-binaryAztecpriestandMayan godswhowerebothmenandwomenatthe sametime.

Shaman of the Dagomba tribe in Ghana, explained that before the implementation of ridgedEuropeanbinary,genderdidnotdepend onsexualanatomy.“Itispurelyenergetic.Inthat context, one who is physically male can vibrate female energy, and vice versa.” A historical examplebeingNzinga,awarriorintheNdongo kingdom, who ruled as a king rather than a queen.Theydressedasamanandsurrounded themselveswith“mendressedaswomen”who severedaswives.

BeforecolonistarrivedinHawaii,Amulti genderedtraditionexistedamongtheKanaka Maoliindigenoussociety,TheMahureferred tomalesandfemaleswho’sgenderrole encompassedbothmasculineandfeminine. Mahuheldsacredsocialrolesaseducators, promulgationsof accenttraditionandrituals. WiththearrivalofAmericanmissionaries, Mahuwereforcedintoconformityandmany Hawaiiantraditionswereoutlawed.

IntheManilaManuscript,Spanishconquistadors wroteofthenonconforminggender behavioroftheFilipinomaleshaman.“Inallhe appearedmoreofawomanthanaman”. Thecoexistenceofbothfeminineandmasculine energiesin Babaylanshaman,meantthatthey werelinkedtothedivine.Andwe’rereveredas such.Babaylanpreformedritualstoconverse withspiritsanddeitestoensurebountiful harvestandpositiveoutcomesinwar.Theirmost importantrolewasthehealersofnatureand spiritualillness.

IWillSurvive ToThrive

ExistingIsMy Purpose

IAmTheMost Beautiful CreationOfMy Past

Imakea differenceby beingmyself

ITrust MeWith MyLife 1st

Look deep into the darkness & find yourself

Affirmations From Jewel & Brittan

Don’t forget your flowers

Calm with Cami: Self Care & Community Wellness For Everyone

Camila Rueda-Labrador (she/her)

OUR MOMENTS ALONE ARE UNIQUE. TAKE INVENTORY OF YOUR HABITS IN THESE MOMENTS AND CHERISH THESE MOMENTS TAKE A MOMENT TO ASK YOURSELF, WHO ARE YOU WHEN NO ONE IS WATCHING? REFLECT AND REASSESS WHAT HABITS OR ROUTINES YOU WANT TO SELFCULTIVATE. START WITH ONE VERY SMALL TASK OR ACTION, CHOOSE THE FREQUENCY OR TIMES YOU’D LIKE TO ACCOMPLISH THIS IN A WEEK, AND NOTICE THE SHIFT EACH TIME YOU REPEAT THIS.

TIME FOR WHAT I LOVE

AWARENESS

THE WORK I NEED TO DO TO SUSTAIN MYSELF

IHAVETHEAGENCYSETMY BOUNDARIESWITHTHEWORLD AROUNDMEANDMYSELF.

WEMAYFEELBOXEDINTOOURROUTINES. IINVITEYOUTOCREATESPACIOUSNESS BYSLOWINGDOWNANDBECOMEMORE AWARE:STARTBYFOCUSINGONONEOF YOURSENSES.TAKEINVENTORYANDGO THROUGHALLYOURSENSES.THIS TECHNIQUEWILLHELPYOUSLOWDOWN, BEMOREFOCUSEDANDCREATEMORE SPACIOUSNESSINYOURDAILYROUTINE.

ALLOW YOURSELFTO BEWITH YOUR EMOTIONS

MANYTIMESWEFEELLIKEWENEEDTO HOLDINORIGNOREOUREMOTIONS, IDEAS,ANDTHOUGHTSINORDERTOBEIN APRODUCTIVEMINDSETORTOMAINTAIN APOSITIVEMINDSET.IENCOURAGEYOU

TOFEELYOUREMOTIONS,EXPLOREYOUR IDEASANDEXTRAPOLATEYOUR THOUGHTS.CHOOSEACTIVITYLIKE JOURNALING,DANCING,PAINTING, SINGINGORANYACTIVITYTHATALLOWS YOUTOEXPRESSYOURSELF.

I fight daily to exist visibly, even when the world continues to fight against me.

I Chose Me To Survive-Brittan Hardgers

QUEER LIBERATION OUTSIDE OF RAINBOW CAPITALISM

Black Trans &

WHAT IS CAPITALISM:

an economic and political system in which a country's trade and industry are controlled by private owners for profit.

WHAT IS PRIDE CAPITALISM:

Rainbow capitalism (also called pink capitalism, homocapitalism or gay capitalism) is the involvement of capitalism and consumerism in the LGBT movement.

Each year during Pride season the economic and political system that continues to push the erasure of Trans Gender, Non-Binary & Intersex folks in our community profit heavily off our existence. These major corporations produce and sell "Pride Merchandise" for their own profit and propaganda.

We must acknowledge a-lot of these companies stand with the Anti-Trans LGBTQIA+ Legislation. They are harming the exact community in which these companies pretend to support. From the lens of a Black Trans Masc Identifying Person Ask "Me What Support Looks Like!"

I have community full of folks with answers.

Let us briefly look at the pull-back of Targets 2023 Pride Collection...

Target has always considered themselves as an ALLY & Inclusive Supporter of the LGBTQIA Community.

Yet when met with the hateful rhetoric traveling through our country & across the world. Target pulled the Pride Collection Line from their stores. Target released a statement with the narrativeThey did not want their team members safety impacted by threats due to people's personal opinions on the collection.... hmmmm

Trans, Non Binary & Intersex Folks Are Threatened, Harmed, Killed, Abused, Discriminated Against Daily

I am all about the safety of others.... yet shouldn't Target have expected and prepared for this type of hate and back lash?

Why was this not a moment for Target to stand in SOLIDARITY when LGBTQIA communities world wide? Why was this not an education moment for major corporations to be called out on their discrimination?

How Many Companies Actually Donate Their "Pride Profits" Back To The Grassroot Organizations In Their Communities?

Pride is 365 for me! Not just June & July!

Target is not the only entity profiting from our existence, this is sadly just one of the many. Together we can change this, we can make sure our currency is spread only through the Queer Community!

We Must Support Our OWN!!

We Are The Artist Of Liberation!!

AreThe OfQueerLiberation!

Thank You: A Special Note From New Pride Agenda

Despite a heavy year for our community, including hundreds of Anti-LGBTQ and AntiTrans bills being introduced in State Houses across the country, we continue to resist and stand tall in the face of adversity. I know that we will get through this challenging time with joy and resilience the way our ancestors did. That is who we are and always will be And for that, I am so grateful to be a part of this community.

Asaresultoftheadvocacyandorganizingofo historic feat in New York, ensuring that our andFamilies.Thiswasonlypossiblebecause

Together, we organized one of the largest Intersex (TGNCNBI) Advocacy Days at th Transgender Advocacy Group, The LGBT Co andourlegislativesponsors,Assemblymemb

I would be remiss if I did not thank the elec this fight. We could not have moved a major finishlinewithouttheleadershipofSenator unwaveringsupportofalltheLGBTQmembe Lastbutcertainlynotleast,Iwanttothankth led by the creative visionary, Shéár Avory. Th thebestofourabilitythankstoyourefforts I and our incredible Civic Engagement and Political Education Project (CEPEP) Intern, Jewel Baskerville, for their leadership, as well. The entire NEW Pride Agenda team kept our community’s voice front and center and made sure that no decisions were made about us - without us I couldn't bemoreproudoftheprogresswehavemadeforourgreatstate.

Collectively, we are making New York live up to its values as an inclusive and progressive state. We are the ones that ensure New York continues to hold its place as the nation's frontline defense against the erosion of our civil liberties But let me not shy away from the fact that we still have so much work to do. When every state bordering ours moves faster on contemporary LGBTQ/TGNC issues,it'sasignthatwehavebeendeprioritizedathome.Perhaps,notbythebiggestchampionsof ourcommunity,butbythesilentmajorityandthemostpowerful Ourworkhasneverbeenmoreimportant.Theneedtoreturntoourroots,topivotfromapoliticsof acceptancetooneofsocialandeconomicjustice-isimminent.Ilookforwardtodoingthatworkwith somanyofyou.

HappyPride

InSolidarity, ElisaCrespo

ExecutiveDirectorTheNEWPrideAgenda