QNotes, March 6, 2020

March 6-19, 2020

qnotes

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inside this issue

March 6-19, 2020 Vol 34 No 23

connect

feature

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contributors this issue

Rev. Marty Bacher, Kode Brown, Mykah Buff, Matthew Davis, Vic Gerami, Kendra R. Johnson, Lainey Millen, Chris Rudisill, Gregg Shapiro, Trinity

front page

Graphic Design by Chris Rudisill Photography: Dan Kirsch archives Mission:

The focus of QNotes is to serve the LGBTQ and straight ally communities of the Charlotte region, North Carolina and beyond, by featuring arts, entertainment, news and views content in print and online that directly enlightens, informs and engages the readers about LGBTQ life and social justice issues.

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Advertisers assume full responsibility — and therefore, all liability — for securing reprint permission for copyrighted text, photographs and illustrations or trademarks published in their ads. The sexual orientation of advertisers, photographers, writers, cartoonists we publish is neither inferred nor implied. The appearance of names or photographs does not indicate the subject’s sexual orientation. qnotes nor its publisher assumes liability for typographical error or omission, beyond offering to run a correction. Official editorial positions are expressed in staff editorials and editorial notations and are determined by editorial staff.

The opinions of contributing writers and guest columnists do not necessarily represent the opinions of qnotes or its staff. qnotes accepts unsolicited editorial, but cannot take responsibility for its return. Editor reserves the right to accept and reject material as well as edit for clarity, brevity.

charlotteobserver.com/1166/ a local news partner of The Charlotte Observer

Remembering Dan Kirsch

Bigger Than Ever

news

Big Freedia has been entertaining audiences for awhile now and in an interview with the artist, readers will get to know more about this ‘big’ star.

5 Sanders Wins Nevada Caucus 5 Pride organizations

Meet in Charlotte 6 Advocates and S.C. Youth

File Lawsuit 6 News Briefs 7 Servicemembers Oppose Trans Military Ban 7 HIV Laws Impact People

a&e 10 13

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The Arts are Abloom 10 Questions with Vic: Elizabeth ‘Lizzy’ Small Bigger Than Ever Tell Trinity

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Our People: Cory Davis

One Voice Chorus of Charlotte has a new artistic director who is bringing his talents to the stage and inspiring those who are part of creative process and leadership.

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life 19

Our People: Cory Davis

views 4 Political Voices: We Believe in the Power of Youth 8 Spiritual Reflections: Transformation

events 18 18

FCSJ Awards Banquet ‘The King & I’

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March 6-19, 2020

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views

We Believe in the Power of Youth Political Voices

BY Kendra R. Johnson, Equality North Carolina Executive Director | CONTRIBUTING WRITER

I

n a political moment as dire as ours, it can be difficult to think about anything except the looming elections and their impact on the future of our country. At Equality North Carolina (ENC), we are certainly in the thick of it this year, having endorsed over 123 candidates (bit.ly/385iBle) going into the primary election.

However, ENC also has a number of non-electoral programs that we’re extremely proud of, including our Rural Youth Empowerment (RYE) Fellowship led by ENC Education Policy Coordinator Rebby Kern. The RYE Fellowship is a year-long mentorship and training program for LGBTQ young people hailing from rural areas of North Carolina.

Through the generous support of Bank of America, ENC supports RYE Fellows in executing a social justice project serving rural communities while developing leadership skills over the course of a year.

ENC believes in the radical importance of investing in LGBTQ young people who seek to transform the culture of our state — and our world. Young people are leaders of our movement and integral to our shared goals of building a world where all folks marginalized by power and privilege can not only survive, but thrive.

Please meet our current class of fellows below and head to our website (equalityncfoundation.org) to learn more about the RYE Fellowship and ways you can support these emerging leaders.

Gray Rodgers, 24 (they/he) Chapel Hill, NC Project Title: “The WISE Project: Welcoming Intergenerational Social Enrichment in the LGBTQ Community” The WISE Project will address ageism in the local LGBTQ community by creating more accessible intergenerational spaces and fostering intergenerational relationships. The program will connect LGBTQ folks from all generations to share their stories, wisdom and lived experiences through community receptions, an organized peer support program, and story-telling events across the triangle. The WISE Project launched with a community reception hosted by SAGE on Feb. 29 in Chapel Hill (details to be announced and included soon).

Aims of the WISE Project include reduced social isolation, increased LGBTQ peer support, increased knowledge of LGBTQ history and increased mental health outcomes among participants. For more details or interest in participating in the WISE Project contact Gray at grodgers@ email.unc.edu.

Asher Warg, 20 (he/him) Boone, NC Project Title: “We Have Always Been Here: Archiving the LGBTQ+ High Country Experience“ This project aims to create a working archive of LGBTQ+ experience in the High Country.

Working in tandem with the Appalachian State University

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themselves on these pages, in the art, in the writing and in the narrative. Participants of Queer Gone South will feel seen and heard, as part of something important and worth sharing. The outcome consists of gathered resources, of the sharing of information, our individual experiences, our queer history in the South, empowerment through digital/ visual art, poetry, other forms of writing, comics and whatever else makes you feel seen. Ultimately, Ruby hopes to create a source and platform that belongs to and made by queer individuals in the South — something to give LGBTQ+ youth (especially) the things necessary to empower, lead and heal.

Special Collections, we plan to find evidence of queer life in the area and on the campus and compile the rich LGBTQ+ history of the area. We then plan to begin reaching out to LGBTQ+ individuals who wish to share oral histories or other important physical artifacts related to LGBTQ+ experience. This project works to complicate the notion that LGBTQ+ life is restricted to urban areas.

The creation of this archive will provide an important collection to be used as a resource for activists, LGBTQ+ individuals and researchers who are interested in LGBTQ+ life. We plan to offer this collection to students/ faculty/staff at Appalachian State University, as well as to all people within the area who may be interested.

Once the archive begins to hold substantial information, I plan to reach out to local organizations and students who study Sociology, Psychology, Education and Gender, Women, & Sexuality Studies (etc.) to bring attention to this new resource. The Gender, Women, & Sexuality Studies program has already reached out to share excitement for the development of this archive to compliment their program. If permitted, I would love to share access to this with local schools and K-12 students who may wish to see the lives and experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals who came before them.

Hailey “Ruby” Hernandez, 18 (she/they) Clayton, NC Project Title: “Queer Gone South Zine” Ruby’s project is a collaborative zine: Queer Gone South. It includes a digital and published platform centering on queer individuals of all ages in the Clayton community, the South and other Rural Areas.

This zine strives to unearth our queer history, present and future in the South. Queer Gone South makes every effort to amplify the voices of the LGBTQ+ community and honors the intersections of race, ethnicity and so on. It strives to carve out a space for black, brown and indigenous queer youth by recognizing the multifaceted-ness within the community. Queer Gone South pays homage to the ones that came before this moment, to those who have arrived now and the ones that will come after this moment. The project does so by tailoring a zine that belongs to all of us. Ruby’s hope is that every individual within the queer community to find a piece of

Andrew Snavely, 28 (they/he/ she) Burnsville, NC Project Title: “Southern Hospitality Guide & Queer Youth Support Group” This project will focus on the creation of a “Southern Hospitality Guide” for the AMY (Avery, Mitchell, Yancey) TriCounty region. The guide will be a resource available in print and online to queer youth and adults for identifying LGBTQ-friendly local businesses and services in the area. It will also include tips for inclusive businesses, a glossary of terms and a list of additional resources available through GLSEN, the Trevor Project and PFLAG. In addition to this guide, the project will include a bi-monthly support group for queer youth.

The queer youth group will provide a safe environment for LGBTQ+ youth to be themselves, build peer-to-peer support networks and get connected to any resources they are seeking in an area that still lacks GSAs in most schools. Creating the “Southern Hospitality Guide” provides an opportunity for increased awareness and visibility in the community around LGBTQ+ needs and issues. Most importantly, this guide helps break down the narrative of isolation and rejection in the rural community, signaling how LGBTQ+ folks belong and are welcomed into the AMY Tri-County region.

Liam Waller, 20 (he/him) Boone, NC Project Title: “Bridging gaps to affirming health care for gender-variant patients” Liam’s project will focus on collaborating with local health care providers and helping professionals in Boone, N.C. in order to improve access to affirming healthcare for transgender, non-binary and gender variant folks. This project will include workshops, resources and information geared toward helping professionals on best practices. Alongside this, Liam aims to generate a resource guide for transgender, non-binary and gender variant folks that includes information about the providers and helping professionals that have received training on providing affirming care. : :

news

Sanders wins Nevada caucus

Primary Watch: Questions of Irregularities Follow Release of Caucus Results

BY Mykah Buff | QNotes Staff Writer

Sen. Bernie Sanders.

(Photo Credit: Gage Skidmore via Wikimedia Commons.

CC-SA-3.0-Unported license) Thus far, there have been three Democratic primary elections; the Iowa caucuses, the New Hampshire primary, and the Nevada caucuses, which took place Feb. 22 and included four days of early voting. The Nevada caucuses are a closed primary that awards 48 delegates, 36 of which include pledged delegates allocated and determined by caucuses.

Sen. Bernie Sanders took the lead in Nevada, winning by a landslide with a final vote of 46.8 percent. Considering his success of winning the popular vote in Iowa and New Hampshire, as well as trailing close behind former South Bend, Ind. Mayor Pete Buttigieg in Iowa’s delegate count, Sanders appears to be gaining significant momentum, making him the obvious front-runner and potential candidate to win the Democratic nomination.

In second place to Sanders came former Vice President Joe Biden with a final vote of 20.2 percent, then Pete Buttigieg in third with a final vote of 14.3 percent.

Which still places Buttigieg in the top tier.

Following the release of the final results, there was a stir of controversy over possible inconsistencies in the counting of ballots. Buttigieg’s campaign was the first to make allegations questioning these possible voting irregularities, as Michael Gaffney, Buttigieg’s national ballot access and delegate director, sent correspondence late evening the day of the caucuses to the Nevada Democratic Party.

“In light of material irregularities pertaining to the process of integrating early votes into the in-person precinct caucus results, we request that you release early and in-person votes, correct errors identified by presidential campaigns and explain anomalies in the data,” Gaffney wrote in a letter.

Dissimilar to primaries run by the government, caucuses are party-run where coordination is vital. That said, the margin of error can be somewhat greater, due to the absence of oversight and inaccuracies. Furthermore, voters’ efforts seem to require more diligence, as caucuses entail much more involvement than simply casting a vote at the polls. : :

Pride organizations meet in Charlotte

East Coast Organizers in the Queen City in March

By Chris Rudisill | QNOTES CONTRIBUting Writer More than a dozen Pride organizations and 200 or more leaders of Pride organizations will descend on Charlotte for the annual NERP/POSE Conference. The conference brings together InterPride members and other organizations in a joint conference of the U.S. East Coast’s two InterPride regions: Northeast Regional Prides and Prides of the Southeast. The local Charlotte Pride organization will host the conference from March 19-22 at the Foundation for the Carolinas located at 220 N. Tryon St. in Uptown Charlotte.

Raleigh, N.C. native Jacob Tobia, best known for the national bestselling memoir “Sissy: A Coming-of-Gender Story” and was featured in the 2015 GLAAD Award-nominated episode of “True Life: I’m Genderqueer,” is one of two keynote speakers on Saturday, March 21. In addition, openly undocumented and queer activist Moises Serrano will speak to conference attendees. Serrano lives in the Triad and speaks throughout the country in an effort to “humanize the issue of migration while advocating for immediate

relief to migrant communities” according to the Charlotte Pride website.

Workshops will include topics like Inter-Generational Pride, Nonprofit Money Managament, Volunteer Engagement, and Accessibility.

For more information, visit charlottepride.org/np20. : :

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BRIEFS Org rebuffs Bloomberg director

The LGBTQ Victory Fund has condemned homophobic remarks made by presidential candidate Michael Bloomberg’s North Carolina state director James Miitchell and has called on an apology from Bloomberg. According to Gen, Mitchell referred to Pete Buttigieg as “Butti-Jay” when appealing to influential North Carolinians in the campaign’s state headquarters. He then acknowledged he was referencing Buttigieg’s sexual orientation, using one of those influencer’s nickname for Pete, “Butti-gay.”

info: victoryfund.org.

VIRGINIA MAKES PROTECTIONS HISTORY

LGBTQ advocates and South Carolina youth file lawsuit challenging state’s anti-LGBTQ curriculum law CHARLESTON, S.C. — The National Center for Lesbian Rights and Lambda Legal, along with private counsel Womble Bond Dickinson, Brazil & Burke and law professor Clifford Rosky, have filed a federal lawsuit challenging a South Carolina statute that prohibits public school health education from including any discussion of same-sex relationships except in the context of sexually transmitted diseases.

The lawsuit is filed on behalf of the student organization Gender and Sexuality Alliance, as well as the Campaign for Southern Equality and South Carolina Equality Coalition, including their members who are public school students in the state.

The lawsuit, Gender and Sexuality Alliance v. Spearman, alleges that S.C. Code § 59-32-30(A)(5), a provision of the South Carolina’s 1988 Comprehensive Health Education Act, violates the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution by discriminating against students who are LGBTQ individuals. The statute prohibits districts from including in their health education any “discussion of alternate sexual lifestyles from heterosexual relationships including, but not limited to, homosexual relationships except in the context of instruction concerning sexually transmitted diseases.”

The law singles out LGBTQ students for negative treatment and does not impose any comparable restriction on health education about heterosexual people. Any teacher who violates the provision is subject to dismissal. The South Carolina Attorney General has recently issued an opinion that a court would likely find the law unconstitutional.

“LGBTQ kids at our school — and every school in South Carolina — just want to feel safe, respected, and equal to other students in the classroom,” said Eli Bundy, a tenth grader who is the president of the Gender and Sexuality Alliance (GSA), an organization of high school students at a public magnet school in the Charleston County School District. “This discriminatory law treats LGBTQ students like we are outsiders in our own community, and that we aren’t equal to our peers. School should be a safe place for all students to be treated fairly and equally.”

“South Carolina’s Anti-LGBTQ Curriculum Law was enacted in 1988 as a provision of the Comprehensive Health Education Act,” said Jeff Ayers, executive director of South Carolina Equality. “It had the express and singular purpose of voicing moral disapproval of non-heterosexual people, and it serves no state purpose at all. This statute attempts to, at best ignore, and at worst to completely stigmatize young people who identify as LGBTQ in South Carolina and it must be struck down.”

“The state law sends a message to students that ‘homosexual relationships’ are so shameful or dangerous that they can only be discussed in a negative context,” said Julie Wilensky, Senior Staff Attorney at the National Center for Lesbian Rights. “This contributes to a hostile school climate in a state where nearly 90 percent of LGBTQ middle and high school students regularly hear homophobic remarks from other students.”

“This discriminatory law is archaic, outrageous, and profoundly damaging to LGBTQ students, treating them as pariahs,” added Peter Renn, Counsel for Lambda Legal. “It should come as no surprise that where the government stigmatizes a group of students as ‘unmentionable,’ it risks breeding a school environment hostile to LGBTQ students, with more harassment and abuse in classrooms, hallways, and locker rooms.”

“Every young person in South Carolina — including those who are LGBTQ — deserves an equal opportunity to learn and to thrive. But the current anti-LGBTQ curriculum law both stigmatizes LGBTQ youth and denies them access to critical information about their health,” said Rev. Jasmine Beach-Ferrara, executive director at the Campaign for Southern Equality. “The law sends a chilling signal to LGBTQ youth, and it’s long past time to strike it down.”

“In South Carolina, people across the political and ideological spectrum understand that no one should be excluded because of their LGBTQ identity,” said Kevin Hall, office managing partner at Womble Bond Dickinson based in Columbia, SC. “That’s why Republicans and Democrats alike are working in this case to overturn this clearly unconstitutional statute — and we’re honored to represent the effort by supporting these courageous students and the many young people in South Carolina who are being harmed by it each year.”

“We were especially delighted to see that the state’s leading attorney, the South Carolina Attorney General, agrees that the anti-LGBTQ Curriculum Law is unconstitutional,” said Clifford Rosky, a professor of constitutional law at the University of Utah, referring to a recent opinion issued by the Attorney General’s Office. “For now, this discriminatory law unfortunately remains in effect, and it inflicts ongoing harm against LGBTQ students in South Carolina’s public schools. To protect these students, we’ll need a judge to prevent the law’s enforcement, or state lawmakers to repeal it — as lawmakers have recently done in Utah and Arizona.”

The lawsuit is the latest constitutional challenge to anti-LGBTQ curriculum laws, which still remain in a handful of states. In 2019, a lawsuit in Arizona brought by NCLR, Lambda Legal, Professor Rosky, and private counsel led to the state legislature repealing the challenged law. In 2017, the Utah legislature repealed similar state laws following a 2016 lawsuit brought by NCLR and private counsel.

Students in states with discriminatory curriculum laws report more hostile school climates. 2017 data from GLSEN’s National School Climate Survey surveying LGBTQ middle and high school students demonstrates that South Carolina schools are not safe for most LGBTQ students; nearly 90 percent said they regularly heard homophobic remarks, 76 percent experienced verbal harassment, 34 percent experienced physical harassment, and 14 percent were physically assaulted due to their sexual orientation. info: southernequality.org. nclrights.org. lambdalegal.org — Compiled by Lainey Millen

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The House of Delegates in Virginia voted to pass the Virginia Values Act, which would establish comprehensive nondiscrimination protections for LGBTQ people across the state, The Campaign for Southern Equality shared. The organization added that advocates are urging lawmakers to reconcile the Senate and House versions of the bill for final passage and send the legislation to the desk of Gov. Ralph Northam. Virginia is now poised to join 20 other states and the District of Columbia with comprehensive LGBTQ non-discrimination protections.

info: southernequality.org.

MAYOR’S DEATH SHOCKS COMMUNITY

Justin Flippen, 41, mayor of Wilton Manors, Fla., died suddenly on Feb. 26 due to a brain aneurysm, leaving the historically gay-inclusive city in shock, NBC News reported. The trailblazer has previously been Florida Atlantic University and Florida’s first openly gay student body president, served in various roles in the Democratic Party, officiated at more than 40 same-sex weddings after the 2015 Supreme Court ruling, as well as pushing to have his city to become the first one to permanently raise an LGBTQ Pride flag that same year.

info: nbcnews.to/2PCTU9D.

Shaw named institute director

Dr. Ari Shaw has been named the Williams Institute’s new Director of International Programs. In that role, he will oversee the Institute’s international work, including its training programs for international scholars and LGBTQ stakeholders and its independent research on the lived experiences of, and legal protections for, LGBTQ people abroad.

info: williamsinstitute.law.ucla.edu.

ENC seeks personnel applicants

Equality North Carolina is currently looking for applicants for two posts in its organization, a part-time contract regional civic engagement and GOTV coordinator for the Triad and a bookkeeper/ finance associate for the headquarters.

Applicants should submit a headshot and resume to development@equalitync.org.

info: equalitync.org.

Cities top retiree list

Forbes Magazine has shared Dave Hughes best cities for retirees list. They are: Asheville, N.C.; Atlanta, Ga.; Austin, Texas; Bisbee, Az.; Bloomington, Ind.; Columbus, Ohio; Dallas, Texas; Denver, Colo.; Las Vegas, Nev.; Madison, Wisc.; Moab, Utah; Northampton, Mass.; Orlando, Fla.; Phoenix, Az.; Pittsburg, Pa.; Portland, Ore./Vancouver, Wash.; Salt Lake City, Utah; Sagatuck and Douglas, Mich.; Tampa and St. Petersburg, Fla.; Tuscon, Az.; Walla Walla, Wash.; and Yellow Springs, Ohio. Hughes has been a Next Avenue Influencer in Aging.

info: bit.ly/38iQy24.

Far majority of active duty servicemembers oppose transgender military ban WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Modern Military Association of America (MMAA) responded to new survey results released by the University of California, Los Angeles, that reveals the far majority of active duty servicemembers oppose the Trump-Pence transgender military ban. Funded by the Department of Defense, the survey of 486 active duty, non-transgender servicemembers from the four major branches of the U.S. military found 66 percent support an inclusive policy.

“What really matters for military service is whether or not you are capable and qualified to serve — not your gender identity. This survey shows that the far majority of servicemembers know this to be true,” said MMAA Interim Executive Director and Air Force veteran Jennifer Dane.

“The excuses used to try and justify Trump’s transgender military ban have been proven wrong time and time again. It’s time this administration abandon discrimination and start supporting all of the brave American patriots who serve our nation — including those who happen to be transgender.”

Researchers stated, “Findings indicate broad support for transgender military service across all four branches of the military and military ranks, with some statistically significant differences in support emerging by gender, sexual orientation, and race/ethnicity. Results suggest that the ban, in part, based on a belief that transgender service members degrade unit readiness, contradicts our findings of broad support for transgender service among active duty service members. Policies limiting transgender service in the U.S. military should be lifted given these data.”

In Karnoski v. Trump, MMAA and Lambda Legal are challenging the constitutionality of the TrumpPence administration’s transgender military ban. The lawsuit represents six currently serving members of the armed services; three who seek to enlist; the American Military Partner Association (now part of MMAA); the Human Rights Campaign; and Gender Justice League.

More than 70 percent of the general public are also opposed to the transgender military ban. info: modernmilitary.org.

— Compiled by Lainey Millen

HIV criminalization laws impact people and cost state millions of dollars Between 1990 and 2019, at least 593 people were arrested under Missouri laws that criminalize people living with HIV and hepatitis B and C, according to a new report by the Williams Institute at ther University of California, Los Angeles School of Law. Of those, 318 people were convicted for the crimes with average sentences ranging from 2.9 to 10 years. To date, the estimated cost of incarceration related to HIV/hepatitis crimes is $17.7 million.

Using data obtained from the Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) — Criminal Justice Information Services, researchers found that HIV/hepatitis criminalization laws were enforced in 70 of Missouri’s 114 counties.

However, enforcement was heavily concentrated in a smaller subset of counties. In addition, the report shows that HIV/hepatitis crimes are disproportionately enforced on the basis of race and sex, with Black men being the most likely to be arrested and convicted.

HIV/hepatitis criminalization is a term used to describe laws that either criminalize otherwise legal conduct or increase the penalties for illegal conduct based upon a person’s positive status. More than two-thirds of U.S. states and territories have enacted HIV criminal laws. Missouri has five laws that criminalize different types of exposure, including three HIV-specific laws and two laws for exposure to HIV or hepatitis in connection with the Department of Corrections and the Department of Mental Health (DOC/DMH).

“Violations of these laws are all felonies. They do not require that the defendant actually infect anyone—or intend to infect anyone—and they include behaviors that pose no or little risk of transmission,” said lead author Brad Sears, Distinguished Scholar of Law and Policy at the Williams Institute.

“These laws are disproportionately enforced against already vulnerable communities and aren’t preventing the spread of HIV and hepatitis.”

This study was funded through a generous grant from the Elton John AIDS Foundation. info: williamsinstitute.law.ucla.edu.

— Compiled by Lainey Millen

March 6-19, 2020

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life

Remembering Dan Kirsch Former QNotes Editor and Community Leader Dies at Age 66

By Chris Rudisill | QNOTES CONTRIBUting Writer

A

t a recent meeting of the LGBTQ Elders Steering Committee, co-chair Cindy Hostetler said, “Every LGBTQ organization today (in Charlotte, N.C.) ties back to Dan Kirsch.” Kirsch died suddenly on Friday, Feb. 21. He was 66.

In 1989, the LGBTQ social scene in Charlotte was nothing like it is today. Dan Kirsch had just moved to Charlotte from Philadelphia, Pa. Other than the bars, there were only a handful of events and politically-minded affairs. There was not much opportunity for the LGBTQ community to come together socially. “It was small. It was closeted,” reflected Kirsch in a 2015 article in qnotes. Kirsch founded One Voice Chorus, envisioning a similar community organization to that of one he’d been involved with in Philadelphia. Somewhere between 25 and 30 people showed up for the first night of rehearsal. Liz Fitzgerald, program director, Grants & Services for Arts & Science Council, was there from the beginning. In the 2015 qnotes article, Fitzgerald said, “The chorus was really able to serve as a place where people could see that they had community. It gave people a place where they could be out when otherwise they couldn’t.”

Kirsch became editor of qnotes in March 1991 and served in the role until January 1992.

According to that month’s issue of the paper, Kirsch had moved to Charlotte to accept a job with the Charlotte Shakespeare Company and said of his new role, “There’s definitely a challenge to this position — to accurately inform our community and the public about our struggle and success, promote our strengths, give constructive criticism about our weaknesses, and at every moment instill a sense of pride and positive self-image about our individuality.” Kirsch was also working with Opera Carolina at the time as an education and outreach associate.

In 1994, Kirsch and Sue Henry brought N.C. Pride to the Queen City for the first time, expanding it to be the largest statewide LGBTQ event ever held at the time. That same year, Kirsch hosted the Gay & Lesbian Association of Choruses (GALA) Annual Leadership Conference in Charlotte, attracting 250 leaders and bolstering the young One Voice Chorus to the national scene.

OutCharlotte followed in 1995 and included an annual cultural festival, fundraising events, FilmOut (formerly the Gay & Lesbian Film Festival), OutMedia, and ReachOut, a training and education program. In 2001, OutCharlotte was a host site for the Gill Foundation’s InCommunity program, providing fundraising, training, organizational development and donor resource workshops to the community.

Elizabeth Pruett served as co-chair for OutCharlotte, “It was a festival created with a mission to raise up and celebrate the culture of the LGBT community,” she said in a recent email. “At the time, there was no easy way for queer people to meet or connect and many of us were incredibly isolated, lonely and vulnerable.”

She fondly remembers listening with Kirsch to the daily messages they received in the OutCharlotte office. “We got calls from so many who were thrilled to finally have others to connect to,” says Pruett. Kirsch and Pruett would also receive a regular handful of hate-filled messages like many other LGBTQ organizations, especially at the time, experienced. “Dan never dwelled on the homophobic rantings we so often received,” says Pruett. “He listened with disinterest and easily erased them to move on and focus on the questions and requests from so many others who were excited and often quite desperate for the events OutCharlotte offered.”

OutCharlotte would go on to lead the feasibility study for a future LGBTQ community center. With Kirsch as the executive director and a mere $83,000, the Lesbian & Gay Community Center renovated the space and opened to the public on Feb. 1, 2003. The Center held more than

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and mentor who always treated me like a colleague from the very start. I will miss his insights and his drive to make the community a better place for everyone.”

In 2016, Kirsch returned to Charlotte and served as development and strategy consultant for Time Out Youth Center’s successful capital campaign. His work with Time Out Youth led to the purchase of its first permanent home on Monroe Rd. Time Out Youth is now planning to build the city’s first LGBTQ homeless youth transitional living shelter.

In 2017, Kirsch was awarded the Pioneer of the Year award by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) at its 23rd Annual HRC North Carolina Gala, as “one of the original pioneers to organize the LGBTQ community in North Carolina.”

“Dan touched so many lives directly and indirectly as he tirelessly worked to make the LGBTQ community a better place,” says Louis Kemp, HRC Board of Governors member. “As I sit here and reflect on how Dan has influenced my path in community service, I think back to being a student at UNC-Charlotte and visiting the Charlotte Lesbian & Gay Center first time and back to an intern role I held with One Voice Chorus.

If those institutions had not existed, I’m certain I wouldn’t have had the courage to take on the roles in our community that I have over the years. I know my story is not unique — it’s clear that Dan had a huge impact on many lives across North Carolina and that we’re all better for it. His legacy will continue and HRC Charlotte celebrates Dan and his unyielding desire to improve the lives of LGBTQ people in every city he lived in.”

Most recently, Kirsch pioneered and was leading the Charlotte LGBTQ Elders. The group, which was officially launched following a town hall meeting in 2017, was formed to serve as a resource for LGBTQ elders Dan Kirsch received the Pioneer of the Year Award at the Human Rights Campaign’s North in the community who are over the age of Carolilna Gala from Ann Hooper.

55 years old. The group continues to host monthly programs and social events that bring elders together and has worked with 480 programs, events and meetings with over 7,000 visits aging organizations in the region to build a resource bank during its first year. “Dan was a great mentor who led in a and increase cultural competency in senior care facilities. way that I doubt he ever fully realized,” says Pruett. “I will “When I think of Dan and how he touched these organizaalways be grateful for the positive impact he had on my tions, it’s a two-fold thing,” says longtime friend Ann Hooper. life as well as so many others in our community.”

“He took a tenacious passion into whatever his creative idea In 2004, Kirsch spearheaded the effort to create the was. He found the right people to work with him and he took Charlotte Lesbian and Gay Fund at the Foundation for this passion, always with the underlying mission of how it will the Carolinas. According to its literature, the Fund was affect our visibility in the community. It was very important “created to positively impact the underfunding of nonto him to advance the specific mission of these organizaprofit organizations serving the lesbian, gay, bisexual and tion, but also for it to be visible to the greater community transgender (LGBT) community.” To date, the Fund has and help build bridges so that the LGBTQ community was supported 41 organizations and donated over $1.3 million not so marginalized.” Hooper got to know Kirsch as part of to the community. the OutCharlotte board and later worked with him on the In 2005, Kirsch left Charlotte to serve in leadership creation of the Lesbian & Gay Community Center. She also roles at Diversionary Theatre in San Diego, Calif. where points out the importance of diversity to Kirsch. “It was vitally he commissioned the creation of the play “Dear Harvey,” important to him that everybody’s voice be heard at the table and at the Jewish Community Center of Northern Virginia with anything he was creating.” in Fairfax, Va. At that time Kirsch donated 22 boxes of On a personal level, Kirsch was committed to supportarchive materials to the Duke University Libraries, where ing a sense of friendship in the community. “He loved conthe collection continues to be available today for research necting people to each other,” says Hooper. “Not all people as the “Dan Kirsch Papers, 1975-2004”. Kirsch would later do that, but that was really important to him, and it was support the efforts and contribute additional materials to fun for us.” She shares fond memories of exploring the start Charlotte’s first LGBTQ archive at the J. Murray Atkins city and meeting other people through Kirsch. “Inevitably Library at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte the conversation would get around to what was going on (UNCC), led by Joshua Burford, who now serves as the in the community because that was never very far from his director of outreach and lead archivist for the Invisible Histories Project. “Dan was a huge supporter of my work to preserve local queer and trans history from the very beginning of the project,” says Burford. “He was a friend see next page u

mind,” she says. The night always ended with going to get ice cream. “One of his favorite things was going to Two Scoops and getting an ice cream cone, and I bet other people experienced that too.”

There is no doubt that Kirsch impacted the LGBTQ community in Charlotte through his life and work. For that reason, qnotes thought it was important that this story include responses from other community leaders and organizers who feel his impact daily. You can read those responses and other memories of Kirsch online at goqnotes.com/65132.

How do we honor the life of Dan Kirsch? By being brave and being visionaries. We honor him by standing up for

ourselves when we’re often surrounded by doubt and prejudice. We honor him by being active members of a loving and caring LGBTQ community and finding ways to care for those in our lives, building connections and bridges that will unite us when we can, and by creating the most welcoming city that Charlotte can and should be. “He loved the community,” says Hooper. “He belonged to so many people.” We honor his life by living ours to the fullest. With a single candle lit, Hostetler recited “When Great Trees Fall” by Maya Angelou during the Monday meeting of the Charlotte LGBTQ Elders.

“And when great souls die, after a period peace blooms, slowly and always irregularly. Spaces fill with a kind of soothing electric vibration.

Our senses, restored, never to be the same, whisper to us.

They existed. They existed.

We can be. Be and be better. For they existed.”

— Maya Angelou

Community leader and visionary Dan Kirsch.

1953-2020

The Charlotte LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce and close friends of Dan

Dan Kirsch (sitting, front row center) at a gathering of seniors during the early days of the Charlotte LGBTQ Elders Group.

Kirsch will host a public memorial service at the Mint Museum Uptown from 2-4 p.m. on Sunday, March 29. The Dan Kirsch Memorial Fund has been established as part of the Charlotte Lesbian and Gay Fund at The Foundation for the Carolinas. The Fund will support the continuation and advancement of LGBTQfocused theatre arts. Checks may be sent to The Foundation for the Carolinas, Charlotte Lesbian and Gay Fund, 220 N. Tryon Street, Charlotte, NC 28202 with “In memory of Dan Kirsch” in the memo line. Online Donations may be made at: Charlotte Lesbian and Gay Fund at bit. ly/2wYiVpd and signifying that the tribute gift is in memory of Dan Kirsch. : :

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The arts are abloom

Theatre, Concerts, Dance, Music, Poetry, Celebrations, Comedy, Walks and Presentations Galore

BY Matthew Davis | Guest Contributor Tickets $45-$50. bit.ly/32JH1j5.

March 19–21 ‘The Jazz Room - Women in Jazz’ Stage Door Theater at Blumenthal Performing Arts Center 155 N. College St., Charlotte Times Vary An all-female congregation of esteemed instrumentalists brings the swing for a three-day “Jazz Room” residency, in celebration of Women’s History Month.

Tickets start at $16. bit.ly/38g8aLY.

‘The Color Purple’

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pring has sprung and so are the arts.

Across the Queen City area, there are theatre presentations, music concerts and a host of other options to enjoy. Here is a sample of what’s available.

Cultural Arts Dance Troupe, Charlotte Symphony Orchestra String Quartet and the “A Sign of the Times” Big Band + Special Guests. Tickets $15-$35. bit.ly/2Th0cOf.

Every Wednesday ‘Free Wednesday Evenings’ Mint Museum Uptown 500 S. Tryon St., Charlotte Mint Museum Randolph 2730 Randolph Rd., Charlotte 5-9 p.m.

Free Admission every Wednesday at both locations. In addition to a Mint on the Dot! art chats are offered every Wednesday evening at 6 and 6:30 p.m. mintmuseum.org.

March 7 ‘Irish Cultural Event and Family Festival’ Hunter House & Gardens 412 S. Old Statesville Rd, #3667, Huntersville 2 p.m.

Traditional Irish fare, beer tastings and fun games will be a part of the day’s activities.

Plus shop the artisan vendors all under our big tent. bit.ly/2uNlObH.

Every Wednesday ‘Walk Up Wednesday’ Harvey B. Gantt Center 551 S. Tryon St., Charlotte 5-8 p.m.

Create your own experience with one of the center’s enhanced tours, follow the clues in the art scavenger hunt or indulge in artist talks, film screenings and other programs during visits. ganttcenter.org.

March 6-7 Charlotte Symphony: ‘Beethoven’s Missa Solemnis’ Belk Theater at Blumenthal Performing Arts Center 130 N. Tryon St., Charlotte 7:30 p.m.

Monumental and deeply affecting, “Missa Solemnis” ranges from moments of calmness and purity, to thundering passages, operatic intensity and war-like trumpets and drums. Tickets start at $17. bit.ly/2TiMQ3S. March 7 ‘The Color Of Love - Black History Concert’ Booth Playhouse 130 N. Tryon St., Charlotte 4 p.m.

“The Color of Love” is the theme for the “A Sign of the Times” 20th Annual Black History Concert featuring the West Side

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March 7 ‘Queen City Comedy Spotlight’’ Knight Gallery at Spirit Square 345 N. College St., Charlotte 8 p.m.

A local comedy experience, formerly known as “Queen City Improv.” Tickets $10. bit.ly/3akeZgO. March 8 ‘HERstory: 100 Years of Women’s Suffrage’ 200 E. 7th St., Charlotte 1 p.m.

Bring the entire family and learn about this important moment in history. Enjoy a rich program where visitors will hear stories from suffragettes, engage in mock elections, enjoy musical performances, create protest signs, story time and more! bit.ly/2Ie0n6G. March 13–22 ‘Charlotte Ballet: Sleeping Beauty’ Knight Theater at Levine Center for the Arts 130 S. Tryon St., Charlotte Times Vary One of the world’s most popular classical ballets, tailored to engage today’s audiences by British choreographer Matthew Hart. Artistic Director Hope Muir returns to the stage as narrator in this condensed version that stays true to its classical choreography. Tickets start at $25.

bit.ly/2IcRF8D. March 14 ‘Charlotte St. Patrick’s Day Parade’ S. Tryon St. to 3rd St. & Stonewall St, Charlotte 10 a.m.-6p.m.

The “Charlotte St. Patrick’s Day Parade” is an annual event held in Uptown Charlotte.

With over 100 units participating and over 50,000 spectators, the parade has become one of Charlotte’s premiere parades. The “Charlotte Goes Green Festival” is held concurrently in Uptown Charlotte and is a free event that features live Irish music, Irish dancers, the Celtic Kid’s Zone amusement area, Irish/Celtic and other vendors and plenty of food & beverages. It’s where everyone is Irish for the day! bit.ly/2TkwGr3.

March 14–15 ‘Celtic Festival’ Historic Latta Plantation 5225 Sample Rd., Huntersville 10 a.m.

This two-day historic celebration of all things Celtic includes: authentic music, traditional Irish & Scottish dancers, Celtic warriors, historic encampments, weavers, spinners, blacksmiths, food trucks, a beer garden, and much more. Dogs on a leash are allowed. Tickets $10. bit.ly/3aoXiMW. March 14–15 ‘Banff Mountain Film Festival’ McGlohon Theater at Spirit Square 345 N. College St., Charlotte Times Vary Audiences will see a selection of awardwinning films and crowd favorites from the hundreds of films entered into the annual festival. Tickets $13.50. bit.ly/2Th4k0N. March 17–18 ‘Menopause the Musical’ McGlohon Theater at Spirit Square 345 N. College St., Charlotte 7:30 p.m.

Four women at a lingerie sale have nothing in common but a black lace bra and memory loss, hot flashes, night sweats, not enough sex, too much sex and more!

March 20 ‘Bechtler By Night’ Bechtler Museum of Modern Art 420 S. Tryon St., Charlotte 5-9 p.m.

The museum delivers interactive art activities, games, live entertainment and a full bar and you’ve got “Bechtler By Night!” bechtler.org.

March 22 ‘Artoberfest’ 2229 Weyland Ave., Charlotte 12 p.m.

Join in celebrating the West Side of Charlotte’s rich cultural heritage.

“ArtoberFest” includes activities such as live music, Selfie Park, live art, kid’s activities/fashion show, food trucks, games, artist kickback and more. bit.ly/38lEuNb. March 23-26 ‘The Color Purple’ Ovens Auditorium 2700 E. Independence Blvd., Charlotte 8 p.m.

With a soul-raising, Grammy-winning score of jazz, gospel, ragtime and blues, “The Color Purple” gives anew spirit to this Pulitzer Prize-winning story. Tickets $25. bit.ly/2uSyyOk. April 2 ‘50th Anniversary of Abbey Road’ Belk Theater at Blumenthal Performing Arts Center 130 N. Tryon St., Charlotte 7:30 p.m.

In celebration of the anniversary of “Abbey Road,” RAIN will bring the greatest hits of this epic recording to life, in addition to all the early Beatles favorites. Tickets $24.50. bit.ly/2VAho2V. April 3-5 ‘Charlotte Symphony: Beethoven’s Pastoral’ Knight Theater at Levine Center for the Arts 130 S. Tryon St., Charlotte Times Vary Evoking his love of living in nature, Beethoven’s “Pastoral” brings life to rolling thunder and the calling of a shepherd’s pipes — a depiction one may recall from Disney’s “Fantasia.” Tickets start at $19. bit.ly/3csA6iI. see next page u

‘Riverdance’

April 7-12 ‘Riverdance — 25th Anniversary Show’ Belk Theater at Blumenthal Performing Arts Center 130 N. Tryon St., Charlotte Times Vary “Riverdance,” as never seen it before! A powerful and stirring reinvention of this beloved favorite, celebrated the world over for its Grammy award-winning score and the energy and passion of its Irish and international dance. Tickets $25. bit.ly/3akfyHs. April 11 ‘Queen City Comedy Spotlight’ Knight Gallery at Spirit Square 345 N. College St., Charlotte 8 p.m.

A local comedy experience, formerly known as “Queen City Improv.” Tickets $10. bit.ly/3akeZgO. April 17 ‘Bechtler By Night’ Bechtler Museum of Modern Art 420 S. Tryon St., Charlotte 6-9 p.m.

The museum delivers interactive art activities, games, live entertainment and a full bar and you’ve got “Bechtler By Night!” bechtler.org.

April 17 ‘SlamCharlotte — Poetry Slam’ Knight Gallery at Spirit Square 345 N. College St., Charlotte 8 p.m.

“SlamCharlotte” strives to promote poetic growth, performance enhancement, and increased camaraderie among the poets and the community through the monthly slam competitions. Tickets $10. bit.ly/2Ti7lhg.

April 17-18 ‘Charlotte Symphony: Bach Brandenburg Concertos’ Knight Theater at Levine Center for the Arts 130 S. Tryon St., Charlotte 7:30 p.m.

Dazzlingly inventive, virtuosic, and exuberant, “Bach’s Brandenburg Concertos” are among the greatest works of the Baroque era. Tickets $19. bit.ly/2Ia425z.

April 23 ‘Colonial Gem’ 3500 Shamrock Dr., Charlotte 6-8:30 p.m.

Join fellow Charlotteans for a magical evening on the beautiful lawns and gardens of Mecklenburg County’s oldest home, the 1774 Hezekiah Alexander Homesite. This signature event features unique food and beverage experiences as well as live music and costumed historians to bring the Colonial house to life. Tickets $125+. bit.ly/38iPpYf. April 23-25 ‘Charlotte Ballet: Spring Works’ Knight Theater at Levine Center for the Arts 130 S. Tryon St., Charlotte Times Vary Spring Works offers a powerhouse repertoire that is unmatched in its boldness and artistry. Following its run in Charlotte, elements of “Spring Works” will be showcased at the iconic Joyce Theater in Manhattan.

Tickets $25. bit.ly/3cn2nHv.

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continued from page 12 April 24-26 ‘Blue Man Group’ Ovens Auditorium 2700 E. Independence Blvd., Charlotte Times Vary At “Blue Man Group,” audience will rock, laugh and party. As three bald and blue men explore the world, together discovering music, comedy and surprises at every turn. Tickets $29.50. bit.ly/2wp4UQS. April 25 ‘Not Your Mama’s Bingo’ Hickory Metro Convention Center 1960 13th Ave. Dr. SE #5186, Hickory 5:30 p.m.

“Not Your Mama’s Bingo” is a laugh filled, no-holds barred event starring Queenie Gabor and her cast of Bingo Verifying Divas. It’s the most fun one can have on a Saturday night for $25! Guests are encouraged to dress to theme and compete for the “Queenie’s Choice” award. bit.ly/38gBsda.

April 26 ‘Haters Roast: The Shady Tour’ Knight Theater at Levine Center for the Arts 130 S. Tryon St., Charlotte 8 p.m.

It’s an outrageous evening of unapologetic comedy starring the contestants from the

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reality television show on VH1. They’re all sisters when they walk on stage, but then the shade begins as the queens read each other for filth — all in good fun. Tickets $35. bit.ly/32Kf3DQ.

and slowing the spread of this devastating disease. bit.ly/3ckeLYZ.

April 28–May 3 ‘Anastasia Musical’ Ovens Auditorium 2700 E. Independence Blvd., Charlotte Times Vary A brave young woman sets out to discover the mystery of her past. Pursued by a ruthless Soviet officer determined to silence her, Anya enlists the aid of a dashing conman and a lovable ex-aristocrat.

Together, they embark on an epic adventure to help her find home, love and family. Tickets $25. bit.ly/39tq6nP.

May 2-3 ‘Charlotte Symphony: Brahms Double Concerto’ Belk Theater at Blumenthal Performing Arts Center 130 N. Tryon St., Charlotte 7:30 p.m.

The series closes with a “bravo!” for Beethoven, as Christopher Warren-Green leads the orchestra in the vivacious Symphony No. 4 and Brahms’ dramatic and virtuosic Concerto for Violin and Cello. Tickets $19. bit.ly/2Iatg3J.

May 2 ‘AID’s Walk Charlotte 2020’ Wells Fargo Bank 301 S. Tryon St, Floor 1, Charlotte 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

“AIDS WALK Charlotte” is one of the largest HIV awareness and fundraising events in the Carolinas. This two-mile walk is a visual representation of the Charlotte region’s commitment to caring for our neighbors in need

May 9 ‘Comedy Convos: LGBT+ Comedy and Playing for the Community’ Knight Gallery at Spirit Square 345 N. College St., Charlotte 11:45 a.m.

A free peer-based opportunity to connect and discuss how to navigate the comedy world in improv, stand up and sketch. This mini-session will focus on comedy content and community challenges for performers who identify as members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Part of the Ain’t She Funny Fest. bit.ly/3cpicxt.

May 5-10 ‘Ain’t She Funny Fest’ Queen City Comedy 345 N. College St., Charlotte Times Vary The First Annual “Ain’t She Funny Mini Fest” featuring stand up, improv and more all from female performers throughout the South! bit.ly/2wr9pdG. May 15 ‘Bechtler By Night’ Bechtler Museum of Modern Art 420 S. Tryon St., Charlotte 7-9 p.m.

The museum delivers interactive art activities, games, live entertainment and a full bar and giving participants “Bechtler By Night!” bechtler.org.

10 Questions with Vic: Featuring Elizabeth ‘Lizzy’ Small Actor, Performer, Dancer, Singer/Songwriter, Community Advocate, Counselor

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s a performer, Elizabeth “Lizzy” Small is a “triple threat.” She started her professional career with a series regular role on “Hip Hop Harry” for Discovery Kids/TLC and she has appeared in over 70 national commercials, music videos and several variety shows. She eventually had a guest starring role on ABC’s “The Middle” and a supporting role as the Baker Elf in “The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause” opposite Tim Allen.

Next, she will star as one of the eight space explorers in the science fiction film “ADAM 8.”

Her single “Gravity,” which she co-wrote, is available on YouTube and SoundCloud and has led her to collaborate with top music industry movers and shakers. Despite her busy schedule juggling her upcoming new film and music projects, Lizzy finds time to work with several charities in the greater LA.

BY Vic Gerami | Guest Contributor got to meet/befriend some of the real people who went through the experiences we were making the film about. It was powerful to hear their firsthand perspective, and just to get to know them as individuals.

VG: Tell me about what it’s like when a stranger reaches out to you or approaches you after a show/release.

ES: When strangers reach out to me on social media or in person after a show, it’s one of the craziest feelings in the world.

And not because you feel “cool,” or are getting some VC: Tell me about your professional love or attention, but training growing up and early because it makes me career. feel like I connected ES: It all started with dance. I was to someone. After pulled into the world of dance my last show at the naturally at a very young age, and Singer/songwriter, dancer and community advocate Elizabeth ‘Lizzy’ Peppermint Club, absolutely fell in love with it. I was a Small. (Photo Credit: Violeta Meyners) there was a group professional dancer for much of my of strangers who childhood and teenage years and approached me after and chatted with me one on one. competed for a long time on a company team. Dancing One person specifically pulled me aside and we spoke for a empowered me, alleviated my stress, put me in touch with while. They thanked me for sharing what I did through my my life experiences/emotions, as well as contributed to my music, said they really felt the emotions and what I went understanding and deep love of music. From my current through, and that they were so excited to continue followperspective looking back, I realize that dance combined ing me on my journey because they felt so connected to all the things I was passionate about. I always trained in me. This moment made me super emotional and thankful. dance which led to musical theatre, singing coaching, actThis is the whole purpose of this crazy thing!!! I was inspired ing classes, etc. My dad played the piano and guitar growthat I was able to really make a stranger feel understood, ing up in our living room, and I’d accompany him with my and in turn they understood me. It was one of the best movoice. We had the best time. My dad is also a big influence ments of my journey thus far and I am looking forward to in my love of music, and appreciation of the classics — he connecting with many more people along the way. has an amazing voice and can play both the guitar and piano extremely well!

VG: What’s new on your play list?

ES: I’ve been listening to a lot of SiR, Summer Walker VG: How was it being a series regular on “Hip Hop and Rex Orange County. I love discovering new music, Harry?” even if it’s a few years old, it’s always ES: It was one of the most special times in my life — an a pleasant surprise to find something experience that will forever be engrained in my memory. that really makes me feel something in When you’re 10, you don’t really realize the full magnitude my body. A song that did that for me of what an experience as such can teach you. It was a time recently is “Holdin me Back” by Jordan of growth, free of judgment, and a space of creating friendWard — a track with so much soul (at ships and memories. It was such a carefree time. Even least to me as the listener). though I was a “working” child actor, I was just having the time of my life filming, dancing and singing surrounded by VG: Who are some artists (actors/ other young people who shared the same passions as me. singers) you would like to work with that you haven’t done so yet?

VG: You played opposite George Lopez, Marisa Tomei ES: Julia Roberts has always been and Jamie Lee Curtis in Lionsgate’s “Spare Parts.” Tell someone I admire and relate to. It me about that. would be incredible to work with and learn from her. I ES: One of my favorite experiences working on a set! I got also love Steve Carrell. Beyond his ability to captivate an the opportunity to work with a diverse group of people, audience and make them laugh, he’s inventive, committed and watching seasoned professionals like Tomei, Curtis and persistent. I feel like he would be so much fun to work and Lopez gave me the opportunity to observe and learn. with, and it would be awesome to watch how free he is in I remember George saying to me, “don’t be afraid to play his work. around in a scene. Once you have one take solid, explore As for music, I would have to say Jhene Aiko and Daniel and experience it differently each time so the director/ Caesar. Jhene has been a long-time inspiration of mine editor have something to really piece together.” A valuand I actually met her once but was too shy in the moable piece of insight I’ll never forget. I also loved working ment to tell her that I’m a singer/songwriter because it was on this film because it was based on a true story, and we

in a strange setting that we met. It would be amazing to work with her, and just watch her in her creative element because beyond her talent, she seems like a very grounded and calm individual. Daniel Caesar is also just AHHH!! He’s amazing, point blank. No further description needed. After I watched him sing a live recording while holding a cup of tea in his hand, I was like I want to be this guy’s friend. HAHA. VG: What are some of your favorite charities and causes?

ES: You Matter — Not Alone!!!! Mental health has always been something I have found deep fascination in and care for. As someone who struggles with anxiety, and who has seen so many people around me (close friends and strangers) battle with mental health, it’s a topic I value. I think mental health is just as important if not more important than physical health, and it’s a topic that has only recently become commonplace. Mental health is something that must be worked at every single day and no one should be ashamed of that. You Matter — Not Alone is doing their active part to help raise awareness about mental health and suicide prevention to children of all ages, military veterans, the LGBTQ+ community and more. I am proud to work alongside them and be an officially trained suicide prevention counselor. I aim to start a dialogue with whoever is willing and use my knowledge with this charity to open up the discussion and make those who are silenced feel heard.

VG: Which living person(s) do you most admire?

ES: I know everyone probably says this answer, but it’s so true. My parents. They are truly everything in my world.

My mom is my sidekick, and she has really inspired me to be a strong woman who challenges the world. She made her life what it is today, and I’m so proud of her for that.

She also devotes her career to charity work, and it’s pretty amazing to watch her make a difference in peoples’ lives every day. Now for my dad, he is the most brilliant, insightful, kind human being I’ve ever known. He has always urged me to make decisions and go after what I want by taking charge of my own life and staying true to myself.

His words never cease to leave me moved, and I’m so thankful to have him as a guide in this thing we call life. My parents sincerely support me and remind me every day that I have more than a million things to be grateful for.

VG: What project(s) have you done recently?

ES: My film, “12 Pups of Christmas” aired on the ION network on Dec. 21! I played Carly, a silicon-valley executive who is also a playfully devious little sister to her big brother Martin. It’s a sweet story with many puppies, so definitely watch it!!!

I am also working on an entire new music project that is going to be pretty different from anything I’ve released in the past. What I like to say about it is those who are meant to understand it will understand it and me, and hopefully in turn feel understood. I’m very excited to continue working on carving away at this new music that really comes from the deepest parts of my soul and echoes a lot of my experiences as a young woman learning who she is every single day.

VG: Tell me a secret-make it a good one!

ES: I was born seven weeks early on my mom’s birthday and have an obsession with medjool dates (although not sure if that’s a secret). : : For more information about Elizabeth “Lizzy” Small, visit ElizabethSmall.com.

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Bigger Than Ever An Interview with Big Freedia

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BY Gregg Shapiro | Guest Contributor other. The energy in the studio was up. I love both of them. When they get together musically, it’s a great thing to see.

ust when you thought that Big Freedia, the Queen of Bounce, couldn’t get any bigger than she already is, she gets even louder, as in the name of her new single “Louder.” It’s early 2020 and Big Freedia is virtually everywhere. First, she tore it up in a new Facebook Group’s TV commercial that premiered during the Grammy Awards in January. Her new EP, “Louder” (East West), which features collaborations with Icona Pop and Kesha, drops this month. In April, Big Freedia performs with The Soul Rebels in Chapel Hill, N.C. at Memorial Hall at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. And that’s just the first third of the year! Busy as she is, Big Freedia was gracious enough to answer a few questions in February 2020.

Gregg Shapiro: Freedia, I want to begin by saying how much I loved seeing you in the Facebook commercial that ran during the Grammys.

Was it as much fun to make as it is to watch?

Big Freedia: Yes, it was! It was a great day of production. Everybody from Facebook was super awesome and super sweet, as well as the cast members that were in it. The National Kazoo (Day) group was super sweet. The background dancers, the photographers, the videographers, the 10 directors — it was amazing! It was quite a day to make the commercial. I had a blast.

GS: I love the “Snap!” sample on “Louder” — why was that song chosen to sample?

BF: For me it was stepping up the production. The producers are the one to credit for coming up with the sound. The only thing I wanted to do was use (the line) “I’ve got the power,” with this being a powerful song lyrically. I’m coming different with all my music moving forward, exploring new sounds and new rhythms and melodies. I’m excited about the new project as a whole.

Caroline and Aino?

BF: They’re super sweet and awesome to work with. It was [a] fun day in the studio.

We got to hang out and get to know each

GS: “Chasing Rainbows” is a collaboration with Kesha, with whom you are going on tour. What can you tell me about your creative chemistry with Kesha?

BF: Me and Kesha connected when I did the Kesha Cruise. I was invited to do the cruise and we hung out and got to know each other. Kesha told me about how she became a fan of mine. Her brother saw a show of mine a while back, maybe about 10 years ago. He told her about me. We did the cruise. We got matching tattoos.

We exchanged phone numbers. We started texting and talking. Before we left the cruise, I said, “I’ve got a project I want you to get on.” She was like, “As a matter of fact, I’ve got something I want you to get on.” That’s where that process started.

Next thing I know, (Kesha’s) “Raising Hell” is out and (my song) “Chasing Rainbows” is on the way!

GS: In addition to touring with Kesha, you are also performing with The Soul Rebels. What can fans expect from your set?

BF: Lots of energy, lots of ass, lots of fun times. Get ready to come and party. Let their hair down, wear comfortable clothes, because we’re going to turn it up and have a great time. Come loose and ready.

Maybe stretch a little bit before you come.

If not, you’ll probably be feeling it the next day [laughs]. That’s what you see when you come to a Freedia show [laughs]. : : Big Freedia performs in North Carolina with The Soul Rebels on their “Poetry in Motion” Tour on April 9 at Memorial Hall, 114 E. Cameron Ave., 7:30 p.m., in Chapel Hill.

Tickets are $37/general admission and are available online at bit.ly/2TnzCls.

GS: Do you have a favorite song to play on the kazoo?

BF: “Louder” right now. “Louder” is the one.

We all were playing. It’s stuck in our heads.

GS: I’m glad you mentioned your song “Louder.” Your new EP “Louder,” which is being released this month, features two collaborations — “Pipe That” and the title cut — with Icona Pop. What do you like best about working with

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Transformation’s Cyclical Process Leads To Emergence Spiritual Reflections

BY Rev. Marty Bacher | Guest Contributor

“Soul making requires that you die to one story to be reborn to a larger one.”

— Jean Houston

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student of the Power of Myth will easily recognize the mythological thread in the stories and legends humanity has told itself throughout the ages. In the largest context, mythology in all of its variety, helps us understand our place in the cosmos and gives meaning to the changes taking place within us and all around us. The S/ Hero’s Journey causes the character to leave a familiar place, to enter into an unknown world and confront challenges on the road of trials. Ultimately, the S/hero is faced with a supreme ordeal which causes the essential self to emerge. On the other side of the ordeal is the spiritual gift that allows the S/ Hero to return home. However, s/he returns not as the same person, but as master of two worlds. “The Wizard of Oz” is the classic and iconic story of the S/hero’s Journey.

Spring reminds us of the ever-present reality of the Presence of Life (or God, Higher Power or whatever name you give the Divine). After a period of dormancy, life renews itself and bursts forth into new growth and expression. This is the season for cultivating the soil and planting new seeds. It is a time of preparation and expectancy. It is a time to release what isn’t serving us in order to make room for what will. Ecclesiastes tells us that “unto everything there is a season.”

Throughout the ages, sacred scripture and mythological legends have taught us about the cycle of life — birth, death and rebirth. The old must fall away in order for the new to emerge. Hinduism points to this in the Divine Trinity of Shiva, the destroyer, Brahman, the creator and Vishnu, the sustainer who work in concert to bring forth new creation. Rumi wrote: “The spiritual path wrecks the body and afterwards restores it to health. It destroys the house to unearth the treasure, and with that treasure builds it better than before.” Easter speaks to this Larger Story in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus.

Whatever you personally believe, these archetypical stories remind us that life never really ends, rather there is continuum of transformation from season to season.

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Whatever one’s chosen spiritual path, it is good to recognize and appreciate that life is cyclical, not linear. Summer begets autumn; autumn begets winter; winter begets spring; spring begets summer and the process begins anew. Taken in their larger context, the mythological stories of death and rebirth teach us that life is eternal. These stories teach us there must be a willingness to die (at least symbolically) to our little stories in order for our larger story to be born. They suggest that life transcends death and ultimately that love triumphs over darkness.

Coming out is its own version of the transformation story. There comes a point in our soul’s journey when we choose to live authentically and openly as an LGBTQ human/spiritual being. When a person comes out, they are declaring that despite the fear of rejection, or in some cases harm, they will announce their intention to live in alignment with these inner being.

In that sense, it requires their inauthentic self to die in order for the more authentic version of our self to be expressed in the world. However, coming out is not the end of the story. If we are committed to our personal and spiritual growth, we must continually be willing to release the limited version of ourselves and replace it with the more expanded version.

Just as the gardener clears and tills the soil before planting, we must cultivate the soil of our mind and consciousness.

Spring is a wonderful time to make room for spiritual renewal and to remember our oneness with the Divine. Through spiritual practice we find an inner strength and courage to face and transcend even the most difficult obstacles and challenges.

Let us allow this season to remind us of the Divine Presence within which is seeking Its emergence in every aspect of our lives.

There is a larger story seeking to emerge in our lives, but we must be willing to leave the comfortable and familiar and step boldly onto the path of transformation. : : Rev. Marty Bacher is a speaker, facilitator and ordained New Thought minister. He has served as an openly gay spiritual leader for over 30 years. Visit MartyBacher.com to learn more.

a&e

Born Free Until My Ex Calls Tell Trinity

BY Trinity | CONTRIBUTING WRITER Dear Trinity, After a year of being tied down in a relationship, I’m now free. But when I told my ex I was going on vacation to let loose and experience endless sexual encounters, he told me that I was shallow and inconsistent. Is he right?

Thanks, Wild But Guilty, Madison, WI Dear Wild But Guilty, What do you get when you take a shallow, inconsistent gorilla who wants immediate gratification and a vacation full of used contraceptives? You get a wild zoo animal that becomes a star attraction.

Seriously, sweetie, if you’re having deep feelings for being wild, then go for it, carefully. If it’s your reaction to some unfulfilled relationship stuff, then take notice to that! Don’t worry what your ex thinks. And save me a seat at your petting zoo.

Hugs, Trinity

long-term relationship are they avoiding a “regular” relationship? Of course.

Though, not any different than someone who gets into a twosome relationship to avoid being single. Life, in its richest form, is not supposed to be easily understood.

I’m always learning about threesomes. So, yes, darling, threesome relationships are crazy. Now, would you please go find me a normal one! (See my cartoon for a really interesting option to consider! Or, maybe this is too much even for me to handle?

Nah, I’m simply exploring options, right?)

Yours, Trinity

Hello Trinity, Recently I went to a party. The next day I found out that I drank too much and made a fool of myself. I have no more friends!

Help!

Thanks, Party Girl, New Orleans, LA

Trinity’s Smart Tips For Attending A Party

Hi there Threesome Troubles, If someone enters into a threesome,

connections

Dearest While You Were Away, According to the book, “Back Stabbing, Conniving, No Good Friends from the Underworld,” asking a close friend’s new girlfriend on a date while your friend’s out of town is, “the worst thing you can do besides microwaving live animals.” This is such a confusing question, honey, that I must quote Cher in “Moonstruck,” “Snap out of it!” which is accompanied by a slap in the face to help you wake up faster.

Trinity

Hello Party Girl, I often ask myself this same question.

Inevitably, pumpkin, I do suppose there is a proper and improper way to behave at a party. So here are:

Hi there, Miss Trinity, Once in a while you talk about threesome relationships. Aren’t people who live in threesome relationships inevitably avoiding their own problems with monogamy and or twosome relationships?

Yours, Threesome Troubles, Savannah, GA

Q-mmunity

Dearest Trinity, I’m very interested in dating my close friend’s new girlfriend. They just met a month ago, and now my friend is away for three months. Is this wrong?

While You Were Away, Dallas, TX

1. A lways bring at least a box of cookies.

Don’t arrive empty handed, ever!

2. You’re going to a party, not to bed.

Look nice or casual but respectable, like you spent a little time getting ready.

3. I know you’re fabulous and a snob, but making people feel bad and beneath you is something you should do... at your own parties. Stay home!

4. You’re not at a funeral or football rally.

You’re at a party, so act alive but not to the point of being a cheerleader!

5. When you’ve had too much to drink, shut up and go for a walk! Please!

6. If you’re out to get your sexual needs met, you need not let everyone you meet know this fact!

7. When I’m nervous, I pick up a food platter and start serving. Soon I know everyone.

8. If you’re the type who must comment negatively on everyone’s outfit, personality or new boyfriend, then you must... be beaten to pulp!

9. Drinking too much and driving is like... drinking too much and driving! Dah! 10. T he difference between group therapy and a party is that in therapy you tell everyone your problems and expect them to help you, and at a party you tell everyone your problems and expect them to leave you. : : With a Masters of Divinity, Reverend Trinity hosted “Spiritually Speaking,” a weekly radio drama performed globally, and is now minister of sponsor, WIG: Wild Inspirational Gatherings, wigministries.org, Gay Spirituality for the Next Generation! Learn more at telltrinity.com.

Send emails to: trinity@telltrinity.com.

space starting at $22: call qnotes for details 704.531.9988

March 6-19, 2020

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events March 7 Charlotte Pride Band Concert ‘Broadway Songs’

Park Road Church 3900 Park Rd., Charlotte 5 p.m.

Charlotte Pride Band celebrates its 10th season by playing a tribute to Broadway. This concert features music from “Les Misérables,” “Hamilton” and more. Tickets are $15 and are available online or at the door. bit.ly/2uPNixk.

March 7 Not Your Average Wedding Show Noda Brewing Company 2921 N. Tryon St., Charlotte 12 p.m.

Queer-friendly wedding show dedicated to providing a safe space for people to plan their

Submit your events: editor@goqnotes.com

weddings and find inclusive wedding vendors. bit.ly/2HsbRmG.

can be purchased online or at common market. charlotterollerderby.org.

March 10 Kristian Chenoweth ‘For the Girls’ Concert

March 14 Gay Men’s Chorus of Charlotte ‘After Dark 2020: Wild Wild West’

Belk Theater at Blumenthal Performing Arts Center 130 N. Tryon St., Charlotte 7:30 p.m.

Kristian Chenoweth visits the Queen City in celebration of her new album “For the Girls,” a tribute to many women who inspired her through her career.

Tickets start at $39.50 and are available online. bit.ly/2SNI5hA.

March 14 Charlotte Roller Derby CLTRD All Stars vs Classic City Rollergirls

Kate’s Skating Rink (Hudson) 1151 Skating Rink Dr., Gastonia 7:30 p.m.

Charlotte Roller Derby 2020 season is in full affect tickets

Knight Gallery at Spirit Square 345 N. Tryon St., Charlotte 6:30 p.m.

The Gay Men’s Chorus of Charlotte annual fundraiser, with eats and drinks. Silent and live auctions, games and a small performance from the chorus. gmccharlotte.org.

March 16 Actor Theatre of Charlotte Karaoke Roulette

Free Range Brewing 2320 N. Davidson St., Charlotte 7 p.m.

Just like your classic karaoke, but with a spin wheel that will tell you what song you will be singing. This is a fundraiser; tickets are $15 in advance $20 at the door. atcharlotte.org.

March 21 Just Twirl Boot Camp 2020 Spring Training

Visulite Theater 1615 Elizabeth Ave., Charlotte 10 p.m.

Pull out boots, camo and leather gear for Just Twirl’s annual spring event, with DJ J Warren from Boston. Tickets are available online at bit.ly/2HvK6cO and are $15 early bird through Feb. 28, $20 advance and $25 at the door. justtwirl.com.

March 21 2020 Guilford Green Foundation Gala & Green Party

March 20, 22, 24: Piedmont Opera Presents Rodgers & Hammerstein’s ‘The King and I’

Classic musical on stage with memorable songs like “Getting to Know You” and “Shall We Dance.” The Stevens Center of the UNCSA, 405 4th St. NW, Winston-Salem. 8 p.m. piedmontopera.org.

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March 2020

Starmount Forest Country Club 1 Sam Snead Dr., Greensboro 7 p.m.

Sit-down dinner with special guest author Sally Kohn of “The Opposite of Hate” and host Jessica Mashburn and Evan Olson for the

March 19: Freedom Center for Social Justice Award Banquet & Networking Event

Celebrating Charlotte change makers who are making a profound impact on the city’s culture. Charlotte Museum of History, 3500 Shamrock Dr., Charlotte. 5:30 p.m. bit.ly/38gv5Xk. green party. Tickets are $175 and are available online. bit.ly/2SvnYpq.

March 21 Wig Out — A Hair Raising Night Charity Campus Pride for LGBTQ+ Youth

Midtown Ballroom Venue 1133 Metropolitan Ave., #180, Charlotte 7 p.m.

Enjoy a silent and live auction of unique one-of-a-kind wigs in order to raise money for Campus Pride.

Tickets start at $35. campuspride.org/wigout.

March 24 We Are at the Table

Charlotte Museum of History 3500 Shamrock Dr., Charlotte 6 p.m.

A women’s roundtable with focus on community changes and empowerment with guest speakers City of Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles and Janet LeBar, president Charlotte Regional

Business Alliance. clgbtcc.org.

March 28 Guilford Green Foundation Greensboro Youth Alternative Prom

Congregational United Church of Christ 400 W Radiance Dr., Greensboro 8 p.m.

This prom events are for LGBTQ+ high schoolers and allies to enjoy a traditional prom in a safe space. bit.ly/2TwDh0n.

Send your events listings to us!

Be sure to include your event name, date, location, time, description, ticket cost and URL for more information.

life

REGULAR EVENTS Charlotte LGBT Chamber

Our People: Cory Davis

Regular business meetings, social events and other activities throughout the year. Days and times vary. info: clgbtcc.org.

Musician, Techie, Community Builder

HIV Support Group

Dudley’s Place at Rosedale Medical holds support groups for HIV positive individuals every other Tuesday at 6 p.m., Rosedale Medical, 103 Commerce Centre Dr., Suite 103, Huntersville. Call Dudley’s Place at 704-977-2972 for dates and more information or follow on Facebook and Instagram for updates. info: rosedaleid.com.

PFLAG Charlotte

Support meetings, second Monday of each month, 6:30-8 p.m., Time Out Youth Center, 3800 Monroe Rd., Charlotte. info: pflagcharlotte.org.

PFLAG Concord/Kannapolis

Meets for monthly group support meetings, second Tuesday of each month, 7-9 p.m., Trinity United Church of Christ, 38 Church St. N., Concord. info: bit.ly/1pCFVBq.

PFLAG Gaston

Meets for monthly support meetings, third Thursday of each month, 7 p.m., St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 258 W. Franklin Blvd., Gastonia. info: pflaggaston.org.

Prime Timers

Monthly meeting including dinner, speaker, games and more for gay men ages 21 and up, 5-7 p.m., Park Road Baptist Church Fellowship Hall, 3900 Park Rd., Charlotte. info: charlotteprimetimers.org.

Stonewall Sports

Regular team sports, meet-up, social and service events throughout the year. Days and times vary. info: stonewallcharlotte.leagueapps.com.

UPDATES/ADDITIONS?

Do you have a regular and reoccurring community event you’d like listed? A listing to update? Email us at editor@ goqnotes.com.

BY Mykah Buff | QNotes Staff Writer

C

ory Davis joined One Voice’s LGBTQIA and allied chorus in the summer of 2019 as their new artistic director. Davis is a career musician with 12 years of experience in choral conducting as well as having a background in non-profit development and management.

He completed his undergraduate studies at The George Washington University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Music as well as later completing his Master’s degree at Temple University in choral conducting in 2018.

Davis has had the opportunity to work with a number of notable choral groups and is particularly passionate about LGBTQIA choruses. He notes that these types of singing groups have an emphasis on cultural diversity which fosters empathy and promotes a more meaningful life. qnotes spoke with Davis and was able to get acquainted with him as well as learn more about his passion for choral music.

What does your position as artistic director for One Voice Chorus of Charlotte entail?

As the artistic director, I conduct rehearsals and performances for our large non-auditioned group, as well as the smaller, select ensemble, Sotto Voce. I plan the repertoire and prepare us to perform at three main season concerts, any additional performances and community events. We have a volunteer board, and I’m one of very few paid staff members, so we all work together on logistics and administrative staff to get all of that to happen. Ultimately, everything I do is to create experiences that support our mission, which is to increase understanding and acceptance of LGBTQIA+ people through choral excellence, and in doing so, to grow as performers and as humans.

What inspired you to pursue a career in music?

It honestly took me a long time to derive meaning from my career in music. I was always involved with it, and it was just something that I was good at, but I always had that lingering “imposter syndrome” feeling that I wasn’t good enough. The teachers I had along the way were definitely my biggest inspiration. Those who had the greatest impact on me were sort of working-class musicians whose dedication to musical excellence equaled their humanity. That helped me to see that I had something valuable to contribute, even on days when I felt I wasn’t measuring up. I find myself striving for that balance: insistent on musical excellence, and full of heart.

What do you love the most about music? What fuels your passion?

It’s that cliche thing of bringing people together and breaking down barriers. Making music as an ensemble is like being on a sports team: everyone is responsible for their contributions, and we all must work together to achieve a specific goal. On top of that, the music itself gives us a window into other perspectives. For example, we are performing a piece we co-commissioned in our upcoming March concert with lyrics created from writings and experiences of trans youth. If I’m a singer who doesn’t have that experience, seeing a piece of music like that put

in front of me gets me thinking about what someone else went through, and might change my perspective.

What has your experience been like as an openly-gay professional working in the music industry?

This is definitely my most high profile, specifically gay position, but in my experience, the choral world and classical music at large is very gay-friendly, and I’ve always felt welcome and accepted.

Briefly describe some of your most memorable moments related to music.

When I was in my Master’s program, we formed a choir consisting of Temple students and people who were experiencing or had experienced homelessness, through an organization called Project HOME. We came together to make music, but it led to conversations and friendships between folks who likely never would have interacted other than to pass each other on the street. It was incredibly powerful.

How has your transition been since relocating to Charlotte, N.C. from Philadelphia, Pa.?

As with any transition, there are always challenges. There have definitely been some ups and downs, but I’m hopeful things will begin to stabilize.

What are some of your and your partner’s favorite vacation spots?

My parents have a house in Florida where they spend half the year, and we enjoy visiting them there in the winter months to break up the overcast monotony.

Aside from choral music, what is your favorite genre of music?

I think I tend toward anything with a good beat and/or electronic sounds, because that’s not often found in your standard choral music. Perhaps that will change though!

Who’s your favorite singer, band, or producer?

My most listened-to singer of the decade on Spotify was Whitney Houston.

What’s your all-time favorite song?

That’s an absolutely impossible question to answer so I’ll just go with “Let it Go” from Disney’s “Frozen,” ha!

What’s your favorite color?

Yellow. : :

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