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Collaborating with POC Organizations: Thank You to the Bisexual Resource Center
Posted By Spectra on August 2nd, 2011
Founder’s Note: In the spirit of partnership-building, we wanted to highlight a community organization that has helped us make our purple pride extravaganza possible.
Through partnerships with other institutions that also give voice to members of the LGBTQ community of color, QWOC+ Boston has been able to extend our outreach efforts to include other sub-communities and networks over the years. In so doing, we’ve in turn provided frequent opportunities for other organizations to offer valuable resources and provide critical services to community members they may otherwise have been unable to reach. We believe this is an important part of community building, which is the core of our work. This is why, even when collaborating is challenging — which it often is — we believe it’s worth the discomfort to push through and find ourselves united in solidarity on the other side.
In the case of working with communities of color, and specifically, women of color, it should come as no surprise that many organizations end up doing more talking than actually working towards efforts to provide more culturally competent resources, increase multicultural diversity, or address gender inequities within their leadership. So when an organization extends themselves to us in the way that the Bisexual Resource Center (BRC) has this year, with no quid-pro-quo stipulations, no catch, no hidden agenda, just simply because they believe in the importance of the work we’re doing (and know first-hand how hard it can be for grassroots groups to get support), it’s like discovering a natural spring in the middle of the dessert, and then waiting to see if it’s a mirage…
Except it isn’t — the kind of support we have received from the BRC is the kind of support many marginalized groups are in serious need of and thus, deeply appreciate. I have been fortunate to meet and get to know a few members of the Bisexual Resource Center this year. And what has struck me about their leadership is that they continually extend their hands to us year-round; not just when they need co-sponsorship of an event or need us to sign some petition, but to offer words of encouragement after learning about trials we’ve experienced (i.e. racist venues during pride), and similarly, to congratulate us on our successes, and of course, let us know that they were down to help and support QWOC Week in whatever they could.
But what I really want people to know is this: As the co-sponsors of our Open Relationships and Polyamory discussion this past weekend, the Bisexual Resource Center remained enthusiastic and supportive even after the QWOC Week planning committee decided that the discussion would be closed to just people of color.
This meant that most (if not all) of the BRC board couldn’t attend the very event they were co-sponsoring. But they didn’t all of a sudden become lukewarm (something that we’ve seen happen time and time again once we relay that the kind of support we need is the less visible kind). They didn’t withdraw their support simply because they couldn’t be the center of attention and take credit for the discussion. They stayed on board with complete understanding of why it is that we — as women of color — needed to have the discussion in a safe-space for people of color. In fact, not only did they pay for appetizers for the post-discussion social, but they showed up after the event was over to check in with us and congratulate us on its success. I wish every other organization in Boston could be as gracious, and could push themselves to understand — as the Bisexual Resource Center does — that sometimes, the greatest support you can give communities of color is to take a back seat, and still cheer.
This is part of why we wanted to take a moment to say Thank You, to the Bisexual Resource Center. Beyond also providing valuable resources and support to bisexual women who are part of the QWOC communtiy, we have really appreciated their allyship during QWOC Week. Even though this is a relatively new partnership, we’re excited about continuing our work together and want other organizations to know that our experience so far has been overwhelmingly positive. We may run into hiccups along the way — it’s part of collaborating and learning about each other — but I’m confident that because we’re each coming from a place of real support, we’ll be able to push through any barriers and continue to create bi- and trans- safe spaces for women of color in Boston.
“QWOC, as we run in many of the same circles. My friends who are queer women of color get a lot out of her events; it fulfills their need for community, connection, and mutual understanding in a way that they can’t really find anywhere else. The Bisexual Resource Center has been providing resources to the bi community for over 25 years, and getting the message out about QWOC is a boon to the many folks we serve.”
– Jennifer Bonardi, Bisexual Resource Center
So please read about the Bisexual Resource Center below, and leave them a comment saying thank you on our behalf!
Sincerely,
Spectra
—
About the Bisexual Resource Center
The Bisexual Resource Center (BRC) is an educational organization that was founded in 1985. Originally known as the East Coast Bisexual Network, the organization is headquartered in Boston and provides education about bisexual and progressive issues. It also provides support services by hosting bi-positive events, promoting bi visibility, and welcoming all to their support group. The organization is the most active American bisexual advocacy and resource group. “The Bisexual Resource Center envisions a world where love is celebrated, regardless of sexual orientation or gender expression.”
This summer, we were delighted to collaborate with the BRC to put on our QWOC Week Kickoff Event: A Discussion about Open Relationships & Polyamory in Queer/Trans Communities of Color.
Other fun facts:
- The BRC is part of a state wide coalition of organizations led by Mass. Transgender Political Coalition (MTPC) to help push the adoption of H.R.1711, which outlaws gender-based discrimination and hate crimes.
- The organization joined an NGLTF-coordinated coalition of over 360 groups from across the country in ’07 to advocate for a trans and gender expression inclusive Employment and Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA)
- It is also the only bisexual organization in the National Coalition for LGBT Health
You can learn more about the Bisexual Resource Center by visiting their website: http://biresource.net/
OPENING QWOC WEEK PANEL: Transgender Women of Color Speak (8/1)
Posted By Lina Torres on July 31st, 2011
Join us for the Opening QWOC WEEK Panel!
In the spirit of fostering more open dialogue, and as part of our Diversity Speaks discussion series, QWOC+ Boston and TranSCEND of AIDS Action Committee, co-sponsored by Mass. Transgender Political Coalitionare kicking off QWOC Week with a very important sharing circle, “Trans Women of Color Speak”
Facebook Event: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=199333806766635
This event aims to bring queer and trans people of color and allies together to “Listen” to the voices of trans women of color as they speak personally about the wide variety of their experiences they have as full and complex people, and as members of both the transgender and POC community.
But this isn’t a political forum; the diverse and truly personal stories from our panelists will serve as a catalyst for us, as a community, to identify and commit to ways through which we can all become active stakeholders in creating transWOC-inclusive spaces within QPOC communities, and also POC-inclusive spaces within the transgender community at large.
MEET OUR PANELISTS
Our speakers hail from diverse backgrounds and careers. Each of them has committed to participating in this discussion to shed light on what is most personal to them in order to bring about progressive change in our community. It is truly an honor to have these three amazing women lend their voices to this panel. Check out their bios below!
Alyssa Kwan
Alyssa Kwan is an East Asian, trans, lesbian, femme woman that is deeply involved and invested in progressive, queer, and feminist politics. She is a software engineer with a background primarily in financial services, and is dedicated to her work as craft. She also writes about personal and political issues in both prose and poetry. Since coming out as a trans woman and beginning medical transition at the age of 30, Alyssa has been tackling the challenge of coming to terms with her personal identity, especially as it relates to community affiliation. As an East Asian trans woman, she has faced discrimination along a wide variety of axes, but has also experienced the joy of shared struggle with different marginalized communities. She is also committed to educating people on the complexities of intersectionality and the kyriarchy. She writes a blog at http://amaevis.tumblr.com/.
Elizabeth Marie Rivera-Valentine (TransCEND)
Elizabeth Marie Rivera-Valentine is a proud Puerto Rican transgender female haling from New York City & has been married and residing in Boston since 2009. Elizabeth has been involved in HIV Prevention & Education and Social Justice Activism/Organizing for the past 15 years, advocating for LGBT2SGNCQ individuals. She was also featured twice in the PBS Lesbian and Gay television news magazine “In The Life”. Elizabeth now works for the AIDS Action Committee of Massachusetts. She became a full-time staff member at Cambridge Cares About AIDS in March 2009 as the Health Educator and Web Designer for TransCEND (Transgender Care and Education Needs Diversity; www.transcendboston.org ); a community-based HIV prevention and health education program formally of Cambridge Cares About AIDS (CCA); by and for transgender women now located in Jamaica Plain in the Jackson Square area. Her new role as the Community Organizer for TransCEND will advocate for clients and their needs externally which are necessary in keeping the voice of our community heard as well as keeping the program connected and visible within the trans social justice movement.
Lina Morales (TransCEND)
Lina Morales is a second-generation jewish mexican-american lesbian trans woman born and raised in the mexican-american neighborhood Little Village (La Villita) of Chicago, IL. She has been used to since forever of being of two or more worlds and defining herself in the intersections. She works for the TransCEND program of AIDS Action Committee and lives in Jamaica Plain.
Mesma Belsare
Mesma S. Belsare is a Boston-based Indian Classical dancer, choreographer, actor, visual artist and educator. She belongs to a generation of young dancers in the South Asian Diaspora in North America who have created a unique niche for themselves in the realm of classical Indian arts. She holds a Master’s degree in Art Education from the Massachusetts College of Art, Boston MA. Mesma is a recipient of the Government of India scholarship for advanced study of Bharatanatyam (Indian Classical Dance), was once nominated under the Best Dancer category for the Dora Mavor Moore Award by the Toronto Alliance for the Performing Arts, Canada and twice nominated for Boston Foundation’s Brother Thomas Fellowship for ‘excellence in the arts’. The Theatre Offensive of Boston honoured her as a ‘Gender Hero of Boston’. She serves on the Board of The History Project that documents and preserves the history of Boston’s LGBT communities. Mesma looks forward to sharing her thoughts on the QWOC panel. (Photo Credit: Ahn Dao Kolbe)
Looking forward to members of the diverse queer and trans community of color (and allies) join us for this very important conversation.
Diversity Speaks. And, it is our responsibility to listen.
—
About TransCEND
TransCEND provides 1 on 1 counseling and group support, HIV counseling and testing, referrals to transgender friendly legal and medical providers, safer sex and injection supplies, hygiene products, complimentary cosmetics and have a welcoming community safe space. TransCEND also seeks to build a network of support, safety, and education to improve the health and well-being of transgender women. They work to address how all forms of discrimination impact HIV prevention and health education, such as unequal access to health care and health-related information, and the lack of recognition of the distinct needs of the transgender community. TransCEND also collaborates with individuals and organizations that advocate for social justice and non-discrimination for transgender and gender-variant people of all backgrounds.
Co-sponsoring Organizations
Mass Transgender Political Coalition
Suffolk University Office of Diversity Services
Suffolk University President’s Commission on the Status of LGBTQ Faculty, Staff and Students
Suffolk University President’s Commission on the Status of AHANA Faculty, Staff, and Students
Building Bridges: Queer Asian Experiences in LGBTQ Communities of Color (8/2)
Posted By Lina Torres on July 29th, 2011
As part of QWOC Week’s mission to provide welcoming and affirming spaces for marginalized groups within the LGBTQ people of color community, QWOC+ Boston is hosting a discussion about the experiences of Asian/Asian-American people in the LGBTQ community.
This event, happening in collaboration with the Massachusetts South Asian Lambda Association (MASALA), Queer Asian & Pacific Islander Alliance (QAPA), and MAP for Health, and its exclusive focus on Asian/Asian-American people within the LGBTQ community, will be a first for QWOC+ Boston, but the idea has been on the table for a few years.
“Spectra and I have long wanted to have a QAPA/QWOC+ collaboration… We both understand the strength of QPOC collaboration,” says Maxwell Ng, a member of the planning committee and steering committee member of QAPA. The main purpose of this event is to create an open dialogue for members of this particular community to bring to light their experiences, especially in regards to the inclusion/exclusion of Asian/Asian-American people from mainstream organizing and social spaces. We want to explore how this ultimately impacts the larger community of queer and trans people of color.
How do queer white people perceive queer Asian people? How do other queer POC perceive queer Asian people? Touching upon sensitive issues in any rich and diverse community such as this one can be a slippery slope. Discussing the perceptions and stereotypes associated with any group can be a reminder of what so many have fought to disprove. However, through this moderated conversation, we hope to use our dedication to increasing QPOC solidarity to propel us through this critical and much-needed conversation.
“Putting together this event has been refreshingly challenging,” according to Spectra, “I kinda wish we could post the transcript of all the intense, passionate conversations that have happened as we were fleshing out this event. We’ve all learned so much about each other already. It gives me a lot of hope that we can replicate this same conversation in the different and overlapping communities we care about.’
Alyssa Kwan, a new QWOC Week organizer echoes these sentiments: “The skill with which everyone [on the committee] has navigated difficult issues bodes very well for the future of the entire queer POC community… Come prepared to have your minds opened!”
We welcome people of color from all cultural backgrounds to join us for this crucial conversation, with the understanding that we will be focusing on queer and trans Asian/Asian-American experiences. Since space is limited, RSVP is required. Attendees are strongly encouraged to sign up ASAP online.
The event will take place on Tuesday, August 2nd from 6-8 p.m at MIT Fairchild Building | 50 Vassar Street, Cambridge, MA. It will be followed by a gathering at NU-LIFE (Zuzu Bar) hosted by DJs Dhana and Rizzla. Mention “QWOC Week” and get in for free!
RSVP is required in order to attend the event so follow this link to register for this groundbreaking discussion and other QWOC Week events!
QWOC Week Brings Family and Youth Together at Stony Brook Park (8/6)
Posted By Lina Torres on July 29th, 2011
Saturday August 6th
12 PM – 4PM @ Stony Brook Park
Jamaica Plain, MA
After a week of new connections and invigorating discussions, we have just what you need – a relaxing day under a shady tree at the park!
Join us for what has always been a gorgeous day of sunshine and fun! This event is part of the QWOC + mission to create spaces that support and affirm the many different kinds of families that exist within the queer and trans community of color. Some of us have two moms, two dads, transgender grandchildren, gay uncles and nieces, multiple queer parents, PFLAG parents, multi-racial families, and of course, pets! So bring them all along for QWOC Week’s Family and Youth Day at the Park!
QWOC + values this rare opportunity to bring our families together and share in this loving and supportive network so we look forward to it every year! We know that having children or other family to care for can often times alienate individuals from the queer community with whom they wish to connect. Many LBGT social events often take place on weeknights (or late nights) and thus, aren’t convenient for whole families to attend. This is why the Family and Youth Day in the Park is so important.
The day at the park will also be the very last day to contribute your donated item to our Survivor Drive for The Network/La Red. This wonderful organization works to provide support services and address partner abuse in LGBTQ and polyamorous communities. It’s a fantastic cause so check out our list of items and don’t forget to bring yours by!
Old School Meets New School: An Intergenerational Summer Patio T-Dance (Sun 7/31)
Posted By Lina Torres on July 29th, 2011
Sunday July 31st, 3 pm – 7 pm
REDD’s In Rozzie
4257 Washington Street
Roslindale, MA 02131
What a better way to spend a Sunday afternoon than dancing to everything from the Isley Brothers to Beyonce? Join us at this one-of-a-kind social that brings the old school and the new school together! This event has been such a hit in the past that it has now become a QWOC Week staple!
The intergenerational T-Dance is a unique opportunity for QWOC of all ages to get together and have a great time. The social scene that dominates the queer community makes it especially challenging to create strong connections between members of different age groups. For instance, nightlife — which some could argue as being the focal point of mainstream gay culture — often blocks younger people (who are under 21) from accessing community, and, in the same vein, fails to be inclusive of older generations who prefer socializing of the ‘tamer’ sort. It’s hard to get around the 21+age requirement in a city like Boston, but even within the demographic that is of legal age, nightlife and most LGBT social spaces often fail to consider the needs of parents with family responsibilities.
In the words of new QWOC Week organizer, Chareese Allen, “We tend to see the same people hosting parties and doing various activities together.” The QWOC Week T-Dance is designed to bring LGBTQ women of color together across age brackets, neighborhoods, and other various pockets, and the event committee is optimistic about its outcome. “Last year was crazy,” says Spectra, “We had a soul train going at one point, and each person in it was of a different age, ethnic background etc. It was kind of amazing.”
Speaking of music, we will have it all — from Al Green to Aaliyah to Adele. Our playlist will include the greatest hits from way back when all the way up to this summer! And all this inter-generational goodness will be taking place on a beautiful outdoor patio, complete with the delicious tastings of Redd’s, a southern cuisine restaurant in Roslindale Square. If it sounds perfect it’s because it will be.
The Intergenerational T-Dance is being hosted in collaboration with the Power Lesbian Network and Boston Black Women’s Health Initiative. Tickets are available through the QWOC Week online registration. $5 in advance, or $5-10 sliding scale at the door. Hope to see you there.
And now, for a teaser song… (it’s Spectra’s new favorite):
QWOC Ally Volunteer Spotlight: Queer Femme Warrior, Beth Rubin!
Posted By QWOC+ Boston on July 26th, 2011
A Personal Note from Spectra:
In the spirit of QWOC Week, we wanted to highlight some of the people that have made it possible to create such an amazing calendar of events.
Since we’ve made it our mission to create spaces for women of color, we have found that people often forget about the “+” in our name, which stands for allies. But the truth is that so much of the work we do wouldn’t be possible without the help of others who are just as dedicated to this mission, which, in addition to the women of color community, includes our close friends, families, and allies. One such person is Beth Rubin, a self-described “queer femme ally” and a new member to the QWOC Week organizing committee.
Beth has volunteered for QWOC+ Boston at a number of events — she says OUTSPOKEN will always be her favorite — but this year, she decided to roll up her sleeves to help with QWOC Week 2011. And lucky us…! Beth has been a valuable asset to the committee, working both online and offline to coordinate the closing ceremony and recruit collaborators for QWOC week. She brings great ideas and positive energy to meetings week after week, but most importantly, she gives the BEST hugs, hands down.
We thought you all should know what an awesome person Beth is to us. We can only hope that allies everywhere follow suit, in being as open, humble, supportive, and truly passionate about increasing visibility for women of color as she has been, without the rhetoric, without the dos and don’ts, but rather, with so much heart. Thank you, Beth, for being the fierce queer femme warrior woman that you are.
– Spectra
Read her short interview below — written and compiled by our intern, Lina! — and leave Beth some purple love.
How long have you been involved with QWOC + Boston and what attracted you to the organization?
I have been involved with QWOC for just about 2 years now. I began attending events, and then it came time for QWOC Week 2010, and it was so incredible that I’d wished I could have gone every night. I went to Strut, and Outspoken (and as someone who appreciates burlesque, drag, and most of all spoken word, I was on cloud nine!), and then volunteered as well. Each event was more amazing than the next. When I volunteered, I felt welcome, and as though I was contributing to something important.
What project or event has been your favorite to work on and why?
Last year volunteering at Outside the Box was fantastic. It made me want to be more actively involved with QWOC, and I had an excellent time. I met fantastic people (including the lovely and talented Vivek Shreya who performed that night) and I got the behind the scenes look at all of the little things that make great events come together. I also saw my poet friend Idalia perform her work for the first time on stage that night, which was memorable.
This year as an organizer I’m on the committee for the QWOC Week Closing Party. I’m excited to see how QWOC Week 2011 unfolds, with all of the awesome events that are scheduled, culminating with this party we are planning, where everyone can come back together, and celebrate the collective energy that builds throughout the week.
Could you share any particular moment or anecdote from a QWOC + meeting or event that has really stayed with you?
This is my first year volunteering on the organizing committee for QWOC Week. Friends convinced me that being a part of the planning process would be fun; they convinced me that I could do it, so I took the leap. I’m so glad I did. Everyone has so much going on, with careers, home, family, and their fabulous lives! Somehow, though, they get themselves there. They drag themselves, half-exhausted, with sometimes-empty bellies, to make it to these evening organizer’s meetings. They take on these tasks, which they accomplish somehow, on top of everything on their plates. I have done a bit of event planning, but more so for one event. It is seriously impressive to see how much work goes into making QWOC week happen. There are milestones to be met, and there’s work to be done, but somehow there are enough people invested in the process to share the load. Collaborators and sponsors and volunteers somehow appear when they’re needed. People want to reach out and help. It stays with me that people everywhere I look seem to want to step up to the plate and support QWOC.
What advice/insights would you offer to allies looking to build stronger ties with POC organizations like QWOC+? What do you think makes you a good ally?
It may sound strange, but the best thing I can say is that I have learned about being an ally by seeing examples of the kind of ally I DON’T want to be. People who have a point to prove, or a degree that makes them think they know more about a topic than those who have lived it. People who think it’s about them. Guess what? It’s not. They embarass themselves without even knowing it, by puffing out their feathers, or quoting theory that makes them think they get it. Embrace the not knowing. It’s humbling as hell. That you actually just listen. That is a sign of respect.
We hear you really love your job! What do you currently do for a living?
I am an American Sign Language interpreter, which is the most fantastically un-boring job ever invented for someone like me who loves variety, people, adventure, and language.
What is your favorite way to spend your free time?
I am a social butterfly! Surrounded by friends is how I prefer to spend my time. Artsy, poetic and musical fun most of all. My goals this year are learning to play poker, and also Bollywood dancing.
–
Feel free to leave a comment for Beth. And when you see her during QWOC Week, please thank her again on our behalf for all the love and support she’s given QWOC+ Boston these past few years. She does love to give hugs, though, so don’t say we didn’t warn ya!
The Whirlwind of Planning QWOC Week 2011: Our Summer Intern’s Inside Scoop
Posted By Lina Torres on July 26th, 2011
As the QWOC+ Boston summer intern, the majority of my duties this summer have been related to the planning of this year’s purple pride extravaganza – QWOC Week! This has been a challenging and heartwarming journey. I have had the pleasure of working with a diverse and committed group of people. Each one of the volunteers and organizers welcomed me with open arms. As we approach the culmination of all our hard work, I am anxious to see the outcome unfold – to see this great community come together to connect and grow.
Just like in any grassroots work, the going is not always as smooth as one would like it to be…actually, it’s never as smooth as one would like it to be. During the brainstorming phase of planning, we had sheets filled with ideas for each day of QWOC Week and the best venues everyone could think of. However, as each planning meeting came and went our choices were often fewer and fewer. At times we were limited by high costs and a lack of communication from venues or collaborators, just to name a few obstacles. It is certainly frustrating to see amazing potential be limited due to lack of funding or support from other community organizations.
However, all of the challenges have been outweighed by the enthusiasm and hard work of a great team of volunteers. Most of these individuals have full time jobs and many other responsibilities. Yet, week after week they have happily attended our meetings and put their best effort into the project. Just when I would resign myself to the idea that something was simply not going to come together, one of our caring supporters would step in and save the day.
The most amazing aspect of this whole process has been the environment that QWOC + Boston creates. It is wonderful to sense the unanimous cheering and support when someone announces that they had the courage to come out to their family. No matter how long or draining, ending a meeting with news that someone will soon be marrying their beloved partner is exhilarating and provides a great deal of perspective. It is extremely rewarding to see new friends look forward to their first queer anything like a “kid at Christmas.” Ultimately, each one of us is working to reach out to queer people of color with the goal of creating more spaces like this one; to encourage personal connections that result in a strong commitment to support each other and to tackle the issues that affect the QWOC community.
As a college student, this experience has renewed my faith in the world outside of my world. I realized, for instance, that although everyone involved with QWOC + Boston has real world responsibilities and challenges, an organization like this one can still be strong and effect change.
So to those individuals that have been critical to the success of this process I say, Thank You! You bring comfort and hope to those, young or not so young, who are often afraid of and disappointed by the world.
To those of you who have the opportunity to attend QWOC Week, I invite you to enjoy the product of this labor of love.
NERDY CABARET Features Queer People of Color w/ Burlesque, Erotica, and Spoken-Word
Posted By QWOC+ Boston on July 17th, 2011
The NERDY CABARET will feature a diverse line up of entertainment from secretaries, sluts, songstresses, and a sultriness of the intellectual sort. We’ve finally created a space where hipsters are encouraged to sport their fake wide-rimmed glasses and your came-after-work-didn’t-have-time-to-change ensemble could even pass as kinky. Nerdy science jokes, political sattire, hip-hop storytelling, and sexy role-play involving inanimate objects are all encouraged.
Wednesday July 27th
MIDDLE EAST UPSTAIRS
472 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge MA
Guest List and Ticketing
AUDIENCE: You are encouraged to dress up as SLUTS, SECRETARIES, and/or your favorite SONGSTRESSES (Madonna, Gaga, Nina, Tina, Beyonce… the possibilities are endless)!
ADMISSION: $10 at the Door, RSVP on RSVP HERE to get in for $8 that day.
TWITTER: Following @spectrasevents on Twitter and tweet all about the Nerdy Cabaret using the hashtag, #nerdycabaret
FACEBOOK: RSVP on Facebook and Share Share Share!
MEET YOUR NERDY HOSTS
SPECTRA is the intellectually artsy mastermind behind Spectra Events (and their new show, the Nerdy Cabaret).
This creative nerd, introverted socialite, and femme-lovin’ Naija boi digs video games as commentary for the human experience and multivariable calculus as a metaphor for relationships.
When s/he’s not making love to a piano (or other inanimate objects), s/he’s blogging about more serious stuff at www.spectraspeaks.com, espousing un-proofed formulas for optimizing polyamorous connections, and pondering the science of love at @iqwoc on Twitter.
Brand of NERD: CREATIVE
IDIALIA is a fierce Puertominican poet; a proud nerd, and a lover of safe words like pancakes, hickies, and sugarmelt.
She began writing for herself, until she looked around only to realize the scarcity of voices like hers — queer brown artsy and kinky — in the media, so now she writes for everyone else; for the kid in kindergarten who cried after someone made fun of his accent, for her little sister who asked her to pass the “people colored crayon” (peach), for the transgender girl who smiled after putting on lipstick for the first time, and to the people privileged enough to ignore the injustices that exist in the world.
Follow her on Tumblr and @idaliapoetry on Twitter, and maybe she’ll blow you a kiss.
Brand of Nerd: SEXY
INTRODUCING YOUR NERDY PERFORMERS!
Claire “DAME JANE” Byers was born into a creative family who grew up making music together. Surrounded by her father’s compositions, she has been gliding on song since her days in the womb. Song emerged with her first words. Even at five, she was preoccupied with songs about love.
This musical mistress is pleased to emerge out of her previous sultry darkness to bring you the darling “Dame Jane” with a brighter, child-like wonder about that thing called love. She is working on her Masters at Lesley University, learning how to heal with song.
Follow Dame Jane (and her alto ego) at Facebook!
Brand of Nerd: VINTAGE
GEEGEE LOUISE opts for creative bios, and thus brings you this rhyme:
“Shh! Turn down the lights;
Lean forward for a wonderful sight.
Close your eyes and enjoy the touch;
But will the shivers be way too much?
Reach! Embrace the temptation;
Pleasure waves become vibration.
Oh, yes! Did you hear that growl?
Something sexy is on the prowl.
He has arrived; Geegee is here!
Slowly clothes, he begins to tear.
Watch his body as he shakes,
Then struts all over the hearts he breaks.”
Nothing more to be said. Drool over GeeGee at his Website, or get a taste of him on Youtube!
Brand of Nerd: TEASE
JOJO POINDEXTER (Joel Marshall) is a self taught and published poet who has been writing since childhood. He is a passionate advocate for LGBTQ organizations in Boston working to raise awareness and engage the community.
Marshall is dedicated to educating audiences on important issues such as recognizing signs of child sexual abuse, supportive environments for those living with HIV/AIDS, and new beginnings for refugee women in the US. His support can been seen through his book sales and event raffle contributions to Enough Abuse Campaign and Boston Living Center, as well as fund raising efforts for Spheres of Exchange through the TransModa fashion show.
Joel currently lives and works in Boston and attends open mics as often as possible. To learn more about his work, visit this website www.thewrittenvoice.com.
Brand of Nerd: INSPIRING
MS. LOLITA LAVAMP is a proud Puerto Rican transgender female haling from New York City and it’s fabulous Ballroom Scene & The House of Ninja. Ms. LaVamp has also been involved in HIV Prevention & Education and Social Justice Activism/Organizing for the past 15 years, advocating for LGBT2SGNCQ individuals.
She has been dancing and performing since high school, and was featured twice in the PBS Lesbian and Gay television news magazine “”In The Life”". Lolita has also performed for Boiling Point Burlesque Fall 2009, Bent Wit Cabaret: Identity 2010, The Slutcracker: A Christmas Burlesque 2009 & 2010 and The Femme Show 2010.
To get bitten by LaVamp, “Like” her on Facebook or follow her on Twitter.
Brand of Nerd: FIERCE
MARY BOWEN is a writer, film historian and classically-trained actor/singer who has worked in theatre, television, independent film and voice over.
Most recently, she wowed Cambridge, MA audiences as part of the queer review The Nitty Gritty Show, starring in her self-scripted performance piece “He’s Fading to Black”. Nerdy Cabaret II marks Ms. Bowen’s Jazz Songstress debut.
Under the Avatar Calliope, Mary creates music & spoken word video on Youtube and the group blog she she founded at www.standingloud.com.
Brand of Nerd: RENAISSANCE
LA TICA proudly hails from Costa Rica, where she developed her love of music listening to her father play the bass and marimbas in professional bands around Latin America. She is a Latina Lesbian who has done “in your face” social and economic justice community organizing as well as more sedate human services work in the Boston area for the past 20+ years.
In her youth, La Tica performed in professional musical theater in CT and NYC. She is thrilled to be returning to the stage after a long absence and to be taking part in the Nerdy Cabaret II.
Her nerd credits include her intense love of; science, literature, writing and the arts. She combines these nerdy interests with a special Tica brand of sexy, hot, sultriness. Send her some love on Facebook.
Brand of Nerd: MUSICAL
Announcing…. QWOC WEEK 2011!
Posted By QWOC+ Boston on July 15th, 2011
(Note to Press: You can download the full content of this press release HERE + Fact Sheet + QWOC Week Flyer)
For Immediate Release:
Queer Women of Color Week Uses Art, Performance, and Dialogue to Address Segregation in Communities of Color
“QWOC Week is important because it’s the only event of its kind…It recognizes, cherishes, and celebrates my WHOLE identity.”
Boston, MA, July 18th — Join Queer Women of Color and Friends (QWOC+ Boston) for their 4th annual week-long pride festival, QWOC Week, taking place this year from Saturday July 30th – Saturday August 6th.
This year, QWOC Week, known for its eclectic back-to-back schedule of innovative art, discussion, and community-building events, is focused on increasing solidarity between LGBTQ communities of color by creating space for a myriad of affinity groups. A highly anticipated annual spoken-word and live music showcase, OUTSPOKEN — The BLACKOUT Edition, will feature an all-black lesbian performer lineup this year, including nationally reknowned black lesbian poet Letta Neely, and reigning local slam poet, Porscha (who will also be competing at the National Poetry Slam taking place in Cambridge the following week).
Founding Director, Spectra A. I. Asala says that whatever the theme, OUTSPOKEN always attracts all kinds of people who are eager to learn about issues impacting queer and transgender women of color in general. “The performers are unapologetically loud and proud, and it’s refreshing, especially since the experiences of LGBTQ people of color are often over-politicized as hot button “issues” or trivialized via “at-risk” statistics. OUTSPOKEN is an empowering celebration of who we are as LGBTQ people, but as women of color as well.”
The intentional focus on women is clear. QWOC Week’s opening panel, “Trans Women of Color Speak” hosted in collaboration with TransCEND and Mass Transgender Political Coalition, brings forth an important conversation about the role of transgender women of color in stonewall in light of their subsequent marginalization within the gay movement. The event encourages both queer and trans communities to work together towards creating safe spaces for transgender women of diverse cultural backgrounds.
But women aren’t the only affinity group being highlighted during the week. This year, QWOC+ Boston has teamed up with Mass. South Asian Lamba Association, Queer Asian Pacific Islander Alliance (QAPA) and MAP for Health to address the lack of visibility of Asians/Asian-Americans within the broader LGBTQ community of color. “At my school, I’ve seen first hand how the queer Asian community is deliberately passed over and seen as ‘the other’, even when they are the most vocal in the LGBT POC community,” remarked Wellesley student organizer (and 2011 Point Foundation scholar), Erika Turner. Turner, who is also part of the planning committee for Family Day in the Park — an all-ages, youth- and family-friendly event in Stony Brook, JP, credits her commitment to creating supportive spaces for LGBT women of color to the positive experience interning with QWOC+ Boston in 2010. “QWOC Week is important because it’s the only event of its kind,” she says, “It has been the only Pride I’ve experienced that recognizes, cherishes, and celebrates my WHOLE identity.”
QWOC Week is being planned and executed entirely by a grassroots group of volunteers and dedicated community supporters. Collaborators include The Network/ La Red, an organization dedicated to ending partner abuse in LGBTQ communities, Black and Pink, a prison-abolitionist organization, The Bisexual Resource Center, and many others.
“All our events are open to everyone, regardless of race, gender, or sexuality, hence the wide range of collaborations,” says Asala, “Plus, they’re fun! There’s something for everyone, whether you’re new to Boston, artsy, political, love the outdoors etc. We want our friends, families, and allies to be part of this amazing week.” For more information about QWOC Week, including the full schedule, visit http://www.qwocboston.org/qwoc-week/ or the official registration page at qwocweek2011.eventbrite.com.
A limited number of spaces for press (and community leaders) to attend the closing reception on Saturday August 6th are available. Please send all inquiries to pride@qwocboston.org, or contact Spectra at 617.871.0431
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List of Collaborating Organizations
BlackandPink.org
Bisexual Resource Center (BRC) (Gold Sponsor)
Boston GLASS
Emerson College, Office Multicultural Student Affairs & GLBTQ Resources
International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission (IGLHRC)
Mass. South Asian Lambda Association (MASALA)
Mass. Transgender Political Coalition (MTPC)
Queer Asian Pacific Islander Alliance (QAPA)
Salacious Magazine
Suffolk University, Office of Diversity Services
Suffolk University, President’s Commission on the Status of LGBTQ Faculty, Staff and Students
Suffolk University, President’s Commission on the Status of AHANA Faculty, Staff, and Students
Power Lesbian Network (PLN)
Spectra Events
The Network / La Red (TNLR) (Platinum Sponsor)
Transgender Care and Education Needs Diversity (TransCEND)
***SURVIVOR KITS FOR THE NETWORK/LA RED
This year we are also holding a Survivor Drive for The Network/La Red, a wonderful organization dedicated to support services and addressing partner abuse in LGBTQ and polyamorous communities. Please consider contributing one of the items listed below.
Food Gift Cards (Shaws/Stop& Shop/Star)
CVS/Rite Aid Gift Cards
Charlie Cards with stored value
Movie Theater Passes
Deodorant
Toothpaste
Lotion (Small Bottles/Travel Size)
Reusable water bottles
Tote Bags
Umbrella
These items may be dropped off at the follow QWOC Week Events:
-7/31: A Discussion about Open Relationships & Polyamory
-8/3: Activism & Karaoke* – BRING AN ITEM TO DONATE & GET IN FOR FREE!
-8/6: Family & Youth Day at the Park
*We’re asking all guests to bring donations to gain entrance to this event (or pay a $10).
QWOC WEEK 2011 SCHEDULE
*Please check the OFFICIAL website/event page for any last minute changes
Website: http://www.qwocboston.org/qwoc-week
Ticketing: http://qwocweek2011.eventbrite.com/
NOTE: All events are open to the public (i.e. everyone) except where specified.
Saturday July 30th 2PM – 5PM
A Discussion about Open Relationships & Polyamory in Queer/Trans Communities of Color
In collaboration with The Network/La Red & The Bisexual Resource Center
Harvard Democracy Center | 25 Mount Auburn Street, Cambridge, MA 02138
Facebook Event |
Sunday July 31st @ 3PM – 7PM
Old School Meets New School T-Dance
In collaboration w/ Spectra Events’ Power Lesbian Network and Boston Black Women’s Health Initiative
Redd’s | 4257 Washington Street, Roslindale, MA 02131
Facebook Event
Monday August 1st @ 6 PM – 8:30 PM
Opening Panel – Trans Women of Color Speak
In collaboration with Transgender Care & Education Needs Diversity (TransCEND), Mass Trans Political Coalition (MTPC), and Suffolk University Offices of Diversity Services.
Suffolk University Law School (Sargent Hall Function Room) | 120 Tremont Street, 1st floor
Facebook Event |
Tuesday August 2nd @ 6 PM – 8 PM
Building Bridges: Queer Asian Experiences in LGBTQ Communities of Color
In collaboration with Mass. Area South Asian Lambda Association (MASALA), Queer Asian Pacific-Islander Alliance (QAPA) & MAP for Health
MIT Room 36-112 | STATA CENTER 32 Vassar Street Cambridge MA 02139
Facebook Event |
Wednesday August 3rd @ 6 PM – 9 PM
Activism & Karaoke: The International Edition
In collaboration with Black & Pink and the International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission (IGLHRC)
(Drop Off for Week-Long Survivor Kit Drive for The Network/La Red)
CLUB CAFE | 209 Columbus Ave, Boston, MA
Cost: Donated Items or $10
Facebook Event
Thursday August 4th @ 7 PM – 1 AM
OUTSPOKEN – The BLACKOUT Edition produced by Spectra Events
Queer & Trans People of Color Spoken- Word & Live Music Showcase
Co-sponsored by Salacious Magazine
OBERON | 2 Arrow Street Cambridge MA
Facebook Event | Tickets ($10 Online, $15 at the Door)
Friday August 5th @ 7 PM
LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTIVISM: QWOC Film Night
EMERSON COLLEGE | 150 Boylston Street (1st Floor), Boston MA 02116
Facebook Event |
Saturday August 6th @ 12 PM – 4 PM
Family Day at Stony Brook Park
Supporting Organizations: Boston GLASS and Greater Boston PFLAG
STONY BROOK PARK | Jamaica Plain, MA
Facebook Event |
Saturday August 6th @ 8 PM – 1 AM
QWOC Week Closing Ceremony and Dance Party
In collaboration with Spectra Events
The Midway Cafe | 3496 Washington Street, Jamaica Plain, MA
Cost: $5-10 Online, $12 at the Door
Facebook Event | Tickets ($5-8 Online, $10-12 at the Door)
Call for LGBTQ Women of Color Performers for OUTSPOKEN: Spoken-Word & Live Music Showcase
Posted By QWOC+ Boston on June 15th, 2011
QWOC+ Boston and Spectra Events would like to invite local LGBTQI performers and spoken word artists of color to submit their profiles, bios, and experience for performance consideration at OUTSPOKEN, our annual queer people of color spoken word and performance showcase, which takes place this year on Wed August 3rd @ OBERON during our 4th Annual QWOC WEEK.Past performers at OUTSPOKEN include Letta Neely, Kit Yan, Zili Misik, Ignacio Rivera, Yalini Dream, London Bridgez, and Rajdulari Jazz Project!
Please submit any materials that will help us learn about your amazing work and we will reach out to you if we foresee an opportunity for you to perform/be involved this year.
Please Note: OUTSPOKEN is not a paid gig. This is an annual community event intended to raise awareness of issues pertaining to queer women and trans people of color, celebrate our diversity, and build community. SUBMIT YOUR PROFILE FOR CONSIDERATION HERE.
You will be asked to provide the following HERE:
- SUBJECT: Performer for OUTSPOKEN*
- Full Name + Stage Name (if applicable)
- Phone Number
- Link to online profile/website
- Some past performances
- Brief Bio or Summary of Work
- Please mention how you identify with or support the LGBTQ community of color
Live Music Bands Needed: We are also looking for one or two live music bands to book as entertainment for the evening.
MC Needed: Think you would make a great MC for the event? Please let us know by submitting the information above as well!
Collaborators Needed: We are interested in collaborating with local organizations or producers (of art, music, and theater events) to help make this event a success! If you’re interested in helping us prepare/plan OUTSPOKEN please feel free to reach out to us as well!
OUTSPOKEN Video Project
We have a very special video project this year that we’re also recruiting artists for. All artists that are invited to perform during OUTSPOKEN are eligible to participate. However, if we are unable to feature you during the live performances, we’re still very much interested in showcasing you during QWOC Week via a special video project we’re embarking on.
Again, if you have any questions, please email spectra AT spectra-events DOT com. We look forward to hearing from you!
