Queer Voices

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What if you were suddenly faced with a life-altering diagnosis? This week on Queer Voices, we have an intimate and heartfelt conversation with David Taffet, senior staff writer for the Dallas Voice and co-host of Lambda Weekly. David opens up about his recent diagnosis with Parkinson's disease, sharing the challenges he encountered with everyday tasks like handwriting and walking. Through his story, we also hear from host Bryan Hlavinka, who reveals his own experience with Parkinsonian symptoms, shedding light on the personal and communal support systems that play a crucial role in navigating such a condition.

Shifting gears, we move from personal battles to communal triumphs with an insightful interview with Robert Wallace. Robert talks about the upcoming Pride Brunch fundraiser in Houston, which aims to support the Montrose Center. He shares the backstory of this significant event, his personal motivations rooted in honoring his uncle who succumbed to the AIDS epidemic, and the incredible growth and impact the brunch has had over the years. Expect exciting details about the event's entertainment, featuring performances by drag queens Cinnamon LaRue and Lucy Paradisco, and a panel discussion with the Montrose Center's new CEO, Avery Belyeu.

We round out this week's episode by celebrating queer creativity and inclusivity. Deborah Moncrief-Bell engages with John Marullo about his political fantasy novel, "All the Dwellers Upon the Earth," discovering the queer magic that inspired its diverse characters. We also explore the concept of "Family of Choice," a notion familiar to many in the LGBTQ+ community. Elizabeth McCall from Station Theater joins us to discuss the transformative power of improv, highlighting special Pride Month shows with an all-queer cast. This episode promises to be an enriching mix of stories, support, and celebration of the vibrant and diverse LGBTQ+ community.

Queer Voices airs in Houston Texas on 90.1FM KPFT and is heard as a podcast here.  Queer Voices hopes to entertain as well as illuminate LGBTQ issues in Houston and beyond.  Check out our socials at:

https://www.facebook.com/QueerVoicesKPFT/ and
https://www.instagram.com/queervoices90.1kpft/

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Meet the Female-Identifying Grand Marshal for NEW FACES OF PRIDE, a parade and festival being held in Houston on June 22nd! 

What challenges do you face as a trailblazer in your field? Captain Iris Rodriguez knows all too well the hurdles and triumphs that come with breaking barriers. Join us as we share her extraordinary journey from becoming the first Hispanic female firefighter in Houston to her service in the United States Army. You'll hear Captain Rodriguez's heartfelt stories about her teenage coming-out experience, the rejection and embrace from her family, her multidisciplinary career spanning the oil industry, and the iconic bar Kindred Spirits.

As we celebrate Pride 2024, the conversation shifts to Pride's powerful role in today's divisive culture. This episode talks about the critical need for unity and understanding amidst political attacks on rights, especially those targeting the transgender community. Rising rates of suicides and assaults highlight the urgency of showing solidarity and building inclusive communities. We can bridge gaps and support each other by embracing diversity and fostering connections across differences. 

Queer Voices airs in Houston Texas on 90.1FM KPFT and is heard as a podcast here.  Queer Voices hopes to entertain as well as illuminate LGBTQ issues in Houston and beyond.  Check out our socials at:

https://www.facebook.com/QueerVoicesKPFT/ and
https://www.instagram.com/queervoices90.1kpft/

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What if you could transform adversity into a force for change? Join Brett Cullum as we sit down with Paige Fastnow, co-president of Rice Pride, to uncover how they and their organization are tirelessly supporting queer college students in Houston amidst the challenges posed by SB 17 legislation. Paige offers a compelling narrative of expanding Rice Pride’s mission to include students from other Texas universities, illustrating both the struggles and successes in creating safe, inclusive spaces for queer students. Plus, get to know Megan Fairbanks, the pioneering transgender Grand Marshal for the New Faces of Pride Parade, as she shares the impactful work of Trans and Gender Queer Houston in fostering vital social connections within the trans community.

Ever wondered how someone transitions from engineering to the silver screen? Ryan Ali’s journey from Syria to Canada is nothing short of extraordinary. As the star of Reem Morsi's film "Queen Tut," Ryan recounts his fascinating career shift from civil engineering to acting, sharing poignant milestones such as working with industry icons and showcasing the strength found in his multilingual abilities. Also in this episode, we spotlight Olivia Juliana, Pride Houston 365's Trendsetter Grand Marshal for 2024, who turned a hostile incident with Congressman Matt Gaetz into a powerhouse fundraiser for abortion rights. Olivia’s resilience and strategic brilliance illuminate her impactful activism journey and the broader fight for reproductive justice.

Our final chapter takes a deeply personal turn as we explore the experience of attending an abortion rights roundtable with the Vice President of the United States. Imagine the nerves and awe of meeting such a significant political figure, only to find her deeply informed and genuinely caring. This narrative underscores the intersection of faith and activism, the profound impact of policies like the American Rescue Plan, and the transformative power of open dialogue with loved ones. Reflecting on stories of conservative parents becoming allies, this episode resonates with the powerful message: "You won't break our pride." Join us for these inspiring stories that bring hope and strength to our community.

Queer Voices airs in Houston Texas on 90.1FM KPFT and is heard as a podcast here. Queer Voices hopes to entertain as well as illuminate LGBTQ issues in Houston and beyond. Check out our socials at:

https://www.facebook.com/QueerVoicesKPFT/ and
https://www.instagram.com/queervoices90.1kpft/

Send us Fan Mail

Queer Voices airs in Houston Texas on 90.1FM KPFT and is heard as a podcast here.  Queer Voices hopes to entertain as well as illuminate LGBTQ issues in Houston and beyond.  Check out our socials at:

https://www.facebook.com/QueerVoicesKPFT/ and
https://www.instagram.com/queervoices90.1kpft/

Send us Fan Mail

Happy Pride! This is a podcast exclusive that you will not hear on KPFT! 

The Barricade Boys are coming to Houston and performing at the Hobby Center on Thursday, June 6th, at 7 pm and Friday, June 7th, at 7:30 pm. Tickets can be found at:

https://www.thehobbycenter.org/shows-tickets/

Brett Cullum interviews Kieran Brown and Scott Garnham from the Barricade Boys – a sensational UK theatrical singing group – who weave their stories from the West End's Les Miserables to American stages. Tune in to hear about their journey, their expansive musical repertoire, and the genuine friendship that elevates every show. From Kieran's powerful "Music of the Night" to Scott's unique "Defying Gravity" rendition, discover how these performers captivate audiences worldwide and get a sneak peek into their upcoming Houston performances as part of the Beyond Broadway series.

https://barricadeboys.com/

Queer Voices airs in Houston Texas on 90.1FM KPFT and is heard as a podcast here.  Queer Voices hopes to entertain as well as illuminate LGBTQ issues in Houston and beyond.  Check out our socials at:

https://www.facebook.com/QueerVoicesKPFT/ and
https://www.instagram.com/queervoices90.1kpft/

Send us Fan Mail

Kendra Walker, President of Pride Houston 365, takes us on a remarkable journey through the history and future of Pride in Houston. From the spirited Anita Bryant protests to the trailblazing activism of Larry Bagneris, Kendra shares the inspiring origins of the Houston Pride movement. She also reveals exciting plans for the 46th annual Pride Festival and Parade on June 29th and teases new initiatives for 2024, like a seniors' corner and a star-studded lineup of entertainers. Dive into the heart of Pride Houston 365's RISE program, which is dedicated to supporting grassroots organizations and fostering year-round community involvement.

Meet the passionate volunteers behind Pride Houston 365 as we highlight their rigorous training sessions and preparations for upcoming Pride events. We clear up misconceptions about the so-called "dueling" Pride parades by emphasizing the importance of unity within the LGBTQ+ community. Bryan Cotton and Andrea Simonton of Houston's New Faces of Pride discuss their mission to uplift smaller nonprofits, previewing their first-ever Pride Parade and Festival on June 22nd with headlining acts like Chris Hausman, Lauren Sanderson, and Billy Gilman. Their efforts aim to give back to the community while bringing everyone together for a memorable celebration.

We wrap up with the inspiring story of Christina Wells, who shares her journey as a plus-size, older, openly gay performer. Christina reflects on her powerful performances in "Newsies" and "Hairspray," her 22 years of being out, and the challenges she has faced in the entertainment industry. Her story is one of resilience and authenticity, reminding us of the importance of embracing diversity and inclusivity in theater. Join us for an episode brimming with history, passion, and a celebration of the vibrant LGBTQ+ community in Houston.

Queer Voices airs in Houston Texas on 90.1FM KPFT and is heard as a podcast here.  Queer Voices hopes to entertain as well as illuminate LGBTQ issues in Houston and beyond.  Check out our socials at:

https://www.facebook.com/QueerVoicesKPFT/ and
https://www.instagram.com/queervoices90.1kpft/

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We speak with Houston Pride 365 honorary grand marshal, Sara Fernandez.  We discuss her activism and her work in creating the banner project.   Houston lesbian activist Sara Fernandez was visiting museums in New York City in the spring of 2013 when she first became inspired to bring her hometown’s LGBTQ history to life.

While the exhibits she visited there were not highlighting the LGBTQ community, LGBTQ history was included in both. One exhibit documented queer life on the Lower East Side in 1993. The other featured a permanent display of 20th-century activists that included suffragettes, civil-rights icons, and gay-liberation pioneers.

Then we discuss The Luck of the Draw, a fundraiser for DiverseWorks. Luck of the Draw, DiverseWorks’ famed fundraising event, returns to the MATCH. This year, the theme is Ecosystem – reflecting DiverseWorks’ commitment to our forthcoming Climate Action Plan and the exhibition and performance series, River on Fire, opening this fall. Luck of the Draw attendees provide crucial sustenance to DiverseWorks and Houston’s creative ecosystem. More than 200 works on paper, each one 7 x 9 inches, will be available for purchase at this year’s event. Participating artists include Trenton Doyle Hancock, Preetika Rajgariah, Kaneem Smith, James Surls, and Lillian Warren, to name just a few. 

Finally, we speak with Ron Jones regarding his play “Appropriate”. The estranged members of the Lafayette clan have returned to their crumbling Arkansas plantation home to settle the estate of their recently deceased patriarch. As they sort through a lifetime of their father's junk and hoarded mementos, a disturbing and horrifying discovery surfaces, confronting the family with more than what to do with a house full of stuff. Can a lifetime of clutter disguise the true nature of what lies beneath?  Ron Jones returns to the helm for his fourth production with Dirt Dogs Theatre Co. He previously directed White Guy on the Bus, as well as Clybourne Park and August: Osage County, for both of which he was a finalist for best director in the Houston Theater Awards. With more than 45 years in the industry, Jones has directed nearly 150 productions and acted in well over 100. He spent the bulk of his career teaching theatre for HISD and Lone Star College before retiring. Ron currently serves as Producing Artistic Director for On the Verge Theatre and is the former Artistic Director of New Heights Theatre and Celebration Theatre.

Queer Voices airs in Houston Texas on 90.1FM KPFT and is heard as a podcast here.  Queer Voices hopes to entertain as well as illuminate LGBTQ issues in Houston and beyond.  Check out our socials at:

https://www.facebook.com/QueerVoicesKPFT/ and
https://www.instagram.com/queervoices90.1kpft/

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Imagine navigating the complex and often harrowing world of Haitian politics with someone as informed and passionate as journalist and activist Anne-christine d'Adesky. That's exactly what we do in our latest episode, as Anne-Christine shares her deeply personal connections to Haiti and her experiences fighting against HIV/AIDS. The conversation illuminates the resilience of Haitians amidst political chaos and gang violence, while recognizing the journalists who work tirelessly to bring these stories to light. Anne-Christine also highlights the importance of empowering local leadership, drawing a parallel to the global struggle for a more democratic society.

Turning our focus to the alarming rise of anti-LGBTQIA+ legislation in East Africa, we grapple with the implications of Uganda and Ghana's recent laws and the disturbing influence of U.S.-based hate groups. Unpacking Project 2025's blueprint for an autocratic U.S., we detail the potential dangers this presents for the LGBTQIA+ community and devise a response plan. Through pride campaigns and calls to action, we underscore the necessity of solidarity and swift mobilization to defend our civil rights against these regressive measures—because when it comes to human rights, there's no room for complacency.

As Pride Month blooms with festivities, we celebrate LGBTQ+ representation in local government with Houston City Councilmember Mario Castillo, examining both his achievements and the challenges ahead. From the significance of openly queer officials in governance to the discord caused by competing pride events, we cover the spectrum of community dynamics. And as we continue to evolve the Queer Voices podcast, we ensure our platform remains diverse and inclusive, thanks to our dedicated team and the support of our listeners. Join us for conversations that are not just about the LGBTQ+ experience, but an integral part of the journey to equality and understanding.

Queer Voices airs in Houston Texas on 90.1FM KPFT and is heard as a podcast here.  Queer Voices hopes to entertain as well as illuminate LGBTQ issues in Houston and beyond.  Check out our socials at:

https://www.facebook.com/QueerVoicesKPFT/ and
https://www.instagram.com/queervoices90.1kpft/

Send us Fan Mail

Discover the vibrant spirit of community and activism as we converse with Poonam Kapoor from the Victory Fund about the exhilarating Sunday Funday event, celebrating and bolstering LGBTQ candidates. We're also joined by Texas Senate hopeful Molly Cook, as she passionately discusses the interplay of social issues from school safety to racial justice. Plus, we take a theatrical detour with the imaginative play 'Aces' and delve into the evolution of 'queer' with Mike Johnson and Kyle Goetz of the Gayish Podcast, revealing how this term shapes identity and experience.

My own journey into politics has been driven by an unyielding resolve to ignite change in Austin, anchored by my history of community involvement and legislative accomplishments. I detail the intricate dance of the Texas Two-Step election process, share the impact of local endorsements, and reaffirm my commitment to environmental justice and disability rights. The deeply personal and widely resonant topic of reproductive rights is also at the heart of our discourse, emphasizing the urgency for collective action.

As Queer Voices evolves into a home-produced podcast, we ensure the essence of our show remains accessible across platforms. Frequent contributors Andrew Edmondson and Deborah Moncrief-Bell join the fold, and we introduce the News Wrap segment from This Way Out. While maintaining political neutrality, we present unfiltered opinions from our guests and their organizations. And just for kicks, we offer a quirky reminder about podcast usage – all part of another compelling chapter of Queer Voices that's sure to engage your heart and mind.

Queer Voices airs in Houston Texas on 90.1FM KPFT and is heard as a podcast here.  Queer Voices hopes to entertain as well as illuminate LGBTQ issues in Houston and beyond.  Check out our socials at:

https://www.facebook.com/QueerVoicesKPFT/ and
https://www.instagram.com/queervoices90.1kpft/

Send us Fan Mail

As we unfurl the vibrant tapestry of LGBTQ narratives, our Queer Voices family is set to embark on a heartfelt journey, resonating with both celebration and challenge. Our latest episode commemorates the cherished Lavender Graduation, an enduring beacon of progress for LGBTQ students, and we navigate the turbulent waters of Texas Senate Bill 17, highlighting the community's resilience at the University of Houston. Against a backdrop of adversity, witness the power of unity as students and alumni rally to honor the spirit of inclusivity.

This week, the spotlight shines on the dynamic worlds of Desi Love Blake and Varla Jean Merman, two titans of drag who chart their glittering odysseys from childhood fascinations to the pinnacle of performance art. As Desi Love Blake recounts her ascent to Miss Gay America, her narrative is a masterclass in tenacity and self-expression, while Varla Jean Merman's vibrant storytelling captures the ever-evolving landscapes of drag culture. From New Orleans' artistic rebellion to New York's glitzy stages, their tales are emblematic of the courage and creativity that fuel the drag community's heart.

Our conversation takes a turn towards the profound as we confront the controversies surrounding gender-affirming healthcare in the UK's Cass Review and its global reverberations. The complexities of transgender youth support are laid bare, and we dissect the potential ramifications on policy and the lives of those affected. Through engaging discussions and personal insights, this episode is an enlightening collage, reflecting on the triumphs, the trials, and the tireless pursuit of acceptance that defines the queer experience. Join us for an episode that promises to educate, inspire, and celebrate the rich diversity of queer voices.

Queer Voices airs in Houston Texas on 90.1FM KPFT and is heard as a podcast here.  Queer Voices hopes to entertain as well as illuminate LGBTQ issues in Houston and beyond.  Check out our socials at:

https://www.facebook.com/QueerVoicesKPFT/ and
https://www.instagram.com/queervoices90.1kpft/