Treasures of Queer Salem

Today we talk to Jason (he/they) who was a founder and one of the first members of Rainbow Youth! Jason shares his experience growing up as an out and proud youth in Salem in the 90s. He discusses how Rainbow Youth has grown over the years and the story of his renewed involvement to become the chair of its board during the pandemic. 

We interview Becka(she/they) owner of Becka Makes Buttons and the founder of Radness Ensues, a nonprofit community center in Kiezer. Yet they're not done! They are assembling a BABC, Bad Ass Bitch Club which will host a femme empowerment retreat in May 2026. 

Tricarico(they/them) is one of the founders of the Mid-Willamette Queer Collective, a social meetup group and discord server for Queer adults. They share their journey of finding an identity they feel comfortable in and the importance of being able to set boundaries with loved ones. 

Today we chat with Snarfy, who is a pillar of Salem's Queer community. They are a genderqueer hairstylist in Salem, Oregon. They've lived in Salem since 2007 and their queer hair salon, Court Appearance Styling Studio, is vital place of affirming treatment and community in downtown Salem.

Today we are interviewing Claire(she/they), the coordinator of Rainbow Youth. They share with us some amazing stories about the founding of Keizer Pride, coming out as a queer parent as well as highlighting the amazing work Rainbow Youth is doing for the queer community of the Salem area. (Please forgive the low sound quality, the next episodes are much better!)

Enjoy this preview of the Treasures of Queer Salem Podcast!