Tag: LGBTQ Family Support
This project is becoming a book.
Explore more of these journeys in Northern Lights, Northern Lives.
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Exploring Gender, Art, and Spirituality: A Nonbinary Journey from Missouri to Virginia
Mica’s journey to embracing their nonbinary and pansexual identity didn’t follow a straight line—or a fast one. Growing up on the edge of the working-class suburbs of St. Louis, they had one foot in the world of strip malls and the other in barn yards, with few queer or gender-nonconforming role models to look to.…
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Embracing Transition Later in Life while meeting the Challenges of being a Queer Appalachian
Janine, a self described displaced Polish American Hillbilly, grew up in the mountains of West Virginia, where life was beautiful—as long as she stayed within the lines. It wasn’t until after fifty that she began transitioning, as well as finding joy on the open road. Now a proud woman, mother, and grandmother, Janine shares her…
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Painting a Life: An Appalachian Artist’s Journey Toward Trans with no Boundaries
Sassa, a 43-year-old trans artist from Huntington, West Virginia, embraces his identity through art while actively participating in the local queer community. He focuses on personal acceptance regardless of specific assumptions and definitions of being trans. One of his notable projects, “100 Bad Ass Women,” deepened his understanding of himself and his journey towards embracing…
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A Journey from Christian Roots as a Genderqueer, Black Lesbian in the Heart of Appalachia
Mack, a genderqueer lesbian of color from Southern West Virginia, embraces their Appalachian roots. Growing up in a loving Black American family influenced by Christianity, Mack was afraid to come out. Now in culinary school, they embrace cooking. music and exploring West Virginia’s beauty. They talk about the huge need for queer community and conversation…
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Katrina’s Story: Growing Up Poor, Queer, and Unapologetic in Appalachia
Katrina, a genderqueer and bisexual person in West Virginia, grew up with a repressive household and worked through shame to embrace her identity over time. After coming out of the closet to friends, they found empowerment in authenticity and community. Now embracing their androgyny that has always existed, they seek to uplift others navigating their…
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Homer, Alaska: A Queer Haven at the End of the Road
Alaska often feels like the biggest small town in the world—and nowhere is that more true than in Homer, a breathtaking coastal village at the southern tip of Alaska’s central road system. On my very first visit, I met a warm-hearted queer ally who became my first friend in Alaska. From that moment, Homer’s incredible…