The Closet Unlocked

Featured Story by Vick - Conversation topics include LGBTQ+ youth, Human Rights Campaign (HRC), managing mental health, etc. #ClosetMoments are experiences shared by individuals from the Black, LGBTQ+ community through therapeutic outlets, to show others that they're not alone in their own life journey. This initiative is used to turn a narrative analysis of anonymously collected qualitative data into anthology-style nonfiction stories to assess long-term Queer belonging in Black spaces. Full Article: https://medium.com/@dariuscaffey/vick-e5aef6614aed  Full Video: https://youtu.be/EgH427SFxOA Resources: - RESEARCH BRIEF: BLACK LGBTQ YOUTH MENTAL HEALTH - 'He loved everybody': Alabama community picks up pieces after bullied gay teen takes his own life, family says - Sexual Identity, Sex of Sexual Contacts, and Health-Related Behaviors Among Students in Grades 9–12 — the United States and Selected Sites -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- If you want exclusive access to our music playlist, direct links to our blog, anonymously submit a story, or get the latest Black & Queer news? Check out the links below: Newsletter | Survey | Website | Podcast Thanks for stopping by! *I Do Not Own the Rights to This Music*

Okay, we are giving y'all the greats this week! If you're a fan of the old school, you're going to enjoy this sample from Sister Rosetta Tharpe. If you know about being Queer, then you know it's a constant process. And If you know good books, then you'll love this photo book on Queer Love.  Song of the Show: - As a 2018 inductee of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Sister Rosetta Tharpe continues to go down in history as one of the greatest legends to play music. She was an American singer, songwriter, recording artist, and even played the guitar. Mostly known for her influence in Gospel music, Tharpe was very popular in the 1930s and 1940s.  - In the song "Don't Take Everybody To Be Your Friend", you'll hear a mix of the Rock and Gospel vibes that she usually went for. It's tracks like this that have inspired other new artists to be diverse in their music.  Featured Story: - In the story of Kennedy, the character talks about coming out. Not once. Not twice. But over and over again. Now luckily, the more that you do it, the easier it gets. However, no Queer, Trans or Non-binary person should have to announce their sexuality to affirm society's standards.  - We're finally glad to have the amendment to Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, which protects LGBTQ individuals against discrimination. However, we know that it's not enough. With way too many Anti-Trans and Anti-LGBTQ bills being proposed in Congress/government, we have to keep pushing for systemic change towards equity.   - The journey is never easy, but these stories are here to show others that they are not alone in their intersectional experiences. We hope to continue fostering a deeper sense of belonging for our community and spreading more love with each story.  Black & Queer @ The Table: - What started as a newsroom conversation and post-breakup article quickly became an inspirational story that led to a hardcopy book. When Jamal Jordan (digital editor, journalist, and author) wrote 'Queer Love in Color', it was as if the media finally saw Black, LGBTQ culture for what it was. Fill with love. - He traveled to 17 different cities compiling stories and research on Queer people finding and fighting for love. In the highly recommended, coffee table must-have photo book, you can read all about the different journeys that have built our community.  Resources: - Coming out over and over again  - Are L.G.B.T. employees at Catholic institutions protected by the new SCOTUS ruling? - Special Report: 3.4% of U.S. Adults Identify as LGBT -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- If you want exclusive access to our music playlist, direct links to our blog, anonymously submit a story, or get the latest Black & Queer news? Check out the links below: Newsletter | Survey | Website | Podcast Thanks for stopping by! *I Do Not Own the Rights to This Music*

This week's hot gossip includes the upcoming artist, Zé Taylor, having that “First Time” moment with someone, and the new Black, LGBTQ travel guide, the Lavender Book.  Song of the Show: - As an upcoming artist, Zé Taylor has brought a new sound to the rap game. With songs like the Icy Boy Remix, Good Guy ft. Ky, and Melanin, we get introduced to more small parts of their life. We’re also able to see just how much they’ve grown as an artist since releasing their Eight and Nine V1 EP back in 2017. Creatives are always working, so we’re sure that more hits are on the way! Featured Story: - With Parker, this character tells the reader about what their “first time” was like. They describe who they chose to share that moment with, and how they needed to prepare themselves to keep having it over and over. Sometimes we think that we only have to experience things once, when in reality it's the beginning of a constant conversation. - The journey is never easy, but these stories are here to show others that they are not alone in their intersectional experiences. We hope to continue fostering a deeper sense of belonging for our community and spreading more love with each story.  Black & Queer @ The Table: - Since The Closet Unlocked is a safe space, we want to introduce you to a collection of them! The National Black Justice Coalition (NBJC) has came back with another collaboration, but this time with Out in Tech. Collectively, they created The Lavender Book, which is a safe travel guide for Black, LGBTQ+ individuals. It is modeled after The Green Book, which was a safe travel guide for Black Americans during the Jim Crow era. And although we don’t have to deal with the same issues, we still struggle to find inclusive, welcoming spaces for our community. This app will be crowdsourced with locations/establishments that provide gender-neutral restrooms, are Black or Trans owned, have LGBTQ trained staff, speak American Sign Language, have wheelchair access, and more.  - If you want to find out more, check out their website at lavenderbook.org Resources: - 19 people share their coming out stories - A Survey of LGBTQ Americans - Chapter 3: The Coming Out Experience -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- If you want exclusive access to our music playlist, direct links to our blog, anonymously submit a story, or get the latest Black & Queer news? Check out the links below: Newsletter | Survey | Website | Podcast Thanks for stopping by! *I Do Not Own the Rights to This Music*

Song of the Show - Right in time for the day parties, Big Freedia is the one to add to your playlists! This New Orleans bred, Bounce Music culture icon gives it to you in all forms. They’ve been known to commentate on tracks, rap, act as a backup dancer, sing in the choir and play the piano.  - You might had heard their collaboration on Beyoncé's song Formation, but they also have been featured with Kesha, Flo Milli, RuPaul, Lizzo, and more!  Featured Story - In the story of Logan, the character breaks down what it felt like dealing with Internalized Homophobia. They discuss moments where they treated their friends, and sometimes themself negatively because of social standards. The energy that we receive from our community can influence us in different directions. So making sure that it is positive is important.  - The journey is never easy, but these stories are here to show others that they are not alone in their intersectional experiences. We hope to continue fostering a deeper sense of belonging for our community and spreading more love with each story.  Black & Queer @ The Table - Black Women — that’s it. This week we’re celebrating another victory as Karine Jean-Pierre became the first Black, Queer woman to serve as spokesperson, leading a White House press briefing. She joins Judy Smith, the first Black, woman spokesperson in a congratulatory hug as they continue paving the way for others after them.  - This was also followed up by Kristen Clarke becoming the first Black, woman to be Civil Rights Chief of the US Justice Department. So to reiterate: thank you Black Women for always being dope, amazing, talented, and inspirational. Our lives wouldn’t be the same without you.  Resources: - Internalized Homophobia Oppresses LGBTQ People—Here's What to Know - Internalized Homophobia - What Is Internalized Homophobia? -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- If you want exclusive access to our music playlist, direct links to our blog, anonymously submit a story, or get the latest Black & Queer news? Check out the links below: Newsletter | Survey | Website | Podcast Thanks for stopping by! *I Do Not Own the Rights to This Music*

Our highlights this week are: the icon Frank Ocean, Learning how to stand up for yourself, and the online Black, Queer archive! Song of the Show: - As we spin the block on the ‘Blonded' album, we want to take a moment to just praise Frank Ocean. Whether it be with his voice or his pure creativeness, the world just cannot get enough. And although you should know who this is... if you don’t, we’re going to get you hip! Frank is most known for his debut album, Channel Orange, which featured the Grammy awarded, platinum single ‘Thinking Bout You’.  - But that’s not all! He’s a singer, songwriter, record producer, rapper, photographer, and visual artist. He has written for John Legend, Brandy, Justin Bieber, The Internet, Beyoncé, Conor Maynard, Alicia Keys, James Blake, and more! And the most important fact: he doesn’t really like the public light. And we don’t blame him. As long as he comes back with another fire album, then he’s good in our book.  Featured Story: - With Ricky, the character shows us that it’s okay not to want to tell your story if you’re not ready. There may be moments in life where you feel that you are being forced to talk, or that you have to put yourself in a vulnerable space for other people. We’re here to tell you that’s not true. The moment’s where you #InviteIn other people to your personal business and life should always be your choice. It’s not anyone else’s. - The journey is never easy, but these stories are here to show others that they are not alone in their intersectional experiences. We hope to continue fostering a deeper sense of belonging for our community and spreading more love with each story.  Black & Queer @ The Table: - This time we’re doing things differently — we’re talking about Instagram! And no, we are not talking about the jacked-up algorithm that messes up our follower feed. We’re talking about an online, virtual archive of photos. The Black & Gay, Back in the Day Instagram account is a digital community archive honoring and remembering the lives of Black, Queer folks in Britain. The purpose is to provide a space for the LGBTQ+ community to see a representation of what we looked like before digital cameras and webcams. Curated by the founder's Marc Thompson and Jason Okundaye, the archive highlights the moments of ordinary people and couples just living life, being Queer. This helps us to remember our history and to see where we come from.  Resources: - Queer Love in Color - Netflix is bringing back Black sitcoms Moesha and Sister, Sister, and I cannot contain my excitement -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- If you want exclusive access to our music playlist, direct links to our blog, anonymously submit a story, or get the latest Black & Queer news? Check out the links below: Newsletter | Survey | Website | Podcast Thanks for stopping by! *I Do Not Own the Rights to This Music*

Funny Story: How did Victoria Monet get her Ass Like That? Why is dating such a mess? Can Cartoon Network fix gender discrimination? Find out on the next episode of Dragon Ball Z (just kidding - we’ll address it here) Song of the Show: - And another one! Another what, you say? Well, another hit! We’re back with Ass Like That this week by the beautiful Victoria Monet. Being born in the South, and raised on the West coast must have given her that edge needed to excel because this queen doesn’t miss. Between her own music or what she’s written for others (ex. Nas, Ariana Grande, Fifth Harmony, T.I., GOOD Music, Lupe Fiasco, Chrisette Michele, Coco Jones, Chris Brown, Diddy-Dirty Money, etc.), she has definitely made an impact in the sounds we hear.  - She’s everywhere.  Featured Story: - In the story of Justice, we are reminded that not everyone deserves our love. The characters take the audience through the roller coaster ride of dating. They also talk about how they identified warning behaviors and made the decision to set boundaries. Sometimes it’s better to cut someone off than to jump into a bad relationship.  - The journey is never easy, but these stories are here to show others that they are not alone in their intersectional experiences. We hope to continue fostering a deeper sense of belonging and spreading more love with each story.  Black & Queer @ The Table: - Coming to The Table this week is Cartoon Network! Yes, you heard us. CN has recently partnered with the National Black Justice Coalition (NBJC) to provide fun, inclusive, educational material for their audience. They highlight the importance of learning and respecting other’s pronouns. Through comic strips and cartoons (including Stevonnie of Steven Universe and Craig of the Creek), they talk about he/him, she/her, they/them, and ze/zir pronouns. This shows not only kids but also adults that these different identities can all coexist in the same spaces.  Resources: - Dating In the Closet - Is violence more common in same-sex relationships? - Here's why dating is difficult when you're still in the closet -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- If you want exclusive access to our music playlist, direct links to our blog, anonymously submit a story, or get the latest Black & Queer news? Check out the links below: Newsletter | Survey | Website | Podcast Thanks for stopping by! *I Do Not Own the Rights to This Music*

Okay, it’s all about Billy Porter, Finding Self-Love through Beyoncé’s music, and the courage of WNBA star Layshia Clarendon this week.    Song of the Show:   - This week’s song is brought to us by none other than the LEGENDARY, Billy Porter. As someone who has broken ground in the music, broadway, and now television world, it’s only right that we give them their flowers. Along with winning awards for iconic roles, this artist continues to push societal boundaries by living in their truth.    Featured Story:   - With Rich, the character reminisces on growing up having dance battles, attending the annual Chicago Bud Billiken Parade, and finding the soundtrack to their Queer experience with Beyoncé.    - The journey is never easy, but these stories are here to show others that they are not alone in their intersectional experiences. We hope to continue fostering a deeper sense of belonging and spreading more love with each story.    Black & Queer @ The Table:   - At The Table this week, we wanted to show our support to Layshia Clarendon! This WNBA superstar has continued to use their platform to speak out against societal inequities, both on and off the basketball court. This includes standing up for LGBTQ Rights, addressing systemic racism, being an advocate for positive mental health practices, and sharing their own experiences publicly. It is because of people like Layshia that show us just how powerful our presence and words can be.    Resources:   - How the black press helped pave the way for gay rights  - Black, Queer, and Proud (Spotify Playlist) - 5 black, queer musicians to listen to during Pride Month, including Kehlani and MNEK  - Which Songs Helped You Come Out of the Closet? - 89th annual Bud Billiken Parade celebrates the beginning of the new school year -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- If you want exclusive access to our music playlist, direct links to our blog, anonymously submit a story, or get the latest Black & Queer news? Check out the links below: Newsletter | Survey | Website | Podcast Thanks for stopping by! *I Do Not Own the Rights to This Music*

Have you heard the story of Siena Liggins, Becoming More, and the founders of Hood x Holistic? Song of the Show - We’re kind of taking it back with an old sample by The Temptations, with this week’s song My Girl by Siena Liggins. As a fairly new artist, Liggins has continued finding their voice in the genre of Pop. And if you really enjoy this song, the artist just released a new project titled 'Ms. Out Tonight' featuring Young Baby Tate. Featured Story - In the story of Devyn, the character tells us about different moments about them becoming more than a Black, Queer woman existing ‘in the closet’. This included experiences such as ‘coming out’ to their parents, navigating the relationship with an also Queer sibling, and how they found a supportive group of friends.  - The journey is never easy, but these stories are here to show others that they are not alone in their intersectional experiences. We hope to continue fostering a deeper sense of belonging and spreading more love with each story.  The Table - We’re back again discussing what’s happening in Black, Queer culture. This week, we wanted to show support to Ashley and Cortney Adams-Matthewis. They’re a couple of entrepreneurs using their authenticity to spread more love in the world. With their podcast HoodxHolistic, they originally wanted to help heal those impacted by Hurricane Harvey. It has now grown a large fanbase of 100,000+ listeners from over 40 countries. In addition to that, they also sell jewelry and have authored a couple journals. So, if you’re looking for things rooted in healing and meditation, go check them out!  Resources - On National Coming Out Day, Don't Disparage the Closet - Betty (HBO link) - The 'terrible' hypocrisy that got Chicago's first black lesbian mayor elected - To All the Queer Black Men I Forced Into Closets -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- If you want exclusive access to our music playlist, direct links to our blog, anonymously submit a story, or get the latest Black & Queer news? Check out the links below: Newsletter | Survey | Website | Podcast Thanks for stopping by! *I Do Not Own the Rights to This Music*

It’s all about Lil Nas X, Owning My Sexuality, and Reclaiming Queerness! Song of the Show: - In this week, we’re spinning the block on Lil Nas X’s song C7osure! This track, along with others on project 7, takes the fans on a more personal journey through the artist’s life. By having early career features with Billy Ray Cyrus, Cardi B, and Travis Barker, the Atlanta-born musician has already set the tone to be one of the greats. Featured Story: - With Maxwell, we find out how the character finds their autonomy. Through personal reflection, watching Queer representation in movies/films such as Love, Victor, reading books by Queer authors such as E. Lynn Harris, thoughtful conversations, and even uplifting the fallen, we learn so much about these real-life moments. - The journey is never easy, but these stories are here to show others that they are not alone in their intersectional experiences. We hope to continue fostering a deeper sense of belonging and spreading more love with each story. Resources: - How can the Black community foster more inclusive spaces for the Queer community? - Just as I Am by E. Lynn Harris (Black bookstore link) - Two Black Trans Women Were Killed in the U.S. in the Past Week as Trump Revokes Discrimination Protections for Trans People - Luther Vandross hid for his mama: The closet is not only for the self-hating and selfish - Love, Victor (Hulu link) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- If you want exclusive access to our music playlist, direct links to our blog, anonymously submit a story, or get the latest Black & Queer news? Check out the links below: Newsletter | Survey | Website | Podcast Thanks for stopping by! *I Do Not Own the Rights to This Music*

We saiddd.. DreBae, Loving Yourself, And More Black Trans characters!  Song of the Show - This week's song is Yikezzz by the upcoming rapper DreBae. You know the original track by Nicki Minaj, but this one has a different flow to it. Along with hopping on a recent track with Megan Thee Stallion, this California-born music artist also performed at the San Francisco Pride Festival. They are definitely making a name for themselves in the rap game and have been since 2018.  - So if you haven't already tuned in to listen, you might want to now.  Featured Story - The story of The Free Spirit is based in Chicago. This one takes the character on a journey of love, finding self-confidence, and exploring religion.  - The journey is never easy, but these stories are here to show others that they are not alone in their intersectional experiences. We hope to continue fostering a deeper sense of belonging and spreading more love with each story.  Black & Queer @ The Table - This week at The Table, we talk about the book The Vanishing Half! And although the book discusses topics such as racial passing, colorism, domestic abuse, intersectional feminism, dementia, selling out, class politics, and being a twin, there’s one that stood out: transsexuality.  Further along, we meet Reese. With this character, Britt Bennett does a great job at showing readers a glimpse into the trans experience, without being too explicit. She also portrays a very kind and loving approach to the relationship that they have with another character. I enjoyed reading about this representation of our community, and I know you will too. If you haven’t already, check out the book from your local library!  Resources - 'Growing up, it felt like I was too gay to be black and too black to be gay' - Religion and Coming Out Issues for African Americans - 5 facts about the religious lives of African Americans - Being Black Or Gay In Chicago Makes You More Prone To Hate Crimes -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- If you want exclusive access to our music playlist, direct links to our blog, anonymously submit a story, or get the latest Black & Queer news? Check out the links below! Newsletter | Survey | Website | Podcast Thanks for stopping by! *I Do Not Own the Rights to This Music*

We’re talking about the music artist Chika, a story of the Truth Behind Black LGBTQ+  Power & Resilience, and news of Georgia’s new LGBTQ Senator Kim Jackson.    Song of the Show   This week we feature the song Crown by the music artist/rapper/songwriter Chika. Best known for their cover of Kanye West’s song “Jesus Walks”, they began releasing music officially in 2019 with the single “No Squares”. They were originally born in Montgomery, Alabama, and this artist has only continued to challenge themselves to show out for their hometown. They’ve collaborated with other artists such as BJ the Chicago Kid, Tank and the Bangas, Charlie Wilson, and Chelsea Peretti.    Featured Story   The story of Shaun takes the reader on a journey of growing up as a Black, gay kid and learning how to use that experience to become resilient against negativity. With trying to balance friend/family relationships, microaggressions, lack of representation in the media, and shame, the character finds pride within themselves and their community.    Black & Queer @ The Table   In this episode, we decided to talk about the rainbow wave victories leading up to Kim Jackson becoming the very first LGBTQ Senator for the state of Georgia! During the beginning of 2021, Jackson created history in Congress, along with Mondaire Jones (new freshmen rep to the House of Representatives leadership) and Ritchie Torress (first Afro-Latino member of Congress). I love seeing all this Black, Queer excellence and wanted to applaud this moment in history!    Resources Sean Sasser, Who Was Half of One of TV’s First Gay Couples, Dies at 44 Brown, Black, Queer and Invisible The Closet Is Crowded: The Hidden Black LGBTQ Community Yes, I can still be unapologetically queer while in the closet Microaggressions Are A Big Deal: How To Talk Them Out And When To Walk Away Here’s What I Need as a Queer Black Student The Unfair Criminalization of Gay and Transgender Youth If you want exclusive access to our music playlist, direct links to our blog, anonymously submit a story, or get the latest Black & Queer news? Check out the links below!   Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/hclEqj   Survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/G9DCV8C  Website: theclosetunlocked.com  Podcast: https://anchor.fm/the-closet-unlocked The journey is never easy, but these stories are here to show others that they are not alone in their intersectional experiences.  We hope to continue fostering a deeper sense of belonging and spreading more love with each story.   

Is this an empowering, inclusive, and welcoming space for Black, Queer folks? Yes, the hell it is! In this episode, the host DCaff explains the beginning stages of creating The Closet Unlocked platform. He briefly touches on topics such as  The Black, LGBTQ+ experience Relationships Support networks And more which are expressed through each story.  The 'in the closet' experience is something that has been rarely discussed in public spaces, yet it equips individuals with the strength and persistent spirit to overcome many adversities. It's time we put a spotlight on the lessons learned from those journeys. By using an anonymous submission form, DCaff is able to use this platform to amplify the voices of the Black, LGBTQ+ community.  If you want to join our community or find out more, check out our website at theclosetunlocked.com

Darius Caffey: Celebrating Accomplishments, A Moment of Reflection We're kicking off our first Black & Queer At The Table interview this season with Founder, and Creator, Darius Caffey. He shares some highlights about what has been going on in his life over the last year and finally gives himself some well-deserved credit as he reflects on things he's achieved so far. The interview touches on overcoming mindsets, accomplishing long-term goals, dealing with stress, figuring out life's purpose, and much more. We're sure that you're going to keep watching to get all the details, but if you also want to read the follow-up article, check it out here:  https://medium.com/@dariuscaffey/b&q-dariuscaffey-8718317f88ec Guest Socials: @DCaffGotEm Website: https://www.dariuscaffey.com Video Editor: Abriana Green-McCant -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- If you want exclusive access to our music playlist, direct links to our blog, anonymously submit a story, or get the latest Black & Queer news? Check out the links below: Newsletter | Survey | Website | Podcast Thanks for stopping by! *I Do Not Own the Rights to This Music*

John Holiday: Giving Himself Permission to Live & Love Founder, Darius Caffey, gets the opportunity to chat with Countertenor, John Holiday, about his own personal journey growing into the musical artist that he is today.  Holiday has continued to share his light and his love with the world through the gift of music. Starting as a child, the artist quickly grew to become a perpetual student of the art. Whether it was with the youth choir, his studies in vocal performance, or his further experience in Opera beginning at Julliard, he uses those experiences to better himself. He then shares that same knowledge with his students in Appleton, Wisconsin at the Lawrence University Music Conservatory -- even if that means hosting virtual lessons while he was appearing on NBC's hit TV show, The Voice.  More recent news -- John just recently released a new single titled 'Waste Mine". In the interview, the artist shares more details about the inception of the song. He explains how this (along with other upcoming projects) is going to provide Black and Queer people with more imagery of the fairytale love stories they've historically never seen before.  John Holiday learned from the greats -- Nina Simone, Maya Angelou, and Oprah Winfrey -- that the greatest stories that you can ever tell, start with love. So, in everything that he does, and with his platform, John wants to share that love with his people. He wants to be able to uplift his community in many ways that help shift the culture in a more positive light.  And he doesn't want to ask permission to do so.  We're sure that you're going to keep watching to get all the details, but if you also want to read the follow-up article, check it out here. #StarterPack: John Holiday | Playlist - Apple Music | Spotify Follow @JohnHolidayLive or visit his Website. Check out John's other videos: - Waste Mine - Alive In Me Interview Host: Darius Caffey (@dcaffgotem) Video Editor: Abriana Green-McCant -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- If you want exclusive access to our music playlist, direct links to our blog, anonymously submit a story, or get the latest Black & Queer news? Check out the links below: Newsletter | Survey | Website | Podcast Thanks for stopping by! *I Do Not Own the Rights to This Music* Music in video: Curve Ball (Instrumental) - Xavy Rusan

Da'Shaun Harrison: The Literary Voice To Be Reckoned With 🚨 SPECIAL OFFER ON 'BELLY OF THE BEAST' 🚨 BELOW ↓ During this interview, Darius Caffey (he/him) takes a moment to chat with the Atlanta-based community organizer, abolitionist, public speaker, and writer: Da'Shaun Harrison (they/them). Together, they discuss the details of Harrison's debut book, Belly of the Beast: The Politics of Anti-Fatness as Anti-Blackness, and their creative journey with finding a voice in writing.  They currently serve as Managing Editor at Wear Your Voice magazine, part of the #InTheMiddle podcast, and speaks across the nation (and abroad) on topics such as Blackness, Queerness, Class, Disabilities, Fatness, and the intersections of them all. You can also catch them on platforms such as Good Morning LA, Buzzfeed, BET, Black Youth Project, and others.  Da'Shaun tells us all about the roller coaster ride to landing the book deal and navigating through lived experiences to finally finding the words to write it. They bring together the intersections of gender, sexuality, race, healthcare, politics, violence, and a plethora of other identities to tell the story of what reality looks like for Black,  Black Fat, and Black, Fat Trans people.  Later down the timeline, they explain more about their experience as a student at Morehouse College, how they've found confidence in being their authentic self, what makes them feel the most comfortable (or like Beyoncé), while also giving some good advice as a storyteller: to find our own voice. As the book has quickly become the talk of the town, we're excited to finally share it! Keep watching, but the full interview article can be found here: https://medium.com/@dariuscaffey/dashaunharrison-832060f1a3a5 🚨 SPECIAL OFFER ON 'BELLY OF THE BEAST' 🚨 Visit the website and enter the code below for a discount on your next purchase! https://www.northatlanticbooks.com/shop/belly-of-the-beast/  AMOUNT - 35% OFF CODE: CLOSETUNLOCKED VALID: 8/31 - 9/30 Social Follow: @DaShaunLH Website(s): linktr.ee/DaShaunLH, dashaunharrison.com Interview Host: Darius Caffey (@dcaffgotem) Video Editor: Abriana Green-McCant -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- If you want exclusive access to our music playlist, direct links to our blog, anonymously submit a story, or get the latest Black & Queer news? Check out the links below: Newsletter | Survey | Website | Podcast Thanks for stopping by! *I Do Not Own the Rights to This Music* Music in video: Curve Ball (Instrumental) - Xavy Rusan

Leon Waldo: Pushing Musical Boundaries by Embracing Queer Culture Founder of The Closet Unlocked, Darius Caffey, interviews LA-based singer, songwriter, and producer, Leon Waldo. They discuss his experience with making music the way that he wants to, the details of his latest album (Queerwave), and how embracing his queerness has led him to newfound freedom of self-expression. Leon explains that growing up in the choir and with music has been exactly what he needed to find his purpose. It gave him an outlet to grow as an artist and helped him find a place where he truly felt like he belonged. As a Black, Gay man performing in the realm of pop, R&B, rap, African music, and dance, he’s pushing not only himself, but the culture to be more diverse. And he does it flawlessly. By performing in clubs at a young age, learning how to play the piano, and creating his own record company (Waldo Warehouse, LLC), he has used his talents and Berklee College of Music experience to further his career. In his recent songs ‘Just Say It’, ‘Heaven’, and ‘Hometown Stranger’ off of the project, he brings more culture and positive energy back into the world amidst the pandemic. Towards the end of the interview, Leon shares the moments and memorabilia that have made him feel the most comfortable over time. This included an inspirational conversation with his high school theatre teacher, an oversized Stranger Things sweatshirt, and glasses that always boost his confidence. He also mentions that he will be recording live performances of the album for fans to watch while we await a formal tour. We're sure that you're going to keep watching, but if you also want to read the follow-up article, check it out here: Queerwave, the album. #StarterPack: Leon Waldo | Playlist - Apple Music or Spotify Follow @TheLeonWaldo Check out Leon's other videos: Walk Like That Black Heart (Live) Sundae Sunday (Live) Heaven (Live) Interview Host: Darius Caffey (@dcaffgotem) Video Editor: Abriana Green-McCant -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- If you want exclusive access to our music playlist, direct links to our blog, anonymously submit a story, or get the latest Black & Queer news? Check out the links below: Newsletter | Survey | Website | Podcast Thanks for stopping by! *I Do Not Own the Rights to This Music* Music in video: Curve Ball (Instrumental) - Xavy Rusan

Siena Liggins: Creating Space in Pop Culture for Black, Queer Women. Founder of The Closet Unlocked, Darius Caffey, interviews Detroit's own Pop artist, Siena Liggins. They discuss her creative journey in making music, the visuals of her latest EP (Ms. Out Tonight), and how her experiences growing up as a Black, Queer woman have shaped the way she tells stories.  Siena breaks down the different stigmas that are prevalent throughout the pop industry, and how she addresses them through her songs and videos. This includes how it's mainly white, blonde, heterosexual, and hyperfeminine. None of which, embody who she is.  Instead, she shows up unapologetically herself.  With songs and visuals such as 'Dirty Girl' featuring Yung Baby Tate, the Ms. Out Tonight project is "loud, in your face, obviously Queer, and women-focused" as stated by Siena Liggins during the interview.  At the end of the conversation, they shared similar childhood memories. All of which were Chicago, Nike Air Force One's, LGBTQ foreshadows, and the lack of adulting.  We're sure that you're going to keep watching, but if you also want to read the follow-up article, check it out here:  Ms. Out Tonight (visual EP)  #StarterPack: Siena Liggins | Playlist - Apple Music  - Spotify Follow @SienaLiggins Check out Siena’s other videos: Dirty Girl (with Yung Baby Tate)​ No Valet thicc Safeword Interview Host: Darius Caffey (@dcaffgotem) Video Editor: Abriana Green-McCant -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- If you want exclusive access to our music playlist, direct links to our blog, anonymously submit a story, or get the latest Black & Queer news? Check out the links below: Newsletter | Survey | Website | Podcast Thanks for stopping by! *I Do Not Own the Rights to This Music* Music in video: Curve Ball (Instrumental) - Xavy Rusan

Editor, journalist, and author, Jamal Jordan brings a breath of fresh air to Black, LGBTQ+ literature with his new book release. In 'Queer Love in Color', readers are able to see both loving images and read heartfelt stories of people of color falling in love from all across the world.  Black & Queer @ The Table: - What started as a newsroom conversation and post-breakup article quickly became an inspirational story that led to a hardcopy book. When Jamal Jordan (digital editor, journalist, and author) wrote 'Queer Love in Color', it was as if the media finally saw Black, LGBTQ culture for what it was. Fill with love. - He traveled to 17 different cities compiling stories and research on Queer people finding and fighting for love. In the highly recommended, coffee table must-have photo book, you can read all about the different journeys that have built our community.  #CheckTheFacts: - Jamal Jordan's 'Queer Love in Color' is the expression of joy my inner child needs - ‘Queer Love in Color’: Photo book celebrates diverse LGBTQ relationships -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- If you want exclusive access to our music playlist, direct links to our blog, anonymously submit a story, or get the latest Black & Queer news? Check out the links below: Newsletter | Survey | Website | Podcast Thanks for stopping by! *I Do Not Own the Rights to This Music*

Black & Queer @ The Table: - Since The Closet Unlocked is a safe space, we want to introduce you to a collection of them! The National Black Justice Coalition (NBJC) has come back with another collaboration, but this time with Out in Tech. Collectively, they created The Lavender Book, which is a safe travel guide for Black, LGBTQ+ individuals. It is modeled after The Green Book, which was a safe travel guide for Black Americans during the Jim Crow era. What started as a dream for Executive Director, David Johns, luckily became a reality for our future.  - And although we don’t have to deal with the same issues, we still struggle to find inclusive, welcoming spaces for our community. This app will be crowdsourced with locations/establishments that provide gender-neutral restrooms, are Black or Trans owned, have LGBTQ trained staff, speak American Sign Language, have wheelchair access, and more.  - If you want to find out more, check out their website at lavenderbook.org #CheckTheFacts: - New Lavender Book app will map safe spaces for Black queer people - This new app aims to be a Green Book for LGBTQ+ people of color -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- If you want exclusive access to our music playlist, direct links to our blog, anonymously submit a story, or get the latest Black & Queer news? Check out the links below: Newsletter | Survey | Website | Podcast Thanks for stopping by! *I Do Not Own the Rights to This Music*

Black & Queer @ The Table - Black Women — that’s it. This week we’re celebrating another victory as Karine Jean-Pierre became the first Black, Queer woman to serve as spokesperson, leading a White House press briefing. She joins Judy Smith, the first Black, woman spokesperson in a congratulatory hug as they continue paving the way for others after them.  - This was also followed up by Kristen Clarke becoming the first Black, woman to be Civil Rights Chief of the US Justice Department. So to reiterate: thank you Black Women for always being dope, amazing, talented, and inspirational. Our lives wouldn’t be the same without you.  #CheckTheFacts: - Karine Jean-Pierre becomes first Black woman in 30 years to host daily White House press briefing - Karine Jean-Pierre becomes first Black woman to lead White House press briefing in decades -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- If you want exclusive access to our music playlist, direct links to our blog, anonymously submit a story, or get the latest Black & Queer news? Check out the links below: Newsletter | Survey | Website | Podcast Thanks for stopping by! *I Do Not Own the Rights to This Music*