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

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*I Do Not Own the Rights to This Music*