3/13/24 Queer Voices - John Rosenthal, Kailey Posterick and Leslie Briones

03/14/24 • 57 min

Grand marshal finalists 2024
As we unfurl the banners of Pride and allyship, I'm thrilled to bring you heartening conversations from Queer Voices that not only celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community but also highlight the relentless support of our allies. We engage with State Representative John Rosenthal, whose journey from the energy sector to a beacon of advocacy in public office exemplifies true allyship. He carries the torch for marginalized groups, particularly trans, intersex, and non-binary individuals, and his illustrious nomination as ally Grand Marshal for the Pride Parade further cements his commitment to championing queer rights. With the backdrop of current legislative challenges, John's voice is a clarion call for unity and resistance.
Allyship doesn't stop at mere support; it's an active and ongoing commitment to advocacy and understanding. In this spirit, I speak with Grand Marshal nominees like Kailey Posterick and Leslie Briones who, through their personal stories, embody the unwavering dedication required to stand shoulder to shoulder with the LGBTQIA+ community. From Kaylee's role as a supportive therapist to Leslie's multifaceted experiences as a mother, teacher, and judge, their narratives are a testament to the transformative power of visibility and support. The upcoming parade's theme, "You Won't Break Our Pride," resonates with their tales, echoing the resilience and hope that define our vibrant community.
The quest for equality spans beyond our local communities to the global stage, and it's vital to stay abreast of the triumphs and setbacks that shape our collective journey. Leslie Briones' gratitude mirrors the sentiment felt by many as we navigate the landscape of global LGBTQ rights, discussing the impacts of international legislation and movements. From the shores of Ghana to the streets of Serbia, and even within the halls of American governance, we dissect the myriad ways our fights intersect. Join us as we honor the spirit of Pride through these powerful voices, each contributing an essential note to the symphony of liberation and justice that sings in the heart of the 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:
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3/6/24 Queer Voices - Dylan Forbis, JIMBO and Denise Fennell-Pasqualone

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Dylan Forbis - transgender activist, Jimbo - Drag All Star, Late Night Catechism Nun
As the vibrant hues of Houston's Pride rainbow unfurl, we're joined by Dylan Forbis, a transgender man whose tapestry of activism has positioned him as a candidate for Houston Pride 365 Grand Marshal. Dillon's story is a beacon for the LGBTQIA community, a testament to resilience amidst Texas' evolving legislative landscape. His dreams of reveling in the joyous celebrations of World Pride and Mexico City's Pride remind us of the universal quest for equality and acceptance. This week, our conversation also dazzles with the unexpected twists of Jimbo, the beloved queen from RuPaul's Drag Race All-Stars, whose artistry at the crossroads of clowning and drag promises a kaleidoscope of joyful surprises. Simultaneously, Denise Fennell's emotive discourse on her role in "Sisters Irish Catechism" reveals the nurturing embrace of Houston's theater scene for growth and inclusivity.
Venture behind the sequins and extravagant breastplates with Jimbo as she recounts her journey from a biologist to a theatrical costume designer and, ultimately, to a drag performer who captures hearts with her authenticity. Hear how her 'gay audacity' led her from sewing to the spotlight, crafting a drag persona that defies convention and captivates audiences. Meanwhile, Denise Fennell opens up about the serendipitous twists in her acting career that have woven her into the fabric of Houston's artistic community, including the unexpected challenges and triumphs of performing one-woman shows and fostering a sense of belonging within the diverse tapestry of the local theater.
This episode isn't just about the spotlights; it's a salute to the unseen threads of support and solidarity that hold our community together. As artists, we navigate the peaks and valleys of critiques, drawing strength from the shared experiences and wisdom of our peers. We honor the mentors who shape our paths and the emotional resilience required to keep the show going. With a nod to our contributors Andrew Edmondson and Deborah Moncrief Bell, we reaffirm our commitment to stories that resonate with authenticity and vibrancy, ensuring the spirit of Queer Voices remains a beacon of inclusivity for all who listen.

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3/20/24 Queer Voices - Odyssey Oakengrove, Kevin O'Connor (LGBTQ author), and Mr. Prime Choice James Martinez

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Odyssey Oakengrove - Grand Marshal nominee -- Kevin O'Connor, LGBTQ author --Mr. Prime Choice James Martinez
We speak with Odyssey Oakengrove. Odyssey Oakengrove grew up in Houston and quickly moved back after their boyfriend broke off the relationships, saying that Odyssey was “too involved in the gay community, the trans community, and Black Lives Matter.” Not having recognized their transness, they simply said, “I am the gay community” and packed their stuff to move back home. Once here, they found a home with Black Lives Matter activists, learning advocacy and unlearning their colonized mindset. They realized they were genderqueer at an ACLU abortion access seminar, not simply a “really strong ally.” They have volunteered time with Clinic Access Support Network, Black Lives Matter: Houston, and Showing Up for Racial Justice. They have spoken with state reps at the 2021 and 2023 Texas Legislative Session, fighting for queer students, public education, and against oppressive immigration policies. Odyssey is a candidate for grand marshal for the Pride Houston 365 parade.

Then, we speak with Kevin O'Connor, author of “Two Floors Above Grief: A Memoir of Two Families in the Unique Place We Called Home”. Kevin O’Connor enjoys chronicling the stories of families and friends through tracing genealogical histories and writing. He is an expert at organizing family letters and artifacts. He sings and performs in theaters and is active with SMART Ride, a bicycling group that rides annually from Miami to Key West, raising funds for HIV awareness, treatment, and education. Kevin was an elementary teacher, principal, professor, and curriculum coordinator in California, Illinois, and Florida from 1973 to 2020. He authored content and provided training in areas including support for substitute teachers, LGBTQ advocacy, and Sexual Health/Family Life. Kevin resides in Ft. Lauderdale with his husband, Leon. Their family includes five sons and seven granddaughters.

Finally, we speak with James Martinez, Mr. Prime Choice 2024. Mr. Prime Choice is open to any male identified individual 40 or older living in the state of Texas. James is founder of Texas Men of Leather. We talk about what being Mr. Prime Choice is like.

Queer Voices - 3/13/24 Queer Voices - John Rosenthal, Kailey Posterick and Leslie Briones

Transcript

Speaker 100:00:00.700

Hello everybody , this is Queer Voices , a home-produced podcast that has grown out of a radio show that's been on the air in Houston , texas , for several decades . This week , the Queer Voices crew has five profile interviews with nominees for Grand Marshall positions for Houston's Pride 365 Pride Parade 2024 . Here are a couple of teaser samples of those interviews .

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