Pgh Lesbian Correspondents

Read the entire AMPLIFY LGBTQ Q&A archive.

AMPLIFY LGBTQ is a new occasional series of blog posts designed to give a “signal boost” to the voices of our LGBTQ neighbors throughout Western Pennsylvania. We are using a Q&A format and will mostly avoid editing their responses. The questions, however, may change as we ask each participant to tell us what we’ve missed asking. It is one of the vibrant elements of a blog format – evolution & growth. 

Our intent is to highlight the voices of marginalized members of our community who are not always invited to the table or whose voices are not heard (because “we” are not listening?) Obviously, my choice of questions does shape the conversation, but beyond that – these are glimpses in to the lived experiences of LGBTQ people in Western Pennsylvania as told in their own voices. If you would like to participate, please email me pghlesbian at gmail or visit the online Q&A.

You can read the other Q&A responses here.  AMPLIFY! LGBTQ is a project of Most Wanted Fine Art and Pittsburgh Lesbian Correspondents.

In recognition of Pittsburgh Black Pride’s 20th anniversary, we are highlighting the stories of their volunteers and board members. Darcell responded when we put out a call for participants. When Facebook told me that today was his birthday, I knew it was the perfect day to share his responses. Happy Birthday, Darcell.

Name: Darcell

Age: 36

County of Residence: Allegheny

Tell me about the first LGBTQ person whom you met. What impact did they have on your life? My best friend Ton Berry. Now we are best friends for life.

How do you describe your identity? Gay

How do you stay informed about LGBTQ issues? Delta foundation

Past or present, favorite LGBTQ character in television, film or literature? Noah’s Arc

How would you describe yourself in terms of “being out”? Being myself .

Describe your geographical community. Penn hills . Now I live in Highland park

Tell me about your local or regional LGBTQ community. It great

Have you ever experienced discrimination based on your identity in a job setting? How about in terms of being served by a business? Please explain. Not for a job but for a place yes. They was playing games.

Describe your community in terms of being LGBTQ friendly (or not.) Great

Are there issues impacting your LGBTQ neighbors that aren’t visible or part of the local dialogue? No

What would you like to see elected officials do to improve life for LGBTQ Pennsylvanians? Yes

Please share any anecdotes about life as a LGBTQ person in your community that might help outsiders better understand. None

Beyond discrimination, what other barriers create challenges for your LGBTQ neighbors? None.

What LGBTQ friendly resources are available for your neighbors? Everything

What is your greatest fear for the LGBTQ community in Western Pennsylvania? That the Republicans will try to overturn everything.

What is your greatest hope for the LGBTQ community in Western Pennsylvania? That everyone will find love

What motivated you to take part in this project? I was asked too.

Finally, what question should I have asked? Please also share your answer Do I have a partner?

Thank you, Darcell!

Please be sure to check out the Pittsburgh Black Pride events and turn out to support your community.

If you would like to participate in a future Q&A, please visit our survey or contact us pghlesbian at gmail dot com.

Good news – AMPLIFY is going on the road this summer. We’ll be traveling to some Western PA events where you can meet with us face to face to complete the Q&A or learn more. Upcoming events include:

• July 26 at Pittsburgh Black Pride BBQ
• August 1 Big Summer Chick Picnic
• August 14 at Washington County GSA Summer Picnic
• August 16 at Westmoreland PFLAG Pride Picnic
• August 29 at Erie Pride
• October TBA Johnstown Halloween Parade