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Jaison Gardner, he/him Louisville

Use one Queer slang word to describe Kentucky!

Ovah!

How did you activate and organize your community for equality?

I have been active in the fight for equality since the mid 1990s. My activism has taken many forms but including as a leader or board member of local organizations including the Fairness Campaign and Sweet Evening Breeze (fun fact, I actually picked the name for the shelter/organization). I have also been a frontline activist, leading rallies and protests for equality. Lately I’ve used my work as a public speaker and podcaster to educate and inspire others to move on issues of justice. One of my proudest moments in recent years was co-organizing and leading a local memorial rally in response to the Orlando Pulse nightclub in 2016, that drew several thousand people to the big four Bridge.

In the last 25 years, what is one moment that gave you hope for Kentucky’s fight in equality?

In 2013 the small Kentucky town of Vicco past a fairness ordinance. It is considered the smallest town in America with LGBTQ+ protections. This totally defied all the stereotypes that many people have about Kentucky, especially small town Kentucky. It was an inspiring moment to witness.

What do you think is next for Kentucky in the fight for Equality?

I think Kentucky will continue to be a quiet but consistent force in the fight for LGBTQ+ equality in the nation. I always like to tout the fact that Louisville had a trans inclusive comprehensive Fairness ordinance before many other cities and states in the nation, including New York City. The movement here locally has always held anti-racism as a primary tenet that informs that work we do and I think we can be a model for anti racist Queer liberation organizing.

What are Kentucky’s greatest strengths when it comes to the fight for Queer equality?

So many experienced elders and so many inspiring new, younger activists. Folks doing organizing both in rural and urban parts of the state. A wonderful governor in Andy Beshear.