Feeling safe while trans in Kentuckiana: Luci Lyle
Luci Lyle
Jeffersonville, she/her
Queer Kentucky has partnered with Louisville Magazine for our fourth print issue. We asked Louisvillians and Kentuckians at large about their queerness and its relationship to the city, where they feel at home, who was there for them when it felt like nobody else was, the biggest issues facing Louisville’s queer communities, and much more. We would love it if you — whether you live in Louisville or not — would answer the questions too. If you’d like to, you can find the interview here. In this issue, you will find stories of Queer Kentuckians telling tales of their beloved safe spaces, paying tribute to the loved ones who uplifted them when no one else would, laughing about their coming out stories, and so much more. Kentucky, and Louisville, have a lot of work left to do when it comes to embracing the queer community. But hey, it’s not as bad as people think it is. Read on, you’ll see. You can purchase the print version of this issue here.
Besides your own house — or the house of family or friends — what Louisville place makes you feel at home?
Pop’s Place in Germantown. As a sober person, I don’t have a lot of use for bars besides socializing with friends. Pop’s is quiet, mostly, and divey, but dang it’s the best spot for karaoke in the city. Karaoke has helped me immensely. To come out of my shell, to stretch my creative wings and to develop confidence in my gender experience by occupying a space that isn’t traditionally ‘queer’ as authentically as I can.
Who was there for you when it felt like nobody else was?
My partner. Even before we started dating, she was a champion for me. We’ve known each other since before I physically transitioned, and to know that she’s loved me the whole way and would do anything for me is such an incredible act of grace and love.
Who was the person you chose to come out to?
The first person I came out to was my now ex-wife. I was terrified and had to take a shot of tequila to get through it, but I had to tell someone. And because this was the beginning of the pandemic, it had to be the person I saw every day. She was gentle and kind despite dealing with a monumental amount of hesitation at the time.
What’s the biggest issue facing Louisville’s LGBTQ+ communities? What do you think would help solve that issue? Unfortunately, Louisville does not have the resources for sexually active queer folks that many larger cities have. We’re in dire need of a truly queer clinic or two that can offer free resources — testing, etc. — to our LGBTQ community.