What is your name?

Beaux Hardin

 

In what city and county do you live?

I live in Fayette County, Lexington, KY, for undergrad.

 

What are your pronouns?

He/They

 

What does the word Queer mean to you?

It means a fluid label that has been taken back by the LGBTQ+ community—the word honestly feels like home to me as I most closely identify with it.

 

What was it like growing up as a Queer person in Kentucky?

Some moments were harder than others but I had it better than most living in Lexington—Lexington was more welcoming than a good majority of the state but not all individuals living in Lexington were.

 

What would you say to any person struggling to come into their own identity?

You don’t need a label. You don’t need to come out. If that stuff is adding more anxiety or more pressure—don’t worry about. I can guarantee that a lot of queer adults don’t stick to their one label that they used to come out with. We are a fluid people—embrace that. Just exist as you are for yourself.

 

What issue are you most passionate about in the Queer community? And what do you think the best solution or approach would be?

I am most passionate about intersectionality in my community—as someone who is queer, disabled, and POC, there needs to be more room for intersectionality in our community, there needs to be more room for representation, there needs to be a better embrace for all types of queer people.

 

Where have you found community?

I have found community in my friends, who often reflect the best parts of me and the various communities I belong to.

 

How have recent political changes affected your life? 

They have made me rethink how to navigate life and the ways I go about it. Things weren’t easy beforehand and they are definitely harder now.

 

What are some ideas you have for bringing other queer people together for community?

More LGBTQ+ centered events throughout the year, a bulletin that announces local queer shops/events!

 

If you have been on HRT, how has it changed your outlook on life? 

It has made me more comfortable and confident in myself and therefore added value back into my life.

 

What are some LGBTQ+ experiences/artists that have helped you express the struggles or the joy of being queer? 

Getting into drag and playing around with expression!!!! I love my local drag shows and artists and the art that is shown there.

 

Are there any specific queer friendly places you’d like to highlight and share with the rest of the community? 

The Bar Complex and Third Street Coffee often have queer community! There’s also a few brunch places like Epping’s that do Drag Brunches. The KY Theatre does queer movie showings/events like Rocky Horror Picture Show and accompanying drag shows!

 

If you have some accomplishments you’re proud of, share them here! The accomplishments of queer people are something that should be celebrated!

Last summer I received a research grant and part of that completed research was a published poetry chapbook that I created in both English and French about the black trans/queer experience. It’s called “Black Que(e)ries” and all proceeds go to Black education and literacy organizations. Please check it out!