2024 Issue 3 May/Jun Focus - Mid-South Magazine

Serving the Mid-South LGBT+ Community and its Allies | May+Jun 2024 

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MENGCHENG 

梦城团 

COLLECTIVE 

AN INVITATION TO BE 

PRIDE (EVENTS) 

ALL AROUND US 

DANCE, DANCE 

RESOLUTION 

ADDRESS LABEL 

PERSONAL = POLITICAL 

WITH NOAH NORDSTROM 

HIDE BEFORE PRINT FINAL 

OUR TRUE COLORS 

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the 

team 

MANAGING EDITOR 

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(they/them) 

CREATIVE DIRECTOR 

+ AD DESIGN 

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OPERATIONS + PROMOS 

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DIGITAL MARKETING 

COORDINATOR 

Kelly Seagraves (she/they) 

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Focus ® Mid-South is all about LGBT + people and their allies… their 

work, play, families, creativity, style, health and wealth, bodies and 

souls. Our focus is on you. 

Focus ® Mid-South is published bi-monthly and distributed free 

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to refuse to sell space for any advertisement the staff deems 

inappropriate for the publication. Press releases must be received 

by the first of the month for the following issue. All content of 

this magazine, including and without limitation to the design, 

advertisements, art, photos and editorial content, as well as the 

selection, coordination and arrangement thereof, is Copyright 

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4 Pride Music | May+Jun Nov+Dec 2024 2023 | | focuslgbt.com

FEATURED WRITERS IN THIS ISSUE 

CONTRIBUTORS 

We rely on community contributors for Focus magazine news and stories. 

A huge thanks to these dedicated writers! 

Tricia Dewey 

(she/her) 

Tricia is a longtime Memphis transplant who has grown 

to admire the ‘grit and grind.’ She is also a mom, wife, 

runner, reader, recovering lawyer, tree hugger, and ally. 

Minnassa Gabon 

(she/her) 

Minnassa Gabon is a Southern Californian now living in 

the Mid-South. She is the C.E.O. of Minnassa Wellness, 

a psychic intuitive, Reiki Master, and the Chair of 

OUTMemphis’ Senior Services. 

Kelly Seagraves 

(she/they) 

Kelly Seagraves is a multidisciplinary artist, designer, 

poet, and writer from Memphis, Tennessee. 

William Smythe 

(he/him) 

William is a local writer and poet. He has been 

published in multiple magazines, both online and 

in print, and works with the community creative 

workshop collective, Memphis Writers. 

Cassie Brooks 

Whitney Carter 

Lina Chipman 

Other Contributors 

Jasper Joyner 

Ray Rico 

Terri Schlichenmeyer 

Have a story that needs to be told? Pitch your story ideas to editor@focuslgbt.com 

6 Pride | May+Jun 2024 | focuslgbt.com

CONTENTS | May+Jun 2024 

6 CONTRIBUTORS 

9 

THEME: PRIDE 

10 COMMUNITY 

Awesome Mid-South and Tennessee Pride events 

that show southern LGBTQ+ people love 

12 LIFE 

How New Ballet Ensemble & School mentoring 

programs help young dancers feel seen 

16 LIFE 

A look into the effects of HIV stigma today 

20 LIFE 

Noah Nordstrom, openly queer educator and 

candidate for House District 83, takes a stand 

24 

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT 

How Memphis-founded MengCheng 梦城团 Collective 

builds community around art, friendship, and food 

30 COMMUNITY 

Children's book author, Cassie Brooks, uses real stories 

of trans pride to inspire change 

32 LIFE 

Our thoughts on Nothing Ever Just Disappears: Seven 

Hidden Queer Histories by Diarmuid Hester 

36 

38 

ORIGINAL MEMPHIS 

Our We Saw You OUT series documents 

proud LGBTQ locals 

ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT 

Whitney Carter, Lena Chipman, and Cassie Brooks share 

poetry as part of Prism Pages 

42 MUSIC 

Find your new favorite tune in our Queer Up Your 

Playlist series 

44 LIFE 

Psychic intuitive Minnassa Gabon shares May and 

June horoscopes for every sign! 

ON THE COVER 

Evanescence installation by Atelier Sisu with 

model and muse, Widan Kori. 

Photo and retouch by AK Williams 

Creative direction and makeup by Bella Golightly 

ON THIS PAGE 

Memphis Pride Fest parade 

photo by Kevin Reed 

May+Jun 2024 | focuslgbt.com | Pride 7

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Get all your LGBT+ content online at focuslgbt.com

theme 

“I called these photos 'An Evanescent Moment' as a reference to the intriguing name 

of the exhibit [featured] but also as an ode to the beautiful, fleeting moments that 

photography collaborations, like this one, capture and freeze in time." 

- Bella Golightly 

Evanescence touring installation by Atelier Sisu, @ateliersisu, with model and muse, Widan Kori, @widankori. 

Photo and retouch by AK Williams, @photographybykeara. Creative direction and makeup by Bella Golightly, @bellagolightly 


community 

Amazing Pride Events in and Around Memphis and the Mid-South 

Pride All 

Around Us 

Here are a few wonderful Pride events in 

and around the MidSouth, and Tennessee 

at-large, that show us southern 

LGBTQ+ folks are truly loved. 

the Focus Team 

photo courtesy @franklinpridetn 

photo courtesy Mid-South Pride 

FRANKLIN 

PRIDE 

SAT • JUNE 1 

HARLINSDALE FARM • FRANKLIN, TN 

Franklin Pride takes over historic Harlinsdale Farm 

to bring LGBTQIA+ people together in a safe and 

(super fun!) setting. Last year’s fest had nearly 60 

entertainers, 103 vendors and 7,000 attendees! 

MEMPHIS 

PRIDE FEST 

THURS-SUN • MAY 30-JUN 2 

MEMPHIS, TN • VARIOUS LOCATIONS 

Memphis Pride Fest draws the largest crowd of 

LGBTQIA+ people and their allies in the Mid-South. 

The four-day celebration includes the annual Drag 

N Drive, a dance party, live music festival and drag 

performances, the amazing Pride parade, and a fun 

and casual Sunday drag brunch. 


photo courtesy founder and executive 

director Dr. Davin D. Clemons 

photo courtesy @NashvillePride 

TRI-STATE 

BLACK PRIDE 

THURS - SUN • JUNE 13- 16 

MEMPHIS, TN • VARIOUS LOCATIONS 

This year’s TriState Black Pride is all about “Black 

Xcellence.” The 2024 experience jump starts with 

an opening ceremony featuring keynote speaker, 

Shelby County Division Director for Health Services, 

Dr. Michelle Taylor. Following events include a 

job fair, TriState’s annual, iconic ‘Draggin’ You to 

Brunch,’ parties, a music festival with headliner 

Inayah, and so much more! 

NASHVILLE 

PRIDE FESTIVAL 

& PARADE 

SAT-SUN • JUN 22-23 

BICENTENNIAL CAPITOL MALL STATE PARK 

DOWNTOWN NASHVILLE, TN 

The first official Nashville Pride took place in 1988. 

Since then, Nashville Pride Festival & Parade has 

become the largest LGBTQIA+ event in Tennessee, 

with more than 120,000 people in attendance last 

year. While no two Nashville Pride fests are the 

same, Nashville Pride’s commitment to creating 

a safe, welcoming space where the LGBTQIA+ 

community persists. 

OUTMemphis Queer Prom 2023 

photo by Ariel Colbert 

photo courtesy executive director Antoine Ghoston of 

Arkansas Black Gay Men's Forum 

OUTMEMPHIS 

QUEER PROM 

SAT • JUNE 29 

MEMPHIS, TN • CROSSTOWN CONCOURSE 

So many people from LGBTQIA+ communities don’t 

get to experience prom in high school—at least not 

how they would like to. Memphis-based nonprofit 

OUTMemphis is working to change that with its 

annual 18+ Queer Prom, a time to come dressed to 

the nines and celebrate exactly who you are! 

LITTLE ROCK 

BLACK PRIDE 

FRI-SUN • JUL 19-21 

LITTLE ROCK, AR • VARIOUS LOCATIONS 

Little Rock Black Pride creates safe spaces fo Black 

and brown LGBTQIA+ folks in Arkansas’ capital to 

learn, commune and celebrate together. This year, 

LRBP builds community with thoughtful panels, a 

Trans Townhall, and a highly entertaining Advocacy 

Ball featuring the legendary Jrock Ebony as its 

master of ceremonies. 


life 

Finding Balance, 

On and Off the 

Dance Floor 

New Ballet Ensemble & School Mentoring 

Programs and fostering our youth with dance 

by Jasper Joyner 

Florien Alexander’s big jump with the dance troupe 

photo courtesy New Ballet Ensemble & School 


“Dance is like the 

homeostasis of the arts,” 

said Florien Alexander, a 

22-year-old dancer and 

protégé at New Ballet 

Ensemble & School. 

It’s an empowering 

thought that all dancers 

might share that special 

understanding of 

homeostasis, or a true state 

of balance between all parts 

of their bodies. Perhaps 

just as remarkable is how 

Memphis-based New Ballet 

Ensemble & School helps 

bring about that balance. 

New Ballet, located in 

Cooper-Young, is a nonprofit 

offering kids, teens, and 

young adults professional 

dance lessons, even if they 

can't pay for them. 

New Ballet's mentorship 

program spans beyond 

dance, guiding students to 

growth and development in 

and out of the classroom. 

In partnership with 

the Memphis Grizzlies 

Foundation, the nonprofit 

allows students from all 

backgrounds to lead in 

their own journeys, giving 

them the liberty to choose 

between one-on-one, peer, 

and group mentoring. 

Mentorship programs like 

New Connective Mentoring 

at New Ballet, are no small 

feat. Mentor National 

recently reported that 

youth with mentors are 37% 

less likely to skip a class, 

75% more likely to hold 

leadership roles, and 92% 

more likely to volunteer on a 

regular basis. 

Possibly the most 

wonderful effect New 

Ballet has, though, is 

its ability to help young 

people find power and 

pride within themselves, 

regardless of gender, 

sexuality, religion, or race. 

“It has helped me 

to further boost my 

confidence in my abilities 

and how far dance can take 

you in life. I’m also learning 

the beauty of vulnerability 

and allowance,” said 

Charlye Murrell, 25-year-old 

teaching artist and protégé 

with New Ballet. 

“There’s never a dull 

moment,” shared Jacqueline 

Gladness, Youth Program 

Coordinator of the 

nonprofit’s mentorship 

program, as we explored 

the New Ballet building on 

York Avenue. Jacqueline, 

who also grew up with 

mentors in her childhood, 

expressed how important it 

is to always be present. 

“We can get caught up 

in the rhythm of work, but 

in this program, we have 

to remember emotional 

health is just as important 

as everything else,” said 

Jacqueline. 

A Memphis native, 

Jacqueline shared 

her distinct path into 

mentorship from a young 

age. “My life is full of people 

welcoming me into their 

lives and taking me under 

their wings. So I knew this 

was something I wanted to 

do for the rest of my life.” 

said Jacqueline. 

Jacqueline describes her 

job, in part, as “mentoring 

the mentors,” like Charlye, 

who recently became a 

mentor to a 2nd grader in 

the program after showing 

great enthusiasm to get 

more involved. 

“The young people that 

I get to interact with are 

probably the most enjoyable 

to me. I love being able to 

give them an experience 

that will potentially impact 

how they view the world and 

dance for years to come,” 

said Charlye. 

Charlye, who grew up in 

Memphis, finds freedom in 

not getting too attached 

to labels about her many 

identities, including her 

queerness. 

“When it comes to my 

queer identity, I don’t 

necessarily label myself as 

a lesbian or gay. I tend to 

express myself as being 

an androgynous woman 

who is attracted to women. 

These days my clothing and 

movement choices reflect 

the type of energy I’m in 

for the day, not my sexual 

choices,” said Charlye. 

For Charlye, her queerness 

and relationship with dance 

cannot be separated from 

her Memphis upbringing, 

quite specifically with 

Memphis Jookin, a dance 

style born out of Gangsta 

Walkin and the late 80s 

Memphis club scene. 

“I grew up as a tomboy 

and for the most part I 

dressed as such, so I got 

bullied for several years. 

When I got to the point in 

college where I was able to 

begin training and learning 

Memphis Jookin, it was right 

up my alley. Not only did it 

give me a positive outlet of 

expression but it also gave 

me a place where I can 

display both masculine and 

feminine traits that I process 

within my art form almost 

seamlessly,” said Charlye. 

New Ballet offers all 

sorts of dance classes 

to its students, including 

Memphis Jookin. 

Creative director Maxx Reed with 

Charlye Murrell. 

photo courtesy New Ballet 

Ensemble & School 

Interior shot of New Ballet 

Ensemble & School 

photo by Michael Walker 

When it comes to 

my queer identity, I don’t 

necessarily label myself 

as a lesbian or gay. 

- Charlye Murrell 


Charlye Murrell and Florien 

Alexander, photo courtesy New 

Ballet Ensemble & School 

Dance is 

like the 

homeostasis 

of the arts. 

- Florien Alexander 

Choreographer Pablo Francisco 

Ruvalcabo in rehearsal 

photo by Jasper Joyner 

Also, the organization 

often welcomes guest 

choreographers like Pablo 

Francisco Ruvalcaba, a 

Julliard alum and Tijuana, 

Mexico native who 

specializes in the Limón 

Technique. 

Co-Founding Director of 

the Higher Ground Festival 

of New York City, and a 

founding member of the 

dance collective, Movement 

Migration, Pablo shared that 

he continues to be inspired 

by the New Ballet students’ 

commitment to learning. 

“All movement is valued. 

I like to empower students 

in the joy of movement 

because all movement 

is authentic and comes 

from a place of [needing] 

validation.” said Pablo, who 

was currently visiting New 

Ballet for the fourth time as 

its “Springloaded—Tales of 

Light” choreographer at the 

time of this interview. 

Like Pablo’s commitment 

to validation in dance, 

New Ballet mentees and 

instructors work to bring a 

holistic approach to all the 

ways students can grow. 

To do this, Jacqueline 

expressed a deliberate 

need to “understand an 

artistic mind.” 

“Potential mentors 

don’t have to have a 

dance background to get 

involved. I’ve even learned 

a lot about dance since 

I started. But they have 

to have a willingness to 

understand their mentees, 

and notice the ‘small 

things,’” said Jacqueline. 

Kathy Coburn, Patron 

Service Liaison at New 

Ballet, expressed a similar 

sentiment. When the mother 

of 6 had the opportunity 

to facilitate a small mentee 

group of 11-13-year-old girls, 

she listened closely to her 

students' hopes for the 

program, from jewelry and 

gingerbread house-making, 

baking sessions, and even 

enlightening discussions 

about Misty Copeland. 

“You get as much as you 

give,” said Kathy, who also 

shared how her experience 

with motherhood helped 

enrich her time with her 

students. 

“Personal experiences will 

always influence who you 

are as a mentor,” she said. 

An intentional desire 

to help and an openness 

to learning seemed to be 

necessary and ongoing 

themes in New Ballet’s 

mentorship programs, as 

they help students of all 

backgrounds feel not just 

welcome, but safe. 

Florien affirmed that need 

when asked how he wanted 

to be understood by others, 

“I’m just an earth creature 

from the south with a 

sprinkle of ADHD and a dash 

of autism just trying to live in 

peace,” shared Florien, who 

enjoys ballet, contemporary, 

modern, jazz, hip hop, West 

African, and flamenco style 

dance (with a preference for 

contemporary). 

Florien Alexander was 

introduced to the arts with 

music composition and 

singing at 6 with his siblings. 

“I was born into a pretty 

religious family, was 

homeschooled all of my life, 

and didn’t see any positive 

examples of queer people 

until I was in my teens. I 

knew that we existed, but 

I only ever heard negative 

things. I grew up believing 

harmful stereotypes about 

the community,” he said. 

Florien later found solace 

in New Ballet, after a 

queer friend helped them 

discover community, “It 

wasn’t until a close friend 

of mine came out to me 

as bisexual that I started 

to realize I wasn’t going 

through it alone. Not long 

after that, I started making 

friends with queer kids and 

allies at my dance school. 

That’s when I learned 

about queer identities and 

accepted myself for who 

I was. Now, I am proud 

to be a queer trans man 

who is making history and 

inspiring others!” 

Though they share 

different stories and 

upbringings, Charlye and 

Florien both expressed 

a tremendous pride in 

their existence as young 

queer artists and humans. 

It’s a thing older LGBTQ+ 

generations hope for, and 

programs like New Ballet 

help actualize. 

“I am proud to be me 

because I know where I 

used to be!” shared Florien, 

“I’ve learned that my worth 

in life isn’t based on my 

achievements and how 

much work I get done in 

a day. I recognize that 

being human means that I 

am going to live a human 

experience and be nothing 

less than human.” 

Perhaps we can all learn 

something from dancers 

about finding a true state of 

balance between all parts of 

a body. But in the meantime, 

the proud students at New 

Ballet help us remember 

that wherever and however 

we show up in this moment, 

is enough. 

As Charlye so poetically 

stated, “I’m a star. Out of 

the plethora of stars in 

the universe, no two are 

identical. Out of the billions 

of people that are on Earth, 

no two are exactly the 

same. No one can do or 

be me like I can. It’s one 

of those 'it’s in you, not on 

you' type of deals.” 


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life 

The State 

of 

HIV Stigma 

Understanding the current impact of HIV stigma, and 

how society has progressed beyond it 

by Ray Rico 

These key findings track 

progress against HIV stigma, 

transmission, and prevention of HIV, 

as well as attitudes and knowledge 

of people living with HIV in the 

United States. 


Understanding HIV Stigma 

HIV stigma is defined as negative attitudes, beliefs, and discrimination towards people living with HIV. It not only 

influences the mental and emotional well-being of those affected but also hinders efforts to combat the HIV/AIDS 

epidemic on a global scale. Thankfully, positive representations of people living with HIV are slowly increasing on screen 

and social media, but current stereotypes still significantly affect marginalized communities today. 

Prevalence of HIV Stigma 

Globally, HIV stigma remains pervasive, with millions of people facing discrimination and prejudice due to their HIV 

status. For example, according to a recent GLAAD report, an estimated 81% of Americans agree with the criminalization 

of non-disclosure HIV status. This means that over 80% of those surveyed agree it should be a criminal act for 

someone living with HIV to have sex with someone who does not have HIV without disclosing their HIV status. This 

further stigmatizes and discriminates against people living with HIV. It is important to note that anyone HIV positive who 

is adhering to a medical plan can also be undetectable. 

Combating HIV 

Stigma: Progress 

and Challenges 

Despite ongoing efforts to combat HIV stigma, 

challenges remain in achieving meaningful progress. 

Misinformation, fear, and deeply ingrained societal 

attitudes towards HIV/AIDS continue to perpetuate 

stigma and discrimination. However, hope is on the 

horizon as advocacy efforts, education campaigns, 

and policy initiatives work to dismantle stigma and 

promote greater understanding and acceptance. 

Social and Emotional Consequences 

Beyond its effects on physical health, HIV stigma also takes a toll on individuals' social and emotional well-being. 

Many people living with HIV report feelings shame, fear, and isolation as a result of stigma. Discrimination and 

prejudice can lead to social exclusion, loss of support networks, and even violence, exacerbating the challenges 

faced by those living with HIV. 

Intersectionality and HIV Stigma 

HIV stigma intersects with other forms of stigma and discrimination, further marginalizing affected individuals. 

For example, LGBTQ+ individuals, people of color, and those living in poverty are disproportionately affected by HIV 

stigma due to the compounded effects of multiple stigmatized identities. This intersectionality highlights 

the need for a multifaceted approach to addressing HIV stigma and promoting 

social justice and equity. 


Impact of HIV 

Stigma on Health 

Outcomes 

Studies show that individuals who experience 

HIV-related stigma are less likely to seek HIV 

testing, adhere to treatment regimens, and engage 

in HIV prevention strategies. This not only leads to 

poorer health outcomes for affected individuals 

but also contributes to the continued transmission 

of HIV within communities. According to HIV. 

gov, people aged 13-34 accounted for 57% of new 

diagnoses—this disparity can be attributed both to 

the lack of awareness in younger people along with 

the pervasive stigma at-large. 

Community Empowerment and Resilience 

Grassroots organizations, community-led initiatives, and peer support networks are 

crucial in challenging stigma, providing essential services, and fostering a sense of 

belonging and empowerment among affected individuals. By amplifying the voices 

of those affected by HIV stigma and supporting community-driven solutions, we can 

create a more inclusive and stigma-free future for all. Local efforts like EndHIV901 

are at the heart of providing resources and support for the community. Our podcast 

re:Focus presents PrEPPED: Sex, Stigma, Science and the South also explores stories of 

empowerment among local HIV/AIDS awareness advocates. 

Stream season 5 now! 

Moving Toward a 

Stigma-Free Future 

As we reflect on the state of HIV stigma, it’s clear that there is much work to 

be done. By acknowledging the impact of stigma, advocating for the rights and 

dignity of all individuals, and promoting education and awareness, we can move 

closer to a world where HIV stigma no longer exists. 

Scan the GLAAD QR code and get 

the comprehensive report on the 

State of Stigma 2023. 


life 

Local 

Matters 

Openly queer school teacher and House District 83 

candidate Noah Nordstrom makes the personal political 

by William Smythe 


The biggest 

change we can 

make comes 

down to neighbors 

working with 

neighbors—they 

can only divide us 

if we stay divided. 

I first met Noah at the 

Focus Awards last year. 

While mingling, I spotted 

a tall blonde man whose 

head towered above the 

crowd and had to say hello. 

Noah then introduced me 

to the brilliant Brandon 

Washington, 20, the 

youngest City Council 

candidate to ever run in 

Memphis. 

“I’m his campaign 

manager,” said Noah. “But, 

I’m interested in running 

myself.” 

A person of 

determination, often 

inspired by Memphis locals, 

Noah announced his run 

for House District 83 a few 

months later. The Memphis- 

Shelby City School Spanish 

teacher grew up in southern 

Illinois, but has happily 

called Tennessee home for 

a while. 

“I grew up in the 

Carbondale area, but 

around 14, we moved to 

Knoxville where I went to 

high school,” he shared. 

Noah connected the 

bridge between his 

upbringing and current 

political journey, “I went to 

a Christian school that was 

very against homosexuality. 

Coming out was very 

hard and meant I had to 

support myself starting at 

18. [Representative] Gloria 

Johnson and my political 

network embraced me 

during that time.” 

Noah briefly moved to 

Mexico to teach English 

after high school, before 

returning to Johnson City, 

TN and living in various 

parts of the state thereafter. 

“When I decided to come 

back to the U.S. to finish my 

degree, I knew I wanted to 

continue in education so I 

could make an impact on 

people’s lives,” he said. 

Noah hopes to be one 

of the few openly LGBT 

representatives in the 

Tennessee State House. 

In fact, his focus on 

issues uniquely affecting 

Tennessee like education 

reform, social reform, 

immigrant rights, clean 

energy, and anti-LGBT laws 

helped motivate Noah’s run 

in the first place. 

More specifically, Noah’s 

time in the MSCS system 

has greatly inspired his 

run, as well as his political 

views on school voucher 

programs. Noah explains 

the vouchers as, essentially, 

a discount for families. 

Within these programs, the 

state allocates $7,000 to 

each family for education 

costs. 

“This money will come 

out of our already limited 

school funding, which was 

not the initial proposal,” he 

lamented. “Recent bills, if 

passed, will allow that.” 

His major concern is that 

$7,000 is “way below most 

private school tuitions in 

Tennessee.” The average 

tuition is about $12,000, 

leaving $5,000 to be paid 

out-of-pocket. 

“That's not realistic for 

those families in need of 

these programs,” Noah 

explained. 

Having worked in Title 

1 schools, which cater 

to lower-income or 

impoverished families, Noah 

speaks from experience and 

knowledge of these families’ 

financial problems. 

“The families who will 

benefit,” he told me, “can 

already afford private 

schools. Look at Arizona— 

where this program is in 

effect—70-80% of the 

recipients are families 

who already use private 

schools.” 

Another item on Noah’s 

agenda will be a highspeed 

rail system that could 

connect all of Tennessee. 

“I went to college in [east 

Tennessee],” he told me, 


All images provided by Noah Nordstrom 

“so I certainly know both 

sides of this state. Being 

such a large state, we seem 

so divided. But, I’m certain 

once we unite our cities, we 

can unite our people.” 

When asked about other 

ways Noah hopes to unite 

Tennesseans, we explored 

recent challenges to LGBT 

rights. Noah explained 

how having more LGBT 

people represented in the 

government can help speak 

to current discrimination. 

“We’re not at the table,” 

said Noah, “but we’re 

certainly on the menu. The 

other side of the aisle likes 

to paint our community as 

perverts and predators. But, 

many of us are just people 

trying to better our city. All 

I ever want to do is teach 

your kids proper Spanish, 

not convert them.” 

He went on to share 

some of the current antiqueer 

laws being raised, 

“Right now, there are some 

other anti-LGBT measures 

being introduced, such as 

teachers being coerced to 

‘out’ their students to that 

student’s families. That right 

there is a clear invasion of 

privacy for the student, and 

may, in some cases, bring 

violence to that child. I want 

all children to feel safe and 

be safe in the classroom.” 

Anti-LGBT laws in 

Tennessee continue to 

challenge people in other 

aspects as well. Like with 

the House Bill 9, known 

colloquially as the Anti- 

Drag Bill, stopped in at least 

Shelby County. 

While in college, Noah 

joined up with a drag troupe 

to stage a performance in 

protest of the Anti-Drag Bill. 

“During that show, I 

played [TN Republican 

Senator] Marsha Blackburn 

in drag, doing a comedy 

act and a performance,” he 

shared. 

Noah’s event, attended 

by author and presidential 

candidate Marianne 

Williamson, was covered by 

the Washington Post and 

Independent UK, making 

it international news and 

further highlighting the 

severity of a reality where 

performances like Noah’s 

might be considered illegal. 

On the topic of outreach 

and what we as a 

community can do to make 

our voices heard (besides 

voting), Noah said, "We 

need more local voices 

showing up to school board 

meetings and council 

meetings. If you can come 

to a public forum and make 

your voice heard, that can 

work just as well as voting. 

But of course, also, get out 

and vote! Voices and votes 

work, especially locally." 

Noah added, "Your 

representatives are a lot 

more accessible than you 

realize…The biggest change 

we can make comes down 

to neighbors working with 

neighbors—They can only 

divide us if we stay divided.” 

EARLY VOTING BEGINS IN JULY 

You can find Noah Nordstrom on social media 

under @noahnordstromfortn 

Focus Mid-South Magazine does not endorse political candidates. 


Organize 

Educate 

Advocate 

We need volunteers throughout the 

community to fight for equal rights! 

TNEP.org 

@tnequality 

COMBUSTION CERAMICS 

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that support our community year-round. 

COMBUSTION CERAMI 

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arts+entertainment 

MengCheng 

梦城团 

Collective: 

An Invitation 

To Be 

How MengCheng 

梦城团 Collective 

builds community 

around art, 

friendship, and food 

by Kelly Seagraves 


From left to right: Yidan Zeng, LiLi Nacht, 

Neena Wang, and Thandi Cai 

photo by Jesse Butcher 

A typewritten letter, 

a familiar pattern on 

bedsheets, an old 

photograph, a potluck— 

to MengCheng 梦城团 

Collective, these things are 

to be considered art. 

“Eat together, dream 

together” is not only their 

tagline, but a part of their 

process. The collective 

believes that artmaking need 

not be a solitary pursuit, 

one where a piece is born to 

an artist to exist, unmoving 

and unchanging, within a 

gallery space. For them, art 

is not merely a product to be 

observed, but a process to 

be lived. When our everyday 

lives, shared experiences, 

and communal connections 

are interpreted as forms of 

artistic expression, we find 

ourselves taking pride in the 

quiet, unpolished parts of 

ourselves. 

MengCheng 梦城团 

Collective formed only 

a year and half ago, in a 

Zoom meeting between 

Neena Wang, LiLi Nacht, 

Yidan Zeng, and Thandi 

Cai. The group originally 

met in Memphis, where 

they spent their formative 

years before venturing their 

separate ways. While the 

group is currently spread 

out internationally—Los 

Angeles, Berlin, Philadelphia, 

and Chicago, respectively— 

they very intentionally 

carve out time to meet 

remotely, where they hold 

space for one another to 

share their unique ideas 

and experiences, process 

emotions, as well as plan 

their future as a collective. 

LiLi Nacht explained, 

“I think it’s crucial to 

acknowledge how special 

it is to be individuals in the 

cities where we are working 

now, while still having this 

shared experience of being 

from the same place, in the 

south, in Memphis. That 

has informed each person’s 

trajectory.” 


Collective was born out of 

Nacht’s idea to connect 

the four childhood friends, 

who all chose what Neena 

Wang described as a “rare 

career path” for members 

of the community they 

grew up in. As individuals, 

their art practices are 

multidisciplinary, fluid, and 

oftentimes indistinguishable 

from their vocational jobs 

and activism: drawing, 

painting, writing, film, 

photography, textiles, 

design, performance, 

organizing, and education, 

just to name a few. 

Thandi Cai elaborated on 

this, adding, “I think we’re all 

interested in answering that 

same question: What can we 

identify that’s unique among 

us in the experiences we’ve 

had, and how can we use 

that to our advantage and 

share that with others?” 

While they explore 

many similar themes and 

concepts—such as identity, 

culture, heritage, and 

belonging—in their individual 

practices, their work as 

MengCheng 梦城团 Collective 

unites their mediums, 

expands the conversation 

surrounding these shared 

themes, and sets the table 

for community involvement 

and storytelling. 

“A lot of what we talk 

about and what we want 

to uphold are often what 

has not been traditionally 

given significance or value 

by mainstream culture. 

Through our work, we want 

to celebrate practices that 

we’ve grown up with in our 

own communities, done by 

our parents, like potlucks, 

that are oftentimes not seen 

as big, fancy traditions, 

but they were actually the 


I’m really drawn to creating spaces and opportunities 

for vulnerability and conversations that otherwise we 

would not have a safe space to have, and to change 

and grow together collectively. 

- Yidan Zeng 

lifeblood of what happens 

behind the scenes,” spoke 

Yidan Zeng. “How can we 

create opportunities to 

learn together in all the 

messy ways?” 


Collective’s summer 2023 

residency with Crosstown 

Arts was their first major 

project, and the first time 

the group had been back in 

Memphis for any meaningful 

amount of time. 

An excerpt from their 

collective artist statement 

reads, “Through an art 

making process centered 

around food, ritual, and 

gathering, we create 

spaces to involve the 

Southern Chinese-American 

community in their own 

archive making, healing, 

and resource building.” And 

that is precisely what the 

collective did during their 

residency. 

Their show featured a 

broad variety of works: 

large paintings, cyanotypes 

featuring MengCheng 梦城 

团 Collective’s families and 

communities on quilted 

fabric, vibrant risograph 

prints, a family photo 

wall, large, whimsical 

sculptures, and a handtyped 

spatial poetry 

series. The centerpiece 

of the show was a table 

with 12 handmade place 

settings, designed, built, 

and painted by members of 

the collective. Around this 

table, they hosted 8 weekly 

potlucks, inviting the 

community to eat together, 

dream together, and exist 

as themselves within a 

shared space. 

The potlucks were 

intended to be participatory, 

collaborative works 

between the artists 

and the community, 

held to demonstrate 

our commonalities and 

connections and overcome 

the unseen boundaries that 

divide us. “My whole life, I’ve 

struggled to connect with 

people on a really deep level, 

so from a young age I was 

always trying to find creative 

ways to bridge those gaps,” 

Cai spoke. “It can be really 

transformational when you 

invite people in every aspect 

of themselves.” 

In speaking with the 

members of MengCheng 

梦城团 Collective, I found 

that their stated intention 

was overcome by what 

they actually accomplished 

during their time here. 

The four shared stories of 

interactions with guests at 

their communal potlucks. 

Generational gaps were 

bridged. Cultural barriers, 

torn down. There were tears, 

there was laughter, there 

was recognition. There was 

a profound sense of being 

seen, heard, and embraced 

completely. 

A perfect example of 

this is an experience Nacht 

had after one of the guided 

meditations she led. Nacht 

shared, “A woman arrived 

without knowing much 

about who we were or what 

we were doing. At the end 

of the meditation, we were 

checking on everyone, and 

I noticed this person was 

completely in tears. I went 

up to ask if she was okay, 

or if there was anything she 

needed. She mentioned that 

day was the anniversary of 

her father’s death.” 

An ancestral altar was 

erected at each gathering, 

and guests were invited to 

light a candle for a member 

of their community that 

made them feel a sense of 

belonging. 


Nacht continued, “I think 

for that person it really 

was an immediate healing 

experience to be there with 

us and to have that space at 

the altar. Despite variations 

in how different cultures 

approach ritual practices, I 

think everyone can benefit 

from acknowledging 

what came before and 

remembering the people 

who are no longer with us 

anymore who are still tied 

to the present day and the 

future.” 

When asked if the group’s 

feelings about the city they 

grew up in had changed 

having shared so many 

moving experiences with 

guests at their show, Zeng 

responded, “I remember 

feeling like I couldn’t ever 

call Memphis my home, or 

that it wasn’t fully mine. But 

last summer was a really 

powerful reminder of just 

how loved and welcome we 

were at every turn. We were 

supported by the Memphis 

community.” 

So many of us understand 

what it feels like to be 

othered by society— for 

what we do, who we love, 

where we come from. 

“Being Chinese in 

Memphis always made me 

feel a bit alienated. Being 

queer in my family made 

me feel alienated. Being a 

woman in arts made me 

feel alienated. I never felt 

like there was a home that 

I could exist in as my full 

self until MengCheng 梦城团 

Collective. I felt, maybe for 

the first time, that this is a 

home where all the aspects 

of me are embraced and 

celebrated and loved,” Wang 

shared. 

This very candid admission 

reminded me just how 

important it is to be radically 

compassionate, and how 

essential it is to create 

and maintain spaces that 

invite community healing, 

dialogue, and connection. 

If we continue to put in the 

work, Memphis could very 

well be that place. 

Wang commented, “In 

every city I’ve been to where 

I try to do art, I’m met with 

skepticism and barriers, and 

people are not trying to help 

you. In Memphis, it feels like 

anything is possible with the 

support we have from the 

community.” 

Memphis shows up. We 

give generously of ourselves. 

We are proud of our city, 

warts and all. “I think 

there is this spirit of open 

and limitless possibility in 

Memphis,” Nacht said. “I 

really think there’s very few 

cities like Memphis left.” 

Before my interview 

with MengCheng 梦城团 

Collective, the idea was to 

center this story around 

their sense of pride as 

queer, Asian-American 

artists. What I realized after 

speaking to them is this: 

Pride can be represented as 

a constellation—an image we 

dream up from a cluster of 

stars, each little point of light 

a small part of ourselves, a 

vertex, extending its arms 

out to reach another and 

become whole. 

We are constellations, 

suspended in a galaxy full 

of other constellations, 

illuminating a common sky. 

Together we tell a story. 

“Our art is our life,” Wang 

said. And when we think 

about it that way, doesn’t 

it inspire us to live more 

authentically, vulnerably, 

bravely, fully embracing the 

love and pain and mess and 

joy of it all? 

Follow MengCheng 梦城团 

Collective on Instagram 

@mengcheng.tn for updates. 

DON’T MISS 

THESE EVENTS! 

天地之间 , 我们安家 

Between Heaven and Earth, 

We Make Our Home AAPI Heritage 

Month Show Group Exhibition 

Opening Reception 

Saturday • May 25 4-8 pm 

UrbanArt Commission 

422 N. Cleveland St, Memphis, TN 38104 

Bluff City Chinese 

Thandi Cai’s Upcoming Documentary 

Premieres at the 

27th Indie Memphis Film Festival 

November 14-17 

photos courtesy 

MengCheng 梦城团 Collective 


ENJOY 8 SPECTACULAR NIGHTS OF ENTERTAINMENT WITH YOUR CHOSEN FAMILY 

FOR $35 PER SHOW! LEARN MORE AT ORPHEUM-MEMPHIS.COM/SEASON.

MOVIE 8 PM 

SHOW 10 PM 

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LADY PLUTO 

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STANISHA 

BONET DUPREE 

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KING 

PLAYTONIC 

SPECIAL 

GUEST 

HOOP REBEL 

Thursday May 30 TH 

Gates open at 7 PM 

Summer Drive-in 

$35 General | $50 VIP 

Admission is one vehicle 

For more info 

please visit 

our website 

midsouthpride.org 

WEDNESDAY 

MOSS 

WHAT’S ON 

YOUR ARTS 

AGENDA? 

We are your 

single source for 

performances, 

plays, music, 

art shows, 

and more. 

Working behind the scenes 

for 60 years to grow the foundation 

of Memphis’ arts.

community 

Loving Our 

True Colors 

My True Colors author Cassie Brooks is 

using her story to inspire others 

by Tricia Dewey 

With her third children's 

book titled My True Colors 

scheduled to come out this 

June, accounting-analystby-day 

Cassie Brooks is all 

about making space—for 

her children’s books, her 

LGBTQIA+ advocacy, and 

finally for herself. 

My True Colors tells the 

story of an 8-years-old 

trans girl named Molly * , 

based on an actual young 

person Brooks met as the 

children’s group director at 

a local Unitarian Universalist 

church. Brooks got 

permission to use Molly’s 

story, and felt motivated to 

share it as it's an important 

narrative rarely told. 

In the story and in real 

life, Molly knew she was 

a girl since she was 4 

years old. Molly’s real-life 

parents recently agreed to 

let her change her name 

and socially transition. In 

the story, she is bullied by 

some kids at school, and her 

parents question whether 

they are doing the right 

thing by supporting her. 

Eventually, Molly’s parents 

within the story decide to 

stand by their child, and 

she even makes a friend 

who tries to understand her 

pronouns. 

Toward the end of the 

story, it's superhero day at 

school, and Molly is going 

to be her own favorite 

superhero. She has a cake 

with the pride flag, and 

she's showing up in her true 

colors. The story describes 

some of the struggles that 

Molly and her family have, 

but their ultimate support 

is something that Brooks 

feels strongly needs to be 

represented. 

Brooks says, “Children 

need to see themselves 

represented in stories in 

a positive way. They need 

to find out who they are 

and find that there are 

people that love them, just 

as they are, for who they 

are. There's a high suicide 

rate for the ones that aren't 

supported or that don't 

see themselves. It’s just so 

important for them to see 

themselves as they are.” 

Brooks plans to release 

My True Colors with the 

support of OUTMemphis 

and several members and 

organizations in the local 

trans community, who also 

helped her finance the 

book. Local artist Katie 

Jones, who is a parent of 

two trans kids, illustrated 

the book. Brooks says that 

she hopes to continue to 

build the support around 

the book into a community 

project. 

She says, “My hope for 

doing this is to create a 

resource, to create that 

space in a children's book 

that can show where 

support is happening. A lot 

of children are accepting 

of it, but they might not 

understand it. It's the adults 

who are not okay and don’t 


Children need to see themselves 

represented in stories in a positive way. 

photos courtesy Cassandra Brooks 

understand, and the older 

they are, the more those 

biases are passed down to 

their kids. I am just hoping 

that by having a resource 

and some of this support, 

it will be a tool to help with 

understanding.” 

Brooks also thinks that it 

would be wonderful for the 

story to make a “banned 

book” list. She said, “A lot 

of people gravitate towards 

[banned books] whether it's 

out of curiosity or because 

they realize, hey, there's 

something in there that 

the government or certain 

associations are trying to 

control, and they want to 

just kind of look at it or 

support it.” 

The idea for writing 

children’s books came 

initially from her son Elijah 

amid conversations about 

not fitting in at school. Elijah 

was 6 and a half at the time 

(now, 9). He is of mixed 

descent, Black and white, 

tall for his age, and Brooks 

says he does not know a 

stranger. 

In her 2021 book, Sticks 

and Stones, Elijah expresses 

his worry: “They say I’m 

weird. I’m too big and I’m 

too loud. But I’m not, am I 

mom?” The mom responds 

by showing Elijah some of 

the crystals and the wand 

she uses in practicing her 

religion, paganism. Like 

Brooks, the mom is pagan 

and uses this idea to let Elijah 

know that she knows who 

she is, and she is ok if people 

think that’s weird because 

other people don’t decide 

who she is, or what she does. 

Her 2022 book, I See the 

Moon and the Moon Sees 

Me, which has won two 

awards including a Richard 

Wright Literary Award from 

the Memphis Public Library, 

continues with this theme 

of support, this time finding 

comfort in nature. 

Another part of her 

journey of the past few 

years has been Brooks' 

own coming out story. She 

grew up in a very traditional 

church, and continued 

attending into adulthood. 

She says that she probably 

would not have processed 

her own thoughts about 

her sexuality if she did not 

step away from religion and 

the church. Brooks shared 

that her involvement with 

the Unitarian Universalist 

Church and paganism has 

allowed her more freedom, 

less rules and less structure. 

She had been married to 

her husband for 16 years, 

but an experience she had 

with her best friend that 

gave her that “butterfly” 

feeling—something she 

described as an “electric 

shock, that was even hard to 

explain”—opened her mind 

and her eyes. At 38-yearsold, 

Brooks came out to 

her husband as bisexual. 

Though her husband 

gave her the liberty to 

explore her feelings, after 

reading Perfectly Clear by 

Michelle Le Clair, which is 

about coming out of the 

closet in your 40s, Brooks 

subsequently decided that 

she did want a divorce. 

Brooks and her friend 

remained best friends and 

never pursued a romantic 

relationship. After thinking 

about her experience she 

finds that “most of us, if 

we are on that precipice 

of coming out… it's really 

about changing your life, 

turning your life upside 

down. There are a lot of 

unknowns.” 

She is grateful to be 

living her truth in a way 

that feels right for her. 

Brooks' decision also lets 

her be an inspiration for 

others. Brooks said, “My 

temperament allows me 

to be comfortable enough 

to put myself out there, so 

maybe somebody else will 

be comfortable enough to 

do the same.” 

Brooks says that when 

we're seen, we become a 

safe place for others and 

may even allow them to see 

themselves as who they 

are. Brooks is working to 

create those safe spaces 

for children and adults and 

hopes that more people will 

be willing to come along 

with her on the journey. 

Follow Cassie Brooks at 

@cassieweaverbrooks for 

updates on My True Colors 

and any future projects. 

* Focus has chosen to 

use a different name for 

the main character of My 

True Colors as to protect 

the minor mentioned in 

this article. 


life 

Advertorial 

Books That Make Us Proud 

Our book review of 

Nothing Ever Just Disappears: 

Seven Hidden Queer Histories 

by Diarmuid Hester 

by Terri Schlichenmeyer 

At a Glance: 

Nonfiction 

Pegasus Books, 2024 

$29.95 

358 pages 


Author Diarmuid Hester 

photo courtesy Diarmuid Hester and Pegasus Books 

What do you think of when you imagine your safe 

space? A palatial home with soaring windows or a humble 

cabin in a glen? A ramshackle treehouse, a window seat, a 

coffeehouse table, or just a bed with a special blanket? It's 

the place where your mind unspools and creativity surges, 

where you relax, process, and think. It's the place you truly 

belong, just like in new book Nothing Ever Just Disappears: 

Seven Hidden Queer Histories. 

Clinging to "a spit of land on the south-east coast 

of England" is Prospect Cottage, where artist and 

filmmaker Derek Jarman lived until he died of AIDS in 

1994. It's a simple four-room place, but it was important 

to him. Not long ago, Nothing Ever Just Disappears 

author Diarmuid Hester visited Prospect Cottage to 

examine the importance of queer places in the history of 

arts and culture. 

In his classic book, Maurice, writer E.M. Forster imagined 

the lives of two men who loved one another but could 

never be together and their romantic meeting near a 

second-floor window. Unfortunately, though, Foster didn't 

allow publication of the novel until after his death, in fear it 

was "too radical." 

Patriarchal power, says Hester, largely controlled who 

was able to occupy certain spots in London at the turn of 

the last century. Still, "queer suffragettes" there managed 

to leave their mark: women like Vera Holme, chauffeur to 

suffragette leader Emmeline Pankhurst; writer Virginia 

Woolf; newspaperwoman Edith Craig, and others who 

"made enormous contributions to the cause." 

Josephine Baker grew up in poverty, learning to dance 

to keep warm, but she had Paris, the city that "made her 

into a star..." Artist and "transgender icon" Claude Cahun 

loved Jersey, the place where she worked to "show just 

how much gender is masquerade." Writer James Baldwin 

felt most at home in a small town in France. B-filmmaker 

Jack Smith embraced New York – and vice versa. And on 

a personal journey, Hester mourns his friend, artist Kevin 

Killian, who lived and died in his beloved San Francisco. 

Juxtaposing place and person, Nothing Ever Just 

Disappears features an interesting way of presenting the 

idea that both are intertwined deeper than it may seem 

at first glance. The point is made with grace and lyrical 

prose, in a storyteller's manner that offers back-story and 

history as author Diarmuid Hester bemoans the loss of 

"queer spaces." 

This is a lovely, meaningful book—though readers may 

argue the points made as they pass through the places 

included here. Landscapes change with history all the time; 

don't modern "queer spaces" count? 

That's a fair question to ask, one that could bring these 

"hidden" histories full circle. We often preserve important 

monuments from history. In memorializing the actions of 

the queer artists who've worked for the future, the places 

that inspired them are worth enshrining, too. 

Reading this book may be the most relaxing, soothing 

thing you'll do this month. Try Nothing Ever Just 

Disappears. It really hits the spot. 


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arts+entertainment 

no. 12 

Another World 

by Lena Chipman 

This cavern of spectacle 

This sky of brilliant stars 

I want to be with you 

I want to live with you 

Touch all of your sparkle, all of your glimmer 

Bask in your glow 

Skin upon skin, hot scent of sweat 

Scream the words, whisper the moans 

One people, the truth of pure love 

Together we rise... 

Our paths are winding 

Our lives entwined 

Across the largest seas, the longest journeys 

We're never apart 

Let me in (your worlds, your lives) 

See me (your eyes, your hearts) 

I want to go back 

I never want to leave 

My chains are gold, the hooks cold iron 

Pulling me back 

Tearing me away from you 

I wish it wasn't so 

But I will always be there for you 

If you'll let me in (your worlds, your lives) 

If you'll see me (your eyes, your hearts) 

If you'll remember me (your thoughts, your words) 

Promise me you won't forget? 

And I'll dance with you forever 

I'll tear myself free 

Bloody wounds to soft scars 

But then I'll fly to you 

And I'll kiss you in crimson joy 

Lena Chipman (she/her/hers) is an out and proud transgender woman, 

technology executive, hacker, activist, and writer. She channels the joy and 

sorrow of being a lifelong queer in Memphis into bittersweet bites of text. 

My True Colors 

by Cassie Brooks 

In a world where shadows whisper, Lucy stood, 

cloaked in courage, misunderstood. 

Her sibling's eyes unveiled a truth, 

in Mom's attire, a quest for youth. 

A moment frozen, judgment in the air, 

yet parents spoke, their love aware. 

"It's not a phase," her mom declared, 

"We'll stand by Lucy, let her be prepared." 

Through laughter cruel and names unkind, 

Lucy's spirit, resilient, would find 

a friend in Elijah, understanding and true, 

a bond blossomed in a world askew. 

Tears cascaded, a storm within, 

but Elijah, with flowers, offered kin. 

Yellow blooms, a smiling face. 

An ally found in that challenging space. 

Amid everyday chatter, a friendship grew, 

Lucy and Elijah, hearts anew. 

Superheroes and capes of pride, 

a tale of courage, nowhere to hide. 

On Friday's stage, in colors bold, 

Lucy stood, a story to be told. 

"I'm me, I'm Lucy," she proclaimed, 

a hero born, prejudices tamed. 

Applause echoed in the classroom's embrace, 

teacher's words, a celebration of grace. 

"Show your true colors," the call resounds, 

in unity, acceptance abounds. 

Cassie Brooks is an award-winning children's author of the 'Magick in Me' 

series, kickass queer mom with a black-belt, and LBGTQ advocate trying 

to figure out this thing called life. 

38 Music | Nov+Dec 2023 | focuslgbt.com

It’s Just You 

by Whitney Carter 

You write my music like you understand my soul and I didn’t know I wanted you to 

You take my words and turn them into reality and that was never something I asked of you 

But it’s you, it’s just you 

You find the chords in our chaos and you make sense of it all, when the walls cave in and 

I’m drowning you catch my fall 

I don’t know why or how you do what you do 

But it’s you, it’s just you. 

The euphoria is so sweet, but scary at best when I close my eyes, I can feel the rhythm of 

your heartbeat in my chest, I wasn’t searching for you but you were there 

Both of us creating music to a life that wasn’t fair 

You’re a journey I’m taking, a roller coaster I wanna ride, I’m not sure if I believe in fate, I’m 

not sure what I believe is true, but one thing I know for sure is it’s all you, it’s just you 

Whitney Carter (she/they) is a native of Mississippi, who’s been able to call the Memphis-area home for almost seven 

years. She is a poet, writer, and deep thinker who genuinely loves to love. She has a bachelor’s degree in journalism 

and a master’s in human and social services. 

Want to see our full collection of 

The Prism Pages? Visit our website. 

The Prism Pages is a literary section in the magazine where original works of poetry 

and fiction from the community will be showcased. As a publishing company, we are 

committed to saving space for up-and-coming LGBTQ+ writers. 

Interested in submitting something? Email editor@focusmidsouth.com. 

This section is brought to you by the Focus Center Foundation 501(c)3. To learn how to 

support this and become a sponsor, please email info@focuscenterfoundation.org. 


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music 

Queer Up Your Playlist 

with Mid-South Pride 

Let Mid-South Pride Fest 2024 

Take Over Your Music List! 

Queer Up Your Playlist is our series featuring awesome music 

by LGBTQ artists and allies—many of them local, all of them 

southern. This round we’ve got an extra special takeover—all four 

artists will perform at this year’s Mid-South Pride Fest! 

So, check out our Spotify playlist or catch them live on stage in 

downtown Memphis this June 1st! 

“Same Old Country Love Song” 

You may recognize Brian Falduto from the now iconic cult 

classic, School of Rock (2003), where he played lovable, aspiring 

stylist Billy, a.k.a. "Fancy Pants." 

Brian Falduto 

Nashville, TN 

Los Angeles, CA 

Now all grown up, Brian has since transformed into a bonafide 

gay country artist. He got TikTok buzzing last summer with the 

release of "Same Old Country Love Song,” an LGBTQ+ country 

music anthem for those previously ignored by the country 

music scene. The song was greeted with a flood of positive 

encouragement, numerous viral videos, and love from fans. It’s 

now the lead single in Gay Country, Brian’s latest album that 

debuted this past March. 

Brian Falduto 

photo by Mia Isabella 


Elevation 

Memphis 

Memphis, TN 

“Groovy Little Babe” 

Featuring core band members Derrin Lee, La-Shon Henderson, 

and Melanie Pierce, Elevation Memphis is a unique music 

experience fusing classic rock, blues, classic soul, R&B, and country. 

Since the band came together in 2019, they’ve brought joy with 

exciting covers for audiences in Memphis and beyond, and even 

recently added a Tina Turner Tribute act. They’ll perform many of 

their covers at Pride this year, and you can hear Elevation originals 

like the wonderfully smooth “Groovy Little Babe” on Spotify and 

other music platforms. 

Elevation Memphis core members: Derrin 

Lee, La-Shon Henderson, and Melanie Pierce 

photo courtesy of the band 

Handsome Girl 

Pretty Boy 

Memphis, TN 

“I Don’t Know Her” 

It all started with a few flyers posted around town calling 

for some kickass musicians interested in playing, singing and 

screaming about the grind, queer love, and horror movies. 

Memphis-based Handsome Girl Pretty Boy consists of Christy on 

guitar, Maddy and Joi who take turns on both bass and guitar, and 

drummer Giullian (aka Heathen). Since 2023, HGPB has played 

local venues and house shows, consistently spreading the spirit 

of silliness through the power of post/pop punk. Be sure to catch 

their crowd favorite “I Don’t Know Her” on the Hustle N Glow 

stage at Pride this year! 

Handsome Girl Pretty Boy 

photo courtesy the band 

“Just We” 

(ft. Jordan Occasionally) 

Mak Ro 

Memphis, TN 

Mak Ro is a duo of Filipino-American cousins Eric Makapugay 

(multi-instrumentalist/producer/songwriter) and Kristoffer Ruaro 

(singer/producer/songwriter). The Memphis duo produces soulful 

sounds with influences from pop, R&B, and rock, and enjoys 

fusing a variety of genres. Since 2019, they’ve independently 

written, produced and released a discography of 18 songs. 

Mak Ro’s most recent single “Just We” (featuring Jordan 

Occasionally), is a flirty pop/R&B dance track heavily inspired by 

conversations around queer romance. 

Mak Ro 

photo by Kris Ruaro 


life 

Minnassa Wellness 

HOROSCOPES 

Psychic intuitive, Minnassa, shares her astrology 

readings for a better May and June 

TAURUS 

APR 21 - MAY 20, 2024 

Element: Earth 

Quality: Fixed 

Ruling Planet: Venus 

Traits: Loyal, ambitious, generous, outgoing, 

and stubborn 

New Moon in Taurus: May 7, 2024 

GEMINI 

MAY 21 - JUN 21, 2024 

Element: Air 

Quality: Mutable 

Ruling Planet: Mercury 

Traits: Social, whimsical, wise, curious, and 

indecisive 

New Moon in Gemini: June 6, 2024 

Summer Solstice 

June 20, 2024 – 3:50 pm CDT 

It’s Pride Month! Here are two trans icons and their signs, in 

honor of the Stonewall Rebellion that started it all. 

Marsha P. Johnson 

August 24 - Virgo 

Organized & efficient (on the cusp so 

she also had some Leo fire!) 

Sylvia Rivera 

July 2 - Cancer 

Nurturing & intuitive 


ASTROLOGY FOR ALL SIGNS 

ARIES 

(Fire-Cardinal) 

Do it up big time! Now is the time to step into your 

Divine Feminine power and move like the Queen on 

the chess board. Anyway you want to—Do it! 

TAURUS 

(Earth-Fixed) 

During your season, dear Taurus, choose balance. 

Find joy in the mundane and the exquisite; walk the line 

of your humanity and divinity. 

GEMINI 

(Air-Mutable) 

It’s your season sweet Gemini. Do your due diligence 

and bring that idea to life. The path may have its 

challenges; just put one foot in front of the other. 

CANCER 

(Water-Cardinal) 

Fill your cup up! Now is the time to choose those 

interactions, relationships, and ways of being that fill 

you up! 

LEO 

(Fire-Fixed) 

Connect with your sacral chakra and create your vision 

from that sacred space. The world is your oyster— 

create with intention. 

VIRGO 

(Earth-Mutable) 

Balance, dear Virgo—Spend/save, live it up/chill, 

human/divine. Move with intention and verve. 

LIBRA 

(Air-Cardinal) 

Pay attention! Be aware and beware of deceptive 

folks. Follow your gut! If it doesn’t feel right, it’s not!! . 

SCORPIO 

(Water-Fixed) 

Connect with the Divine Flow. Now is the time to be 

present, still, and living in the moment. 

SAGITTARIUS 

(Fire-Mutable) 

Step into the flame and allow it to remove all that no 

longer serves your higher good. Be prepared to move 

in a new way. 

CAPRICORN 

(Earth-Cardinal) 

Continue the work you are doing. Be aware of the 

signs from your divine guidance for your next steps. 

AQUARIUS 

(Air-Fixed) 

Get out of your head. Get those folks who keep 

chattering about nothing out of your ear. Time to 

connect with a higher source!! 

PISCES 

(Water-Mutable) 

Step into your heart chakra. Release the daydream 

and become ever-present to what you are feeling now. 

From this place you can start afresh. 

Mindfulness in the Workplace 

@MinnassaWellness 

* These horoscopes are for entertainment and inspirational purposes only. 

LGBTQ+ 

WELCOMING CONGREGATION 

 

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2024 Issue 3 May/Jun Focus - Mid-South Magazine

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