Meet The Staff: Lani

Welcome Lani Nelson (any pronouns) to the DC Center! Lani will be joining as the Case Worker and Advocacy Specialist for the Anti-Violence Project at the center. Lani is passionate about equity and access for people of all shapes, sizes, shades, backgrounds, and abilities. Having grown up in the DMV area and spending many years in D.C. Lani is eager to offer support and alleviate the burden of the harm that can come with navigating the world as a queer person.

Birthdate, Astro Sign

December 27th, Capricorn.

Rising: Gemini Sun: Capricorn Moon: Leo

 

Where are you originally from?

I’m West African, however I lived in North Carolina as a young child until my mom and I moved to Maryland so I could start school.

 

Why did you start working at the DC Center?

I wanted to serve and enrich the lives of people from my community that look like me and navigate the world in the way that I do.

 

What has been your favorite part about working at the DC Center?

Getting to know the rest of our wonderful staff and community members.

 

What is your music anthem?

“Home”- Mj Rodriguez & Billy Porter (As performed on “POSE”)

(Bonus: Hold yuh – Gyptian Ft. Nicki Minaj).

 

What is your favorite part about the LGBTQ+ community?

All of the beautifully unique ways we express ourselves! From our clothes, Hair (or lack thereof), accessories, dance moves, music, humor and our multifaceted  creativity!

 

What is your favorite spot in DC and what do you do there?

I’m tied between Live- K karaoke, Thurst Lounge, and His and hers.

What is your favorite queer movie?

“Moonlight”.

 

What color would you paint the White House, given the chance?

Mahogany brown , for the African Americans both enslaved and free that built it and many other government monuments and buildings in the city.

Who do you look up to in the queer community?

Langston Hughes.