Meet the Staff: Raven

Welcome Raven (she/her) to the DC Center! Raven will be joining the DC Center team as a Health/Wellness Intern. She is a student at George Washington University studying Women, Gender, and Sexualities Studies. Raven looks forward to helping better the health and wellness of the DC queer community alongside amazing staff and facilitators.

 

Birthdate, Astro Sign

June 4th / Gemini 

Where are you originally from? 

I was born in Long Island, New York, but grew up in New Hampshire. 

Why did you start working at the DC Center? 

I was looking for an avenue to become more involved in the queer community in DC. The DC Center has been looking out for our local community for a decade now, and I wanted to finally join them in that effort.

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

The best part of this internship has been everyone I have met at the center. The folks at the DC Center are truly wonderful people and always have my best interest in mind. 

What is your music anthem? 

Probably Barbie Girl by Aqua. The new Barbie movie is literally going to rewire my brain.

What is your favorite part about the LGBTQ+ community? 

I love the instant understanding shared between members of the LGBTQ+ community. No matter your background, you can show each other acceptance based on your shared struggles and shared dreams. 

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

The Diner on 18th Street in Adams Morgan! It’s open 24 hours and the perfect place to hang out after the bars. 

What is your favorite queer movie?  

My favorite queer movie is His – I Didn’t think I Would Fall in Love. It’s an incredible Japanese BL movie with an even better sequel!

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

The lesbian flag. 

Who do you look up to in the queer community?

I look up to a lot of queer artists who have pioneered different forms of self expression through music and fashion. Janelle Monáe, Holland, and Steinberg are some of my biggest queer inspirations. 

 

Gay Day at the Zoo FAQs

View the image above or text below with commonly asked questions in regards to GDATZ!

When & where is GDATZ held at?
May 1st at Smithsonian’s National Zoo.

Are there any planned events at the zoo?
A detailed schedule is to come soon.

How do I get tickets to the zoo?
Free pass reservations are required to enter zoo.
(Reserve at tinyurl.com/GDATZ2022)

What GDATZ merchandise can I buy and where?
GDATZ merchandise can be purchased at our pop up nights, launch party, or on May 1st.

Where can I see the full schedule of events for the day?

Click here for the full schedule!

 

The DC Center Team: Meet Jazmin

This is a weekly newsletter to put a face to the staff at the DC Center. Every week we will be featuring a staff member. This week, meet Jazmin! Jazmin is in charge of coordinating much of the day to day activities here at the center. Without Jazmin at the office there is no way that The DC Center would be able to function as smoothly as it does.

Jazmin Sutherlin             

December 6, Sagittarius
Why did you start working at The DC Center?

I started working at The DC Center because I wanted to make a difference and be a visible example to my community and the world that we all matter and have a place in the journey to equality and justice.

What is your music anthem?

Jennifer Holiday – Woman’s Got the Power

What is your favorite part about the LGBTQ+ community?

My favorite part of the LGBTQ+ community is the compassion and creativity that we provide and share with each other and the world.  We have been through so much as a community but yet we love and live and support each other unconditionally.

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

My favorite spot in DC is the Tidal Basin, with all of it’s glorious monuments. I go there to think and dream, plotting out my own legacy one step at a time.

What do you think the LGBTQ+ community needs to improve on?

We have found common ground in our identities and individual journeys  but now it is time to deal with the issues we face concerning class, race, respect and true equality. There is a major need to acknowledge and focus on the struggles and history of the transgender community of color for their sacrifices because they are responsible for many of the benefits that the LGBT community are able to take advantage of today.

What is your favorite Queer movie?

To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar (1995)

What has been your favorite moment while working in The DC Center?

My favorite moment has been watching the peer educators grow and blossom into full fledged activists.

What clothing item is a staple in your wardrobe?

I love all types of clothing, my must have list will always include eye lashes….Yes to me, make-up is clothing, final answer (lol)

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

I would paint the White House white, pink and blue for the trans flag. The colors aren’t too complicated and they mean so much to me and my community.

Who do you most look up to in the queer community?

There is no doubt in my mind, Earlene Budd is my personal hero!  Knowing her and working with and for her down through the years has shaped my personal advocacy journey so much.  Her leadership, professionalism, boldness and compassion continues to inspire me  each day. Grace comes from experience and endurance,  and I can only hope to be so graceful as I grow as an advocate day by day.