The Queerceañera Project

I have lived in San Jose all my life. I came out at a later age, after college. I am a Queer, 2Spirit, Chicana. I am privileged to have access to knowledge of Queer Latino writers, politicians, arts and community leaders--- but I had to look for them. Nowhere in the local community were they being showcased. Many times, it seemed as if they had to choose Gay or Latino. If they wanted to be in the Latino sphere they gave up their queer identity or for acceptance in the mainstream White LGBT movement, they hid their Latino heritage. Few have been privileged to witnessed Gay, Latino authenticity on a large stage from great such as Cherrie Moraga, Tatiana de la Tierra, and Dan Guerrero. 


In my work, in the community, I saw Latin@ baby dykes, butchas, and young gay men express that the only time that they felt accepted or free was at the club, getting faded and involved in other high-risk activities. I heard from preteens and teens who couldn’t wait to get out of the house and read newspaper articles of the ones who just could not take it anymore. I also saw older gay men not willing to express themselves as sexual beings and avoided falling in love for fear of having to choose between their loyalties to their families’ comfort and denial and their respect and commitment to their partners.  At moments, I find myself wondering, “Am I the only one who feels this way?”


The Latino community is diverse---multiple waves of migration from multiple countries all experiencing a distinct culture and community climate. The LGBT is as unique as the members who encompass it. We are whole and broken, united and fragmented, all at once. Arts and culture events have healing effects of reflection, expression, and undeniable presence. 


This project is a glimpse into our realities of joy, sorrow, frustration, and anger, but especially a celebration of our resilient spirit.

Keywords: LGBT, Queer, GAY, Latino, Youth, Latina, Native American