How do you identify, and how do you describe the energy you bring into a space?

Transfemme/nonbinary with she/they pronouns. I always try and bring an effervescent and accepting energy into every space I’m in. I may look intimidating but try to still radiate a welcoming energy. As an outsider most of my life I never want anyone to feel like I’m “cool girl-ing” them because that’s the grossest thing in my opinion.

What’s something that’s bringing you joy or grounding you right now?

Love Island USA and 90 Day Fiancé really holding me down.

What does Pride mean to you—this year, in this moment?

Pride this year means more than ever as trans people across the nation are losing their rights, healthcare, and autonomy. I keep seeing “protect the dolls” as a phrase being propped up, but who is actually protecting us year round out of the public eye? Trans women, men, and especially trans kids need tangible protecting more than ever and to see that they deserve to live life proud of who they are and out of the shadows.

How does your queerness inform your creativity, work, or perspective on the world?

Queerness is so deeply rooted in my creative process and world outlook. Growing up, so much of the media, art, and pop culture I absorbed was inherently queer without me realizing it. I was a latchkey kid raised by Pee-wee Herman, To Wong Foo, celebrity gossip magazines, and VH1.

What role does cannabis play in your life or creative process?

The plant is a huge part of my life. I’ve used it medically since my late teens and administered it to my mum during cancer treatment. Moving to California to take care of her is what inspired me to work within the education and advocacy of cannabis space. Even just a simple sesh has connected me with some of the best people I know and gotten me some of the coolest jobs and opportunities.

What rituals help you feel connected to your queerness or your community? Do they intersect with your cannabis use?

Honestly the smallest rituals like just hanging out watching TV, playing video games, dancing, or grabbing a cute meal with my queer and trans friends help me feel really connected to my queerness and community. While I cherish the energy of large Pride events, the smaller, quieter, safe moments together really ground me in community.

Cannabis and queerness both carry histories of marginalization and resistance. How do you see those histories intersecting in your life or work today?

I truly walk in the grace of every LGBTQIA pioneer, especially the Black trans women, that fought tooth and nail before me for a safer, more just world. This year I’ve genuinely felt an ancestral Sinners-style energy working through all of us to persevere. I even found out within the last few years my abuelo, a Mexican immigrant, grew and sold cannabis to support his large family—daughters (all divas in their own right).

What’s your dream sesh—the setting, the vibe, and who’s there (or not)?

I’ve long said my dream is to shut down Disneyland for a private after-dark event with just my closest friends (and Sweetpea). Everyone’s phones are taken away so we can have the ultimate magical sesh.

Describe your high self in three words.

I had to ask a good friend who really knows my high self and they said “nostalgic, engaged, comforting,” which truly made my heart grow three sizes.