I first shared writer/filmmaker Leo Herrera’s beautiful poem “Unmistakable Softness” in 2022 and couldn’t let Pride Month go by without sharing it again.
Leo’s gift of language enables him to take any insult, hurt, or belittling idea and turn it into an empowering, positive vibe.
“Cheers to growing up gay with a flaming capital ‘G.'”
Each year since 2010, the world observes Transgender Day of Visibility (TDOV) on March 31 to celebrate the lives and contributions of trans people. Created by trans advocate Rachel Crandall, TDOV is meant to be a day to celebrate the lives of transgender people, while simultaneously acknowledging that due to discrimination, not every trans person can or wants to be visible.Continue reading “Observing Transgender Day Of Visibility 2025”
I first shared writer/filmmaker Leo Herrera’s beautiful poem “Unmistakable Softness” in 2022 and couldn’t let Pride Month go by without sharing it again.
Leo’s gift of language enables him to take any insult, hurt, or belittling idea and turn it into an empowering, positive vibe.
‘Unmistakable softness’ – how perfect.
There was a time when I’d have run from these words. I’m proud I’ve grown enough to embrace them.
The two-minute video for the poem is narrated by pop star Jake Shears.
Cheers to our unmistakable softness.
Words by Leo Herrera. Voice by Jake Shears. Images submitted & used with consent. pic.twitter.com/q9WiFZEAaa
In 2020, amidst the uncertainty of COVID-19, Herrera’s voice emerged as a source of comfort, clarity, and difficult truths.
Leo’s words have taken me by the hand and walked me through moments of my queer journey leading me to grace and love – not only for others but for myself as well.
Leo’s debut book “Post” is a collection of poems, lectures, prayers and grudges.
Originally presented as “meme essays” on social media, his densely-written posts covered politics, race, immigration, class, religion and public health. The book presents Leo’s prose chronologically from 2020 to the end of 2023, from a small following to millions of eyes; from celebrity reposts to IRL protest signs.
Beyond the viral hits and accolades, “Post” sets the stage for a dance of authenticity under the pressures of the digital spotlight.
The text for “Unmistakable Softness” is below via Instagram. Make sure you follow him there! Happy Pride Month!
The news of the death of 16-year-old Nex Benedict, who identified as nonbinary, continues to leave a numb imprint on my heart and mind. As I reported yesterday, Nex died one day after a physical altercation with three older girls in their high school restroom. The investigation is still ongoing. This morning, I came across the candid candor of writer, speaker, and visual artist Leo Herrera. His language is like a clarion call as he expresses what I think many of us in the LGBTQ community are feeling. Continue reading “Leo Herrera: ‘Rage And Numbness’ On The Death Of Nex Benedict”
I’m rounding up some of my favorite InstaHunks this week, starting with Kevin Davis making new friends at the dog shelter. https://www.instagram.com/p/CyylcFHuugs/ Kevin Carnell dressed for the weather: https://www.instagram.com/p/Cy9Nw3KJv05/ Felipe paused for a pic in Rio de Janeiro: https://www.instagram.com/p/CyyjW3JR6l2/ And then, of course, folks were getting in the Halloween spirit like Matthew Camp working on his ‘Snow White’ tan in the pumpkin patch: https://www.instagram.com/p/Cy_NgLzroIA/ Mike gave you warm and fuzzy Blue Care Bear: https://www.instagram.com/p/Cy9cHnaOxrI/?e=253aa181-db2d-40c4-a486-e466b607836d&g=5 Tom Goss covered “Sports Ball Magazine” for his new 2024 calendar: https://www.instagram.com/p/Cy9VugnpOT2/ Firefighter Logan went with ‘ghost face:’ https://www.instagram.com/p/Cy7MsazLpWY/ LA Lumberjock’s “Bad Bunny” was taking requests: https://www.instagram.com/p/Cy_YfyPx-Ge/ And finally, queer poet Leo Herrera sends happy Halloween wishes: https://www.instagram.com/p/Cy6h-grOWXP/
