Connect with us

Living

Queery: EJ Dean

The new D.C. Center HIV program assistant answers 20 gay questions

Published

on

Blade photo by Michael Key

The D.C. Center, the District’s LGBT community center, is expanding slightly.

EJ Dean, an AIDS activist originally from Empire, Mich., moved here three weeks ago to accept a part-time position as HIV program associate, a continuation of the work Dean was doing at the Kallen-Lorde Community Health Center in New York. The 31-year-old Dean, who’s gender non-conforming and identifies as queer, is also going to school full-time to finish a degree in human relations at Trinity Washington University. Dean got involved in in activist work as soon as it became possible.

“Being a queer person and since I have never been someone who dealt with inequity quietly, I’m not sure if I really stumbled into it or just started doing it as soon as I could. Then each time I found out about another opportunity where I’d be able to help, I’d move toward that. When I was younger, a lot of it was just making queer safe spaces and open mic nights and places where people could be themselves and know it was alright.”

Dean, who went to college in Pittsburgh and has also lived in Kalamazoo, Mich., and Montclair, N.J., enjoyed the last year in New York but never thought of it as home. The Center position appealed to Dean because of the opportunity it provides to educate.

“I’ll be building, growing and expanding the HIV programs,” Dean says. “Education is often the piece that gets left out and it’s the most important piece. People need to be able to access information and make change themselves. That’s what drew me to the Center. Making sure people have equal access to knowledge.”

Dean and partner Trina live in Adams Morgan and enjoy writing, music and cooking. Dean also enjoys making minimalist tables in reclaimed wood.

How long have you been out and who was the hardest person to tell?

I came out to my parents when I was 15. Let’s just say they did not throw me a party.

Who’s your gay hero?

I am currently learning everything I can about Larry Kramer, the founder of ACT UP.

What’s Washington’s best nightspot, past or present?

So far, my favorites are Busboys & Poets and Red Derby.

What’s your dream gay wedding?

A legally recognized celebration of our commitment to one another shared with everyone we love — currently unavailable in 45 states.

What non-gay issue are you most passionate about?

I am passionate about all people having equal access to health care, education, jobs and housing. But considering a high percentage of queer people are under-employed, uneducated, homeless or do not have access to queer friendly (if any) health care, I consider these gay issues.

What historical outcome would you change?

An emergency evacuation of New Orleans would have been systematically organized before Hurricane Katrina devastated the city.

What’s been the most memorable pop culture moment of your lifetime?

9-11

On what do you insist?

The truth.

What was your last Facebook post or Tweet?

“Checking out ‘Hide/Seek’ at the National Portrait Gallery.”

If your life were a book, what would the title be?

“Work in Progress”

If science discovered a way to change sexual orientation, what would you do?

Fight to the death to pass a law that would make the use of that discovery illegal.

What do you believe in beyond the physical world?

Liberation: a place where power and scarcity do not exist.

What’s your advice for LGBT movement leaders?

Share your power. Susan B Anthony said, “Organize agitate, educate, this must be our war cry.” Why do so many neglect to educate?

What would you walk across hot coals for?

Today: ENDA and an HIV Vaccine.

What gay stereotype annoys you most?

That gender identity somehow reveals sexuality.

What’s your favorite gay movie?

“Fingersmith”

What’s the most overrated social custom?

Gendered bathrooms

What trophy or prize do you most covet?

My tattoo of 1856, the bill number of One Kalamazoo Campaign non-discrimination ordinance I worked on and helped to pass in 2009.

What do you wish you’d known at 18?

Social constructs are imaginary.

Why Washington?

Trina and I find D.C. to be the place that we want to establish roots. The opportunity to be out and queer and make change happen exists for me here. I am honored to be doing so along side David Mariner and the many volunteers of the D.C. Center.

Advertisement
FUND LGBTQ JOURNALISM
SIGN UP FOR E-BLAST

Autos

A cheeky convertible: Mercedes CLE 450

Riding the freeway of love with the top down and spirits up

Published

on

Mercedes CLE 450 convertible

“Drop the top, baby!… Drop the pedal and go!”So croons Aretha Franklin in “Freeway of Love,” her classic song about a joyride in a pink Cadillac convertible. 

Those free-spirited lyrics came to mind recently each time I got behind the wheel of an equally exquisite ride: the Mercedes CLE 450. 

MERCEDES CLE 450 CONVERTIBLE 

$76,000

MPG: 23 city/32 highway

0 to 60 mph: 4.2 seconds

Cargo space: 9.6 cu. ft. 

PROS: Dreamy design. Divine handling. Dazzling amenities. 

CONS: Cramped cargo area. Kinda impractical for everyday driving.   

IN A NUTSHELL: Who needs two fine open-top chariots when one fabulous convertible will do? That seems to be the thinking at Mercedes, which recently replaced two of its cabriolets—the compact C-Class and midsize E-Class—with the brand-new CLE 450.  

While the wheelbase is a wee bit shorter than on the outgoing E-Class model, the CLE is longer overall than either of its two former siblings. The result: more legroom than expected, especially for anyone in the front seats. Even backseat occupants may feel comfy (OK, perhaps not Brittney Griner or Carl Nassib, but still…).  

Alas, trunk space is slightly scrunched, thanks to the folding fabric roof. But that power-operated top—available in black, gray or red—can be raised and lowered with the car traveling at speeds up to 37 mph. And the triple-layer acoustic material provides excellent insulation and greatly reduces outside noise. In fact, I often had to remind myself this was the CLE convertible and not the hardtop coupe. 

There’s also a wind-deflector apparatus that, when activated, elevates airflow off the windshield and reduces backflow with a rear mesh screen. For added pampering, an AIRSCARF system lives up to its name, sending warm air onto the necks of front-seat passengers. (Don’t tell my husband, but I felt like an invisible suitor was wooing me, seductively blowing kisses my way.)

Convertibles usually are not as structurally rigid as their hardtop counterparts. But here again, Mercedes works its magic: The chassis—made of aluminum and high-strength steel—is so incredibly stiff that there’s absolutely no shake and shimmy. This solid body structure also provides for a safe vehicle shell. 

Under the hood, there’s a spirited 375-hp turbo engine, augmented by grippy all-wheel drive and a graceful nine-speed automatic transmission. As a crazed soccer fan, I think it’s not too much of a stretch to say the driving experience combines the speed, sass and savvy of a star athlete (think Megan Rapinoe). 

Inside, there are plenty of premium styling cues, as well a glitzy dashboard with 12.3-inch digital cluster and 11.9-inch multimedia touchscreen. Yes, the CLE borrows heavily from the C-Class and E-Class. But somehow—perhaps because of the low ground clearance and multi-contour seats (which include heating, ventilation and massage functions)—this cabin feels and functions more like a true cockpit. 

Along with all the driver-assistance features, there are 11 airbags (including rear head airbags), pop-up roll bars and a drowsy-driver alert monitor. In case of an impending crash, an accident-preparedness system immediately tightens seatbelts, adjusts seats and closes windows.  

I could go on about all the amenities, including a 17-speaker Burmester surround-sound stereo, the 64-color ambient-lighting system and more. But why bother? This is a Mercedes, after all, so you expect such babying. 

What wasn’t expected? How much I keep missing this beauty after my weeklong test drive ended. It’s not as if soft-tops are practical, like minivans and SUVs. And two-door rides—coupes or cabrios—now account for less than 4% of all new-vehicle sales. 

But Aretha would have understood. Classy convertibles, like her pink Caddy and the Mercedes CLE 450, represent open-air freedom and the promise of adventure. 

“So jump in, it ain’t no sin. Take a ride in my machine.”

Continue Reading

Real Estate

Pride, patriotism, and prosperity

Real estate plays role in honoring servicemembers’ legacy

Published

on

(Photo by 1photo/Bigstock)

As the calendar turns to late May and early June, several powerful movements and celebrations converge in a profound and colorful tapestry of remembrance, Pride, and progress. 

Memorial Day in the United States honors the sacrifices of military personnel who gave their lives in service. Simultaneously, WorldPride and Black Pride commemorate both the historical struggles and enduring strength of LGBTQ+ communities worldwide. 

Though these observances may seem distinct, they share powerful commonalities — solemnity, resilience, and the pursuit of equity. When viewed through the lens of real estate and community development, their intersection reveals the critical importance of space, ownership, and inclusion.

Memorial Day is more than a barbecue, a long weekend, or the unofficial start of summer. It is a solemn remembrance of those who laid down their lives for the ideals of freedom and democracy. Many of these fallen heroes came from marginalized backgrounds, including a rainbow of LGBTQ+ Americans who served valiantly, often without recognition or equal rights at home.

LGBTQ+ service members have fought in silence for decades, only gaining the right to serve openly in recent years and then having that opportunity for some individuals snatched back simply because of who they are. Memorial Day is a chance not only to honor their service but also as a reminder of the injustices they endured.

Real estate plays a role in their legacy. For decades, returning veterans used the GI Bill to buy homes and build generational wealth; however, discriminatory practices like redlining and restrictive covenants denied Black veterans the same opportunities, contributing to the racial wealth gap that persists today. Similarly, LGBTQ+ veterans and their partners often faced housing discrimination with little legal recourse. These systemic barriers underscore how access to safe and equitable housing is part of the fight for justice.

Black Pride events emerged in response to racism within the broader LGBTQ+ movement, asserting that Black queer lives matter and deserve visibility. Held in cities across the globe, Black Pride is not just a festival — it is a political and cultural declaration. It amplifies voices at the intersection of race and sexuality, advocating for people who are disproportionately impacted by housing insecurity and gentrification. 

Many urban neighborhoods that were once cultural havens for queer communities are being transformed by rising rents and redevelopment. While revitalization can bring economic opportunity, it must be done equitably, with safeguards in place to ensure that long-standing residents are not displaced. Real estate, in this context, becomes a tool for resistance and renewal.

WorldPride, a global event celebrating LGBTQ+ rights and visibility, is hosted by a different city every few years. It draws millions of participants, shines an international spotlight on LGBTQ+ issues, and highlights disparities in rights and protections worldwide. In countries where queer identities are criminalized, safe housing can be a matter of life and death. 

Even in more progressive regions, LGBTQ+ individuals often face subtle yet persistent discrimination from landlords, real estate agents, and lending institutions. In the real estate industry, advocacy groups are working to increase representation, offer training, define ethical responsibilities, and advocate for inclusive policies to ensure housing is truly accessible to all.

The convergence of WorldPride with Memorial Day and Black Pride invites deeper reflection: What kind of world are we building in memory of those who came before? How can we ensure that freedom, the very principle so many fought and died for, includes the right to live openly and securely, regardless of race, gender, or sexuality?

The real estate industry has a unique role in shaping the future. From urban planning to homeownership policy, to income-based downpayment grants, it directly influences who has access to stability and opportunity. 

Developers, policymakers, and community leaders must work together to address housing disparities. This includes funding affordable housing, protecting tenants from discrimination, and investing in communities that have been historically excluded. It also means respecting cultural legacies and ensuring that neighborhoods reflect the diversity of the people who live in them.

Memorial Day reminds us of the cost of freedom. International Pride events remind us that the fight for freedom is ongoing. As we honor the fallen, let us also honor the living – those who continue to fight for their right to exist, to love, and to call a place home. Whether waving a flag at a Pride parade, laying a wreath at a soldier’s grave, or signing a first-time homebuyer agreement, these moments are connected by the enduring belief that everyone deserves dignity, safety, and a place to belong.

Valerie M. Blake is a licensed Associate Broker in DC, MD & VA with RLAH @properties. Call or text her at (202) 246-8602, email her at DCHomeQuest.com, or follow her on Facebook at TheRealst8ofAffairs

Continue Reading

Real Estate

Tips for buying a house in Rehoboth Beach

And why it’s a great fit for the LGBTQ community

Published

on

Rehoboth Beach, Del. (Washington Blade photo by Daniel Truitt)

If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a charming beach house where flip-flops are considered formalwear and sunsets are your daily entertainment, Rehoboth Beach, Del., might just be your dream come true. It’s not just a beautiful coastal town—it’s also a long celebrated safe haven and vibrant hub for the LGBTQ community. Let’s dive into why Rehoboth Beach is a fabulous choice and how to make a savvy beach house purchase.

Why Rehoboth Is a Vibe (especially for the LGBTQ community)

1. A Welcoming, Inclusive Community

Rehoboth Beach has been lovingly nicknamed the “Nation’s Summer Capital,” and it’s not just because of its proximity to D.C. For decades, Rehoboth has built a reputation as a warm, inclusive, and LGBTQ-friendly destination. From gay-owned businesses to LGBTQ events and nightlife, this is a town where you can truly be yourself.

2. Packed Social Calendar

Poodle Beach, the LGBTQ beach hangout just south of the boardwalk, is always buzzing in the summer. Events like Rehoboth Beach Bear Weekend, Women’s FEST, and CAMP Rehoboth’s myriad of social and wellness events bring people together all year round. That’s right—you’ll never be bored here unless you want to be.

3. Small Town Charm Meets Big City Culture

You get art galleries, drag brunches, live theater, eclectic cuisine, and adorable boutiques—basically everything your soul craves—without the chaos and crowds of major cities. It’s quaint but never boring. Think: Key West vibes with a Delaware zip code.

Tips for Buying Your Dream Beach House 

1. Know Your Budget and Think Long Term. Beachfront and near-beach properties come at a premium. Expect to pay a bit more for proximity to the sand and ocean views. 

2. Choose Your Neighborhood Wisely. Do you want to be walking distance from the action on the boardwalk? Or do you prefer something more secluded in areas like North Shores or Henlopen Acres?

3. Rental Potential. If you’re not living there full time, your beach house could work overtime as a vacation rental. Rehoboth Beach has a healthy short-term rental market, especially in peak summer. Often times LGBTQ travelers actively seek inclusive, affirming places to stay.

4. Weather the Weather. Like all coastal areas, Rehoboth comes with a side of salt air and occasional storms. Invest in a good home inspection, especially for older homes, and be prepared for the maintenance that comes with beachfront living (yes, that includes sand everywhere).

5. Work With a Local Real Estate Agent. Look for an agent who knows Rehoboth inside and out and understands the unique needs of LGBTQ buyers. This isn’t just a house — it’s your happy place. You want someone who sees that and says, “Let’s find your sanctuary.”

Buying a beach house in Rehoboth Beach isn’t just about real estate — it’s about finding a space that reflects your lifestyle, values, and need for both community and calm. Whether it becomes your full-time home, your weekend escape, or your Airbnb side hustle, Rehoboth welcomes you with open arms (and maybe a mimosa).

Want personalized tips on navigating the Rehoboth Beach real estate market? Let’s chat! I’ll bring the listings if you bring the sunscreen. 


Justin Noble is a Realtor with The Burns & Noble Group with Sotheby’s International Realty, licensed in D.C., Maryland, and Delaware. Reach him at [email protected] or 202-234-3344.

Continue Reading

Popular