Living
Queery: DJ Rosie Hicks
The popular lesbian MC on teaching, her kids, and filling the floor


Rosie Hicks (Washington Blade photo by Michael Key)
Sleep experts say some people just need less sleep than others. DJ Rosie Hicks must be one of those — her toughest night is Thursday when she does hip-hop night at Club Hippo in Baltimore until 2 a.m., then has to be at work at 7:30 a.m. teaching special ed at one of the Kennedy Krieger schools.
For years she DJ’ed on both Thursday and Friday nights but only does one Friday night a month now.
“I don’t know, I just do it,” she says. “I’m used to it at this point. I’m fortunate I love both my jobs so I just go into it knowing I’m going to be a little more tired on Fridays.”
Hicks started spinning at Gallagher’s, a former women’s bar in Baltimore about 12 years ago. She was there one night when the manager fired the DJ and told the patrons they would have to provide their own music that night.
“I got hired that night,” Hicks says. “By the end of the night, all my friends were calling me DJ Rosie. I had never DJ’ed a day in my life.”
And she never stopped — in addition to her Hippo gig, she also has monthly nights at Cobalt (she’s spun for LURe since it started) and Phase 1 of Dupont in Washington. She also does weddings, parties and private events. Listen for her at the Her HRC event Sunday from 6-11 p.m. upstairs at Town (2009 8th St., N.W.). Her set is at 10 p.m. She’ll face off with lesbian DJs from Philadelphia, Boston and Washington. Tickets are available at the door or online. The event has its own page at hrc.org.
Hicks, who spins a mix of hip-hop, R&B, pop and more depending on the event, says she just all-around loves music.
“I love making people happy out there,” the 30-year-old Baltimore native says. “The whole point of coming out to a bar or club to hear a DJ is to let go of worries and cares and enjoy it.”
Hicks has lived in Baltimore her whole life except for a brief stint in Cincinnati in 2007. She lives in Hamilton, the same East Baltimore neighborhood in which she grew up. She and long-time partner Kris got married after five years together last fall. Together they’re raising daughters Khenna, 8, and Jaidenne, 11 (Kris’s from a previous marriage).
In her free time, Hicks enjoys coaching her daughter’s soccer team, sports, watching the Ravens and, of course, DJing.
How long have you been out and who was the hardest person to tell?
I’ve been out since I was 18 years old. I was most afraid to tell my father, because I have a much older brother who is also gay and my father almost never talked about him. About seven months into being out, I mentioned to my dad in a nonchalant way that I went out with a girl I was dating at the time. He asked me why I never told him that I was interested in women, and I replied that I was afraid. He told me that he loved me, already knew and it didn’t matter. Twelve years later, he and my mother continue to be my biggest supporters.
Who’s your LGBT hero?
I really like both Ellen and Rosie O’Donnell. Both of these women live or have lived their lives in front of cameras and are fully honest about their lives and marriages to women, yet continue to be successful individuals in the entertainment industry.
What’s Washington’s best nightspot, past or present?
I’ll never forget my first visit to a gay club in D.C., the Hung Jury. It was a week after my 18th birthday and I had never danced with a woman before. Although I wouldn’t vote this club to be the “best” (more like a hole in the wall), I was certainly thankful that a club existed for 18 year olds to go and party with other women, as I had never experienced that and needed it. Venues for the underage crowd no longer exist! Fast forward to modern day D.C., and I absolutely love what women’s events I’m a part of, especially any LURe event. We recently celebrated our four-year anniversary at Cobalt and I’ve got nothing but love for that venue!
Describe your dream wedding.
I already had it right here in Baltimore on Oct. 12, 2012 at Cylburn Arboretum. We were surrounded by 125 friends and family, our parents walked down the aisle with us, the weather was perfect and everything went as planned! The icing on the cake? Not wanting to wait to see if Maryland passed marriage equality, we made our marriage official in D.C. a week prior, which requires a D.C. address on your certificate. Instead of having it done at the courthouse, a good friend of mine who is an officiant in the D.C. area married us at our favorite coffee shop, Starbucks on 14th Street!
What non-LGBT issue are you most passionate about?
I am very passionate about working with individuals with special needs especially those who are in the process of exiting the school system and preparing for the transition into adulthood.
What historical outcome would you change?
I would bring back some of our most iconic figures who were lost too soon. There were too many people who were wise beyond their years and taken away from us. Martin Luther King Jr., John F. Kennedy, etc.
What’s been the most memorable pop culture moment of your lifetime?
Boy bands and the fact that I still love them. But I’m talking ‘NSYNC, 98 degrees, and the Backstreet Boys. I know all the words and I’m not even ashamed! Losing Michael Jackson was also really tough.
On what do you insist?
Honesty, loyalty, integrity, laughter and a lack of overall B.S.
What was your last Facebook post or Tweet?
“Whyyyy do I always need the bathroom in an emergency fashion after leaving work?”
If your life were a book, what would the title be?
“Dear Rosie, When Do You Sleep?”
If science discovered a way to change sexual orientation, what would you do?
I’d probably change the channel. I like being me, and I wouldn’t be who and where I am today without the fact that I’m a woman who loves women.
What do you believe in beyond the physical world?
I’m a non-church attending Christian, who has had plenty of personal proof that God is looking out for us. I’m far from a Bible thumper and would never try to sway even one person to believe what I do. With that said, I’m sure there is a DJ booth in the sky with my name on it whenever it’s that time.
What’s your advice for LGBT movement leaders?
Always remember to give back to the community that supports you and be grateful. None of us got where we are without support from someone.
What would you walk across hot coals for?
My wife Kris, my kids and my parents.
What LGBT stereotype annoys you most?
That there has to be a “guy” and a “girl” or rigid gender roles in every same-sex relationship. People assume that I’m the “guy” because I despise dresses and don’t do makeup. You know what they say about assuming right?
What’s your favorite LGBT movie?
I haven’t watched any LGBT movies in ages, but my coming out movie was definitely “But I’m a Cheerleader.”
What’s the most overrated social custom?
Valentine’s Day! Totally a waste of money. You should show your significant other love every day of the year.
What trophy or prize do you most covet?
Winning Best DJ in the 2012 Washington Blade Best of Gay D.C. was pretty amazing for me. It felt like my last 11 years of working hard to entertain the LGBT community finally paid off! I’d also say my two college degrees feel pretty good.
What do you wish you’d known at 18?
That 90 percent of the people I stressed about being my friend/dating me/ spending time with me at that time would only lead me to bigger and better things, and that it’s OK to lose some people along the way. The 10 percent who are still here (and you know who you are) are so very special to me and I’m always going to be thankful for that. Your social world at that time means so much to you, but as you get older and more focused, you see what’s truly important.
Why Washington?
I love the people, the culture and diversity, the energy and the nightlife. It’s the city that loves you back! Thank you D.C. for all the years we’ve shared, and here’s to many more!

On Monday, April 21, 2025, I attended the Small Multifamily & Rental Owners Association’s Spring Summit, “Rent Burdened & the Fight for Reform,” held at Busboys and Poets on 14th Street, N.W. The event featured remarks from Mayor Muriel Bowser and Council member Robert White, Chair of the DC Council’s Housing Committee, who offered a timely update on his efforts to address the rental housing crisis. He was joined by Council member Matthew Frumin, chair of the Committee on Human Services and representative for Ward 3, who shared insights on proposed amendments to the Mayor’s ERAP Reform Bill. I was there to listen closely, gather the latest intel from District leadership, and break down what it all means for you — the D.C. rental property owner.
For years, D.C. housing providers have been raising alarms about how difficult it is to invest and operate rental housing in the District. After what felt like years of being ignored, there’s a real — and sudden — shift happening at the DC Council.
Here’s the latest you need to know:
1. DC Rent Registry Launch: Immediate Action Required
The much-anticipated DC Rent Registry is about to go live — and housing providers must act quickly to comply with new requirements. If you Google “DC Rental Registry,” you’ll find the official site right at the top. All housing units must be re-registered within 90 days of the system’s launch, and the process must be completed online — no paper submissions will be accepted. Notices have already started going out to property owners with valid Basic Business Licenses (BBLs), alerting them to the need to re-register. If you have questions, you can email [email protected] for assistance.
To help ease the transition, the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) has released training materials, including a demonstration video available on YouTube, webinars tailored especially for small housing providers, and in-person clinics that will be held after June 2. A recording of the webinar will also be made available. Additionally, providers are encouraged to submit feedback — one great idea being floated is to use the registry information to automatically populate RAD forms 3–5, saving time and effort down the line.
2. Real Conversations About Affordable Housing and Rent Stabilization
In another encouraging sign of change, DC Council member Matthew Frumin recently acknowledged that the affordable housing crisis impacts not just tenants, but housing providers as well. He and other Council members have spent several weeks meeting with landlords directly to understand what policies could be made more fair and workable. One key example is the new Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) modification bill, which Frumin believes will demonstrate that improvements to housing policy can be made without harming providers.
Frumin also stressed the importance of improving the rent collection process and pledged to tackle reforms to rent stabilization, although he noted that a lack of funding for housing vouchers remains a significant challenge. Importantly, he confirmed that reforming the Tenant Opportunity to Purchase Act (TOPA) is now being actively considered — with a new focus on making it fair for all stakeholders, not just tenants. As Frumin put it, “We can work together to create a system that works for everyone.”
3. A New Approach to Rental Housing Policy: Council member Robert White’s Vision
Another significant shift is coming from Council member Robert White, now serving as Chair of the DC Housing Committee. In a notable break from past practice, White has committed to moving away from letting only tenant advocates shape housing laws — a major change that could create more balanced, workable solutions for landlords and tenants alike. Recognizing that the rental housing market is in crisis, White has taken a strong position: if the city doesn’t act to repair its investment climate, the people most hurt will be working families, not the wealthy.
White and his team have met intensively with housing stakeholders, listening carefully to their concerns. Across the board, one issue kept surfacing: the Tenant Opportunity to Purchase Act (TOPA) is seen as a major obstacle to rental housing investment and development. While TOPA was designed with good intentions, White acknowledged that the data now shows it is often hurting the very people it was meant to help. He plans to introduce amendments to make TOPA more workable — reforms aimed at making the program serve residents more effectively without scaring away investment.
Beyond TOPA, White is also focused on improving fairness in the eviction process. Right now, Superior Court vacancies are causing significant delays, and he believes the system needs to function properly for both landlords and tenants. He also wants to create a Small Multifamily Repair and Maintenance Fund to support property upkeep, although funding for that initiative remains a hurdle.
White emphasized that when housing providers come to testify at upcoming hearings, they should bring a spirit of problem-solving, not confrontation. His goal is clear: to create policies that keep DC’s rental market healthy and accessible — without sacrificing fairness or sustainability. Hearings on the Rental Act were scheduled as soon as the mayor’s budget was passed on May 27th. The first vote will take place on July 14. White made it clear that while rent control issues may be addressed later, immediate action is needed on these foundational challenges.
So what are the key takeaways for housing providers like you?
Scott Bloom is owner and senior property manager of Columbia Property Management. Reach him at 888-857-6594.
Real Estate
Celebrate the power of homeownership this Fourth of July
Owning a home is powerful act of self-determination

This Fourth of July, celebrate more than independence: celebrate the power of LGBTQ+ homeownership. Explore resources, rights, and representation with GayRealEstate.com, the trusted leader in LGBTQ+ real estate for over 30 years.
Home is more than a house: it’s a symbol of freedom
As the fireworks light up the sky this Fourth of July, LGBTQ+ individuals and families across the country are not just celebrating the nation’s independence — they’re celebrating personal milestones of freedom, visibility, and the right to call a place their own.
For many in the LGBTQ+ community, owning a home represents more than stability — it’s a powerful act of self-determination. After generations of discrimination and exclusion from housing opportunities, more LGBTQ+ people are stepping into homeownership with pride and purpose.
Why homeownership matters to the LGBTQ+ community
While progress has been made, LGBTQ+ homebuyers still face unique challenges, including:
- Housing discrimination, even in states with legal protections
- Limited access to LGBTQ+ friendly realtors and resources
- Concerns about safety and acceptance in new neighborhoods
- Lack of representation in the real estate industry
That’s why the Fourth of July is a perfect time to reflect not just on freedom as a concept, but on how that freedom is expressed in the real world — through ownership, safety, and pride in where and how we live.
Finding LGBTQ+ Friendly Neighborhoods
One of the top concerns for LGBTQ+ buyers is whether they’ll feel safe, accepted, and welcome in their new neighborhood. Thanks to evolving attitudes and stronger community support, many cities across the U.S. now offer inclusive, affirming environments.
Some of the best cities for LGBTQ+ home buyers include:
- Wilton Manors, Fla. – A vibrant LGBTQ+ hub with strong community ties
- Palm Springs, Calif. – A longtime favorite for LGBTQ+ homeowners
- Asheville, N.C. – Progressive and artsy, with growing LGBTQ+ visibility
- Portland, Ore. – Inclusive, eco-conscious, and diverse
- Philadelphia, PA – Rich in history and LGBTQ+ community leadership
When you work with an LGBTQ+ friendly realtor, you get insight into more than property values — you get a real perspective on where you’ll feel most at home.
Navigating the real estate process with confidence
Whether you’re a first-time gay homebuyer or preparing to sell your home as an LGBTQ+ couple, it’s essential to understand your rights and options. Here are a few key tips:
1. Work with a trusted LGBTQ+ real estate agent
Representation matters. A gay realtor, lesbian real estate agent, or LGBTQ+ friendly agent understands the unique concerns you may face and advocates for you every step of the way.
Use GayRealEstate.com to connect with LGBTQ+ real estate agents near you. For over 30 years, we’ve helped LGBTQ+ buyers and sellers find their ideal home and a professional who respects their identity.
2. Know your legal protections
While federal law (via the Fair Housing Act and Supreme Court rulings) prohibits housing discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity, enforcement can vary by state. Make sure to research:
- State-level housing discrimination laws
- Local LGBTQ+ protections and resources
- What to do if you experience discrimination during a transaction
3. Secure inclusive financing
While most lenders follow fair lending rules, it’s smart to seek out banks or credit unions with LGBTQ+ inclusive policies and a history of non-discriminatory lending practices.
4. Plan for the future as a family
For same-sex couples, especially unmarried partners, it’s vital to review how you’ll hold the title, designate beneficiaries, and plan your estate.
Ask your agent or attorney about:
- Joint tenancy with right of survivorship
- Living trusts
- Powers of attorney and healthcare proxies
Selling a home as an LGBTQ+ homeowner
If you’re listing your home, working with a gay-friendly real estate agent ensures your identity and story are honored — not hidden — in the process.
Highlight:
- Your community connections
- Your home’s role in creating a safe space
- Local LGBTQ+ resources to attract like-minded buyers
Showcasing the full value of your home includes sharing what it meant to live there authentically and safely.
Your home, your freedom
The Fourth of July reminds us that freedom isn’t just an abstract idea — it’s lived every day in the spaces where we find comfort, love, and belonging. For the LGBTQ+ community, the right to own and thrive in a home is part of the larger journey toward full equality.
At GayRealEstate.com, we believe every LGBTQ+ person deserves:
- A safe place to live
- A community that welcomes them
- An advocate in the home buying or selling process
Ready to make a move?
Whether you’re dreaming of your first home, upgrading with your partner, or selling a space that helped shape your identity, GayRealEstate.com is your trusted partner. With our nationwide network of gay realtors, lesbian real estate agents, and LGBTQ+ friendly professionals, we make your journey smooth, respectful, and informed.
Visit GayRealEstate.com to:
- Search LGBTQ+ friendly homes
- Connect with inclusive real estate agents
- Access free guides for buyers and sellers
- Protect your rights and get expert advice
This Fourth of July, celebrate more than independence — celebrate your freedom to live, love, and own with pride.

Did you melt like the Wicked Witch of the West this week?
As summer temperatures rise, keeping your home or apartment cool during a heat wave can become both a comfort issue and a financial challenge. One of the most effective ways to keep a home cool is to prevent heat from entering in the first place. Sunlight streaming through windows can significantly raise indoor temperatures. Consider the following solutions:
• Close blinds or curtains during the hottest parts of the day. Blackout curtains or thermal drapes can reduce heat gain by up to 30%.
• Install reflective window films to block UV rays and reduce solar heat without sacrificing natural light.
• Use outdoor shading solutions such as awnings (yes, the ones you removed because they were “dated”) and shutters to limit direct sunlight.
Fans are a cost-effective way to circulate air and create a wind-chill effect that makes rooms feel cooler.
• Ceiling fans should rotate counterclockwise in the summer to push cool air down.
• Box fans or oscillating fans can be placed near windows to pull in cooler evening air or push hot air out.
• Create a cross-breeze by opening windows on opposite sides of your home and positioning fans to direct airflow through the space.
• For an extra cooling effect, place a bowl of ice or a frozen water bottle in front of a fan to circulate chilled air.
To optimize natural ventilation, open windows early in the morning or late in the evening when outdoor temperatures drop. This allows cooler air to flow in and helps ventilate heat that built up during the day.
Appliances and electronics generate a surprising amount of heat. To reduce indoor temperatures:
• Avoid using the oven or stove during the day; opt for no-cook meals, microwave cooking, or grilling outside.
• Run heat-producing appliances like dishwashers and clothes dryers in the early morning or late evening.
• Unplug electronics when not in use, as even standby power can add heat to your space.
• Switching to energy-efficient LED lightbulbs can also reduce ambient heat compared to incandescent lighting.
If you do use an air conditioner, maximize its effectiveness by:
• Setting it to a reasonable temperature—around 76–78°F when you’re home and higher when you’re away.
• Cleaning or replacing filters regularly to maintain airflow and efficiency.
• Sealing gaps around doors and windows to prevent cool air from escaping. (Didn’t we all have a parent who said, “Close the door. You’re letting all the cool out?”)
• Using a programmable thermostat to optimize cooling schedules and reduce energy use.
If it is not cost-prohibitive, adding insulation in attics and walls can greatly reduce heat transfer. Solar panels that reflect heat can also help, as well as offset the cost of their installation. Adding weatherstripping around doors and windows, sealing cracks, and using door sweeps can make a significant difference in keeping heat out and cool air in.
Natural and eco-conscious methods can also help cool your home.
• Snake plants, ferns, or rubber trees can improve air quality and slightly cool the air through transpiration.
• White or reflective roof paint can reduce roof temperatures significantly.
• Cooling mats or bedding can make sleeping more comfortable without cranking up the A/C.
For renters or those who can’t make permanent modifications, there are still plenty of ways to keep cool.
• Use portable fans and A/C units instead of built-in systems, making sure they are the correct size for your space.
• Removable window film or static cling tinting can reflect heat without violating your lease.
• Install tension rod curtains or temporary blackout panels instead of hardware-mounted window coverings.
• Add draft blockers and weatherstripping tape that can be applied and removed without damage.
• Cover floors with light-colored rugs to reflect heat rather than absorb it.
• If allowed, use temporary adhesive hooks to hang reflective materials or light-filtering fabrics over windows.
Even if your space is warm, you can still take steps to help your body stay cool.
• Wear light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
• Stay hydrated and avoid caffeine or alcohol during peak heat hours.
• Take cool showers or use damp cloths on your neck and wrists to bring your body temperature down.
Keeping your home or apartment cool in the summer doesn’t have to be expensive or energy-intensive. With a few adjustments such as blocking sunlight, optimizing airflow, using fans effectively, and making renter-friendly upgrades, you can create a more comfortable indoor environment while keeping energy bills in check.
Valerie M. Blake is a licensed Associate Broker in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia with RLAH @properties. Call or text her at 202-246-8602, email her at DCHomeQuest.com, or follow her on Facebook at TheRealst8ofAffairs.
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