Connect with us

Living

Queery: Clarence Fluker

The GLAA honoree answers 20 gay questions

Published

on

Clarence Fluker, gay news, Washington Blade
Clarence Fluker, gay news, Washington Blade

Clarence Fluker (Washington Blade photo by Michael Key)

Clarence Fluker came to Washington in summer 2001 to start a master’s program at American University and never left.

The Cleveland native started college in Cincinnati but after two years transferred to finish his undergraduate degree in Baltimore. He’s been active in LGBT activism work nearly his entire time in Washington. It includes everything from volunteering on the Mayor’s Office of GLBT Affairs in the Williams administration, being a former Black Pride president and board member, to eventually taking full-time work in the Fenty administration and now in Mayor Vincent Gray’s administration where he’s communications and special initiatives director at Serve D.C. — the Mayor’s Office on Volunteerism.

For his years of work, he’s being honored by the Gay and Lesbian Activists Alliance at its 42nd annual anniversary reception slated for Thursday night at 6:30 p.m. at Washington Plaza Hotel (10 Thomas Circle, N.W.) (get tickets online at glaa.org/anniversary).

“I felt humbled, surprised and excited, all those things at once when I heard,” Fluker says. “It’s humbling because I know many people who have received it in the past and I’ve always admired them. It’s very humbling to know that my name would be on that list of names, especially because of the work GLAA does. They’re really about the business of promoting equality in the District in a serious and meaningful way. … They’re one of the groups I most respect because of the way they push forward. They really get into the nitty gritty.”

Fluker considers himself fortunate to have worked in various mayoral offices. He says it’s not terribly unusual but neither is it common.

“I don’t think of it as transferring allegiances because I know former Mayor Fenty and Mayor Gray both had one thing on their mind when they got up each morning and that was to push the city forward in the best way possible,” he says.

Fluker lives in D.C.’s Eckington neighborhood in Ward 5 (where he’s lived his entire time in Washington) and is single. He enjoys theater, museums, reading biographies, keeping up with politics and pop culture, volunteering, NFL and NBA sports, working out and spending time with friends in his free time.

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

I started the coming out process when I was 17. The hardest person to tell turned out to be the person who has been my strongest advocate and one of my best friends, my mother. 

Who’s your LGBT hero?

I admire Bayard Rustin, James Baldwin and RuPaul so much it is hard to only pick one. I am inspired by each of them in different ways.

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

Yesterday, today or tomorrow, the best place to have a good time is anywhere your friends are.

Describe your dream wedding.

My dream wedding is a quiet intimate ceremony with family and close friends who have come together to see me marry a man that is both my lover and best friend. In contrast, the evening reception will be loud and lively, with love, jazz and glamour woven into every detail. Dreams do come true!

What non-LGBT issue are you most passionate about?

I believe that all social justice issues are LGBT issues because LGBT people and our families, friends and communities we live in are diverse. With that said, I am particularly passionate about access to quality education and support for boys and young men of color.

What historical outcome would you change?

In recent history, Al Gore would have been sworn in as president of the United States.

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

The most memorable pop culture moment of my lifetime to date has been the death of Michael Jackson. He was a legend and his legacy and influence will be felt for generations in art, music and culture.

On what do you insist?

I insist on kindness. To give and be open to receiving kindness is a way of life.

What was your last Facebook post or Tweet?

It’s not what you look at that matters, it’s what you see. (Henry David Thoreau)

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

I am currently working on a memoir that explores my relationships with African-American men, straight and gay, and the roles they played in shaping my identity. The manuscript title is “Walking Like A Man.”

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

Nothing

What do you believe in beyond the physical world? 

I know there is a God. I believe that we are all God’s children and in us, we house beautiful spirits. It is our responsibility to let that spirit shine for others to see.

What’s your advice for LGBT movement leaders?

Spend some time with Dr. King’s “Letter from a Birmingham Jail,” the whole thing not just the one quote everyone cites in speeches and uses on plaques.

What would you walk across hot coals for?

Student loan forgiveness.

What LGBT stereotype annoys you most?

That the LGBT community isn’t diverse.

What’s your favorite LGBT movie?

My favorite LGBT movie is “Punks” written and directed by Patrick Ian Polk. It was the first film I ever saw that showed a romantic relationship between two young black gay men. I fell deeper in love with love after seeing it.

What’s the most overrated social custom?

I champion more social customs and traditional etiquette than less.

What trophy or prize do you most covet?

To be old and gray and proud of the life I lived.

What do you wish you’d known at 18?

I wish I had been more aware then of just how much strength I had inside myself.

Why Washington?

We seem to have a fondness for each other.

Advertisement
FUND LGBTQ JOURNALISM
SIGN UP FOR E-BLAST

Real Estate

Celebrate the power of homeownership this Fourth of July

Owning a home is powerful act of self-determination

Published

on

(Photo by yootin/Bigstock)

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.

Continue Reading

Real Estate

How to keep cool during a heat wave

Close blinds, use ceiling fans, and more tips

Published

on

It’s hot! Here are some ways to keep cool in a heatwave. (Photo by sonyworld/Bigstock)

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

Continue Reading

Real Estate

The world’s on fire and D.C. is on sale (sort of)

Prices are up, but then again, nothing makes sense anymore

Published

on

The housing market remains strong in D.C., especially in upper Northwest. (Photo by Stbaus7/Bigstock)

ICE is disappearing people, revered government agencies are shuttering, and who knows if we’ll be in World War III next week? But can you believe prices in D.C. are actually still up 6.3% since last year? It doesn’t make sense, and perhaps that does make sense, because nothing seems to make any sense any more.

That said, there are some parts of our market that are truly suffering. The interest rates, which have been up, up, up for about four years now, are the ongoing rain on our market’s military parade. Combine that with 75,000 federal employees taking a buyout nationwide, and DOGE cuts eliminating around 40,000 federal jobs in the District (per estimates by the D.C. CFO), not to mention thousands of other job losses in non-governmental organizations due to funding and program cuts, and you’ve got a case of uncertainty, and downright unaffordability in the pool of otherwise would-be buyers.

This has had a marked impact on properties that starter-home buyers and low- to mid-level employees would otherwise buy, most notably condominium and cooperative apartment units. These properties have already slowed in our market thanks to the profound impact that higher interest rates have had on their monthly carrying costs—pair that with job insecurity, and a lot of condos are proving to be very difficult to sell indeed.

So how is the average sale price up in our market?

The increase is almost entirely due to the resounding strength of the single-family home market, especially in upper Northwest D.C., where it is still quite common to see bidding wars, even on properties pushing past the $3M mark. It seems that buyers in that echelon are less impacted by a few percentage points in the interest rate, and less concerned about their job security. Notably, those buyers are often married with children and have an absolute need for more space, must stay in the area due to one spouse’s job, or the kid’s friend group, regardless of whether the cost of owning is thousands of dollars more per month than it would have been in 2020 or 2021. The continued appreciation in these neighborhoods defies imagination.

So, what to do if you are not one of those lucky enough to be shopping for a $3M home? The short answer: wait. If you want more space, rent your current place out and learn the joys of being a landlord while someone else pays your mortgage. Need the equity from your current home to buy your next place? Get a home equity line of credit, or loan, and pull the equity out of your current place to buy the next one. Or—and I have never recommended this before in 21 years of being a Realtor—rent for a few years. Sure, I’d love to list and sell your condo so you can climb the real estate ladder, but it might just be a waste of time, money or both if you could just ride out this storm and sell in a DOGE-less future.

All this said, there are some condos that seem to be immune from this recent negative news. Anecdotally, it feels like it’s the truly special ones that do just fine no matter the market. Our recent listing in Capitol Hill had a view from every one of its 15 windows of the Supreme Court. Sold in five days with six offers. Another condo was on the top two floors of a townhouse and had the coolest black wood floors that gleamed like a grand piano. Sold in four days at full price.

So, all is not for naught if you have a condo or home in an area that people want to be in, with nice space, light, amenities and a certain je ne sais quois. And, as long as we have a democracy in a few years, my experience says our market will be back, stronger than ever, really soon.


David Bediz is a Realtor and mortgage loan broker for the Bediz Group LLC and Home Starts Here, LLC. Reach him at [email protected].

Continue Reading

Popular