Q+A
JAMES DIXON
HOW DO YOU IDENTIFY?
I have a problem with structured sexuality in any
form, so the hedonist in me comfortably identi-
fies as queer. Men are typically the main course
however I’m moderately polyamorous and pan
sexually curious; and secretly attracted to mascu-
line energy in any biological form that it mani-
fests itself in. Sum that up in one word and make
me a bumper sticker if you feel so inclined.
WHAT DO YOU DO FOR A LIVING?
I’m a Concierge for the Gerding Theater at the
Armory, which is the home of Portland Center
Stage. PCS is the first historic building and the
first performing arts venue to achieve a LEED
Platinum certification. I am also a Professional
Development Volunteer for PCS which helps to
support our renovation capital campaign and a
variety of education and community outreach
programs.
HAVE YOU EXPERIENCED DISCRIMINA-
TION WITHIN THE QUEER COMMUNITY?
The poignant truth is that I have. I am African-
American, queer, Pagan, and I am not wealthy.
These are all labels that I have been discriminated
for and it is unfortunate. I think that the people
of the LGBTQ community should research the
definition of “solidarity”, look in the mirror, and
paint that face on each morning. We could ac-
complish so much as an actual community.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE PEOPLE
COMING OUT?
Own your moments… This life is yours to com-
mand and you should be free to manifest all of
the wonderful things in it without the burden of
caring what people think about you.
Photo by Horace Long
WHAT DO YOU SEE FOR THE FUTURE OF
LGBT PEOPLE AND THEIR RIGHTS?
We will succeed! There are federal and state level
LGBTQ nonprofits that are fighting this war for
us and not everyone feels included in this process.
Not having the ability to write a big check doesn’t
mean that these people should not be heard. We
are still so divided as a community which is so
damaging to us as a whole. Even together we are
outnumbered. How can we ask for acceptance if
we can’t accept each other? §
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editor@justout.com and tell us about yourself or a friend.
December 2012
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