Join us for the BIPOC Connect and Queer Connect—two vibrant spaces celebrating identity, creativity, and community through art, conversation, and fun.
By Arianna de la Mancha
October 17, 2024
A
t #HealthyTeen24, we believe in the power of meaningful conversations and authentic connections. Our national conference is dedicated to reimagining the ways we engage, recognizing that the needs and voices of today’s young people and professionals in the ASRH field are evolving.
We’re thrilled to announce the return of the BIPOC Caucus with a fresh new look—introducing “BIPOC Connect” at #HealthyTeen24! This is a welcoming space designed for you to connect, share, and express yourself through art and conversation. Together, we’ll explore our stories and identities in creative ways. In the past, this space was more of an open dialogue led by a facilitator, but we’ve reimagined it to encourage more personal, 1:1 connections while embracing the power of collective creativity.
Join us for a screen-printing art activity created specifically for Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities, led by Xico, a Latino and Indigenous Arts Organization based in Phoenix, AZ.
About Xico
We’re always looking to uplift local artists wherever we travel to hold our annual national conference, so when we found Xico, we knew it could be a great match. Xico was founded in 1975 and is one of oldest ethnic arts organizations in the United States. Xico advances the quality, visibility, and appreciation of Latino and Indigenous culture by advancing appreciation for and visibility of Latino and Indigenous art.
Located in downtown Phoenix, Xico’s primary focus is the Latino and Indigenous communities whose voices we aspire to amplify through programming and opportunity for growth. Historically, printmaking has been used to express social and political concerns, and to celebrate culture and daily life. Xico continues this tradition specializing in relief, intaglio, lithography, screen printing, and more.
Let’s share, create, and build community in a space that reflects and honors who we are. Additionally, this time will be used for collaborative discussion of any time-sensitive sexuality topics impacting Black and Brown communities.
Please note: this space is specifically for attendees who hold BIPOC identities.
You asked, we listened! In response to requests from #HealthyTeen23, we created a dedicated “LGBTQ+ Caucus” to foster deeper, more intimate discussions about sexuality topics that resonate with queer young people and their communities. We’re thrilled to introduce “Queer Connect,” a vibrant and inclusive space where LGBTQ+ identities are celebrated, connections flourish, and the issues that matter most are brought to the forefront.
We’re excited to partner with The Drag Bus for a dynamic speed networking event, featuring local Arizona drag queens Fiona the Hippo and Benaddiction as your hosts. The LGBTQ+ Caucus is a wonderful opportunity to engage with peers, share experiences, and enjoy a lively atmosphere filled with icebreakers, games, and stunning drag performances.
Remember, this space is exclusively for our queer attendees who hold LGBTQ+ identities, so come ready to connect, celebrate, and shine!
Meet Fiona the Hippo
Fiona, a Phoenix native, has been a huge fan of drag almost their entire life. With a Bachelor of Arts in theater arts, Fiona uses her degree to not only create fun, high energy, engaging performances, but she also designs and constructs most of her own costumes as well. She is your reigning Miss Gay Scottsdale America, as well as a former Miss Gay Melrose America. Competing in pageants is a newfound passion that aligns with Fiona’s strive for excellence.
Fiona is on the Executive Leadership Committee for the Leukemia Lymphoma Society, helping to raise money to help end blood cancer. Service was instilled early in life for Fiona, and they continue to donate their time serve the community at large.
Meet Benaddiction
Benaddiction, a Phoenix native and graduate of Arizona State University, is a local drag entertainer and emcee known for hosting and producing high-energy drag shows across the valley, such as The Queer Arcana at Kobalt (6.5 years running) and BOOTZ Drag Brunch at FEZ in Downtown Phoenix. Ben is the reigning Miss Gay Western States America, preparing to compete for the title of Miss Gay America in January 2025.
About Drag Bus
Founded by Gage Enhelder, LGBTQ+ owned and operated, The Drag Bus is the first of its kind in Arizona. Offering 90-minute BYOB tours, The Drag Bus is the only party bus where Drag Queens are your guides. Your time is sure to be full of laughs, games, singing and dancing, gag-worthy looks and sick’ning performances.
The countdown begins. We can’t wait to see you there!
Haven’t purchased your ticket to attend #HealthyTeen24? There is still time!
