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inkskinned · 4 months ago

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she's singing in another room and my dog is asleep at my feet. my grandma asked me why i haven't found a man yet and i laughed. oh, you know. i like my house clean.

my girlfriend is also my man is also "my partner" if i'm in a professional setting. yesterday we went to a ren faire and a man mimed at me - you're together? and at my delighted nod, his baffled, you're gay? made me laugh. a woman with rainbow hair said i love the two of you together. you're both so beautiful it's absurd.

my dad introduced my partner as my "..... friend. or whatever" the other day. he knows we're dating. in the same way, i was never able to get my sister's husband to stop saying that's gay like it's 2008. he still uses the word fa***t, and my sister's defense of him has always been well, he's just kidding.

my lover and i dance to old music in a tiny kitchen. we judge new music together and take food critique very seriously. we watch love is blind before we fall asleep and agree that if they had a queer season, it would be bloody but also make for excellent tv. of fucking course queer people would know someone for only 2 weeks and agree to get married. what are you saying.

at a bar with friends, a man puts his hand on my wrist. got a boyfriend? and yes, i do have a boyfriend, she's amazing. i am texting her while i wander around a gas station named after geese. i am visiting a swing state for a wedding. in the candy aisle i overhear: she's actually like a lesbian it's disgusting. two teenage girls with packaged sandwiches in their hands, giggling. no literally, like. i'm not, like. okay with her being there while we're all, like, naked and changing.

my girlfriend and i tailgate, drink gin and cider out of cups. from the frat group beside us, a man corrects himself with one of his friends: bro, i mean, nonbinary entity, and it makes everyone around him laugh, myself included. he razzes his friend the same way i would have killed for at 19 years old - like nothing happened, he continues: you apply sunscreen like an alien. he does a little sassy (and fairly accurate) dance interpretation of the motion. his friend is laughing so hard they're crying.

i am lucky, i live in a safe neighborhood in a safe state. my masc passenger princess comes up from DC. i drive her for an hour to where all the leaves are a violent arrangement of color. we walk along the trails, letting autumn into our blood. in this part of the state, there's a lot of pickup trucks and trump signs. when we chastely kiss before getting into the car, i accidentally make eye contact with a woman holding her child's wrist. she looks disgusted. she looks fucking pissed.

two hours later my girl and i are eating dinner on a patio, soaking in the last warmth of new england sun before the chill of winter sets in. we are giggling and trying to talk through plastic vampire teeth. at another table, i see a young woman sit up straighter. i watch her watch us. she blushes and takes her partner's hand from across the table. shy, like the taste of evening has just become something deeper.

it's worth it for this moment, i think. my lover is still humming the same song she's been singing for four days straight and i don't want to kill her for it. her guitar is beside my bed. her toothbrush is in my bathroom. in a few moments i will make us lunch. we are lucky enough to have found each other. it is lucky enough to be in love.

#writeblr #wlw #i often think about like.....#being happy in a gay relationship is sometimes so odd #bc u can forget how stupid ppl are.#bc ur so USED to being gay. and u forget other people GENUINELY ARE homophobic #so it's like. girl pardon?????#but also there are moments where it's like. ohhh the kids are alright #like watching someone razz someone else.... so fucking wholesome #“lemme get this bitche's pronouns before i make gentle fun of them” .... i would have KILLED for that.#THAT is how u know ur accepted #not just tolerated #..... when ppl are like. sure ur nonbinary congrats but WHAT is this fucking sunscreen application #ps idk if "razz'' is a real word but someone asked what it means -#i've always heard it as being a term for 'gentle & friendly teasing'' which like #i personally notice more from my guy friends but is like - when a person isn't #LIKE ACTUALLY teasing u (it's nothing personal/mean) they're just laughing w/you about something #my friends often put on a little voice and call me an anemic little bitch #like 'ooooo the anemic little bitch is cold??? does she need a mouse blanket #bc she's SOOOO SMALL AND ANEMIC???''#and it doesn't hurt my feelings (it makes me laugh very hard) bc 1. i actually called MYSELF that first #and 2. i'm not sensitive about it!!!#a proper razz is when you are ALSO in on the joke - i ALSO think it's funny #for some people i personally find that when they razz u it's when they love u -#they've noticed something genuine about u and love u enough that u know they're not being mean #this is cultural and personality based of course but i'm hispanic #if someone isn't making fun of me it means they hate me . obviously.

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mo79zz · 2 months ago

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22 Questions About my Community Space

WHAT IS A COMMUNITY SPACE?

A community space is a place where people come together to engage in activities, share ideas, and build relationships. It can take many forms, like parks, community centres, libraries, or even cafes.

WHAT ACTUALLY MAKES A COMMUNITY SPACE?

Its ability to foster connection, interaction, and engagement among people. It's a place where individuals can gather, share resources, and participate in activities together.

WHAT IS THE PROBLEM?

General need for a community hub where people can come together for various activities, such as art showcases, cultural education and celebrations. Lack of places for social interaction, learning, and collaboration on different projects or initiatives.

WHAT IS THE SOLUTION?

Create a multifunctional community space that addresses various challenges. This space could serve as a solution to foster connections, support local initiatives, and provide resources for different interests and activities. It would be inclusive, welcoming and accommodating diverse interests, from arts and crafts to technology workshops and wellness activities. Regular events, workshops, and meet-ups can encourage community engagement and participation, helping people connect with one another. The space can also host discussions and panels on local social issues to foster awareness and action within the community.

WHAT AM I OFFERING?

Offering a place for individuals to connect, engage and build relationships. It serves as a hub for social interaction, collaboration and support - fostering a sense of belonging among residents

WHY AM I OFFERING IT?

I am offering it because I recognise the importance of community in enhancing quality of life, promoting unity and providing a supportive environment where people can come together to share and experience resources.

WHAT IS THE VALUE OF IT IN A 15 MINUTE CITY?

The space can help strengthen local ties and create a vibrant atmosphere where everyone feels welcomed and valued

WHAT DOES A COMMUNITY SPACE OFFER TO A 15 MINUTE CITY?

Social Interaction: It provides a place for people to meet, socialise, and build relationships, fostering a sense of belonging.

Support for Local Businesses: It can serve as a platform for local entrepreneurs to promote and sell their products, helping to boost the local economy.

Cultural Events: Community spaces often host events like markets, workshops, and performances that celebrate local culture and bring people together.

Educational Opportunities: They can provide resources and programs for learning, skill development, and community engagement.

Wellness Activities: Many community spaces offer fitness classes, wellness workshops, and recreational activities that promote health and well-being.

Exhibition space: Offers artists a chance to showcase their work, gaining exposure and connecting with potential buyers, enriching the community's cultural landscape.

HOW IT IT UNIQUE IN COMPARISON TO OTHER COMMUNITY SPACES?

It focuses on local artists and their work, showcasing talent that reflects the area's culture. Additionally, if it’s run by a charity, it can integrate social causes into its programming, creating a space that not only promotes art but also supports community initiatives. I would also consider hosting events that encourage community participation, making it a lively hub for creativity and collaboration.

WHAT IS THE UNIQUE SELLING POINT?

I would offer a variety of events and activities that cater to different interests, from workshops to social gatherings, ensuring there's something for everyone. I would also collaborate with local businesses and artists to host events, showcasing community talent and promoting local culture and incorporate eco-friendly practices, like using sustainable materials or hosting zero-waste events, to attract environmentally conscious individuals. The space would also be an inclusive environment that welcomes people from all backgrounds, promoting diversity and inclusivity through events and programming.

The foundation's unique selling point lies in its dedication to supporting the community through funding local projects and initiatives. It creates opportunities for artists to display their work and connect with the community while also emphasising the resources that enhance community engagement and development, ensuring events are accessible and beneficial for all residents.

WHO IS THE AUDIENCE?

Primarily be local residents looking for a place to connect, engage, and participate in various activities. This includes individuals of all ages, such as children, teenagers, young adults, and seniors. Families would also be a significant part of the audience, along with artists, community activists, and anyone interested in personal development or sharing their skills and culture. Additionally, organisations and groups seeking to host events or workshops would be included.

WHY DOES MY COMMUNITY SPACE EXIST?

It exists to fill a specific need or gap in the community, whether that’s promoting local art, supporting charitable causes, supporting health and wellbeing, or fostering connections among residents. It’s all about creating a space that brings people together and enhances the local culture.

WHATS ITS MISSION?

Create a welcoming space where people can connect, learn, and grow together. It empowers the community through art, culture, wellness, collaboration and promoting local talent.

WHAT ARE ITS GOALS?

Encouraging creativity: Providing resources for local artists to showcase their work and collaborate on projects can really enhance the local culture.

Community Engagement: Hosting events and workshops is a great way to encourage participation and strengthen community bonds.

Supporting Local Causes: Partnering with local charities to address social issues shows a strong commitment to giving back to the community.

Accessibility: Ensuring the space is welcoming to everyone is essential for inclusivity and community spirit.

Sustainability: Implementing eco-friendly practices not only promotes environmental awareness but also sets a positive example for others

Cultural Appreciation: Incorporating cultural events and celebrations can help foster understanding and respect among diverse community members.

Wellness Initiatives: Offering wellness programs such as yoga classes, meditation sessions, and health workshops can promote physical and mental well-being within the community.

WHAT ARE ETHICS CONSIDERED IN THIS SPACE?

Inclusivity: Ensuring that everyone feels welcome and represented, regardless of their background.

Transparency: Being open about how decisions are made and how funds are used, especially if you're a charitable organisation.

Respect for Artists: Supporting fair practices for local artists, ensuring they receive appropriate recognition and compensation for their work.

Community Well-being: Prioritising the needs and interests of the community in all activities and initiatives.

Environmental Responsibility: Implementing sustainable practices to minimise your environmental impact.

WHATS ITS PURPOSE?

Create a vibrant hub for creativity and connection. Aiming to support local artists, foster collaboration among residents, ensure the wellbeing of the public is looked after and address social issues through art and community engagement. Essentially, it serves as a platform for expression, learning, and growth, enriching the lives of those in the community.

WHAT ASPECTS OF THE SPACE I AM DESIGNING RESONATE WITH ME?

The idea of supporting local artists and providing them with a platform to showcase their work. The focus on community engagement, where residents can come together for workshops and events, is also appealing. Additionally, the commitment to inclusivity and ensuring everyone feels welcome, aligns with my values.

WHAT SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS ARE HIT WITH THIS SPACE?

Good health and wellbeing (3): Engaging in community activities can improve mental wellbeing and foster a sense of belonging, contributing to overall health

Quality education (4): Hosting workshops and cultural events can provide educational opportunities for community members to learn about different traditions and skills

Reduced inequalities (10): The space can serve as a platform for marginalised communities to share their cultures and traditions, helping to reduce inequalities

Sustainable cities & communities (11): By creating a community space that fosters social cohesion and inclusivity, it promotes sustainable urban environments

Peace, justice & strong institutions (16): By promoting dialogue (open conversations and exchanges of ideas between people. It involves discussing different perspectives) and understanding through cultural festivities, it contributes to to peaceful and inclusive communities

WHAT ARE SOME OTHER EXAMPLES OF COMMUNITY SPACES?

Local Community Centres: These often provide similar resources and activities, such as workshops, classes, and events aimed at engaging the local community. e.g. 📍Mudeford Wood Community Centre

Wellness Centres: Places that focus on health and wellness, offering yoga, meditation, and fitness classes, may compete for similar audiences interested in wellness activities. e.g.📍Access Wellbeing - Poole📍BCP Leisure - Poole

Cultural Organisations: Nonprofits or cultural centres that promote cultural appreciation and host events might also be in competition, especially if they offer similar programming. e.g.📍Hampshire cultural trust

Libraries: Some libraries provide community spaces for events, workshops, and gatherings, which could overlap with the goals for community engagement. e.g.📍BCP libraries

Co-working spaces: They frequently host events, workshops, and seminars that engage their members, potentially drawing attention away from similar offerings in your community space. e.g.📍FOUNDRY - Poole

WHAT AM I OFFERING THAT THESE SPACES AREN’T?

My space would stand out from others by being multifunctional and inclusive, catering to a wide range of interests and activities. While many community spaces focus on specific areas like arts or sports, this one would integrate various elements, allowing for more diverse interactions - such as wellness, I am also offering both an outdoor and indoor space that can be utilised for various things.

It would prioritise regular events that encourage engagement, rather than just being a venue for occasional gatherings. By addressing local social issues and encouraging discussions, it would also serve as a platform for awareness and action, making it more than just a space, but a driving force for community growth and connection.

WHO ARE SOME OF MY COMPETITORS?

KINGLAND Poole Highstreet - rejuvenated by Hollie Newton, turning a dead highstreet into a lively community space by prioritising the support of local businesses

Image source: http://hollienewton.com/project/kingland/

GATHER in Poole Dolphin - set up by Carmen Moore, bringing Poole together as a community by liaising with local businesses, charities and individuals to bring consistent and diverse gatherings to the centre

Image source https://www.pooletogether.co.uk/dolphin-centres-gather-unit-a-symbol-of-success-for-poole

FOUNDRY in Poole - Adam Walker helped offer a vibrant workspace with private offices, dedicated desks, meeting rooms and a co-working members lounge into the heart of Poole.

image source: https://www.foundryuk.com

THE PUBLIC THEATRE - Paula Scher created a bold visual identity for the Public Theatre, featuring a striking logo and vibrant graphics that reflect its commitment to diversity and inclusivity. Her designs help elevate the theatre’s profile in the arts community.