As Black History Month continues, so does Qnotes with our in-depth look at Charlotte’s Black LGBTQ+ community in the here and now. We’re proud to present part two in our two-part series: “25 in ‘25: Who’s who in Charlotte’s Black LGBTQ+ community.”
Danté Anderson
City council person and mayor pro-tem Danté Anderson is one of those rare animals: a Charlotte native.
“I was born here, in Charlotte Memorial Hospital!” She says with a chuckle. “It [the hospital] still exists, of course, but just a different name. “I grew up here and I was educated in the CMS system and I have been in Charlotte for [many] years.”
Anderson confirms that she moved away from Charlotte to the Northeast for 20 years, but eventually found herself drawn back to the place she knew was home.
“I’ve always felt connected to Charlotte, and I decided to move back here in 2011 after I went on a trip around the world. My entire family remained here, so I decided to have Charlotte be my landing place when I came back to the States, and I haven’t looked back since.”
First elected to the Charlotte City council in 2022, politics was a new arena for Anderson, but she points to her business experience as a motivating factor.
“I was never an elected official and I was never a municipal employee. I’m an educated engineer, and I also have two master’s degrees. I spent over 25 years in corporate America.
“Public service has always been extremely important to me so I’ve always volunteered,” she continues. “I served on a number of boards for nonprofit organizations, and I’ve been on advisory councils. I’ve even slung a hammer for Habitat for Humanity.
“I began to look at some of the elected bodies here in Charlotte and what they do… And my experience, both professionally and through public service, just aligned extremely well with Charlotte City Council.”
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community and a council member, she is adamant about fair and equitable housing and workforce employment opportunities.
“It is something directly related to our community, in particular with young folks and various aspects of the LGBTQ+ community, so I’ve been a huge advocate for that. The most important thing, I believe, is being a voice in the room where other members of the community don’t always have a voice.”
After years spent growing up in and around the Sedgefield community, Anderson has once again found herself living in the same area and very happy to call Charlotte home again. – David Aaron Moore
Xzaviar Boston
California born Xzaviar Boston can’t quite put a finger on exactly when they moved to Charlotte, although they’re certain it was sometime in the past five or six years.
But that wasn’t before they made a journey across the country with multiple stops for extended periods along the way. Says Boston: “My father worked for Georgia Pacific, so we moved from California across the country going to different plants and doing whatever he had to do there. Over the course of eight years in our travels I went to nine different schools and we lived in places like Nevada, Louisiana, Arkansas, Mississippi, Kansas, Wyoming Alabama and South Carolina.”
During their time spent in Charlotte so far, Boston has served as a Charlotte regional representative for Equality NC and spent four years on the board of directors at the Charlotte LGBT Chamber of Commerce.
“I’ve also spent some great time at the Wedgewood Food Pantry. That’s some of my favorite type of work – directly giving to people.”
For those that know Boston, it’s clear some changes have occurred in recent years, and it’s not something they have a problem discussing. “I love being asked about my non-binary-ness and my trans-ness,” they say with a laugh. “It is always a continuing journey.
Despite the current political climate, Boston has no reservations about holding on to the identity they feel is an evolutionary kinda’ thing. “I think fluidity is where I will probably stay. That’s where I feel the most compatible and I like pushing my own growth. I’m willing to express myself in the things I wear and the way I look. I want to make sure that envelope stays pushed so that I don’t ever have to go back in any closet. I don’t care who’s in the office, you know? I’m not going to stop wearing my heels.” – David Aaron Moore
Kode Brown
Whether as a staffer at White Rabbit on Central Avenue, working as part of the key staff of Scorpio, or taking on any number of roles in Charlotte’s LGBTQ+ community, including support staff as part of QNotes. Born and raised in the Queen City, Kode Brown is a welcoming and warm presence to be in front of. Brown has been an active participant and seen much of North Carolina’s progress developing queer spaces. As the manager of White Rabbit and as a longtime local, he also helps direct those new to the community on where to find their community and other safe spaces.
“[White Rabbit is] kind of the community base where we can talk to people who are just now coming out, people who are confused or curious, and people who just stumble across the store because of the colors. So we’re able to give feedback to the community in a way they might not ask in a [mainstream] store.”
For 2025, Brown looks to only improve on what White Rabbit already offers, which isn’t just novelties, but an amazing community space that provides comfort to all that come through the front door. – Jonathan Golian
Maurice Clark
Maurice Clark, the Programs Coordinator for Charlotte Pride, passionately advocates for the LGBTQ+ community. With a vibrant personality and unwavering commitment, he aims to elevate voices that have long been marginalized. “I want to use my skills to better help my community,” Clark emphasizes. “We should not be fighting for basic human rights in 2025, but here we are.”
Clark is currently forming a Mentorship Program at Charlotte Pride designed to support young LGBTQ+ artists. He is recruiting mentors and the program will launch Spring 2025. “If I had a mentor when I was younger, my path might have been different,” he reflects.
His goal is to provide guidance and encouragement for the next generation, empowering them to embrace their identities. “It’s okay to be who you are; you’re living your life for you,” he asserts.
Despite the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community, Clark remains optimistic. “The government focuses on personal lives instead of real issues, but we won’t back down. We have to stand together as a unified front for human rights.”
Clark’s journey exemplifies resilience, acceptance and dedication. His infectious enthusiasm and commitment to mentorship not only inspires those around him but also paves the way for a brighter future. – Wendy Lyons
Jamil Dyair Steele
Among many of the buildings and walls that we regularly encounter around our city, it’s not a surprise to see a mural creatted by Dyair. Throughout his entire life, Dyair has both demonstrated his talent and shared his love of creative art. By day, Dyair is a full time visual arts teacher in Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools, where his career has spanned nearly two decades. Outside of the classroom, the entire city of Charlotte is his canvas, with 13 public works in Charlotte, and a recent mural in Gaffney, S.C.
“My work is mainly about representation,” Dyair said of his influences and craft. “So just showing African Americans, specifically African Americans who identify as queer or LGBTQ+ in a positive light, is very much needed in our current political climate. My work kind of lives in the intersection of marginalized communities being uplifted and seen and just depicted in a positive manner.”
If you find yourself in the Uptown Charlotte area, check out Dyair’s mural piece exploring the Black Lives Matter movement in 2020 in the Mint Museum’s permanent collection. – Jonathan Golian
Gerem3
Discovering their passion in dance and music while attending Northwest School of the Arts at age 15, Gerem3 has since dedicated much of their life to both forms of creative expression. Whether dancing with other peers in a choreographed set, or singing in front of a crowd at local showcases such as Grindhaus Studios at Neighborhood Theatre or performing at a Holiday Wish Foundation event, Gerem3 constantly applies and sharpens their skills with each occasion.
“I always desired [to be] a performer, but I evaded pursuing music out of fear,” Gerem3 explained in an interview with Shoutout HTX, “But over the years I always managed to find myself in some proximity of it. I would watch old VHS recordings of James Brown and Patti LaBelle when I was a baby. I would beg my dad to take me with him to his quartet rehearsals. My sister tricked me into joining the youth choir at church. Eventually, it became all I could imagine myself doing.”
In 2025, Gerem3 will be taking their performances up and down the East Coast, going from New York City through DC and Atlanta, all the way down to Florida. Check them out while you can here in Charlotte. – Jonathan Golian
Bobby Kerns
Born and raised in Charlotte, Bobby Kerns has transformed his passion for photography and videography into a thriving business. “I named my business Bobby Kerns Productions to honor my dad’s reputation,” he explains.
Despite launching his venture just months before the COVID-19 pandemic, Bobby adapted quickly, leveraging online marketing to sustain his business. “I attribute my success to God and my parents, who taught me the value of entrepreneurship,” he says.
Kerns’ commitment to the LGBTQ+ community has been a cornerstone of his work. “Getting hired to photograph Charlotte Pride in 2019 was pivotal for me,” he recalls. “The community has supported me, and I aim to give back.” His goal is to create quality content that showcases the diverse stories across the LGBTQ+ spectrum. “Everyone deserves to be remembered,” he emphasizes, highlighting the importance of visibility. Kerns has also worked with Charlotte Black Pride, Charlotte LGBT Chamber of Commerce, Charlotte Trans Health and Holiday Wish Foundation (HWF). He was recently honored by the Holiday Wish Foundation as one of the 2025 recipients of their Community Legacy Impact Award.
In his spare moments, Kerns enjoys time with his family, his role as a minister of music, and playing video games. – Wendy Lyons
L’Monique King
A columnist and writer for Qnotes, native New Yorker L’Monique King made the decision to call Charlotte home in 2007 after one too many exceptionally cold winters. “This year marks the 18th year I’ve been here,” King says. “How time flies. I can’t believe it. That is really amazing.”
King knew she wanted to move to Charlotte and was determined it would be the place she would get a new start. Armed with an associate’s degree from Sullivan County Community College, King set to work on a plan that would bring her to the Queen City.
“I started networking when I was still in New York,” she recalls. “I wanted to find out about the schools, the churches, the gay life, the artist communities, that kind of stuff. I met a person who was on the board of Charlotte Black Gay Pride at the time, and I introduced myself as a spoken word artist. She invited me to perform for Black Gay Pride. That was a key moment for me.”
After settling into a residence she still calls home today, King would go on to attend UNC Charlotte, capturing a bachelor’s degree in English with a minor in Black studies. She later returned for grad school and received a master’s certificate in gender, sexuality and women’s studies.
Along the way, she continued to perform and produce spoken word presentations. She also served as a long-term substitute teacher for the Charlotte-Mecklenburg School system. Nearly eight years ago she landed at Quality Comprehensive Health Center, beginning her career with the organization as an HIV tester and eventually rising to the position she is in today as a program manager, working with clients coping with substance use disorder, mental health issues and those at risk of contracting HIV or already living with it. Additionally, she hosts the podcast “Kinfolk.”
What does she hope for in the future? “I hope for unity,” she says. “I hope to see a place full of people who understand each other and value humanity.” – David Aaron Moore
Justine Lindsay
She’s a Charlotte resident and identifies as a transgender activist, according to her profile on Facebook. What pushed her into the spotlight however, was her role as a Top Cats cheerleader for the Carolina Panthers.
“You are looking at the newest member of the Carolina Panthers Top Cats,” Lindsay posted on Instagram in March 2022. “This is a moment I will never forget and I cannot wait to show you all what this girl has to bring.”
Not surprisingly, that information released to the public resulted in a backlash from the anti-trans far right. The Panthers however, released a statement indicating they had Lindsay’s back: “Members of the Top Cats are hired based on their qualifications and abilities. Our organization is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate because of age, race, religion, color, disability, sex, sexual orientation or national origin. We wish all the Top Cats, including Justine Lindsay an incredible season.”
According to public record, Lindsay is a graduate of Johnson C. Smith and the host of a podcast known as “Real Time Real Talk.” Based on recent comments from social media, it’s clear she is comfortable in her skin and has no reservations about sharing her story.
“Who am I?” She writes on the pages of social media. “I am she/her, a proud and accomplished African American transgender woman. As a child of God, I embrace life fully, allowing my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, to guide my path. No one, and I mean no one, will sway me from my destiny. I stand firm in my purpose and journey.” – David Aaron Moore
Rell Lowery
Rell Lowery, a passionate advocate and the Trans Community Liaison for Charlotte Black Pride, embodies the spirit of resilience and support in the LGBTQ+ community. “People like myself need help and support,” Rell states, emphasizing the necessity of visibility and representation. “Once I started my transition, I realized how many trans individuals felt hidden, especially in Charlotte.”
Lowery’s commitment to advocacy stems from a deep understanding of the challenges faced by marginalized communities. “If our youth give up, it leaves our community at risk of extinction,” he warns, highlighting the need for unity and support. Lowery strives to create safe spaces for trans individuals, ensuring they have access to resources and representation. He works with Charlotte Trans Health to help and support others during their transition.
A significant milestone in Lowery’s journey was being appointed the first trans person on the board of Charlotte Black Pride. “It was time for us to have a voice, especially for Black trans men,” he reflects. Through collaboration with various organizations, Rell wants to make a lasting impact, particularly during events like the upcoming Trans Day of Visibility on March 30. “We need to show unity now more than ever,” he asserts. He stars in the transformative film “Eden’s Garden” which has been approved by Amazon and awaits a release date.
Outside of advocacy, Lowery enjoys the simple pleasures of home life with his partner and two dogs. – Wendy Lyons
Noel Mills
Noel Mills, a passionate gamer, innovative thinker and advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, has turned his love for games into a lifeline for connection and support. After graduating college and feeling the loss of his collegiate community, Mills sought out queer spaces to connect. “I wanted to help the community by providing cheap or free options for socializing,” he explains.
In April 2023, he partnered with Sidelines to establish gaming nights, offering a welcoming environment where everyone can enjoy games without the pressure of spending money. “I wanted to create a third space; somewhere safe to socialize outside of work or home,” he explains. The response was overwhelming, especially after promoting events on social media. “It really encouraged people to come out and connect.” Weekly gaming events can be found on Mills’ Instagram page at “Gamingloungeclt.”
Mills’ dedication to inclusivity is evident in his events, which are held in queer-friendly venues. “It’s essential that everyone feels comfortable, regardless of their background,” he asserts. He hosts a variety of events, including Pup Gaming nights and family-friendly gatherings, ensuring a safe space for all.
With over 500 unique games in his collection, Noel’s passion for gaming is palpable. “I want to inspire others to create similar spaces,” he says. As he looks to the future, his vision includes expanding to neighboring communities and advancing connections through gaming. – Wendy Lyons
DJ Quelle
A transplant to the Charlotte community in 2017, DJ Quelle has thrived in the Queen City for almost a decade. Before applying himself to the turntables, Quelle was previously involved with music where he grew up in Richmond, Virginia and composed for Thomas Jefferson High School and Virginia Union. It wasn’t until 2021 that Quelle formally dedicated himself to DJing, where he is one of the favorite faces at Scorpio in Charlotte’s South End. Quelle has also worked with the LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce, providing the soundtrack for multiple events.
Quelle maintains a broad perspective about the music he plays by allowing his sets to be open format, inspired in part by the audience he’s in front of and allowing them to dictate each evening’s unique soundtrack. “I literally just look out there and play through who is in front of me, because I like to inspire and motivate people,” Quelle says. “But if I could say what I’m passionate about DJing, [It’s] Pop and House music.”
Later this year, Quelle plans on taking everything he has learned thus far to curate a homegrown event series of his own, and collaborating with peers in the Charlotte community to do it. – Jonathan Golian
Richard Stevens
Since the start of 2021 to the end of 2024, Richard Stevens helps connected the dots at Truist Bank as the lead in their Pride Business Relationship Group department, guiding internally as well as making connections with organizations like PFLAG and Timeout Youth.
In 2025, together with his partner Nick Randon, Stevens will be extending his energies to the LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce, where they will be helping build bridges between LGBTQ professionals and corporate spaces.
“We are an underestimated force. We are professionals. We are just as capable as anybody else, [and] because we’ve had to fight all of our lives, there is a resilience that’s definitely there, so within the community in 2025, I’m seeking to inspire other leaders in the professional space to speak up more about how [and] why we should have a seat at the table.” – Jonathan Golian