Charlotte has many long-term residents who have richly contributed to the area’s growing inclusivity. It’s no secret that the LGBTQ+ community contributes to community richness in a multitude of ways. From Nonprofit CEOs to artists, we are the threads that create a rainbow so rich it shines brightly for all residents.
One of those threads can be found in a 1926 quadruplex in Charlotte’s Plaza Midwood neighborhood. From the comfort of his home nestled on a peaceful tree line street Scott Weaver spoke with QNotes while recuperating from his annual battle with Spring allergies.
During the interview, Weaver, an accomplished musician and small business owner, talked to us about his love for his faithful furry companion Roy, new business ventures and his concerns relating to this year’s Pride celebrations.
L’Monique King: How’d you meet Roy?
Scott Weaver: He’s a rescue, a pit-pointer mix, and he provides a lot of love and laughter. I’m all about animal rescue – I’ve had him for three years now.
LMK: How about human companionship – are you partnered?
SW: No, I am not. I am a very content single man. I’ve had romance in my life throughout the years, and I’m not opposed to it but currently [being partnered], it’s not on my vision board.
LMK: Are you originally from Charlotte?
SW: No. I moved to Charlotte in 1995 from northwest North Carolina. I lived in an area called The Shoals, it’s close to the Tennessee state line, though I was born in Georgia.
LMK: What brought you to Charlotte?
SW: An opportunity for change and circumstances related to my interest. There wasn’t a lot of nightlife back then for someone in their 20s in The Shoals where I lived. Then, I met someone who was an established musician who worked in alternative fashion. Around that time, I started booking shows at local establishments. Later, my new friend was about to embark on a large tour and she asked me to come to Charlotte to house sit, watch her dog and run her boutique. In a month I packed up, moved, very quickly got involved in the happenings of Charlotte and have been here ever since.
LMK: Where does your musical talent lie?
SW: I play trumpet, percussion and sing. I’ve performed as a DJ at numerous Charlotte Pride events.
LMK: How do you currently make your livelihood?
SW: I’m co-owner of Cltch [Pronounced Clutch] an independent quirky gift, jewelry and accessories boutique. We’re having a giant sale next week in preparation for dissolving the business. We’ve been here for 10 years and during that time I’ve been working on the side doing interior design work, which is becoming a more consistent job. There’s also a lot of change in Plaza Midwood and something is telling me to listen to the creative pull I’m feeling to go deeper into design. I’m also ready to work independently and not just in one spot – interior design has taught me a lot and provides the flexibility of not having to be in one location all day.
Again, economic projections aren’t looking good right now (for retailers) with all the tariffs and other things. So, I feel fortunate to have a choice to leave one business and move on to the next thing instead of letting the decisions of our government dictate my future – in a most unmanageable type of way.
LMK: Sounds like you have concerns with the current administration.
SW: My concerns are legion. I’m concerned about everything. I wasn’t a supporter or voter for Trump on his first campaign and certainly not this time, I’m concerned about the economy, wealth inequality and of course our general social issues. As a gay person who has a nephew that is mixed race, I worry about everyone’s rights and safety from racism, women’s rights to trans issues. I certainly don’t want to feel like I’ve been transported back in time to living like we saw captured in “Fellow Travelers” [media streamed mini-series].
LMK: Share something with our readers most folks might be surprised to learn about you.
SW: <Thoughtful pause> I think because I’ve been in the industry or music and fashion that people assume I’m a city guy, but I’m a big nature guy who walks in the woods at least five days a week. I take my dog and we walk and hike about five days a week before work, exploring Greenways and nature trails. I love spotting hawks, eagles and other birds. It’s just great!
LMK: Looking back over your life and decisions you’ve made, what’s the dumbest thing you’ve ever done?
SW: <With laughter and no hesitation> Follow a total stranger down an alleyway in Chinatown New York to buy a bag of weed – only to find out it was oregano.
LMK: Aside from being duped, what gets under your skin and makes you just want to bite a brick?
SW: Locally speaking, traffic. When you live in a neighborhood that used to be slower and more relaxed and then go to heavy traffic, constant construction and a large influx of people it’s just a little harder to navigate.
LMK: Speaking of navigating crowds, any thoughts on Charlotte’s Pride this year – especially considering the current administration and all we’re hearing about the cancellations and push back toward the DC World Pride Celebration?
SW: I think Charlotte Pride will happen. I think people will participate with more caution and I wonder if there will be a stronger element of the anti-pride protesters. Charlotte has economically benefited from Pride [for years]. Generally speaking, the parade has been a family friendly event – with the more adult activities taking place in the evening and at private venues. It’s brought so much joy for LGBTQ+ community members and many of our straight allies. It’s not as though uptown turns into Folsom Street in San Francisco <laughter>. We have to find a way to continue to find joy in our community – celebrating not just ours but others. If we don’t do that, then darkness wins. Don’t get me wrong, Queer safe spaces need to be respected, but I’m also for inclusion. When you welcome people, they are more likely to be accepting – [because] the fear of the unknown no longer exists – as it does with othering.
LMK: If you could go back and speak to 15-year-old Scott, what would you tell him?SW: If you stay true to who you are but continue to be mindful of those around you, both younger and older, you’re going to be fine. And never stop learning.