Introducing Laya

Welcome Laya Monarez to the DC Center! She is our new Front Desk Support Team Member. Laya (she/her/hers) looks forward to helping all her LGBTQ brothers and sisters and making everyone feel safe and welcomed at the DC Center. You can meet Laya at the DC Center on Weekdays and some Saturdays.

Birthdate, Astro Sign
4/9/83 and a proud Aries

Where are you originally from?
I’m a Chicana Mexican American and very in touch with my Tepehuan and Raramuri Indigenous side.  I grew up in Herndon VA but have been living in DC for 20 years.

Why did you start working at the DC Center?
I’m a bisexual transgender woman and I want to be a part of an organization that believes in building stronger connections within the LGBTQ community.

What has been your favorite part about working at the DC Center?
Everyone is so friendly and welcoming. 

What is your music anthem?
Kickstart my Heart by Motley Crue

What is your favorite part about the LGBTQ+ community?
We look out for one another and are always there when someone needs a hand.

What is your favorite spot in DC and what do you do there?
I used to play roller derby with the DC Rollergirls and I absolutely love roller skating so Anacostia Skate Pavilion has become an absolute gem to my soul, particularly during these difficult times with Covid. 

What is your favorite queer movie?
Hedwig and the Angry Inch.  I adore how punk rock and gender queer it is.

What color would you paint the White House, given the chance?
I would paint it whatever colors the indigenous people of this land want it to be.

Who do you look up to in the queer community?
As a Bisexual Mexican Artist I have always looked up to Frida Kahlo.  If it has to be a living person then probably Danica Roem one of the first openly Transgender people elected to a US office.

Support Memorial Services for Zoe Spears

Transgender advocate and activist Earline Budd has set up gofundme page on behalf of Zoe Spear’s family, to raise money for the memorial service and celebration of life for Zoe Spears.   Please consider donating to give Zoe a funeral that signifies “Dignity in Death”.

Earline states “My heart hurts in having to do yet another service, but my life is dedicated to giving and caring and for this reason I will complete yet one more service.  Thank you in advance.”

Earline will be responsible for final arrangements. The donations are needed now.   Please give as you can today, no donation is too small. You can donate here.

(https://www.gofundme.com/help-with-services-for-zoe-spears)

Volunteers Needed: Super Fabulous Comedy Show 5/4

 

Volunteers are needed for the Super Fabulous Comedy Show presented by Grassroots Comedy DC. Volunteers would be tabling before the Comedy Show, setting up our flyers, talking to patrons, and updating the community about the DC Center and the various programs that are offered.

 

Duties would include:

  • Getting supplies from the DC Center for the tabling
  • Setting up the table
  • Answering questions about the DC Center

 

If you are interested in volunteering, please fill out the form here