Metromode's Spring 2025 Issue : simplebooklet.com

Denver Custom Frames 311 Detroit Street, Denver, CO | (303) 333-1566 | www.FascinationStArt.comFascination St. Fine Art is an established gallery and custom frame shoplocated in the Cherry Creek North arts district of Denver, Colorado.Founded in the summer of 1992, the gallery boasts 5,000 square feet ofgallery space and a rich collection of original paintings, sculptures, andlimited edition artworks. The gallery showcases the work of a diverse rangeof world-renowned contemporary artists and has been a significant partof the Denver art scene for over 30 years.The gallery hosts several art exhibitions per year, where collectors andguests can engage with the artists to learn about their inspirations andtechniques. Many artists also offer dedications, providing a uniqueopportunity for collectors to have their artwork personalized.MARCH 21-22 | HENRY ASENCIOCONTEMPORARY PAINTERAPRIL 25-26 | MICHAEL FLOHRABSTRACT EXPRESSIONISMJUNE 6-7 | CHARLES FAZZINO3D POP ARTJULY 4-6 | GABE LEONARDCINEMATIC PAINTERAUGUST 1-2 | THOMAS ARVIDPHOTOREALISTIC PAINTERCUSTOM FRAMING IN THEHEART OF CHERRY CREEKFEATURED ARTISTS2025 UPCOMINGARTIST EXHIBITIONSNano Lopez, Fabio Napoleoni, Tom Everhart, Michael Flohr, Charles Fazzino, Henry Asencio, Thomas Arvid, Michael Godard, Gabe Leonard, Carlos & Albert, Michael Cheval, Bill Mack, Ruby Mazur & More!MAY 15-17 | RUBY MAZURROCK ‘N’ ROLL POP ARTFULL EVENT CALENDARAUGUST 22-23 | NANO LOPEZBRONZE SCULPTORFASCINATION ST. FINE ART315 Detroit Street OR 2727 E 3rd Ave, Denver, CO 80206Original Paintings | Limited Editions | Sculptures | Custom FramingSince 1992(303) 333-1566 | www.FascinationStArt.com | info@FascinationSt.comPHOTOGRAPHER: JOHN S. MILLEROPEN GALLERY NIGHT HAPPY HOUREVERY FRIDAY | 4-7PMCome Explore the Galleryand Enjoy a Glass ofWine on Us!

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METROMODE 11 metromodemagazine.com | SPRING 2025FORWARDINTERIOR IN023029030032CALENDAR, GAY AGENDA, GOOD CHATEVENT CALENDAR: MARCH 5, 2025-JUNE 8, 2025 Spring is here! Time to step out of Winter hibernation and enjoy the warmer weather. There is plenty to see and experience. Let our Spring Calendar guide your way. MEDIA GIANTS DEFY ANTI-LGBTQ POLICIES In the face of a new wave of anti-LGBTQ policies, major entertainment companies are refusing to back down.THE HYPOCRISY OF THE RADICAL RIGHT The right falsely claims trans people endanger kids, while data shows many predators come from their own circles.TRANSGENDER DAY OF VIABILITY A day to show your support for the trans community and to bring attention to their accomplishments.UNLOCKING THE POWER OF THE VEGUS NERVEVagus nerve stimulation treats epilepsy, depression, and inflammation, oering hope for resistant cases.GOOD CHAT, CULTURECONSCIOUS AND SOCIALLY RESPONSIBLE INVESTINGWith policies shiing and DEI fading, finding companies that align with your social values and beliefs is crucial. WHERE DO ALL THE QUEER PEOPLE LIVE NOW? The mainstreaming of queer life brings a new reality, LGBTQ people can live wherever they choose, without fear.COLORADO’S HIGHER EDUCATION IS VIBRANT Universities aren’t just adapting to LGBTQ needs—they’re actively championing diversity and inclusion for all students.QUEER CODEThe Queer Code: America’s Secret Gay Language and Its British Cousin Bona Polari. Secret language lifelines that built community in the face of persecution.MULTIDISCIPLINARY ARTIST MICAELA CADUNGOGMicaela is an artist using textiles and photography to explore intimate spaces with an extreme eye for intentional detail.035036038040043044030044036035

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12 SPRING 2025 | metromodemagazine.com FORWARDMETROMODEIN INTERIOR046049055059CULTURE, FEATURESCOMING HOME TO ME -BY TAYLER SMITH A collection of poems providing a positive way to deal with the emotional trauma of an ending relationship. MALTA: A CULTURAL HAVEN AND A QUEER PARADISE Malta, a Mediterranean gem, oers rich history, stunning landscapes, and a welcoming, progressive haven for LGBTQ travelers seeking adventure and acceptance.THE HISTORY OF DRAG From Ancient Roman times up to today, Drag has always been a dynamic art form, blending gender expression, theater, and rebellion, evolving through history to reflect shiing social landscapes. THE ART OF RESISTANCE Political art has shaped history, challenging oppression and driving progress. From 18th-century engravings to today’s illustrations and murals, queer artists continue influencing change and societal reform.064070077FEATURES, FOODIE, FINAL WORDPROFILE: CONGRESSWOMAN SARAH MCBRIDE Sarah McBride made history by becoming the first openly transgender person elected to the U.S. Congress. Her “quiet revolution” on Capitol Hill emphasizes policy over identity, focusing on issues like paid family leave and healthcare. THE HISTORY OF NATIVE AMERICAN TWO SPIRIT PEOPLE Indigenous cultures honored Two Spirit individuals as healers and leaders. Colonization suppressed these identities, but eorts today reclaim traditions, strengthening Indigenous communities and fostering cultural resilience.FOODIE: COLORADO -NEWLY OPENED, REVIEWS, RECIPES Vine Street Pub & Brewery, Little India, Hops & Pie, Jax Fish House, Quick Skillet-Roasted Chicken, and Mini Apple Pies. POST COVID: FAMILY AND RELATIONSHIP DYNAMICS Post-pandemic, LGBTQ relationships and family dynamics are evolving, reflecting generational shis in love, friendship, parenting, and societal norms over the past five years.097064049055070

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14 SPRING 2025 | metromodemagazine.com FORWARDMETROMODEMH MASTHEADPUBLISHER & FOUNDERWilliam CameronCREATIVE TEAMEDITOR-IN-CHIEF & CREATIVE DIRECTORWilliam CameronSTAFF PHOTOGRAPHERAlyte KatiliusOPORATIONS ASSISTANTMichael FoxCONTRIBUTING WRITERSWilliam Cameron, Tayler Smith, Michael Fox, Mike Broemmel, Morris Price, Brad Pappas, Taylor Adams, David Radino, Kevin Daly, Agent 6 & 9CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERSZoe Schacht CONTRIBUTING ILLUSTRATORSWilliam CameronADVERTISING DIRECTORWilliam Cameronwilliam@metromodemagazine.com720-495-224720TH-YEAR ANNIVERSARY SPECIALIn celebration, we’re oering 20% o all respective frequency advertising rates through 2025. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. COPYWRITE 2025Published by Metromode MagazineSPECIAL THANKS!Tayler Smith, Micaela Cadungog, Zoe Schacht, Colorado Newsline, and all the writers and advetisers. Thank you!SOCIAL MEDIABluesky: @metromode.bsky.socialFacebook: @metromodeInstagram: @metromodeSince 2004, Metromode has been a beacon for the Colorado LGBTQ+ community. Metromode speaks to the entire community with thoughtful analysis of local, national, and global events having a local effect; developments in business, finance, the economy, health, and real estate; interviews with emerging and seasoned artists, musicians, and writers; appealing new opportunities to enjoy Colorado’s rich culture and social atmosphere; quality aesthetic experiences from film, to food, to music, to art, to night life; and challenging social and political thought.WE ARE PROUD TO BEON STANDS JUNE 2-AUGUST 31DELIVERING THE MOMENTS THAT MAKE HISTORYAdvertise with Metromode and enjoy 20% off all frequency rates from now through the end of 2025! Reserve four consecutive issues and receive a free resource page online for the duration of the ad agreement, plus one social media boosted ad each issue. Contact Willim Cameron atwilliam@metromodemagazine.com - 720-495-2247IT’S WHAT HAPPENS IN OUR COMMUNITYTHAT CHANGES YOUR WORLD.BE PART OF EVERY MOMENT, NOWAND FOR ANOTHER 20 YEARS.MMetromode’s readership: Average age of 37.5, 25% have kids, MHI of $127,000, well educated, and 49% owning their own home. Metromode is the largest LGBTQ+ magazine in Colorado. We print 15,000 copies every quarter and have 300 distribution points throughout the Denver Metro Area, Boulder, Fort Collins, Colorado Springs, and Golden.

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16 SPRING 2025 | metromodemagazine.com FORWARDMETROMODESM SUBMISSIONSTELL US SOMETHING FABULOUS, DARLING.MAILING ADDRESS3700 Tennyson Street, #12364Denver, Colorado 80212720-495-2247WE ALL WORK REMOTELY.HOME ADDRESSES ARE NOT GIVEN.www.metromodemagazine.comWe’d love to hear from you! Please contact us with questions, feedback, advice and opportunities. By submitting a Letter to the Editor, Opinion, Story Idea, Illustration, Photography, or Obituary, you give Metromode Magazine full permission to use your name and submission in the magazine and/or our website. We do not make any promise to publish your submission, use your story idea, or compensate you in any way. To be compensated, you must be accepted as a Freelance Writer, Illustrator, or Photographer. Visit our Freelance Opportunities page for contributor requirements.ADVERTISING IN PRINT & ONLINEDisplay advertising is available in various sizes in print and online. All print listings (Calendar, Dining Guide, Bar & Nightlife Guide) typically require a print display ad purchase. Frequency rates apply. For furthur details, please contact William Cameron.william@metromodemagazine.com METROMODELETTER’S TO THE EDITOR AND ALL OTHER SUBMISSIONSProvide in an email or by direct mail. To be considered, you must provide your name, phone number, and email. Submissions should come attached in a Word document and we request they be no more than 1,000 words. Visit our Editorial Inquiries or Freelance Inquiries page online for further details on how to submit.CORRECTIONS & OBITUARIES Provide in an email or by direct mail. Corrections and Obituaries must include verifications, a document or source of proof. Please provide verifications in an attached Word document. Links will not be followed. Visit our Editorial Inquiries page online for further details on how to submit.PRINT MAGAZINE SUBSCRIPTIONSMetromode Magazine is printed quarterly. On stands dates follow the seasons. We print 15,000 copies per issue and have 300 distribution spots for free pickup. You may purchase a copy of Metromode at the Barnes & Noble Bookstores for $6. If you would like a copy mailed to your home, one single copy is $6, a full-year subscription is $18. Please send check to the address above with your name, address, and phone number.IN-KIND SPONSORSHIPSMetromode proudly supports LGBTQ+ community organizations and events within Colorado. Please visit us online to find the instructions on submitting a proposal for In-Kind Sponsorships. We have limited space available. Follow Us on Our SocialsNever miss out of the latest stories andevents happenning in our community!Bluesky: @metromode.bsky.socialFacebook: @metromodeInstagram: @metromodeFollow Us, Like Us, Enteract with Us, Love UsMetromode is Colorado’s leading LGBTQ+ lifestyle media company that produces journalism through magazine, digital, and social media platforms not found in mainstream media. Metromode, the largest local LGBTQ+ magazine in Colorado, was first published in 2004. We are committed to high-quality journalism. We believe in paying our writers fair pay for their work. If you’re interested, please visit our website, at the bottom of the home page click the Freelance opportunities button. There you will find the qualifications needed. Submit all writing sample to the email provided. No phone calls, please. Metromode is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.CALL FORWRITERS!

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18 SPRING 2025 | metromodemagazine.com FORWARDMETROMODECT CONTRIBUTORSTaylor AdamsCulture & FeaturesTaylor is a writer and art histori-an. She is a Colorado native, born in Denver. She has an MFA in Art His-tory with a minor in Ancient History and Mediterranean Archaeology at the University of Denver. With a passion for traveling and exploring culture, identity, and diversity. Her work delves into the intersections of art, society, and LGBTQ+ experienc-es. Through storytelling, she seeks to amplify marginalized voices and celebrate the richness of human ex-pression in all its forms. MDavid RadinoCulture & FeaturesDavid has a passion for writing that centers queer issues, culture, and the nuances of personal identity. With a background in both journal-ism and creative writing, his work spans a wide range of topics, in-cluding the complexities of identity, the intricacies of relationships. He has contributed to numerous on-line publications and print outlets, providing thought-provoking essays that explore the intersections of pop culture, social justice, and LGBTQ+ advocacy. MWilliam CameronPublisher & OwnerWilliam is the owner and publish-er of Metromode Magazine. He has 24-years experience working in the print magazine industry. In that time, he has worked for Colorado Expression, Architecture & Design of the West, and Out Front Colorado. William is a self-taught web designer and Adobe Creative Suite guru. He has fully designed a multitute mag-azine issues. He started Metromode 20-years ago and is responsible for the entire advertiing sales and graphic layout of the magazine and website. MMike BroemmelCulture & PoliticsWriting and journalism has been at the heart of Mike’s life aer gradu-ating from college with a degree in political science and journalism and beginning his career in the White House Oice of Media Relations and Planning (and then in the Oice of the First Lady). A primary focus of his work has been in the realm of polit-ical analysis and commentary. Mike is also a playwright with several pro-ductions addressing issues of equal-ity, diversity, and inclusion that have been produced internationally. MTayler SmithCulture & FeaturesTayler is a dental professional by day and a writer by night. Along with being a part-time barista, Tayler knows when to put the work aside and indulge in the arts. Growing up in Colorado, Tayler masters the cra of connecting with others, especial-ly amongst the Denver community; she thrives on getting to know peo-ple through art shows, open mics, bookstores, concerts, and tasty cui-sine. Talery has published a book of poetry and is a skilled writer. MMichael FoxOperations AssistantMichael is the operations manager at Metromode Magazine. He helps in overseeing the production of con-tent for both print and digital edi-torial. He grew up in Denver where he spent most of his time writing or playing music as a band geek. He at-tended college where he graduated with a combined music and creative writing degree. Then, in a life altering move, Michael moved to Asia for a few years. He settled back in Denver and has a passion for international and intercultural subjects. MMorris Price Jr.Culture & Good ChatMorris is the Vice President of Grants & Impact at the Colorado Trust. With a background in non-profit leadership including the Gill Foundation, a leader in funding LGBT civil rights, public policy, and higher education, Morris’ commu-nity involvement, including chair-ing the Board of the LGBT Center of Colorado, the LGBT Commission of the City and County of Denver and a number of other nonprofit boards, showcases his commitment to mak-ing a dierence. MBrad PappasGood ChatBrad is the founder and managing partner of Rocky Mountain Humane Investing LLC, an independent, SEC-registered investment advisor based in Denver, Colorado. Since 1995, he has specialized in cruel-ty-free, socially responsible invest-ment management, focusing on ethical and sustainable portfolios. Brad earned his B.S. in Investment Finance from Northeastern Univer-sity in 1983 and remains dedicated to humane investing. M

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20 SPRING 2025 | metromodemagazine.com FORWARDMETROMODEPN PUBLISHER’S NOTEs the culture wars rage on and the polit-ical landscape grows increasingly hostile toward LGBTQ lives, the importance of history as a teaching tool has never been clearer. We are witnessing an era where misinformation, fear, and legislative attacks seek to strip away our rights, dignity, and visibility. But there is one thing those forces cannot erase: our histo-ry. Queer history is not just a record of the past; it is a weapon of truth, a testament to resil-ience, and a roadmap for change. By teaching our history boldly, we can shi perspectives, challenge hate, and win over hearts in ways de-bates and policies alone never could.Take, for example, the history of drag. Today, drag has been turned into a political battle-ground, with right-wing extremists weaponiz-ing it to stoke fear and justify oppressive laws. But drag has always been revolutionary. From the gender-defying performances in the speak-easies of the 1920s to the radical queens of Stonewall who fought back against police bru-tality, drag has long been a site of resistance. It was never just about entertainment—it was about survival, defiance, and joy in the face of oppression. When people understand that the roots of drag are deeply entwined with the fight for LGBTQ rights, it becomes harder to vilify. Education turns fear into understanding.Similarly, LGBTQ political art has long been a powerful force in shiing public conscious-ness. From the ACT UP posters that demanded action during the AIDS crisis to the bold street murals of queer liberation today, art has a way of reaching people beyond political rhetoric. Keith Haring’s electrified figures, David Wojn-arowicz’s visceral rage, and the pink triangle reclaimed from Nazi persecution—all of these have shaped how the world sees LGBTQ peo-ple, not as villains or strangers, but as human beings demanding dignity. Art forces people to feel, to empathize, and to confront truths they might otherwise ignore. In a time when LGBTQ identities are under relentless attack, political art remains a battlefield where history speaks directly to the present.One of the most powerful examples of histo-ry in the making is the recent groundbreaking victory of Congresswoman Sarah McBride. As the first openly transgender member of Con-gress, her election is a beacon of hope and a testament to the progress made through gen-erations of activism. McBride’s win is not just a political triumph; it is living proof that LGBTQ representation is unstoppable. Her presence in Congress challenges the narrative that trans people should be pushed to the margins and asserts that they belong at the highest levels of government. When we teach young people about figures like McBride, we oer role mod-els who prove authenticity and leadership go hand in hand.But queer history stretches far beyond mod-ern Western narratives. Long before coloniza-tion imposed binary norms, Native American Two-Spirit people thrived in societies that hon-ored their existence. Many Indigenous cultures recognized Two-Spirit individuals as healers, visionaries, and integral members of their com-munities. Colonialism sought to erase these identities, just as today’s lawmakers seek to erase trans and nonbinary people from public life. By teaching the history of Two-Spirit peo-ple, we reairm the existence of gender diver-sity throughout history and challenge the idea that LGBTQ identities are a modern “trend” or Western invention. Queer people have always been here, and we always will be.At Metromode Magazine, we believe history is not just about remembering—it’s about re-sisting. In this political moment, knowledge is more than power; it is a shield against igno-rance and a sword against oppression. Teach-ing queer history is not just an act of education but an act of defiance. When we tell our stories, we do more than preserve the past—we change the future. And in a time when so many are working to silence us, that act of truth-telling is one of the most radical things we can do.Stay loud, stay proud, and keep telling our sto-ries.I believe that telling our stories, first to ourselves and then to one another and the world, is a revolutionary act. -Janet MockWilliam CameronOwner & PublisherThe Power of Queer HistoryASPRING ISSUE 202 50 000 SPRING2025 31 >FREEEVENTS NEWS CULTURE FEATURES FOODIE NIGHTLIFE EVENTS NEWS CULTURE FEATURES FOODIE NIGHTLIFE MMETROMODECOLORADO’S LGBTQ + MAGAZINEQUEER HISTORYBefore European contact, many Native American tribes recognized multiple gend er roles beyond the m ale-female binary. Now, Two Spirit people are reclaiming their history, culture, and identity.METROMODEBy Taylor AdamsThe History ofNative AmericanTwo Spirit PeopleCONGRESSWOMANSARAH MCBRIDEHer Quiet Capitol Hill Revolution.THE ART OFRE SISTANCEHow Political Artwork HasShaped America and Beyond.DRAG HAS ARICH HISTORYDating back thousands of years, to the theatrical tra ditions of ancient Rome and Greece.COLORADO’S LGBTQ + MAGAZINESPRING ISSUE 202 5DRAG HAS ARICH HISTORYTHE ART OFRE SISTANCECONGRESSWOMANSARAH MCBRIDEThe History ofNative AmericanTwo Spirit PeopleBy Taylor AdamsEVENTS NEWS CULTURE FEATURES FOODIE NIGHTLIFE QUEER HISTORYBefore European contact, many Native American tribes recognized multiple gend er roles beyond the m ale-female binary. Now, Two Spirit people are reclaiming their history, culture, and identity.Dating back thousands of years, to the theatrical tra ditions of ancient Rome and Greece.How Political Artwork HasShaped America and Beyond.Her Quiet Capitol Hill Revolution.Spring 2025 IssueQueer HistoryCover Image: Adobe Stock

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22 SPRING 2025 | metromodemagazine.comSCAN THE CODE TO SEE OUR FULL LIST OF EVENTSINDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED IN COLORADOHigh Intensity - Low ImpactMindful MovementFierce45 is Denver's premier ass kicking, awe-inspiring, full body workout offering small group tness classes on the one-of-a-kind Lagree Method MegaFormer. With three central studio locations and calorie-torching movement combined with the fundamentals of alignment, this studio and these classes are like nothing you've ever experienced. You will sweat, your muscles will tremble and you will experience the Fierce45 difference in just three classes.1208 W 38th Avenue: 720-812-3405527 East Mississippi: 720-812-3415335 Holly Street: 720-812-34161610 E Girard Pl Ste G, Englewood: 720-812-3394LOHI | WASH PARK | HILLTOP | CHERRY HILLS | FIERCE45.COMHigh Intensity - Low ImpactMindful MovementFierce45 is Denver's premier ass kicking, awe-inspiring, full body workout offering small group tness classes on the one-of-a-kind Lagree Method MegaFormer. With three central studio locations and calorie-torching movement combined with the fundamentals of alignment, this studio and these classes are like nothing you've ever experienced. You will sweat, your muscles will tremble and you will experience the Fierce45 difference in just three classes.1208 W 38th Avenue: 720-812-3405527 East Mississippi: 720-812-3415335 Holly Street: 720-812-34161610 E Girard Pl Ste G, Englewood: 720-812-33941240 South Broadway, Denverdivinowine.com . 303-778-180 0

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23 metromodemagazine.com | SPRING 2025EVENT CALENDAREVENT CALENDAR ECMARCH 5, 2025-JUNE 8, 2025MARCH 13th-MARCH 16thBOULDER INTL. FILM FESTIVALMain Venue: Boulder Theater2032 14th Street, Boulder, ColoradoTickets: bi1.com/boxoice/ - PH: 303-49-2289The Boulder International Film Festival brings films and filmmakers from around the world to Boulder for a four-day celebration of the art of cinema. BIFF has developed a reputation as one of the most influential young film festivals in the U.S., with an extraordinary number of new-but-unknown feature films, documenta-ries, and shorts that have gone on from early screenings at BIFF to significant box-oice success and multiple Oscar nominations. The Festival attracts more than 25,000 film enthu-siasts, media and industry each year and has been proud to host and celebrate some of film’s most talented artists. MMARCH 11thRUPAUL: HOUSE OF HIDDEN MEANINGSFillmore Auditorium, 1510 Clarkson St, Denverfillmoreauditorium.org/events - PH: 303-837-0360RuPaul’s most revealing and personal work to date–a brutally honest, surprisingly poignant, and deeply intimate memoir of growing up Black, poor, and queer in a broken home to discovering the power of performance, found family, and self-ac-ceptance. A profound introspection of his life, relationships, and identity, The House of Hidden Meanings is a self-portrait of the legendary icon on the road to global fame. MMARCH 14th-MARCH 16thCOLORADO DRAGON BOAT FILM FESTIVALSie Film Center, 2510 East Colfax Avenue, Denverwinterindenver.com/rink - 720-381-0813Experience Colorado’s only Asian and Asian Amer-ican Film Festival, presented by Colorado Dragon Boat! This three-day, family-friendly event cel-ebrates the culture, contributions, and achieve-ments of Asian and Asian-Pacific American com-munities through film. Join us as we honor our past to guide our future with inspiring stories, diverse voices, and unforgettable cinematic expe-riences. Don’t miss this cultural celebration! MMARCH 15thDENVER’S ST. PATRICKS DAY PARADEDowntown Denver, 19th & Wynkoop-17th Streetdenverstpatricksdayparade.comThe Denver St. Patrick’s Day Parade has been a hallmark of The Mile High City. Running for over 60 years, nearly half a million people are expected to attend the downtown parade. The parade will start on Wynkoop Street at 19th Avenue, then turn southeast down 17th Avenue before turning northeast on Blake Street (renamed Tooley Street for the parade), then continue on Blake Street un-til 27th Avenue. MMARCH 21st-MARCH 22ndHENRY ASENCIO FINE ART EXHIBITIONFS Fine Art, 2727 East 3rd Avenue, Denverfascinationstart.com - PH: 303-333-1566Asencio blends classical figurative art with a bold, contemporary style, portraying strong, contempla-tive women. Using live models or photos, he paints expressively with a palette knife. Painting for Asen-cio is cathartic. It’s the most articulate way to ex-press his passion and internal dialogues. Merging introspection and visual spectacle, his work merg-es introspection and visual spectacle, redefining femininity, spirituality, and elegance. MNOW-MAY 18thTHE BOOK OF MORMONTemple Hoyne Buell Theatre, 1350 Curtis St, Denverdenvercenter.org/events-ticketsThe New York Times calls it “the best musical of this century.” This outrageous musical comedy follows the adventures of a mismatched pair of missionaries, sent halfway across the world to spread the Good Word. With standing room only productions in London, on Broadway, and across North America, THE BOOK OF MORMON has tru-ly become an international sensation. Not for all ages. Contains explicit language. MMARCH 21st-MARCH 23rdDENVER MARCH POWWOWDenver Coliseum, 4600 N Humboldt St, DenverTickets: asx.com/events - PH: 303-934-8045Experience the vibrant Denver March Powwow at the Denver Coliseum. This three-day event fea-tures over 1,500 dancers from nearly 100 tribes from 38 states and three Canadian provinces, showcasing traditional singing, dancing, storytell-ing, art, and cuisine. Join the Grand Entry to wit-ness the rich tapestry of Native American culture. For more information, visit the oicial website at denvermarchpowwow.com M

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24 SPRING 2025 | metromodemagazine.com EVENT CALENDARECAPRIL 4thCOLORADO ROCKIES HOME OPENERCoors Field, 2001 Blake Street, Denver rockies.com - PH: 303-762-5437The Colorado Rockies will host their 2025 home opener at Coors Field on April 4, facing the Oak-land Athletics. The game starts at 2:10pm MST. This game marks the start of a three-game series against the Athletics, followed by a series with the Milwaukee Brewers. Fans can look forward to an exciting season kicko in Denver. The Col-orado Rockies have a 162-game schedule for the 2025 Major League Baseball season. MAPRIL 6thTASTE OF PEARLDowntown Boulder, 1300 Pearl Street, Boulder boulderdowntown.com - PH: 303-449-3774General admission: $90 per person, VIP $130 per person. Must be 21 years of age and older to pur-chase a ticket. Ticket includes entry to all 15+ event locations for samples of food and wine and spirit tastings, keepsake bag and wine glass. Also includes a $2 o coupon for one bottle of wine or spirit from participating wineries or distilleries. Look for special attendee oers at participating host locations. MAPRIL 10thRANGE LGBTQ+ JOB FAIRMcNichols Civic Center, 144 W. Colfax Ave, Denver range@lgbtqcolorado.org - PH: 303-951-5211Range LGBTQ+ Job Fair and Education, a program of The Center on Colfax, provides IDEA training and consulting, focusing on LGBTQ+ best practic-es across sectors. It hosts the Range LGBTQ+ Job Fair, Business Partner Program, and Resource Roundup Newsletter. Committed to LGBTQ+ workplace equity, Range Education ensures em-ployees can be authentic, respected, and valued for their contributions. MAPRIL 11th-MAY 25thLITTLE SHOP OF HORRORSWolf Theatre, Speer Blvd & Arapahoe St, Denverdenvercenter.org/tickets-eventsSeymour Krelborn, a meek florist on Skid Row, discovers a strange plant with a taste for human blood. As Audrey II grows, so does its sinister hun-ger, forcing Seymour to make a life-altering choice before it takes over the world. With unforgettable songs like “Skid Row” and “Suddenly, Seymour,” Little Shop of Horrors is a thrilling, nostalgic, and wildly entertaining Broadway classic filled with humor, heart, and horror. MNOW-OCTOBER 5th¡VIVA LA CAUSA! THE ART OF CHANGEHistory Colorado, 1200 Broadway, Denverhistorycolorado.orgIn every generation, some artists create work as a form of protest. Their art addresses the struggle for social justice and equality and encourages so-cial change. ¡Viva La Causa! Long Live the Cause! highlights artwork created at the peak of two so-cial justice movements: the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s and ʼ70s and the Black Lives Matter movement in the early 2020s to explore themes of identity and empowerment in Colorado. MAPRIL 29thKYLIE MINOGUE IN CONCERTBall Arean, 1000 Chopper Circle, Denverticketmaster.com - PH: 1-800-653-8000Pop icon Kylie Minogue brings her Tension Tour to Denver. Joined by special guest Rita Ora, the con-cert promises an unforgettable night of music and performance. Minogue has achieved recognition in both the music industry and fashion world as a ma-jor style icon. Her accolades include two Grammy Awards, four Brit Awards and eighteen ARIA Music Awards. Minogue is the highest-selling Australian female artist of all time. MAPRIL 20th-AUGUST 17thKENT MONKMAN EXHIBITIONDenver Art Museum: Hamilton Building, Level 2100 West 14th Ave Pkwy, Denver, ColoradoIncluded in General AdmissionKent Monkman: History is Painted by the Vic-tors is the first major U.S. show for the celebrat-ed Fisher River Cree artist. Based in New York and Toronto, Monkman challenges Western art history, addressing Indigenous experiences and colonial injustices with bold, thought-pro-voking works. Featuring 41 monumental piec-es, the exhibition explores history painting as a contemporary genre, tackling climate change, government policies, generational trauma, and LGBTQ+ visibility. It includes works from the Denver Art Museumʼs collection, newly cre-ated pieces, and significant loans from institu-tions and private collectors. MMARCH 5, 2025-JUNE 8, 2025

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26 SPRING 2025 | metromodemagazine.com EVENT CALENDARECMAY 2ndPATTI LUPONE: A LIFE IN NOTESNewman Center, 2344 East Illi Avenue, Denvernewmancenterpresents.com - PH:303-871-7720Music has the power to crystalize a moment in time and evoke eras. In her new concert, Patti LuPone: A Life in Notes, she performs an array of songs which do just that–songs that are touchstones and re-flections on her life growing up in America–from a young girl during the burgeoning rock and roll scene of the fiies, to coming of age in politically and socially turbulent sixties, to eventually achiev-ing success with both career and family. MMAY 3rd-MAY 4thCINCO DE MAYO FESTIVALCivic Center Park, 101 14th Avenue, Denvercincodemayodenver.com - PH: 720-913-1311The Cinco de Mayo Parade starts at 11 a.m., wind-ing through downtown Denver to Civic Center Park, where the festival awaits. family entertain-ment with 3 stages of music and dancing all week-end. Don’t miss the Chihuahua Races, Taco Eating Contest, Lowrider Car Show and be sure to check out the many local vendor and artisans. Spend the weekend enjoying the vibrant spirit of Mexican cul-ture at Cinco de Mayo Denver. MMAY 8th-MAY 9thJACK WHITE IN CONCERTMission Ballroom, 1385 Curtis St, DenverTickets: axs.com/events - PH: 720-577-6884Jack White is one of the foremost musicians of our time. Having made his name as the frontman of The White Stripes, he went on to have success with both The Raconteurs and The Dead Weather. White is also a serial producer, having produced over 30 albums. Following the break up of the White Stripes in February 2011, Jack began his solo ca-reer in earnest with 2012’s Blunderbuss, a critical and commercial success. MNOW-SEPTEMBER 14thHELD IMPERMANENCE EXHIBITIONClyord Still Museum, 1250 Bannock St, Denverclyordstillmuseum.org - PH: 720-354-4880Katherine Simóne Reynolds’s Held Imperma-nence at the Clyord Still Museum explores tension between preservation and change. Still sought to keep his work intact, revealing both masterpieces and paintings marked by time. The exhibition invites viewers to engage with art’s fragility, Still’s archival impulse, and the chal-lenge of confronting mortality while embracing impermanence. MMAY 10th-MAY 18thDENVER FASHION WEEKRiNo Arts District, Multiple locationsdenverfashionweek.comDenver Fashion Week is the largest of its kind in Col-orado. Showcasing emerging, local, and national designers, this 9-day event includes several shows and a handful of workshops. Tickets to this multi-day event are available online. From workshops on how to pose and patent your brand to shows that highlight local designers, sustainable fashion, and ready-to-wear collections, this event has an array of unique design-related activities. MJUNE 6th-JUNE 7thAN ECHOING SPRING, MATTHEW SHEPARDThree Leaches Theater, 1560 Teller St, LakewoodTickets: thethreeleaches.comThe play delves into the tragic events of October 1998, when Matthew Shepard, a 21-year-old Uni-versity of Wyoming student, was brutally attacked and le to die near Laramie, Wyoming. Through carefully craed scenes and thoughtful dialogue, An Echoing Spring explores not just the horrific crime itself, but the ripple eects it had on the community, the nation, and the broader fight for LGBTQ+ rights. MMAY 17th-JUNE 8thWORLD PRIDE 50th ANNIVERSARYWashington DC: Pennsylvania Avenue, NWBetween 9th and 3rd StreetsTickets: worldpridedc.org - PH: 202-719-53042025 marks the 50th Anniversary of Pride cele-brations in Washington, DC! The Capital Pride Alliance is excited for Washington, DC to host WorldPride 2025 and share this momentous and exciting milestone with our international community. WorldPride DC 2025 will feature a vibrant and innovative slate of events and cultural programs that will highlight the best that Washington, DC has to oer. From mu-sic to film, from the National Mall to Embassy Row, you will experience the world through Washington’s multi-faceted and multi-cultural community. Celebrate with the LGBTQ+ com-munity here and around the globe. MMARCH 5, 2025-JUNE 8, 2025

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29 metromodemagazine.com | SPRING 2025THE GAY AGENDATHE GAY AGENDA GAMEDIAince returning to oice in 2025, President Trump has launched a full-scale attack on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initia-tives, signing executive orders that restrict federal support for LGBTQ+ protections. His administration has reversed policies that safeguarded LGBTQ+ workers, removed gen-der identity from federal nondiscrimination guidelines, and encouraged states to enact laws restricting transgender rights, particu-larly in healthcare and education.Trump’s Department of Education has rolled back Title IX protections for transgender stu-dents, and the administration has also barred federal agencies from funding DEI programs. At the same time, conservative legislators have proposed stricter content regulations aimed at limiting LGBTQ+ representation in media, citing so-called “traditional American values.”Despite this hostile political landscape, Hol-lywood and streaming platforms are forging ahead with more LGBTQ+ content than ever, showing that the fight for representation is far from over.Netflix, a long-time supporter of LGBTQ+ sto-rytelling, has doubled down on inclusive pro-gramming. The streaming giant has green-lit a host of new projects, including "The Queer Chronicles," a docuseries highlighting LGBTQ+ pioneers in history, and "Eclipsed Love," a sci-fi romance featuring nonbina-ry and transgender leads. Withing this year, MEDIA GIANTS DEFYTRUMP ADMINISTRATION’SANTI-LGBTQ+ POLICIESIn the face of a new wave of anti-LGBTQ+ policies under President Donald Trump’s administration, major entertainment companies like Netflix, Hulu, AMC Theaters, and Universal Pictures are refusing to back down. Instead, they are actively pushing forward with LGBTQ+ content, making a powerful statement about the role of media in shaping cultural narratives and resisting government suppressionWords and Images: William CameronNetflix has many series returns plus other new shows and movies to release; Stranger Things, Ginny & Georgia, Wednesday Add-ams, Sirens, Fear Street: Prom Queen, Too Much, The Abandons, and Havoc.Netflix’s content chief, Bela Bajaria, reaf-firmed the company’s commitment: “Sto-rytelling should reflect the world we live in. No matter what political challenges arise, we stand with the LGBTQ+ community and will continue to amplify diverse voices.”The company’s stance has sparked backlash from conservative groups who accuse it of pushing an “agenda.” But Netflix remains un-deterred, even expanding its Pride collection and investing in LGBTQ+ filmmakers globally.Hulu, owned by Disney, has also refused to scale back its LGBTQ+ oerings. In 2025, it launched "Pride and Resistance," a docu-mentary about LGBTQ+ activists fighting dis-criminatory policies. The platform’s scripted series, "Love & Rebellion," about a queer couple navigating a dystopian America, has gained both critical and commercial success.Disney, which has faced attacks from right-wing politicians over its DEI eorts, remains committed to inclusive storytelling. The com-pany has continued featuring LGBTQ+ char-acters in its Marvel, Star Wars, and animated productions, despite calls from conservative lawmakers to “depoliticize” entertainment.AMC Theaters, the largest cinema chain in the U.S., has taken a bold stance by dedicating monthly screenings to LGBTQ+ films. "Repre-sentation matters,"SContinued on page 32

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30 SPRING 2025 | metromodemagazine.com THE GAY AGENDAGA POLITICALor years, the Republican Party and the religious right have pushed a distorted narrative on child predation and have led an aggressive campaign against transgender people and drag queens, accusing them of posing a threat to children. Prominent con-servative figures and right-wing media out-lets routinely claim that these groups are involved in grooming or child predation, de-spite a complete lack of evidence to support these assertions. Instead, statistical data and numerous criminal cases indicate that the real predators oen come from with-in the very institutions and political circles leading these attacks: Republican oicials, priests, and pastors.Conservative politicians and religious lead-ers have weaponized the rhetoric of child safety to push anti-LGBTQ+ legislation. Across the country, states have introduced bills banning drag performances, restricting transgender rights, and censoring LGBTQ+ content under the guise of protecting mi-nors. Groups like Moms for Liberty, a far-right parental rights organization, and media out-lets like Fox News fuel this hysteria, equating drag performances and gender-airming care with child abuse and exploitation.However, when pressed for evidence, pro-ponents of these accusations fail to provide a single documented case in which a trans-gender person or drag performer has been found guilty of child molestation as part of their identity or role in the LGBTQ+ commu-nity. Meanwhile, a long and horrifying pat-tern of abuse has emerged from religious institutions and within the ranks of the Re-publican Party itself.The reality of child predation runs rampant with Republican oicials and religious lead-ers. While conservatives have worked to de-monize LGBTQ+ people, a startling number of Republican politicians and religious fig-ures have been convicted of crimes against children. Here are just a few examples:Ralph Shortey, a former Republican state senator from Oklahoma, was sentenced to 15 years in prison for child sex traicking af-ter being caught with a 17-year-old boy in a motel room.Dennis Hastert, the former Republican Speaker of the House, admitted to sexually abusing young boys when he was a wrestling coach. He was sentenced to 15 months in prison for financial crimes related to hush money payments to his victims.Roy Moore, a former Republican Senate can-didate in Alabama, faced multiple credible allegations of sexual misconduct with mi-nors, yet was still supported by much of the party.Mark Foley, a former Republican congress-man, resigned in disgrace aer it was discov-THE HYPOCRISY OF THE REPUBLICAN PARTY AND THE RELIGIOUS RIGHTered he had sent sexually explicit messages to underage congressional pages.Matt Gaetz, a former sitting Republican con-gressman from Florida, has been investigat-ed for paying for sex with a 17-year-old girl and transporting her across state lines. While he has not been formally charged, reports suggest the Justice Department gathered substantial evidence linking him to the crime.The trend extends beyond politics into reli-gious institutions, where sexual abuse scan-dals involving clergy have rocked the Catho-lic Church and Protestant organizations alike. A 2019 report from the Houston Chronicle and the San Antonio Express-News revealed that over 700 victims had accused Southern Baptist pastors and church leaders of sexual abuse over a span of 20 years. Meanwhile, the Catholic Church’s history of covering up child sexual abuse by priests is well-documented, with thousands of cases surfacing across the globe.Words: Michael Fox, Image Courtesy of Zoe Schacht and Colorado NewslineThe Republican Party and religious right have falsely accused transgender people and dragqueens of endangering children, despite no evidence. Meanwhile, data and criminal casesshow that many actual predators come from within their own political and religious circlesContinued on page 32F

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32 SPRING 2025 | metromodemagazine.com THE GAY AGENDAGA ARTICLE WRAP UPDespite these damning revelations, conser-vative politicians continue to deflect from the real dangers facing children. Laws targeting LGBTQ+ communities are introduced under the pretense of child protection, yet these same lawmakers oen remain silent when abuse is discovered within their own ranks. The Catholic Church and evangelical orga-nizations have historically lobbied against LGBTQ+ rights while harboring sexual preda-tors within their clergy.This calculated strategy serves two purposes: it distracts from the abuse happening with-in religious and political institutions while also rallying the conservative base around a manufactured enemy. By focusing attention on drag queens reading books to children at libraries, they divert scrutiny from the wide-spread sexual misconduct that has occurred within churches and conservative political circles for decades.The consequences of this hypocrisy are se-vere. LGBTQ+ individuals, particularly trans-gender people, already face high rates of discrimination, violence, and mental health struggles. By falsely portraying them as predators, conservatives are not only endan-gering their lives but also diverting attention away from real threats to children’s safety.Meanwhile, victims of abuse within reli-gious institutions and conservative political spheres are oen ignored or silenced. Many survivors struggle for years to have their voic-es heard, especially when their abusers hold positions of power. The Republican Party and the religious right’s relentless focus on LGBTQ+ people as scapegoats only makes it harder for actual victims to seek justice.The Republican Party and the religious right’s claims about child safety are not root-ed in reality but in a long-standing tradition of demonizing marginalized communities to serve their political agenda. Time and again, it is Republican politicians and religious lead-ers—not drag queens or transgender indi-viduals—who have been exposed as actual perpetrators of child abuse. If society truly wishes to protect children, it must turn its focus away from baseless moral panics and toward holding those in power accountable for their crimes. The real question remains: How long will Americans allow this hypocrisy to persist? MMedia Giants Defy the Trump Administration ContinuedAMC CEO Adam Aron stated. "We will not let censorship or politics define our program-ming choices."Universal Pictures has also remained stead-fast, backing projects like "Spectrum," a ma-jor motion picture centering on a transgen-der superhero, and "Breaking the Silence," a drama about LGBTQ+ military veterans. By championing these films, Universal is defying government pressure to limit diverse narra-tives.Entertainment has long been a tool for social change, and 2025 is proving no dierent. As the Trump administration seeks to suppress LGBTQ+ representation, the industry is re-sponding with a wave of bold, unflinching stories. Platforms like HBO Max, Apple TV+, and Amazon Prime Video have all expanded their queer content, signaling that inclusivity is not just a trend—it’s a fundamental pillar of modern storytelling. LGBTQ+ advocates see this media resistance as crucial. GLAAD President Sarah Kate Ellis remarked, “When government policies try to erase LGBTQ+ people, representation in me-dia becomes even more vital. These stories save lives by showing people they are seen, valued, and loved.”This is a culture war with high stakes. The clash between the Trump administration and Hollywood represents a larger struggle over the soul of American culture. While conser-vatives push for restrictive policies, audienc-es are proving there is a significant demand for diverse, authentic storytelling. LGBTQ+ shows and films continue to generate strong viewership numbers, and corporate execu-tives are aware that inclusivity is both a moral and financial imperative.Looking ahead, media companies will likely face increased political attacks, but the prec-edent has been set: They will not be silenced. As legislation threatens LGBTQ+ rights, the entertainment industry is responding with a dierent kind of power—the power of story-telling, representation, and unwavering defi-ance in the face of oppression.Hollywood’s message is clear. The fight for LGBTQ+ visibility is far from over, and no po-litical administration can turn back the tide of progress. MHypocracy of the Republican Party Continuedvery year on March 31st, the world observes International Transgender Day of Visibility (TDOV,) a day dedicated to celebrating trans-gender and nonbinary individuals while rec-ognizing the challenges they continue to face. This day is not just about visibility—it is a de-mand for dignity, equity, and respect.Trans and nonbinary people have made re-markable strides in advocacy, culture, and policy. Their contributions span the arts, sci-ences, and public service, yet they oen re-main marginalized in society. TDOV serves as a reminder that visibility alone is not enough; recognition must translate into meaningful action, from legal protections to healthcare access and workplace inclusivity.Despite progress, the transgender commu-nity faces alarming levels of discrimination and violence. In many places, anti-trans leg-islation threatens fundamental rights, and systemic barriers prevent access to basic ser-vices. Visibility without protection can put in-dividuals at risk. That is why TDOV is not just a celebration but also a rallying cry for policy changes that airm and protect transgender lives.True inclusion means more than acknowl-edging existence—it means ensuring safety, equal rights, and respect for all. On this day, allies, policymakers, and institutions must reairm their commitment to equity. Visibil-ity should be a stepping stone to justice, not just a moment in the spotlight. MINTERNATIONAL TRANSGENDERDAY OF VISIBILITYA day to show your support for the trans community and to bring attention to their accomplishmentsWords and Image: William CameronE

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35 metromodemagazine.com | SPRING 2025GOOD CHATGCHEALTH GOOD CHATagus nerve stimulation, VNS, is emerg-ing as a revolutionary therapy for conditions such as epilepsy, depres-sion, and inflammatory diseases. Once a little-known nerve, the vagus nerve is now recognized for its essential role in regulating heart rate, digestion, immune response, and emotional well-being. As research expands, VNS is proving to be a non-invasive, transformative treatment.The vagus nerve, or tenth cranial nerve, extends from the brainstem to the abdo-men, acting as a vital link between the brain and major organs. It plays a key role in the parasympathetic nervous sys-tem, the “rest and digest” system, which counteracts the body’s fight-or-flight response. Given its vast influence, re-searchers have explored stimulating the vagus nerve for therapeutic benefits.VNS involves delivering mild electrical impulses to the vagus nerve, typically through an implanted device, to regu-late brain activity and restore balance to bodily functions. The first FDA-approved use of VNS was for treatment-resistant epilepsy. Patients unresponsive to tra-ditional medications experienced sig-nificant reductions in seizure frequency, dramatically improving their quality of life.Beyond epilepsy, VNS has shown promise in treating severe depression, particular-ly in cases where conventional antide-pressants fail. Studies indicate that VNS can alleviate symptoms by influencing neurotransmitter activity and reducing brain inflammation. Unlike pharmaceu-ticals, which primarily target chemical imbalances, VNS appears to recalibrate brain function for long-term mood stabi-lization.UNLOCKING THE POWEROF THE VEGUS NERVEVagus nerve stimulation is a breakthrough therapy for epilepsy, depression, and inflammation, using electrical impulses to restore balance in the body. It oers hope for patients unresponsive to traditional treatments and may soon become a mainstream alternative. Advancements in non-invasive techniques could further revolutionize healthcareWords: Michael Fox, Images: Adobe StockVThe potential applications of VNS extend beyond neurology and psychiatry. Researchers are now ex-ploring its role in treating inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, and long COVID. Chronic inflammation is a major con-tributor to autoimmune diseases, and VNS may help regulate immune responses by reducing excessive inflammation. This approach, known as bioelectronic medicine, could reduce re-liance on pharmaceutical treatments.Another promising area of research is VNS’s impact on cardiovascular health. Since the vagus nerve regulates heart rate and blood pressure, controlled stim-ulation may help manage conditions like heart failure and atrial fibrillation. This could reshape cardiology by using elec-trical impulses instead of drugs to man-age heart conditions.Traditionally, VNS required surgical im-plantation, limiting its accessibility. How-ever, researchers are now developing non-invasive methods, such as transcu-taneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS), which uses external devices to stimulate the nerve through the skin. These inno-vations could make VNS available to a much wider population by eliminating the risks and costs of surgery.If successful, non-invasive VNS could revolutionize healthcare. Wearable de-vices designed to regulate stress, im-prove digestion, and enhance immune function could become common. With its wide-ranging benefits, VNS is no longer a niche therapy but a rapidly expanding field with transformative potential.As research advances, harnessing the power of the vagus nerve could lead to breakthroughs across multiple medical fields. Whether for neurological disorders, psychiatric conditions, heart diseases, or chronic inflammation, VNS represents an exciting future in neuromodulation—one where electrical impulses, rather than pharmaceuticals alone, help restore bal-ance to the body. M

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36 SPRING 2025 | metromodemagazine.com GOOD CHATGC INVESTMENTShe shock and disbelief at the early weeks of Trump’s second presidency are under-standable. The rapid policy shis aecting our country, the world, and particularly DEI initiatives and the transgender community raise an urgent question: What can one sin-gle person do in protest? One possible ac-tion is divesting from companies supporting Trump’s policies.For years, LGBTQ investors have asked me about screening out companies with nega-tive biases toward DEI and the queer commu-nity. In the past, creating such a screen was diicult due to a lack of concrete data. Most public companies were either supportive or remained silent to avoid brand damage. However, recent events have made it clearer which corporations actively back Trump and his administration.Observing the figures who stood alongside Trump at his inauguration provides a start-ing point for screening investments. Among those present were the CEOs of Apple, Meta, Amazon, Google, and Tesla/Musk. If you in-vest in large fund companies, you may un-knowingly hold stakes in these businesses.The growing dominance of Index Funds over the past two decades has distorted invest-ment awareness. These funds track major stock market indices, such as the S&P 500, and allocate investments based on market momentum. As stocks rise, Index Funds buy more shares, increasing their weight in the portfolio.Many in the LGBTQ community may not real-ize their investments include companies that aligned with Trump. If you own an Index Fund tracking the S&P 500, you are likely invested in businesses whose leaders were visibly sup-portive of his administration. Corporate po-litical donations are a long-standing practice, oen aimed at securing favorable policies. However, some donors, such as Elon Musk, have shown overt enthusiasm for Trump’s re-turn to power, making this a deeply personal issue for investors.Those with retirement plans, 401(k)s, and portfolios reliant on Index Funds should scru-tinize their holdings. A prime example is the Vanguard 500 Index Fund, one of the largest domestic equity index funds. As of December 31, 2024, its top ten holdings include:Apple, Nvidia, Microsoft, Amazon, Meta, Tesla, Google Class A, Broadcom, Google, Berkshire Hathaway. These are companies that significantly contributed to or had a presence at Trump’s inauguration.If this realization has sparked concern, con-sider consulting an experienced Registered Investment Advisor specializing in Socially Responsible Investing (SRI) and fiduciary responsibility. Investment decisions should align with your financial goals while also re-flecting your values.It is crucial to recognize that dominant companies oen possess unique financial strengths, innovative technologies, or mar-ket advantages that make them diicult to replace. However, alternatives exist. If you seek to align your investments with your prin-ciples, take the necessary steps to research and transition thoughtfully, ensuring your fi-nancial security while supporting businesses that uphold your values. MA CALL FOR CONSCIOUS ANDSOCIALLY RESPONSIBLE INVESTINGWords: Brad Pappas, Rocky Mountain Humane Investing, LLC, Image: Adobe StockIn light of the harsh shi in government policies and corporations moving away from DEI initiatives,finding companies that align with your social values and beliefs is more important than everT

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38 SPRING 2025 | metromodemagazine.com GOOD CHATGChere was a time when queer people in Colorado had to seek out specific neigh-borhoods, creating enclaves where safety and community could be found. Spaces like Denver’s Capitol Hill became hubs of LGBTQ+ life because queer people needed to live near one another for survival, solidar-ity, and visibility. Today, those boundaries have dissolved. With the mainstreaming of LGBTQ+ identity and culture, queer people in Colorado can live almost anywhere and feel a sense of belonging.Queerness is no longer confined to urban pockets or hidden behind discreetly marked bars. It is seen in the Pride flags hanging from suburban homes, the same-sex cou-ples walking hand in hand through the streets of small towns, and the LGBTQ+ fam-ilies raising children in places that once may have been unwelcoming. This transforma-tion has allowed queer individuals to spread out, integrating into every part of the state rather than clustering in specific areas out of necessity.In Denver, this means that queer people are found across the city, not just in histor-ically queer-friendly neighborhoods. LoHi, RiNo, Washington Park, and Sloan’s Lake all have thriving queer communities, blending seamlessly with the broader population. The need to retreat into a singular, desig-nated "safe space" has diminished because acceptance is no longer limited to one street or one bar. Instead, social spaces that once catered exclusively to LGBTQ+ individuals now attract a mix of people, further nor-malizing and celebrating queer presence in mainstream society.Beyond Denver, Boulder continues to be a progressive beacon, where queer identities are not just accepted but embraced. The city’s university atmosphere and deep-root-ed liberal values make it a place where queerness is not just tolerated but inter-COMMUNITYWHERE DO QUEER PEOPLELIVE IN COLORADO NOW?Words: Michael Fox, Image: Adobe StockThe mainstreaming of queer life in Colorado has brought about a new reality,LGBTQ+ people can live wherever they choose, without fearwoven into the cultural fabric. Whether it’s queer-owned businesses thriving on Pearl Street or LGBTQ+ couples living openly in any neighborhood, Boulder oers a sense of belonging without the need for a specific queer district.Colorado Springs, a city known for its con-servative stance, has also seen a dramatic shi. While it may not yet rival Denver in terms of queer vibrancy, the visibility of queer people has increased significantly. Neighborhoods like Old North End and Man-itou Springs have fostered growing LGBTQ+ communities, proving that even tradition-ally conservative areas are evolving. The tragic shooting at Club Q in 2022 was a stark reminder of lingering prejudices, but the overwhelming community response rein-forced that queer people are not just pres-ent—they are integral to the city’s social landscape.Even rural Colorado, once considered a dif-ficult place for queer individuals to exist openly, has seen profound change. Towns like Salida, Carbondale, and Durango now boast visible LGBTQ+ populations, where queer people live not as outsiders, but as neighbors, business owners, and civic lead-ers. The pull of nature, adventure, and a slower pace of life is no longer o-limits to queer individuals who once feared small-town judgment.The mainstreaming of queer life in Colorado has brought about a new reality: LGBTQ+ people can live wherever they choose. No longer confined to specific neighborhoods for safety, we are shaping communities in every corner of the state. In Colorado, queer people don’t just exist in the margins—we are everywhere, thriving. MT

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40 SPRING 2025 | metromodemagazine.com GOOD CHATGC HIGHER EDUCATIONn 2025, Colorado's higher education land-scape is vibrant with initiatives that cele-brate and support LGBTQ+ students, foster-ing inclusive environments across campuses statewide. Institutions are introducing inno-vative programs, dedicated spaces, and com-prehensive resources to ensure that LGBTQ+ individuals not only feel welcomed but also thrive academically and personally.The University of Colorado Boulder stands at the forefront with its robust LGBTQ Studies program. This interdisciplinary certificate delves into the complexities of sexuality, en-compassing diverse fields such as literature, history, theatre, law, medicine, eco-nomics, sociology, anthropol- to engage critically with LGBTQ+ topics, fostering a deeper apprecia-tion of the community's history and contributions. At the University of Colorado Anschutz Med-ical Campus, the LGBTQ+ Hub is making significant strides in education and advo-cacy. This dynamic center oers a plethora of presentations and trainings throughout the year, covering essential topics such as "LGBTQ+ Cultural Humility," "Allyship," and "Gender Diversity Training." By providing these resources, the Hub ensures that both current and future healthcare professionals are well-equipped to oer compassionate and informed care to LGBTQ+ individuals. Moreover, the annual conference, held every second Friday of October, serves as a corner-stone event, uniting participants to delve into LGBTQ+ orientations, provider educa-tion, and community issues.Colorado College has also made commend-able advancements with the establishment of the Queer & Trans Collective (QTC). Launched in the fall of 2023, the QTC provides a dedicated gathering space lo- authentically express themselves and cultivate meaningful connections. Metropolitan State University of Denver, in collaboration with the Community College of Denver and the University of Colorado Den-ver, operates the LGBTQ Student Resource Center. This tri-institutional initiative serves as a beacon for those seeking information and support related to gender identity, sex-ual orientation, and romantic orientation. By fostering a community-centric approach, the center ensures that all students have access to the resources they need to navigate their personal and academic journeys with confi-dence. Beyond individual campuses, statewide events like the Queer Youth Summit, orga-nized by One Colorado, play a pivotal role in empowering LGBTQIA+ youth. This annual, free summit oers a full day of workshops, panels, and interactive sessions designed to celebrate and upli young LGBTQIA+ voic-es. By providing a platform for dialogue and connection, the summit fosters a sense of belonging and encourages the next genera-tion to become advocates for inclusivity and acceptance. The University of Denver's Cultural Center further enriches the support network with its Gender & Sexuality Initiatives. Through regu-lar programming and the maintenance of the Pride Lounge—a dedicated space for study and relaxation—the center ensures that LGBTQ+ students have a safe and airming environment to explore their identities and build community. Colorado Mountain College exemplifies a deep commitment to inclusivity by fostering a sense of belonging for all students. Recog-nizing the importance of support for LGBTQ+ individuals, the college strives to create an environment where everyone feels safe to be their authentic selves, thereby promoting so-cial, academic, and professional success.In essence, Colorado's educational institu-tions are not merely adapting to the needs of LGBTQ+ students; they are proactively cham-pioning diversity and inclusion. With com-prehensive programs, dedicated spaces, and unwavering support, these colleges and uni-versities are ensuring that LGBTQ+ individu-als are empowered, and equipped to excel in all facets of their lives. MCOLORADO’S HIGHER EDUCATION:A VIBRANT LANDSCAPEWords: Taylor Adams, Image: Adobe StockIogy, and politicascience.In 2025, students canimmerse them-selves in courseslike "Gender,Culture, andSexuality,""Introduc-tion to QueerLiterature,"and "SocialConstructionof Sexuality."These classesnot only enrichacademic under-standing but alsoempower students cated in Worner 221. Thishaven oers resources, support, and a senseof communityfor LGBTQIA+students.Equippedwith studyareas, en-tertainmentoptions likea NintendoSwitch, and awelcoming at-mosphere, theQTC is designedto be a sanctuarywhere students can Colorado's educational institutions are not merely adapting to the needs of LGBTQ+ students; they are proactively championing diversity and inclusion

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43 metromodemagazine.com | SPRING 2025CULTURECUQUEER CODEefore we had queer emojis, TikTok slang, and Drag Race catchphrases, Queer folks had to be a little more discreet when spilling the tea. From the 1930s to the 1970s, queer communities in both the U.S. and Britain developed their own coded languages to survive in a world that criminalized their ex-istence. In Britain, there was Polari, a flam-boyant, theatrical mix of Cockney rhyming slang, Italian, and Yiddish. Meanwhile, in America, there was The Queer Code, or Gay Speak, a vibrant yet stealthy dialect that borrowed from jazz culture, African American Vernacular English, drag slang, and the language of sex workers.Both languages were weapons of survival, tools of connection, and most importantly, hilarious.“Vada the Omi” and “Clock That Trade” The British had their Polari, where a hand-some man was a bona omi and a fabulous woman was a dolly palone. Across the pond, Americans had their own flair: a good-look-ing man was trade, and a striking wom-an was a fish (implying she could pass as straight.) The shade!Need to let your friends know the cops were coming? A Brit might whisper, “The sharpy’s trolling!” (translation: the police are snoop-ing.) An American would urgently say, “The Lily Law is on the prowl.” Either way, it was time to scatter before someone got arrested for the crime of existing.And let’s not forget the ultimate test: How do you suss out if someone is family? In Po-lari, you might casually drop a “bona to vada your dolly old eek” (nice to see your old face) and watch for a knowing smile. In the U.S., the tried-and-true greeting was a cheeky “Mary, are you a friend of Dorothy?”—a Wiz-ard of Oz reference letting you know you were among your people.Polari was packed with insults and back-handed compliments: someone could be a na omi (a boring man) or have a dowry riah (a terrible wig.) Meanwhile, in The Queer Code, the art of reading (insulting someone with cutting wit) was perfected. If a queen said, “Girl, your look is serving post oice realness,” it meant you looked like you were ready to sort mail, not strut a runway.Even the words we take for granted today (shade, fierce, gagging, work) all have roots in The Queer Code, particularly within the Black drag and ballroom communities of Harlem.By the 1970s, both Polari and The Queer Code were fading, but for good reason: LGBTQ+ activism was rising. In Britain, the decriminalization of homosexuality in 1967 meant Polari became less of a necessity. In America, the Stonewall Riots of 1969 kicked o a movement where visibility was the goal, not secrecy.Some activists even saw these languages as relics of an era when queer people had to hide, reinforcing stereotypes of flamboy-ance. But while Polari mostly disappeared, The Queer Code morphed into mainstream gay slang—thanks largely to Black and Lat-inx ballroom culture and, later, drag queens bringing it into pop culture.Polari might be a museum piece now, but echoes of it remain, especially in Britain’s drag and Queer communities. The Queer Code, however, evolved rather than van-ished. It lives on in phrases like spill the tea, shade, reading, and realness—a testament to the resilience and creativity of queer lan-guage.At their core, both Polari and The Queer Code were more than just words; they were lifelines. They built community in the face of persecution. They let people laugh in a world that o en made them cry. And they proved that no matter how much oppres-sion tried to silence them, queer people would always find a way to speak. MThe Queer Code: America’s secret gay language and its British cousin Bona Polari.Secret language lifelines that built community in the face of persecution.BONA TO VADA YOUR DOLLY OLD EEK!“ BOTH LANGUAGES WEREN’T JUST ABOUT SECRECY; THEY WERE ABOUT FUN. THE CAMP, THE EXAGGERATION, THE SHEER THEATRICALITY—IT WAS A WAY OF TAKING THE POWER BACK. WHEN THE WORLD TRIED TO PUSH QUEER PEOPLE INTO SILENCE, THEY RESPONDED BY MAKING LANGUAGE ITSELF AN ART FORM.Words: David RadinoBCULTURE

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44 SPRING 2025 | metromodemagazine.com CULTURECU ARTISTicaela Cadungog graduated from the Uni-versity of Houston in 2019 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts emphasizing in photography and digital media. Micaela is a multidisciplinary artist who uses textiles and photography to explore intimate spaces with an extreme eye for intentional detail. With many talents un-der her belt, Micaela has focused on cyano-type, quilting, photography, and embroidery. The photos displayed on the quilts is a pro-cess called cyanotype: a dark blue impres-sion. This is a specific process that is a type of analog photography. Two chemicals are mixed together that then become sensitive to UV light which develop a bright [cyan] blue. This process is sensitive. The human body is sensitive. Micaela didn’t need a darkroom to develop this work of art. Instead, she was stuck in the in-between of transit and mere-ly following the city’s grids from one place to another that never quite felt like home. When taking a closer look at the three quilts, Micaela describes these as “an intentional violence that results in an object of comfort” because quilts are supposed to be comfort-ing and cozy, but the images themselves are encapsulated on the fabric unable to leave. The main focus is the body (Micaela’s) in the Mfetal position. She took a photograph of her-self to transfer onto these quilts as a way to find comfort, security, and soness. Howev-er, the torso is hung upside down, and the legs are cut o, which conveys a deeper tone that “feels like a grave.” [These quilts are] “a place to leave something behind or to come back to.” The sectioned body was intentional to reveal the mirrored images of each other and to evoke the raw emotion Micaela was feeling most: Restless. As Micaela dispersed into other areas of her life, she realized the avoirdupois connota-tions she has with her childhood home. The displayed sculpture is a blueprint of her childhood bedroom in her parents’ house. The sculpture is made out of glass rods, cut up bedsheets woven together and white or-ganza fabric spilling out of the framework. Micaela is 5’4”and so is the fabric. This visual adds a level of depth and texture to the piece. Micaela describes her vision as, “the further you’re away from spaces, the more discern-ible the rose-colored glasses become. The closer you get, the clearer and more transpar-ent they become.” The glass rods are not only see-through, they are also extremely fragile and cracking at the foundation. Though wo-ven together, everything is ready to crumble in its instability. The fabric represents not fitting into this box and unwilling to find com-fort on the woven sheets she slept on each night. With the lack of comfort in hollow, gos-samer walls, Micaela moved to Denver from two other cities as a restart into a new place to call home: Bedroom #3. Micaela is now focusing on projects with a “fantastical and filtered” lens with much more detail and finite view. She has stepped away from photography to dive into textiles, beading, resin, and block printing. As Micaela extends her roots in Denver, her inspiration stems from her current partner as they em-bark on what they have both searched for most: home. MFantastical and FilteredWords: Tayler Smith, Images: Micaela CadungogMicaela Cadungog

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46 SPRING 2025 | metromodemagazine.com CULTURECUPOETerhaps something of a literary comeuppance of the kind exempli-fied by Taylor Swi in the musical world some 10 years ago, Tay-ler Smith encountered her ex aer completing work on her poetry collection. As a refresher, earlier in her career, singer Swi is said to have written at least a few songs in response to breakups with her significant others. Back when Coming Home to Me was on course to be released, Tayler had a brief face-to-face with her ex and pronounced:“I wrote a book about you and it’s going to be published.”In explaining this exchange, Tayler’s voice does not echo with ven-geance. In fact, the words and tone bespeak self-love, healing, and moving on to dierent and even better days. These points are exem-plified throughout her latest published collection.The breakup with her partner occurred without warning to Tayler. In fact, Tayler and her significant other had made new living arrange-ments with a goal of furthering their relationship. Two days before the residential change was to occur, Tayler’s partner summarily an-nounced that she was ending the relationship. While it is a fair statement to make note that Tayler’s breakup with her partner spurred her desire to create this collection of poetry, her book is not a maudlin exercise as can be the case with many tomes that have a genesis in a writer’s grim experience. While there are po-ems in Tayler’s collection that address the sadness and challenges of a relationship’s ending, Coming Home to Me is – more than anything else – a testament to survival, the resilience of the human spirit, and acceptance while moving on to meaningful new experiences. The book is a triumphant collection.On a personal note, Tayler made mention that writing and collect-ing these particular poems was a “100 percent cathartic” endeavor. “Writing these poems was a form of therapy for me,” she explained. “Rather than stifling emotions, the process (of creating the collec-tion) provided me with a positive way to deal with them”Tayler generally kept her own counsel when writing Coming Home to Me. Historically, when working on a writing project, Tayler would turn to trusted friends or colleagues to consider her works in progress. In this case, Tayler determined it was wiser for her to work through the entire collection, from writing to sequencing the individual pieces, before showing her collection to another person. In 2012, while a student at the University of Northern Colorado, Tay-ler switched her major to creative writing and English. She graduated Coming Home to Me -by Tayler SmithPOET: TAYLER SMITHWords: Mike Broemmel, Poem: Tayler Smith“ WRITING THESE POEMS WAS A FORM OF THERAPY FOR ME. RATHER THAN STIFLING EMOTIONS, THE PROCESS OF CREATING THE COLLECTION PROVIDED ME WITH A POSITIVE WAY TO DEAL WITH THEM.PComing Home to Me -by Tayler Smith

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47 metromodemagazine.com | SPRING 2025CULTURECUin 2016 and continued on a pathway to become a published author and poet. Prior to the re-lease of Coming Home to Me, poems by Tayler were published individually. When asked where she might find herself a decade from now, Tayler quickly made two quick points: She will likely be immersed in an artistic career and she hopes she’ll be with her current partner. Having made those responses in short speed, she made note that her father passed away not that long ago. Tayler noted that in the end, none of us are guaranteed a future. A person is “not even guaranteed to finish their dinner,” Tayler re-marked. At the time of the interview for this article, Tayler already was deep into work on her next I Will Continue to Love the Way I LoveI thought knowing how you take your coee, a little extra sweet, was love I thought taking out the trash because you hate doing it was love I thought oering to chop shallots so you didn’t have to cry in the kitchen was love I thought helping you prepare lunch for work tomorrow because you were too tired to was love I thought making the bed every morning was love I thought surprising you with little gis I knew you’d enjoy no matter the day or place was love I thought caressing your face between my thumbs and massaging your clenched jaw was love I thought rubbing your back until you fell asleep because you had a rough day was love I thought telling you how beautiful you are was love I thought covering you up with blankets in the middle of the night was loveI thought trusting you at a skating rink, even though I had never skated before, was love I thought meeting all of your friends and family was love I thought staying up ungodly late losing so much sleep was love I thought being patient was love I thought filling up your water, especially the one on your nightstand, before bed was love I thought allowing each other room to vent and listen was love I thought every glance, every touch, every smile, every knock on the door was love Then a few months later… you asked me, “what even is love?”As if you had never experienced it. Coming Home to Me can be found at a number of outlets, including in the brick and mortar world at Edgewater Public Market, 5505 W. 20th Ave, Edgewater, Colorado 80214 and through Amazon at https://a.co/d/abdV2Ts. Mcollection of poetry. The book will be something of a sequel to Coming Home to Me. Not providing any spoilers, Tayler nonethe-less shared that her new collection naturally flows from what she wrote and included in Coming Home to Me. She explained that the upcoming work fairly could be called “more loving, joyful, and charming.” Also something of a relationship-based work, the new poems are written during a time described by Tayler as being at a point in her life in which she is “in a relationship I’ve been wanting, been craving.” She’s not yet landed on a title for the new collection. She plans on including 20 poems in the new collection, the same count as in Coming Home to Me, with a publication date during the coming summer months. Returning to Coming Home to Me, a sense of Tayler’s sharp writ-ing style and themes of her work can be found from the very first poem in the collection, I Will Continue to Love the Way I Love.A Poetry Collection of Triumph Over HeartacheA Poetry Collection of Triumph Over Heartache

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50 SPRING 2025 | metromodemagazine.com CULTURECULGBTQ+ people in the world, including progressive gender identity recognition laws. The Maltese government actively promotes LGBTQ+ rights, ensuring that discrimination is not just condemned but actively eradicated from society.While laws and policies provide security, it is the warm and open-heart-ed nature of the Maltese people that truly sets the country apart. Unlike many places where LGBTQ+ acceptance is confined to urban centers, Malta’s welcoming attitude extends across the entire island. Whether you’re strolling through the historic streets of Valletta, exploring the crystal-clear waters of Comino, or enjoying the nightlife in St. Julian’s, you’ll find an atmosphere of inclusivity and respect.Hospitality is deeply rooted in Maltese culture, and businesses across the island—from hotels to restaurants—are known for their open-mind-edness. Many accommodations proudly display LGBTQ+-friendly cre-dentials, and it’s common to see same-sex couples enjoying a romantic getaway without fear of judgment.Malta’s LGBTQ+ community is thriving, and visitors can enjoy a variety of events and venues that cater specifically to them. The country’s an-nual Malta Pride celebration, held in September, has grown into a grand spectacle, attracting both locals and international travelers. The event is more than just a parade—it’s a week-long festival featuring concerts, art exhibitions, film screenings, and discussions on LGBTQ+ rights, all set against the stunning backdrop of Valletta’s historic streets.Beyond Pride, Malta oers an exciting nightlife scene for LGBTQ+ travel-ers. Michelangelo Club Lounge in St. Julian’s is a go-to LGBTQ+ bar that provides a lively, safe space to dance and socialize. Meanwhile, several other bars and clubs welcome a mixed crowd, ensuring that inclusivity isn’t confined to niche spaces but is embedded throughout the island’s social scene.Malta’s stunning landscapes provide the perfect setting for a romantic and rejuvenating LGBTQ+ vacation. The island’s coastline is dotted with breathtaking beaches, such as the secluded Għajn Tuieħa Bay or the dramatic clis of Dingli, oering stunning sunset views that are ideal for couples. The Blue Lagoon in Comino is a must-visit, with its turquoise waters perfect for swimming and relaxation.For history lovers, Malta is an open-air museum, home to ancient mega-lithic temples older than Stonehenge and the Pyramids of Egypt. The capital, Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is filled with charming cafes, stunning architecture, and historic sites such as St. John’s Co-Ca-thedral and the Grand Master’s Palace.The neighboring island of Gozo is another idyllic escape, oering tran-quil countryside, pristine beaches, and luxury farmhouses perfect for a romantic retreat. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Malta provides an ideal setting for LGBTQ+ travel-ers seeking both freedom and romance.Best Times to Visit Malta: For travelers seeking mild weather and few-er crowds, the best times to visit Malta are; Spring (March to May.) This period oers warm but comfortable temperatures, with blooming land-scapes and fewer tourists compared to the summer months; Autumn (September to November.) Aer the peak summer season, the weath-

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56 SPRING 2025 | metromodemagazine.com FEATUREFTyoung male actors portraying Juliet, Ophelia, and Lady Macbeth. These early interpretations of femininity were not mere substitutions for women but highly stylized performances that laid the groundwork for the theatricality of drag.As performance traditions expanded into the modern world, drag found a home in Vaudeville and burlesque during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In this era, performers such as Julian Eltinge became house-hold names, presenting drag not as parody but as an elegant, sophisti-cated illusion. Eltinge, one of the most famous female impersonators of his time, even marketed beauty products to women—his ability to embody femininity was so convincing that he became a symbol of aspi-rational womanhood. However, the increasing moral policing of gender expression in the early 20th century meant that drag, while popular, also lived on the fringes of acceptable society.During the 1930s, The Rocky Twins—identical twin brothers who per-formed in exquisite female attire—took Paris by storm. Their perfor-mances blended grace, precision, and high glamour, creating an illusion so convincing that audiences were le in awe. The Rocky Twins became icons of the Parisian cabaret scene, dazzling spectators with their syn-chronicity and elegance. Their success underscored the growing fasci-nation with gender illusion in entertainment, influencing generations of drag performers to come.The 1940s and 1950s saw drag take root in underground cabarets and secret queer spaces. With laws criminalizing cross-dressing, drag was both a performance and an act of resistance. The Pansy Craze of the 1920s had introduced gender-bending performers like Jean Malin to speakeasies, but aer the repeal of Prohibition, many of these spaces disappeared. By the mid-century, performers such as Ray Bourbon and the Jewel Box Revue—a touring drag troupe featuring Black and white queens—continued to keep the art of drag alive, even as they faced so-cietal persecution.The 1960s and 1970s ushered in an era of visibility and activism. The Stonewall Riots of 1969, a pivotal moment in LGBTQ+ history, were sparked in part by drag queens and trans women of color like Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera. Drag moved from the nightclubs to the streets, where it became a form of protest against oppression. The 1970s also saw the rise of drag pageantry, with events like Miss Gay America providing queens a platform to showcase their talents in the face of mainstream rejection.The late 20th century witnessed a diversification of drag styles, influ-enced by the cultural shis of the disco era and the punk movement. The 1970s disco scene, with its flamboyant fashion, pulsating music, and emphasis on glamour, created a space where drag performers flourished. Nightclubs such as Studio 54 became playgrounds for ex-travagant self-expression, where drag queens mingled with celebrities and helped define the era’s aesthetics. Meanwhile, the punk movement of the late 1970s and 1980s ushered in a new wave of drag that reject-56 SPRING 2025 | metromodemagazine.com FEATUREFTImages top to bottom: Julian Eltinge, the Rocky Twins, Nina Flowers -Page 57: RuPaul

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57 metromodemagazine.com | SPRING 2025FEATUREFTed traditional notions of beauty in favor of raw, rebellious, and deliberately subversive styles. Figures like Leigh Bowery embodied this avant-garde approach, pushing drag beyond illusion and into the realm of per-formance art. This era saw drag become not just a celebration of femininity, but a radical statement of individuality and defiance.By the 1980s, drag had solidified itself within the LGBTQ+ community, gaining recognition outside of queer circles. This era saw the birth of the underground ballroom scene, immortalized in films like Paris Is Burning. These ballrooms, dominated by Black and Latinx queer communities, provided a space where performers could find chosen fam-ilies, known as “houses,” and compete in elaborate categories that celebrated gender expression in all its forms. This decade also saw the arrival of Divine, the outrageous and unapologetic muse of filmmaker John Wa-ters, who brought drag into the realm of cult cinema.The 1990s saw a further expansion of drag into mainstream consciousness. RuPaul, who had been performing in the New York club scene, exploded onto the pop culture stage with the 1992 hit “Supermodel (You Better Work).” His visibility ushered in a new era where drag could be seen on television, in music, and even in films like To Wong Foo, Thanks for Everything! Julie Newmar and The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert. Drag was no longer confined to the fringes—it was becoming a celebrated art form.The early 2000s saw drag continue to thrive in queer spaces, but it was the launch of RuPaul’s Drag Race in 2009 that forever changed the landscape of the art form. The show, modeled aer reality competition se-ries like America’s Next Top Model and Proj-ect Runway, introduced drag to a new gener-ation and legitimized it as an art form worthy of mainstream attention. Drag queens be-came celebrities, with stars like Bianca Del Rio, Trixie Mattel, and Sasha Velour tran-scending the club scene and entering the worlds of comedy, music, and fashion. The show also brought attention to queens from across the United States, including notable contestants from Colorado, such as Yvie Oddly, Willow Pill, and Nina Flowers. These queens made a lasting impact on the compe-tition, each bringing their unique artistry, in-novation, and charisma to the global stage.By the 2020s, drag had become an unde-niable cultural force. RuPaul’s Drag Race spawned international franchises, and queens continued breaking barriers in enter-tainment and beauty. The rise of digital plat-forms like YouTube and TikTok allowed drag to expand beyond traditional performances, giving queens the ability to reach audiences worldwide. As new generations embrace the art form, drag continues to evolve, blending classic elements with fresh, innovative ap-proaches.As we move into 2025 and beyond, drag continues to push boundaries, proving that gender is fluid, performance is limitless, and self-expression is a powerful force. Whether on a dimly lit stage, in a digital livestream, or at a global festival, drag is here to stay, shim-mering, defiant, and ever-evolving. M 57 metromodemagazine.com | SPRING 2025FEATUREFT

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59 metromodemagazine.com | SPRING 2025FEATUREFTolitical artwork has long served as a powerful means of shaping public opinion, sparking de-bate, and challenging authority. Throughout history, artists have used their work to comment on social injustices, war, government policies, and movements for change. In the United States, political art has played a crucial role in reflecting and influencing the nation's political climate, while internationally, similar artistic expressions have shaped revolutionary movements and ideological battles. From early American protest engravings to contemporary street murals, po-litical artwork has evolved as both a tool of dissent and a reflection of collective consciousness.The roots of political artwork in the United States can be traced back to the 18th century when artists used prints and illustrations to critique British rule. One of the most famous early ex-amples is Paul Revere’s 1770 engraving, The Bloody Massacre Perpetrated in King Street. This depiction of the Boston Massacre was heavily propagandized, exaggerating British aggression to rally colonial opposition to British rule. Such engravings played a critical role in fostering rev-olutionary sentiment, illustrating the power of visual media in shaping political perspectives.As the 19th century progressed, political artwork became a staple in newspapers and peri-odicals. The rise of lithography allowed for mass-produced political cartoons, and no figure From the revolutionary engravings of the 18th century to the vibrant street murals of today, political artwork has played a pivotal role in shaping public opinion and influencing societal change. This article explores the power of visual expression in American history, highlighting key artists, movements, and the undeniable impact of LGBTQ political art. As artists continue to challenge oppression and mold the political landscape, their work remains a driving force behind progress and reform.The Art of Resistance How Political Artwork Has Shaped America and BeyondWords: David Radino, Image above: Paul Revere’s 1770 engraving, The Bloody Massacre Perpetrated in King StreetPImage: Uncle Sam CaricatureBy Thomas Nast Political Cartoon 1877THE ART OF RESISTANCE

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60 SPRING 2025 | metromodemagazine.com FEATUREFTwas more prominent in this realm than Thomas Nast. His satirical illustrations for Harper’s Weekly in the 1860s and 1870s targeted political corruption, most notably through his depictions of Tamma-ny Hall and Boss Tweed. Nast’s work was instrumental in exposing governmental fraud and is credited with influencing public opinion to demand reforms. Moreover, his imagery helped define enduring political symbols, such as the Democratic donkey and Republican el-ephant, which remain in use today.The early 20th century saw an expansion of political artwork as the country grappled with issues like workers' rights, war, and civil rights. During the Great Depression, artists working under the Works Prog-ress Administration (WPA) created murals and posters that depicted American resilience and the struggles of laborers. These works, while oen government-commissioned, carried strong messages about economic disparity and the dignity of work. At the same time, print-makers such as José Clemente Orozco and Diego Rivera, although based in Mexico, influenced American artists through their bold de-pictions of revolutionary ideals and class struggle.During World War II, political artwork became a key element of pro-paganda eorts on both sides of the conflict. In the United States, the government employed artists like Norman Rockwell to create patriotic images that encouraged support for the war eort. Rock-well’s Four Freedoms series, inspired by Franklin D. Roosevelt’s 1941 speech, depicted core American values and was widely circulated to boost morale. Meanwhile, posters such as Rosie the Riveter became iconic representations of women’s contributions to the war industry. The use of art as propaganda was not unique to the United States—Nazi Germany, the Soviet Union, and other nations relied heavily on state-sponsored political artwork to promote their respective ideol-ogies.The 1960s and 1970s marked a radical shi in political artwork as movements for civil rights, feminism, and anti-war activism took cen-ter stage. Artists like Emory Douglas, the Minister of Culture for the Black Panther Party, created striking graphic designs that called for racial justice and liberation. His bold, high-contrast images of Black empowerment were widely distributed in the Black Panther news-paper, making his work one of the most recognizable visual compo-nents of the movement. Similarly, artists protesting the Vietnam War produced anti-war posters, oen using bright colors and psychedelic Images: Top le -I’m Still Here by Jean Michel Basquiat, bottom le -Revolution in Our Time by Emory Douglas, bottom right -Dive Bomber and Tank by José Clemente Orozco, Page 61 -Both images are a part of the Death = Silence Series by Keith Haring

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62 SPRING 2025 | metromodemagazine.com FEATUREFTaesthetics to convey their messages. Peter Max’s vibrant, countercul-tural imagery and the anti-war works of the collective Guerrilla Girls exemplified how political artwork could challenge mainstream nar-ratives and mobilize activists.The latter half of the 20th century also saw the rise of graiti and street art as potent political tools. Jean-Michel Basquiat and Keith Haring used the streets of New York City as their canvas, addressing issues of racism, AIDS, LGBTQ rights, and economic disparity through their distinctive styles. Haring, in particular, was known for his advocacy for LGBTQ visibility and AIDS awareness through his bold and accessible imagery. Banksy, the anonymous British street artist, followed in their footsteps, creating provoc-ative stencil-based artwork that critiques capitalism, war, and government surveillance. His works, oen ap-pearing overnight on city walls, demonstrate how politi-cal artwork continues to thrive outside traditional gallery spaces.In contemporary America, political artwork remains as influen-tial as ever, particularly in response to social movements such as Black Lives Matter, climate activism, LGBTQ rights, and immigra-tion rights. Murals commemorating George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and other victims of police violence have appeared across the coun-try, turning public spaces into powerful platforms for advocacy. Art-ists like Shepard Fairey, best known for his Hope poster of Barack Obama, continue to create imagery that defines political moments and shapes public discourse. The digital age has further expanded the reach of political artwork, allowing memes, digital illustrations, and viral graphics to influence millions within hours of their creation. LGBTQ political art has played a particularly vital role in advocating for equality and visibility, from the rainbow flag designed by Gilbert Baker to contemporary murals and posters addressing transgender rights and inclusivity.While the United States has a rich history of political artwork, it is by no means unique in its use of visual art as a means of resistance and commentary. In France, the political posters of the 1968 student protests were instrumental in rallying demon-strators against government repression. In Chi-na, the Cultural Revolution saw an explosion of propaganda art used to glorify Mao Zedong and communist ideology. More recently, the Arab Spring uprisings were accompanied by graiti and murals that expressed the frustrations and hopes of protesters fighting for democracy.The power of political artwork lies in its ability to communi-cate complex ideas in an immediate and visceral way. Unlike speeches or essays, which require time to process, a single im-age can convey a message instantly, making it a uniquely eective form of activism. Throughout American history, political artwork has been a mirror reflecting societal struggles, a hammer breaking down oppression, and a beacon illuminating paths toward change. Artists do not merely document history; they shape it, influencing public sentiment and even helping to mold laws and policies. As long as there are voices to be heard and injustices to be challenged, po-litical artwork will continue to serve as a potent force in shaping the political landscape. M

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64 SPRING 2025 | metromodemagazine.com FEATUREFTugust 24, 2014 was a typical Washington, D.C. summer day. The daytime temperature hit 90 degrees with humidity at a point where many tube travelers quickly donned dampening blouses and shirts on the elongated escalator from the Metro Center subway station to ground level. D.C. summers can be daunting and many residents and visitors to the nation’s capital find themselves detoured if not routed by the collision of high temps and stifling humidity. But not all.Former D.C. First Lady Eie Barry is one such warrior. When campaigning for her husband Bar-ry’s second term as the District’s Mayor, Eie ap-peared at the top of the Metro Center escalator during a summertime morning rush hour, with the temperature already over 80, in a fashionable out-fit that included an ankle length mink coat.On its surface, not a political act like Eie’s hand-pumping a generation earlier, a couple of District residents who met while they both worked in the Obama White House decided to exchange wedding vows on the roof of a D.C. apartment building on August 24, 2014. The couple, togeth-er with their 50 guests and Episcopalian Bishop Gene Robinson who presided over the nuptials, were shielded from the worst the sun had to oer thanks to a somewhat diaphanous white tent set on the rooop. An onlooker from a neighboring building who cast eyes upon those August nuptials understandably would conclude that the ceremony was nothing out of the ordinary. In reality, the wedding of Sar-ah McBride and Andrew Cray fairly can be called quite extraordinary. For example, both the bride and groom were transgender individuals. Bishop Gene Robinson, the presiding minister, is consid-ered the first openly gay priest to be consecrated a bishop in a major Christian denomination, the Episcopal Church.Two Years Earlier and a Chance Encounter at the White HouseSarah McBride became the first openly transgen-der person to become part of the White House sta when she was selected as an intern in the Of-fice of Public Engagement and Intergovernmental Aairs in 2012. She was assigned to specifically work on LGBTQ+ issues for the Administration of Barack Obama.Elsewhere, her future husband Andrew Cray was Policy Analyst for the Center for American Prog-ress and that organizations LBGTQ+ Research and Communications Project. Cray specifically was charged with focusing on ensuring that the state implementation of the Aordable Care Act (or Obamacare) included health insurance policies that provided suitable coverage for LGBTQ+ indi-viduals and families. A transgender man, a partic-ular focus of Cray’s work was to ensure transgen-der-inclusive health coverage across the United States.A reception was held at the White House to cele-brate the enrollment of 8 million Americans in the Aordable Care Act. At the event, Cray received a standing ovation for his tireless eorts. It was also at this gathering, Andrew Cray and Sarah McBride “bumped into each other,” literally according to the future Member of Congress. Their meeting at the Obamacare celebration marked the starting point of a relationship that culminated with their rooop wedding a couple of two summers later. Cheers to the Adorable Couple But No HoneymoonMcBride and Cray would tuck themselves in their apartment aer bidding adieu to the last of their rooop wedding guests. The couple had lived to-gether for a stretch before they wed; thus, coming home to a shared residence was not a moment of consequence in and of itself. Nonetheless, a 64 SPRING 2025 | metromodemagazine.com FEATUREFT PROFILE: CONGRESSWOMAN SARAH MCBRIDECONGRESSWOMANSARAH MCBRIDEHER QUIET CAPITOL HILL REVOLUTIONWords: Mike Broemmel, Images Provide By Sarah McBride’s OiceA

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65 metromodemagazine.com | SPRING 2025FEATUREFT 65 metromodemagazine.com | SPRING 2025FEATUREFTfair observation is that their wedding night together certainly was dabbed by an unenviable measure of tension.The freshly wed couple had to rise and shine early the following morning – but not to traipse to Reagan Na-tional Airport to embark on a happy honeymoon holiday. Rather, the couple made way to MedStar Washington Hospital Center in the otherwise tony section of the District. Andrew was sched-uled for surgery for oral cancer, a procedure that would stretch over 12 hours the day following the wedding. Nurses providing care to Andrew would post wed-ding anniversary announcements on the white board in groom’s hospital room: Happy First Anni-versary! Happy Second Anniversary! Happy Third Anniversary! Happy Fourth Anniversary! Thing is that those kind, even enthusiastic, anniversa-ry notices did not demark the passage of years. Rath-er, only days were noted by the care team. Four days. And then, Andrew died. Wed for less than a handful of days, Sarah McBride was a 24-year-old widow. Her husband’s death is only one instance of the momen-tous challenges the woman born on August 9, 1990, in Wilmington, Delaware, would face from that point in time and then over the course of the following decade. “Sarah McBride’s story is one of resilience, but her mission is about more than herself,” explained An-drew Short, National Democratic Strategist and LGBTQ+ leader. “Sarah’s mission is about mak-ing sure every LGBTQ+ person and every work-ing family in the U.S. has the dignity, protec-tions, and opportunities they deserve.” On the Hustings in Delaware: McBride Re-turns HomeIn its November 2, 2015 issue, an article by Andrew Reynolds in The New States-

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66 SPRING 2025 | metromodemagazine.com FEATUREFTCongresswoman Sarah McBride and Potty Princess Representative Nancy MaceMany on Capitol Hill contend that twice-di-vorced U.S. Congresswoman Nancy Mace finally found her legislative calling when she introduced House Resolution 10186, a bill designed to prevent then-newly elect-ed Sarah McBride from accessing a Capitol restroom based on the Delaware Represen-tative’s gender identity. Fellow GOP Con-gressperson Marjorie Taylor Greene quickly jumped on Mace’s anti-LGBTQ+ bandwagon. Like Mace, Taylor-Greene has been a keen at-tention-grabber while in the House of Repre-sentatives, including when she blamed Cali-fornia wildfires on a space-based laser beam operated by Jewish people exemplified by the Rothschild family. While the bill contained a flourish of lan-guage always associated with federal leg-islation, Mace had two aims in mind. First, Mace was determined to harass the incom-ing transgender Congresswoman from Del-aware. Second, according to some of her current and former staers – many speak-ing on the record – Mace believed that she would attract a great deal of national press by pushing anti-LGBTQ+ legislation such as H.R. 10186.A plethora of Mace staers have made note that this Member of Congress was most in-tent on garnering press attention. Indeed, Mace created an internal sta handbook that required her communications team to “book her” on national television outlets at least one to three times every day of the week. With Mace’s lack of attention to bona fide legislative initiatives and constituent ser-vices, combined with her “laser focus” on garnering media attention, her D.C. oice experiences unusually high sta turnovers. Indeed, during the three-month period be-tween November 2023 and February 2024, her entire sta quit.When presenting before the House Over-sight Committee in February 2025, aer she introduced her targeted bathroom use leg-islation, Nancy Mace used the slur “tranny” when speaking about transgender Ameri-cans. When called out for making this de-grading statement, Mace tripled down and repeated the slur three more times. When it man reported that transgender people were invisible in electoral politics. The article made note that as of that date, there were 20 elected transgender people at any level of government – not just in the United States, but around the world. The in-depth report concluded by asking a question:Who will be the first transgender person elected to oice in the United States? The magazine directly answered its own ques-tion:“Sarah McBride has all the right credentials in the United States – former student body president at American University, staer for Delaware Attorney General Biden, White House intern, campaign director for the Cen-ter for American Progress.”Several years aer the publication of this prophetic magazine article, McBride an-nounced her candidacy for the Delaware State Senate. In November 2020, as Donald Trump was turned out of the White House by fellow Delawarean Joe Biden, McBride won her election, becoming the first transgender person elected to a State Senate in Ameri-can history, winning with over 73 percent of the vote.Upon her election, McBride announced that healthcare and paid family medical leave would be at the heart of her legislative agen-da. She succeeded and successfully spon-sored the Healthy Delaware Families Act, a law that provides citizens of Delaware with paid 12-week medical or family leave. 2024 Campaign for Congress:McBride Marches OnwardThree years into her term as a State Senator, McBride announced her candidacy for the open at-large Congressional district in her home state. Delaware and six other states have smaller populations that result in only one at-large U.S. House district in the juris-diction.Her status as a transgender American was not much of an issue in the statehouse race. Indeed, McBride didn’t lean into her gender identity during her campaign. She focused her race on her record of service, including getting family and medical on the books in Delaware. Her campaign emphasized her commitment to addressing economic in-security, protecting women’s healthcare rights, and expanding access to healthcare more generally. McBride won the Democratic primary with 80 percent of the vote. She was elected to Congress in the general election with 58 per-cent of the vote.66 SPRING 2025 | metromodemagazine.com FEATUREFT

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67 metromodemagazine.com | SPRING 2025FEATUREFT 67 metromodemagazine.com | SPRING 2025FEATUREFTcomes to slurring members of the LGBTQ+ community, Mace explicitly stated “I don’t care.”Representative McBride’s commitment to her constituents was clearly demonstrat-ed when Members of the House assembled in Washington following the 2024. election. While Congresswoman McBride attended is-sue briefings and assembled her sta, Nancy Mace focused on middle school-style bully-ing like taping the word “BIOLOGICAL” next to the word “Women” on Capitol restroom signs. According to The New Republic, Mace was hawking “anti-trans T-shirts on a seem-ingly hourly basis.”When asked about the brouhaha Nancy Mace tried to engender about Sarah McBride’s gender identity, starting even before the Del-aware Congresswoman was sworn in, Demo-cratic strategist and LGBTQ+ rights champi-on Andrew Short remarked: “Sarah’s historic leadership isn’t just about representation, it’s about delivering real change for working people, expanding economic opportunity. And ensuring that LGBTQ+ people have a seat at the table.”For her part, Congresswoman McBride re-sponded simply and succinctly to Mace’s explosive machinations and targeted legisla-tion: "I'm not here to fight about bathrooms. I'm here to fight for all Delawareans and to bring down costs facing families. Like all members, I will follow the rules as outlined by Speaker Johnson, even if I disagree with them.” Congresswoman Sarah McBride’s Legislative AgendaGiving credit where credit surely is due, The New Republic arguably has best summed up Sarah McBride’s initial days on Capitol Hill when it published an article about Congress in a section entitled “Trailblazers.” The headline over the piece about Congress-woman McBride ran a total of six words that those on her Capitol Hill sta would agree are spot-on: “Sarah McBride’s Quiet Revolu-tion on Capitol Hill”Paying little attention to the rabid bathroom sniping and transgender bigotry exhibited by some fellow Representatives like Nancy Mace and Marjorie Taylor-Green, Sarah Mc-Bride dove directly into pursuing a legislative agenda that she spoke of during her cam-paign for Congress. As was the case during her time in the Delaware statehouse, at the heart of McBride’s agenda as a Congress-woman is to advance the needs of work-ing families and to protect the interests of LGBTQ+ Americans. As Sarah McBride begins work as a Member of the House of Representatives, Democrat-ic consultant and LGBTQ+ rights advocate Andrew Short concluded: “Congresswom-an Sarah McBride has shattered barriers. She’s never lost sight of who she’s fighting for – working and middle class families and every person who has ever felt unseen or un-heard.” M

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71 metromodemagazine.com | SPRING 2025FEATUREFThroughout the diverse cultures of Native Amer-ican and First Nations peoples, gender identity has never been confined to the binary understand-ing imposed by European settlers. Long before col-onization, many Indigenous communities across North America recognized and honored individu-als who embodied both masculine and feminine spirits. Today, these individuals are known under the umbrella term "Two Spirit," a modern phrase that reflects an ancient and deeply rooted Indige-nous perspective on gender and identity.Before European contact, many Native American tribes recognized multiple gender roles beyond the male-female binary. More than 150 Indige-nous nations across North America had distinct names and roles for Two Spirit people, integrating them into social and ceremonial life with respect and reverence. The term "Two Spirit" itself orig-inates from the Ojibwe phrase "niizh manidoow-ag," which translates to "two spirits," signifying a person who carries both masculine and feminine energies.Two Spirit individuals could be born biologically male or female but lived according to the gender roles that best aligned with their spirit, gis, and calling. These roles varied from tribe to tribe but commonly included spiritual leadership, healing, artistry, and caretaking. In some cultures, Two Spirit people were revered as visionaries and sha-mans, bridging the physical and spiritual worlds. Their unique position in society allowed them to perform sacred rites, conduct marriages, and serve as intermediaries between men and women in their communities.Two Spirit people occupied esteemed positions in their respective tribes. They oen acted as medi-cine people, caregivers, and keepers of oral tradi-tions. Their ability to transcend traditional gender roles allowed them to fulfill roles that required deep spiritual insight and understanding of both masculine and feminine perspectives.In some nations, such as the Lakota, Two Spir-it people, known as "winkte," were believed to possess special spiritual gis and were integral to the tribe’s rituals and ceremonies. The Navajo recognized "nadleehi," individuals whose gender expression was fluid and who held roles as heal-ers and educators. Similarly, the Zuni acknowl-edged "lhamana," a designation for people who performed both male and female roles within their society.Two Spirit individuals were oen entrusted with the education of children, as their balanced per-FTTWO SPIRIT PEOPLEThe History ofNative American Two Spirit PeopleIndigenous cultures have long recognized Two Spirit individuals, those who embody both masculine and feminine spirits, as respected healers and leaders. Colonization suppressed these identities, but today, eorts to reclaim and honor Two Spirit traditions are strengthening Indigenous communities and cultural resilience. 71 metromodemagazine.com | SPRING 2025FEATUREWords: Taylor Adams, Image Adobe StockT

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72 SPRING 2025 | metromodemagazine.com FEATUREFTspective was thought to instill wisdom and harmony. They played a crucial role in match-making, conflict resolution, and sacred danc-es that connected their people to the divine.The term "Two Spirit" is not a one-size-fits-all identity; it is an umbrella term that encom-passes a wide range of gender expressions and roles specific to dierent tribes. Each In-digenous nation had its own understanding and terminology for gender diversity. Some tribes recognized three, four, or five gender categories beyond just male and female.Unlike Western concepts of gender and sexu-ality, Two Spirit identity is deeply connected to community roles and spiritual beliefs. It is not strictly about sexual orientation but rath-er about a holistic identity that encompasses gender, social function, and cultural signif-icance. Two Spirit individuals could engage in relationships with either men or women, but their identity was primarily defined by their spiritual and communal role rather than whom they loved.The arrival of European colonizers brought profound changes to Indigenous ways of life, including the suppression of gender di-versity. Christian missionaries and settlers imposed rigid binary gender norms and patriarchal structures that clashed with In-digenous traditions. Two Spirit people, once revered, were suddenly demonized and per-secuted.Colonization introduced policies that sought to erase Two Spirit identities. Boarding schools, forced assimilation, and religious conversions stripped Native communities of their traditional understanding of gender. Indigenous people were forced to conform to Western gender roles, and those who re-sisted faced severe punishment, violence, and social exclusion.The eects of this historical trauma are still felt today. Many Indigenous individuals struggle with reclaiming their Two Spirit identities due to centuries of oppression. The stigma surrounding gender diversity, introduced by colonization, has led to dis-crimination within both Native and non-Na-tive communities, resulting in higher rates of mental health struggles, homelessness, and violence against Two Spirit people.Despite the historical oppression, Two Spirit people have been reclaiming their identities and cultural significance. The modern term "Two Spirit" was formally adopted at a Native American LGBTQ+ gathering in Winnipeg, Canada, in 1990 as a way to unify and honor traditional gender diversity within Indige-nous cultures. This term allows Native people to reconnect with their ancestral roles while distinguishing their identity from Western LGBTQ+ labels.Across North America, Two Spirit organiza-tions and advocacy groups have emerged, fostering cultural revitalization, community support, and political activism. These orga-nizations work to educate both Native and non-Native communities about the history and contemporary experiences of Two Spirit individuals, striving to restore the reverence and respect that existed before colonization.The Two Spirit Society of Denver, Colorado, was a group that worked toward this mission. Colorado has been home to diverse Indig-enous nations, including the Ute, Arapaho, and Cheyenne, all of whom have gender-di-verse individuals within their historical com-72 SPRING 2025 | metromodemagazine.com FEATUREFT

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73 metromodemagazine.com | SPRING 2025FEATUREFTmunities. The Two Spirit Society of Denver was founded in the early 2000s and grew into a vital support network for Two Spirit people in the region. The organization recognized a spectrum of gender identities beyond the Western binary and promoted cultural edu-cation, advocacy, and community engage-ment. The society acknowledged at least five gender identities, reflecting the diverse understandings of gender within Indigenous traditions. With a growing membership, the society played a key role in revitalizing Two Spirit traditions, hosting events, and foster-ing a sense of belonging among Indigenous LGBTQ+ individuals in Colorado. However, the Two Spirit Society of Denver is no longer active. The organization was dissolved by the Colorado Secretary of State aer failing to file the required IRS documents for over a year.Colorado is home to a significant Native American population. Approximately 56,010 individuals identify as American Indian or Alaska Native, representing just under one percent of the state's population. In Den-ver alone, about 7,000 residents identify as American Indian or Alaska Native, comprising just over one percent of the city's population.The dissolution of the Two Spirit Society of Denver has le a void in support services for Two Spirit individuals within Colorado's Native American community. Given the sub-stantial Indigenous population in the state, there is a pressing need for a new Two Spirit Society charter. Such an organization would provide essential cultural education, advo-cacy, and community engagement, fostering a sense of belonging and support for Two Spirit and LGBTQ+ Indigenous individuals in Colorado.Across the nation, the resurgence of Two Spirit identity is a testament to Indigenous resilience. By reclaiming traditional gender roles, Two Spirit people are not only restor-ing their place within their communities but also challenging colonial frameworks that have long sought to erase them. As more Indigenous youth embrace their Two Spirit heritage, there is hope for a future in which these individuals can once again hold the re-spected roles they were meant to fulfill.Today, powwows, gatherings, and cultural events celebrate Two Spirit people, fostering intertribal connections and strengthening Indigenous traditions. Native artists, schol-ars, and activists are bringing visibility to Two Spirit identities, ensuring that future generations recognize and honor the sacred roles they have played in Native societies for centuries.In reclaiming their rightful place in history, Two Spirit individuals are not only revital-izing Indigenous cultures but also oering valuable perspectives on gender and identi-ty that transcend colonial constructs. Their presence and resilience serve as a powerful reminder that Indigenous ways of under-standing gender have always been rich, di-verse, and deeply spiritual. The movement to honor and upli Two Spirit people is not just about the past—it is about shaping a more inclusive and decolonized future for all Indigenous communities. M 73 metromodemagazine.com | SPRING 2025FEATUREFT

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77 metromodemagazine.com | SPRING 2025FOOD & DRINK GUIDEFOODIE FDine Street Pub & Brewery is a vibrant estab-lishment nestled in the heart of Denver’s historic neighborhoods. Known for its warm and inviting atmosphere, this pub combines a rustic charm with a modern twist, making it a perfect spot for both locals and visitors alike.The brewery oers a diverse selection of house-brewed beers, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, all craed with care using high-quality ingredients. Vine Street Pub & Brewery also features a menu filled with delicious food op-tions, including classic pub fare and unique culinary creations that complement their brews.Visitors can enjoy the spacious outdoor patio, perfect for soaking in the Colorado sunshine, or relax indoors amid the cozy decor. With friendly sta and a commitment to commu-nity, Vine Street Pub & Brewery is not just a place to grab a drink; it’s a gathering spot for friends, family, and beer enthusiasts looking to enjoy a memorable experience.This Gastropub not only boasts a stellar se-lection of cra beers but also oers a diverse and flavorful menu that caters to a variety of tastes. The food options include classic pub staples such as burgers, sandwiches, and vegetarian dishes, all made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Their oerings oen fea-Words: Kevin DalyThis Gastropub combines rustic charm with a modern twist.Vture creative twists on traditional favorites, with an emphasis on flavor and quality. The pub also takes pride in accommodating vari-ous dietary preferences, with gluten-free and vegan options available to ensure everyone can find something delicious to enjoy.With regard to history and inclusiveness, Vine Street Pub & Brewery reflects a commitment to fostering a welcoming and supportive atmosphere for all. Since its inception, the establishment has actively promoted inclu-sivity, both in its hiring practices and commu-nity engagement. This dedication to creating a friendly environment extends to hosting various events and activities that bring peo-ple together, celebrating diversity and build-ing connections among patrons.The pub is also involved in local initiatives and partnerships that support underrepresented communities, reinforcing its role as a commu-nity hub. Through thoughtful programming and an inclusive philosophy, Vine Street Pub & Brewery has become a beloved destination that values and uplis the diverse voices with-in Denver. M Vine Street Pub & BreweryGastropub: $20-$301700 Vine Street, Denvermountainsunpub.com | 303-388-2337Adelitas Cocina y CantinaMexican: $20-$30 303-778-12945495 West 20th Avenue, Edgewater -Oering au-thentic Mexican cuisine inspired by Michoacán tra-ditions. Featuring dishes like enchiladas, chile rel-lenos, and ceviche, complemented by handcraed agave-forward cocktails. The vibrant atmosphere is family-friendly during the day and transitions into a relaxing space aer 9pm. adelitasco.comBamboo SushiSushi: $50-$100 720-769-88861160 Madison St, Denver -Renowned for its com-mitment to sustainability, oering a diverse menu featuring fresh, responsibly sourced seafood. En-joy signature sushi rolls, nigiri, and sashimi, along with creative small plates, seasonal specialties, and cra cocktails. Vegetarian and gluten-free op-tions are available, ensuring something for every-one to enjoy. bamboosushi.comCafé Miriam UptownBreakfast-Brunch: $10-$20 303-953-21961707 Lafayette Street, Denver -A cozy, two-story setting adorned with local art, creating a warm, in-viting atmosphere. The menu features handcra-ed sweet and savory crêpes, such as the Nutella crêpe and the prosciutto crêpe, alongside freshly baked pastries and rich espresso drinks. Enjoy meals on the patio, enhancing the café’s Europe-an-inspired ambiance. cafemiriam.com.Mario’s Speakeasy PizzaNew York Style Pizza: $10-$20 720-515-75711410 Market St, Denver -Oering handcraed piz-zas with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Featuring specialty pies like the Bualo Chicken Pie, Three Meat Sicilian Trio Pie, and classics such as Cheese and Pepperoni pizzas. Enjoy garlic knots, wings, and stromboli. The ambiance is reminiscent of a classic speakeasy, providing a unique and cozy dining experience. mariosspeakeasypizzeria.comThe Peach Cobbler FactoryDessert-Coee: $10-$20 303-829-70528286 Northfield Blvd, #1515, Denver -Oering a cozy French Country ambiance, serving an array of delectable desserts. 12 flavors of warm cobblers topped with vanilla bean ice cream, indulgent ba-nana puddings, cinnamon rolls, cobbler shakes, and more. Enjoy the inviting aroma of fresh pas-tries upon entering. t hepeachcobblerfactory.comNEW AND OPENVINE STREET PUB & BREWERY

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79 metromodemagazine.com | SPRING 2025FOOD & DRINK GUIDEFOODIE FDAmbiance: Each Little India location maintains a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, with dim lighting and traditional Indian artwork adorning the walls. The Capitol Hill location, in particular, offers a lively setting with a full bar, while the South Denver, High-lands, and Lakewood spots provide a more relaxed, family-friendly environment.Food: Little India’s extensive menu highlights the depth and complexity of Indian cuisine. The Chick-en Tikka Masala—tender chicken simmered in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce—is our favorite, while the Lamb Rogan Josh, infused with aromatic spices, showcases the richness of North Indian flavors.Vegetarians will love the Saag Paneer, featuring cubes of fresh cheese bathed in a silky spinach sauce, or the Chana Masala, a comforting chickpea curry that bursts with bold spices. The Garlic Naan, fresh from the tandoor, is the perfect accompani-ment to soak up every last drop of sauce.For those who enjoy a fiery kick, the Vindaloo dish-es bring the heat, while the Butter Chicken is a creamy, milder option for those new to Indian cui-sine. Pair your meal with a Mango Lassi, a refreshing yogurt-based drink that balances the spices beau-tifully.BEVERAGE: Enjoy traditional drinks like Mango Las-si, a refreshing yogurt-based beverage, and a vari-ety of cocktails, including Mango Mojitos and Colo-rado Mules.Desserts: A meal at Little India isn’t complete with-out a taste of their traditional Indian desserts. The Gulab Jamun, warm and syrup-soaked, melts in your mouth, oering a sweet and fragrant finish. For a lighter option, the Kheer, a creamy rice pudding in-fused with cardamom and nuts, provides a delicate and satisfying end to the meal.Service: The sta at Little India is consistently friendly and accommodating, oering recommenda-tions and ensuring that spice levels match your pref-erence. Service is eicient, even during peak hours, and the warm hospitality adds to the overall experi-ence.VALUE: One of the standout aspects of Little India is its aordability. Portions are generous, and the lunch buet is a fantastic deal, allowing diners to sample a variety of dishes at a reasonable price. Whether din-ing à la carte or enjoying a full spread, the quality of the food exceeds expectations for the price point, making it a go-to spot for both casual meals and spe-cial occasions.Overall: Little India delivers on all fronts—authen-tic flavors, warm hospitality, and great value. Wheth-er you’re a longtime lover of Indian cuisine or trying it for the first time, the restaurant’s commitment to quality and tradition ensures a consistently delight-ful dining experience.PRO TIP: Visit during the lunch buet for the best val-ue, and don’t skip the Mango Lassi! MFor over two decades, Little India has been a staple of Colorado’s Indian dining scene, oering an authentic and flavorful taste of India in a warm and inviting atmosphere. With four locations across Denver and Lakewood, this beloved restaurant is known for its rich curries, fragrant tandoori dishes, and an array of vegetarian and vegan options that cater to all palates. | 303-871-9777 | littleindiaofdenver.com | $20-$30 | AAAAA Words: William CameronFOODAuthentic Indian cuisine and generous food portionsAMBIANCEWarm, welcoming atmosphere with top-notch servicePRICEStarters from $9Main Dishes from $15Desserts from $6VERDICTExcellent food and service. A must visit for locals & visitors LITTLE INDIA RESTAURANTLITTLE INDIA

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80 SPRING 2025 | metromodemagazine.com FOOD & DRINK GUIDEFDAmbiance: Hops & Pie has a warm, welcoming vibe that’s perfect for a relaxed night out. The mix of com-munal tables, bar seating, and cozy booths makes it great for groups, date nights, or solo pizza-and-pint sessions. The rotating beer selection keeps things ex-citing, and the playlist always adds to the laid-back, neighborhood feel.FOOD: Hops & Pie takes pizza to the next level with inventive topping combinations and high-quality in-gredients. The Duck Confit Pizza—featuring rich duck meat, caramelized onions, and creamy goat cheese—is a standout for those looking for something indulgent. Meanwhile, veggie lovers will appreciate the Roasted Brussels Sprouts & Goat Cheese Pizza, a perfect bal-ance of earthy and tangy flavors.For those who like to build their own, the mix-and-match toppings range from traditional (pepperoni, mushrooms) to the unconventional (fig jam, smoked tofu, and green chili). The house-made Detroit-style pizza, with its thick, crispy-edged crust, is a must-try for deep-dish fans.Beyond pizza, their Beer Mac & Cheese—creamy, cheesy, and infused with a hint of ale—is a crowd fa-vorite. Pair it with one of their house-made pretzels with beer mustard, and you’ve got the ultimate com-fort food duo.Beverage: Cra beer lovers will find themselves in paradise here. Hops & Pie boasts an impressive rotat-ing dra list, featuring local and national cra brewer-ies with everything from juicy IPAs to rich stouts. With new brews constantly on tap, there’s always some-thing new to discover.DE SSERT: If you’ve saved room for something sweet, the Stout Brownie Sundae is a must. Rich, fudgy, and topped with ice cream, it’s the perfect way to end the meal. Their House-Made Ice Cream Sandwiches, featuring freshly baked cookies and small-batch ice cream, are another delicious option.SERVICE: The sta here are just as passionate about beer and pizza as their customers. Whether you need a recommendation for the best beer pairing or guidance on topping combinations, they’re friendly, knowledge-able, and always happy to help.VALUE : Hops & Pie oers a fantastic balance of qual-ity and aordability. The generous portion sizes, high-quality ingredients, and unique toppings make each pizza well worth the price. Their daily happy hour specials and weekend beer-and-slice deals add even more value, making it a great spot for both casual out-ings and indulgent feasts.OVERALL EXPERIENCE: Hops & Pie is a dream come true for pizza and beer aficionados. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, this is a spot that deserves a place on your must-try list.PRO TIP: Check out their happy hour for the best deals, and don’t skip the Detroit-style pizza—it’s a game-changer! MIn the heart of Denver’s vibrant Tennyson Street, Hops & Pie stands out as a must-visit destination for pizza lovers and cra beer enthusiasts alike. This cozy, laid-back pizzeria puts a creative spin on classic pies, featuring unique toppings, a stellar selection of vegetarian options, and an ever-rotating lineup of cra brews. It’s simply irresistible. | 303-477-7000 | hopsandpie.com | $10-$20 | AAAAAWords: Michael FoxFOODIncredible pizza with traditional to unconventional toppingsAMBIANCEWarm and welcom-ing with a laid-back neighborhood feelPRICEStarters from $9 Sandwiches $16Pizza from $13VERDICTExcellent food and service. A must visit for locals & visitors HOPS & PIEHOPS & PIE

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82 SPRING 2025 | metromodemagazine.com FOOD & DRINK GUIDEFD JAX FISH HOUSEAmbiance: Each Jax location maintains a lively yet in-timate atmosphere. The Boulder flagship has a cozy, neighborhood feel, while the LoDo Denver and Glen-dale locations oer a more vibrant, city-style dining experience. The Fort Collins and Colorado Springs out-posts capture the same high-energy charm while em-bracing their local character. No matter which location you visit, you’ll find a warm, bustling seafood haven with a dedication to quality.FOOD: The highlight of any visit to Jax is undoubtedly the raw bar, oering an incredible selection of oysters sourced from both coasts. Their Oyster Sampler—served with house-made mignonettes and cocktail sauce—is a must for any seafood purist. If you prefer something warm, the Chargrilled Oysters with Garlic Butter and Parmesan are an indulgent alternative.Beyond oysters, the Alaskan Halibut, pan-seared to perfection and served with seasonal accompaniments, is a menu standout. The Lobster Roll, stued with but-tery chunks of fresh lobster in a perfectly toasted bri-oche bun, rivals those found in New England. For some-thing heartier, the Cioppino, a seafood stew brimming with mussels, shrimp, and fish in a rich tomato broth, is pure comfort in a bowl.Beverage: The cocktail menu is just as refined as the food, with highlights like the Pearl Street Punch, a citrusy, rum-based drink, and the classic Jax Martini, made with house-pickled vegetables for a unique twist. Their wine list, heavy on crisp whites and sparkling op-tions, pairs beautifully with the seafood-centric menu.DE SSER T: Save room for dessert, because Jax oers some stellar sweet endings. The Key Lime Pie—tart, creamy, and topped with a buttery graham crack-er crust—is a crowd favorite. The Chocolate Pot de Crème, a rich, velvety chocolate custard with a hint of sea salt, is the perfect indulgence for chocolate lovers.SERVICE: The service at Jax is exceptional across all lo-cations. The sta are incredibly knowledgeable about the menu, oering spot-on recommendations and ex-pert guidance on oyster selections. Whether you’re a seasoned seafood lover or new to raw bar dining, they ensure a welcoming and seamless experience.VALUE: While Jax Fish House leans toward the higher end in pricing, the quality of the seafood, the expert preparation, and the commitment to sustainability make it worth every penny. Their happy hour is one of the best ways to enjoy premium seafood at a more aordable price, oering discounted oysters, small plates, and drink specials.OVERALL EXPERIENCE: Jax Fish House is the gold standard for seafood in Colorado. With its commit-ment to fresh, sustainable sourcing, innovative dishes, and an unbeatable oyster selection, it’s a must-visit for anyone craving a taste of the ocean in the Rockies. Whether you’re slurping oysters at happy hour or in-dulging in a full seafood feast, Jax never disappoints.PRO TIP: Visit during happy hour for the oyster deals, and don’t leave without trying the Key Lime Pie! MFor seafood lovers in a landlocked state, Jax Fish House is nothing short of a revelation. With a commitment to fresh, sustainable seafood and an ever-evolving menu, this beloved Colorado institution brings a taste of the coast to the mountains. Whether you’re craving oysters, expertly prepared fish dishes, or inventive seafood-forward small plates, Jax delivers. | 303-292-5767 | jaxfishhouse.com | $50-$100 | AAAAAWords: Michael FoxFOODFresh seafood, amazing oysters,and incrediblesmall platesAMBIANCELively and vibrant at-mosphere with local charm and characterPRICESoups, Salads $10 Starters $21Entrees $22VERDICTExcellent food and service. A must visit for locals & visitors JAX FISH HOUSE

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85 metromodemagazine.com | SPRING 2025FOOD & DRINK GUIDEFOODIE FDQuick Skillet-Roasted Chicken with Spring VegetablesIngredients• 4 (10-ounce) skin-on airline chicken breasts• 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided, plus more to taste• 3/4 teaspoon black pepper, divided• 1 tablespoon olive oil• 6 small carrots, sliced diagonally into 1-inch pieces (about 1 1/2 cups)• 8 ounces fresh oyster mushrooms, halved• 6 small hakurei turnips or radishes, trimmed and quartered (about 1 cup)• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces, divided• 6 rosemary and thyme sprigs, divided• 2 spring onions, or 4 scallions, cut into 2-inch pieces (about 1 cup)• 1/4 cup (2 ounces) rosé wine• 1/2 cup unsalted chicken stock• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsleyPrep Time35 minCook Time20 minSERVES4Directions1. Preheat oven to 425°F. Sprinkle chicken evenly with 1 1/4 teaspoons salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Heat oil in a 12-inch ov-enproof skillet over medium. Cook chicken, skin side down, until skin is golden brown and crispy, 15 to 18 minutes. Transfer to a plate. Reserve drippings in skillet.2. Increase heat to high. Add carrots, mush-rooms, turnips, 1 tablespoon butter, 3 herb sprigs, remaining1/4 teaspoon salt, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon pepper; stir to combine. Cook, stirring occasionally, until browned, about 6 minutes. Add onions and chicken, skin side up. Transfer skillet to pre-heated oven. Roast until a thermometer in-serted in thickest portion of chicken regis-ters 160°F, 18 to 20 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, divide chicken and vegetables among 4 plates; reserve drippings in skillet.3. Return skillet to heat over high. Add rosé and remaining 3 herb sprigs; cook, undis-turbed, 2 minutes. Add stock, and bring to a simmer over high. Simmer until reduced by one-third, 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in parsley and remaining 2 tablespoons butter; season to taste with salt. Pour sauce over chicken and vegetables. MRECIPE

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86 SPRING 2025 | metromodemagazine.com FOOD & DRINK GUIDEFDIngredients• All-purpose flour for rolling 2 batches basic pie dough or 2 store-bought pie crusts• 1 lb. baking apples (about 3 apples,) peeled, cored, finely chopped• 1/4c. (55 g.) packed light or dark brown sugar• 1/4c. (50 g.) granulated sugar• 1 tbsp. cornstarch• 1-1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon• 1/2 tsp. kosher salt• 1/2 tsp. pure vanilla extract• 1 large egg, beaten to blend• 2 tsp. coarse sugar• Vanilla ice cream, for servingDirections1. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment. On a lightly floured surface, roll pie dough to about 1/8” thick. Cut out 4 (7” circles) and arrange in 4 (4”) mini pie pans. Using clean fingers, gently press dough into bottoms and up sides of pans. Tuck edges under and crimp. Place pans on one prepared sheet and refrigerate until ready to use.2. Cut 1/3” strips from remaining dough, re-rolling scraps as needed. Arrange on second prepared sheet and refrigerate until ready to use.3. Preheat oven to 375°. In a large bowl, toss apples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, corn-starch, cinnamon, salt, and vanilla until com-bined. Divide filling among pie shells. Brush edges with egg.4. Lay 3 to 4 strips dough vertically over fill-ing. Weave more strips, alternating under and over perpendicular strips, to form a lat-tice. Repeat with remaining strips on remain-ing pies. Trim strips, then gently crimp. Gen-erously brush tops with egg; sprinkle with coarse sugar.5. Bake mini pies until crust is golden brown and filling is bubbling, 35 to 40 minutes. Let cool slightly. Serve with ice cream along-side. MMini Apple Pie BowlsPrep Time40 minCook Time40 minSERVES4RECIPE

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88 SPRING 2025 | metromodemagazine.com FOOD & DRINK GUIDEFD100% de AgaveMexican: $20-$30 303-731-1100975 Lincoln Street, Denver -At 100% de Agave we serve culinary creations and libations utilizing the freshest of ingredients. At the core of our oering is a homage to original Mexican dishes made from scratch each day. House-made tamales, tortillas, and sauces create a foundation for our ever sea-sonal menu while unique and carefully craed cev-iches, enchiladas, and tacos have become house staples. 100deagave.comAmici’s Pizzeria & Italian Italian: $15-$30 303-455-55854300 Wadsworth Boulevard, Wheat Ridge -Amici’s Pizzeria & Italian delivers authentic Italian-Ameri-can comfort food in a friendly setting. Known for its New York-style pizza, pasta, and hearty sand-wiches, it’s a go-to spot for family dinners and ca-sual dining in Colorado. amicisitalian.comAngelo’s TavernaItalian: $20-$30 303-744-3366620 East 6th Avenue, Denver -A continued tra-dition of great food and welcoming hospitality! Serving many of the menu items that have become favorites over the years as well as new dishes that oer guests delicious options. Our oyster bar is shucking away fresh oysters from the west and east coast, -they’re oered up grilled with their signature sauce at the best pricing in Denver. angelosdenver.comBlue Bonnet Mexican: $10-$20 303-778-0147457 South Broadway, Denver -The Blue Bonnet is a Denver staple! Enjoy family’s recipes on the menu at the Blue Bonnet. Infusing their cuisine with an incredible Mexican tradition. They now oer an in-novative seasonal menu utilizing a range of local ingredients, a gluten-free menu, award-winning margarita list, extensive cocktail selection in ad-dition to their famous traditional Mexican menu. bluebonnetrestaurant.comCapital TeaTea House: $10-$20 303-777-22551450 South Broadway, Denver -Capital Tea in Den-ver is a haven for tea enthusiasts, oering a serene atmosphere and an extensive menu of loose-leaf teas. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting chai or a refreshing iced brew, it’s the perfect spot to unwind or connect with friends over a soothing cup. captea.com Centro Mexican KitchenMexican: $20-$30 303-442-7771950 Pearl Street, Boulder -Centro brings the bold, vibrant flavors of Latin America to Boulder with a menu featuring fresh ceviche, tacos, and creative cocktails. With its lively atmosphere and chef-driv-en dishes, Centro oers a taste of the tropics in the heart of Colorado. centromexican.comChampagne TigerFrench American: $30-$150 303-942-0593601 East Colfax Avenue, Denver -Denver’s vibrant hotspot, blending playful vibes with elevated Asian-inspired street food and a focus on cham-pagne pairings. Known for its bold flavors, cre-ative cocktails, and Instagram-worthy decor, this trendy eatery oers a lively ambiance perfect for date nights or celebrations. The inventive menu, featuring small plates and unexpected flavor com-binations, promises a dining experience as spar-kling as its namesake. champagnetiger.comCherry CricketHamburgers: $10-$20 303-322-76662641 East 2nd Avenue, Denver -Cherry Cricket is a Denver institution, beloved for its legendary burg-ers and laid-back vibe. Build your dream burger or try one of their famous creations, paired with a cold beer or a milkshake. Perfect for families, friends, or anyone craving comfort food with a twist. cherrycricket.comColore Italian RestaurantItalian Restaurant: $20-$30 303-761-43322700 South Broadway, Englewood -Colore Italian Restaurant oers a warm, inviting atmosphere with a perfect blend of casual elegance. Their menu fea-tures classic Italian favorites like rich pastas, hand-craed pizzas, and savory seafood dishes, all made with fresh ingredients. The cozy ambiance, com-plete with so lighting and modern decor, makes it an ideal spot for a romantic dinner or a relaxed gathering with friends. coloreitalian.comCorridaSteak House: $100+ 303-444-13331023 Walnut Street, Suite 400, Boulder -Corrida, Boulder’s modern Spanish steakhouse, oers a sophisticated dining experience featuring premi-um meats, fresh seafood, and Spanish wines. With stunning views of the Flatirons, it’s an ideal desti-nation for special occasions and indulgent meals. You won’t be disappointed. Reservations are re-quested. corridaboulder.comDevil’s Food BakeryBakery: $10-$20 303-777-95551004 South Gaylord Street, Denver -Oering pas-tries, a full breakfast, brunch, lunch & supper. Our pastries have a French tendency, but with an own-er having a flare for the county fair, you’ll find a spot of that as well. They make everything at Dev-il’s Food in small batches from scratch daily using only the finest ingredients. They’re a cellphone free environment for their guests and they recycle & compost for the world. devilsfooddenver.comDuo RestaurantNew American: $20-$30 303-477-41412413 West 32nd Avenue, Denver -Owners Keith Ar-nold & Stephanie Bonin set out to create a neigh-borhood restaurant with incredible food and im-peccable service. They found the perfect kitchen team in Chef John Broening & Pastry Chef Yasmin Lozada-Hissom who have been creating amazing dishes since opening day. Join us for Meatless Mondays where we will feature new seasonal vege-tarian dishes every Monday! duodenver.comEDGE Restaurant & BarSteak House: $100+ 303-389-30501111 14th Street, Denver -EDGE is an American steakhouse and is one of the city’s most desirable destinations for cuisine and cocktails. Dine in the sleek dining room for a wood-grilled steak and one of the 200 wines, or come to the EDGE Bar for a Kobe beef and blue cheese slider or Rocky Moun-tain Sushi, and a flight chosen from the 50 wines available by the glass. Complimentary valet park-ing for guests. edgerestaurantdenver.comFruitionNew American: $100+ 303-831-19621313 East 6th Avenue, Denver -Fruition is a small, intimate neighborhood restaurant. Located in central Denver’s historic district, serving sophis-ticated comfort food paired with an eclectic wine list and impeccable service. The menu chang-es seasonally throughout the year. Fruition has balanced its rhythms of atmosphere and cuisine which reflects an expertise and grace that elevates the dining experience. fruitionrestaurant.comGaetano’sItalian: $15-$25 303-455-98523760 Tejon Street Street, Denver -Housed in the historic North Denver Highlands Gaetano”s was originally opened in the 1930’s by the Smaldone family. Today it is an homage to the classic cock-tail era with leisurely lunches, rustic and fresh Italian food and a late night neighborhood gath-ering. A comfy neighborhood hangout with a menu featuring old favorites along with fresh sea-sonal entrees. Reservations are suggested.gaetanositalian.comGoosetown TavernPub: $10-$20 303-399-97033242 East Colfax Avenue, Denver -Goosetown Tav-ern opened in 1998, located at the south-west cor-ner of Colfax and Adams in Denver, right across the street from the Bluebird Theater. The Goosetown SYMBOL KEYNEW-Indicates an entry that is within 6-months newly oppened. Not new to our list.TOP 100-Indicates an entry featured in the lat-est Top 100 issue of Metromode.Printed listings are free with a display ad pur-chase in the current issue. All full-year display ad purchases come with a free online reource page and an 11-line print listing in the next four issues. You may buy a listing for $70 each, per issue. You may buy an online resource page for $300 and you will recieve a print list-ing in the next four-issues free.Contact: foodie@metromodemagazine.com FOODIECOLORADOCOLORADO

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89 metromodemagazine.com | SPRING 2025FOOD & DRINK GUIDEFOODIE FDTavern is all about having fun. It features 12 beers on tap, a full bar, two pool tables and a delectable assortment of sandwiches, pizza, appetizers, soup and salads. Also, rotating artwork is a cornerstone to its mystique. goosetowntavern.comHapa SushiSushi: $30-$50 303-322-95543030 East 2nd Avenue, Denver -Hapa Sushi fuses traditional Japanese flavors with a playful, Ha-waiian-inspired twist. Known for its creative sushi rolls and fresh ingredients, it’s a dining destination that balances casual and chic vibes. Sake cocktails and inventive appetizers complete the experience. hapasushi.comHops & PiePizza: $10-$20 303-477-70003920 Tennyson Street, Denver -Hops & Pie rede-fines comfort food with its artisan pizzas, craft beer selection, and creative small plates. Located in Denver’s Berkeley neighborhood, it’s a hotspot for pizza lovers and beer enthusiasts alike. Their rotating draft list pairs perfectly with house-made dough, offering a casual yet elevated dining expe-rience. hopsandpie.comJax Fish House & Oyster BarSeafood: $50-$100 303-292-57671539 17th Street, Denver -Jax is the home of fresh and delicious. Jax receives fresh seafood every day, using refined global techniques to transform simple proteins and farm fresh produce into an unforgettable dining experience. They’ve dou-bled the size of the world famous Oyster Bar and brought the kitchen into the dining room with made to order chowder, stews and steamers, pre-pared before your very eyes. jaxfishhouse.comJelly CafeBreakfast/Brunch: $10-$20 303-831-6301600 East 13th Avenue, Denver -Jelly specializes in everything Breakfast. Everything we make is as scratch as we can get it -no cans, no pre-made anything. Our creamy hollandaise is made fresh twice a day, our donut bites are made to order, our Hash’s and Breakfast sliders are made special for you. We also have special Pancakes, benedicts, hash’s, sandwiches offered everyday. eatmorejelly.comMezcalMexican: $10-$20 303-322-52193230 East Colfax Avenue, Denver -An authentic Mexican taqueria and cantina that gives a cozy, fun, and warm feeling as you walk through the door. serving home-style Mexican food, fresh lime Margaritas, Tequilas and Mezcals. The menu fea-tures tacos and tamales, as well as lesser known dishes like pozole and a savory lamb barbacoa. Tequila tastings, special dinners, and obeat cel-ebrations of holidays from north and south of the border ensure that the party never ends.mezcalcolorado.comMondo VinoWine & Beer: $15-$30 303-458-38583601 West 32md Avenue, Denver -Mondo Vino is Denver’s premier boutique wine shop, featuring an extensive selection of wines, craft beers, and ar-tisanal spirits. Known for its knowledgeable staff and personalized recommendations, it’s a go-to destination for connoisseurs and casual sippers alike. Tastings and events create a lively commu-nity vibe. mondovinodenver.comNecio Mexican KitchenMexican: $10-$20 720-485-56474001 Tejon Street, Denver -Necio Mexican Kitchen brings bold Mexican flavors to Denver with a mod-ern twist. From street-style tacos to innovative margaritas, the vibrant dishes reflect culinary cre-ativity. Nestled in the Sunnyside neighborhood, Necio has an inviting atmosphere and colorful de-cor making it a perfect spot for festive meals and celebrations. neciomexicankitchen.comNothing Bundt CakesBakery: $10-$20 720-630-78641685 South Colorado Boulevard, Denver -Nothing Bundt Cakes specializes in irresistibly moist bundt cakes, available in a variety of flavors and sizes. Whether for a celebration or sweet indulgence, their handcrafted cakes topped with signature cream cheese frosting are a delightful treat for every occasion. Their cakes are simply delicious! nothingbundtcakes.comHapa Connections!TUNAGINGERNIGIRIKANPACHIEATWASABIMAKISALMONYELLOWTAILDRINKSOYHAPAROLLSASHIMIBEPONZUBe DENVER CHERRY CREEK3030 E 2ND AVENUE303 322 9554LANDMARK5380 GREENWOOD PLAZA BLVD.303 267 6744LODO1514 BLAKE STREET720 354 5058BOULDER PEARL STREET MALL1048 PEARL STREET303 473 4730Make Connections

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90 SPRING 2025 | metromodemagazine.com FOOD & DRINK GUIDEFDLil’ Coea ShopCoee Shop: $5-$15 720-519-1279300 East 6th Avenue #5, Denver -Little Coffea Shop is a hidden gem in Colorado, offering special-ty coffees, teas, and light bites in a warm, intimate space. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or a quiet moment, it’s loved for its locally roasted beans and friendly service that keeps patrons coming back for more. lilcoffeashop.com Little IndiaIndian: $15-$25 303-871-9777330 East 6th Avenue, Denver -Little India brings the rich flavors of India to Colorado, serving au-thentic dishes like tandoori chicken, biryanis, and creamy butter chicken. Known for its aromat-ic spices and warm hospitality, this family-run restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu catering to all tastes, including vegan and glu-ten-free options. littleindiaofdenver.com Pancho PonchoMexican: $20-$30 720-617-9400400 East 7th Avenue, Denver -The moment you step into Pancho Poncho, you are greeted with a burst of color and warmth. Walls with traditional Mexican artwork, and the furniture is a mix of rus-tic wood and bright textiles. You will enjoy bold, rustic flavors of traditional Mexican cuisine. With hearty enchiladas, flavorful tacos, and handcraft-ed cocktails, it’s a festive spot where authenticity meets creativity in every dish. panchodenver.comPanzanoItalian: $50-$100 303-296-3525909 17th Street, Denver -Award-winning Panzano and Chef Elise Wiggins offer the best in contem-porary Northern Italian cuisine featuring local, organic, sustainable ingredients with uncompro-mising service and an award-winning wine list in a stylized urban setting inspired by the Italian streetscapes and terracotta tile roofs of Renais-sance Florence. panzano-denver.comParisi PizzeriaItalian: $10-$120 303-561-02344401 Tennyson Street, Denver -Parisi Pizzeria brings authentic Italian flavors to the Highlands, offering wood-fired pizzas, fresh pastas, and gourmet gelato. This casual eatery combines fast service with high-quality ingredients, making it a favorite for both quick meals and relaxed dining experiences. parisidenver.comPark BurgerHamburgers: $10-$20 720-242-99511890 South Pearl Street, Denver -A casual neigh-borhood restaurant, serving Denver’s prizewin-ning burgers, fries, shakes, and beer. At Park Burg-er, we pride ourselves on crafting the best burger using only the freshest, highest quality ingredi-ents. We start with all natural, never frozen beef, buffalo, and house made turkey and veggie burger patties, all served on locally baked buns made ex-clusively for Park Burger. parkburger.comSeafood LandingFish Market: $30-$100 303-571-19953457 West 32nd Avenue, Denver -Seafood Landing is Colorado’s premier destination for fresh, sus-tainable seafood. Offering a daily selection of mar-ket-fresh catches, including oysters, crab, and sea-sonal specials, it caters to seafood lovers seeking authentic coastal flavors. The relaxed yet refined atmosphere is perfect for savoring quality dishes, whether you’re dining in or picking up ingredients to prepare at home. @seafoodlandingStella’s CoeeCoee House: $5-$15 303-777-56841476 South Pear Street, Denver -A beloved neigh-borhood coffeehouse, Stella’s Coffee in Denver’s Old South Pearl exudes cozy charm. Specializing in craft espresso drinks, teas, and baked goods, it’s a favorite for study sessions or casual meetups. The eclectic decor and outdoor patio make it a com-munity staple, inviting visitors to unwind and stay awhile. stellascoffee.comSushi HaiJapanese: $30-$50 720-855-08883600 West 32nd Avenue, Denver -Refined, with a funky bite to its elegance. Modern with a Japa-nese flair, and filled with exceptional art created in the neighborhood, the restaurant can seat up to 175 people -and every table feels special. We also offer three private Tatami Rooms, which accom-modates eight to twelve diners in traditional Japa-90 SPRING 2025 | metromodemagazine.com FOOD & DRINK GUIDEQUALITY FISH MARKETSINCE 1974Tuesday-Saturday: 11am-6pmSunday-Monday: Closed3457 West 32nd Avenue - Denver303-571-1995Coffee . Espresso . Beer . WineSpecialty Drinks . Paninis . FoodPastries . Art . Patio . WiFi1476 South Pearl StreetDenver, Colorado 80210Monday-Sunday: 7am-10pmstellascoffee.com . 303-777-5684

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91 metromodemagazine.com | SPRING 2025FOOD & DRINK GUIDEFOODIE FDnese floor-seating. We at Sushi Hai welcome you to come indulge your senses. sushihai.comTable 6American: $50-$100 303-831-8800609 Corona Street, Denver -Table 6 is a classic American bistro, offering a warm and inviting at-mosphere. Table 6 prepares simple dishes, deliv-ered with an elegant style and grace. The nightly fare is complemented by a dynamic wine list ma-tiqulesly created and represents most of the flour-ishing wine districts from all over the world. Join us on Sundays for TurnTableBrunch. table6denver.comThe Post Chicken & BeerChicken Restaurant: $50-$10 720-466-56992200 South Broadway, Denver -The Post delivers fried chicken perfection paired with award-win-ning craft beers. With its laid-back atmosphere and fresh, locally sourced ingredients, it’s a fam-ily-friendly spot known for crispy chicken, home-style sides, and seasonal brews that capture Col-orado’s culinary spirit. postchickenandbeer.comVelvet Elk LoungeLounge: $10-$20 303-993-87432037 13th Street, Boulder -Velvet Elk, nestled in Boulder, combines a rustic vibe with elevated comfort food and craft cocktails. This neighbor-hood bar and eatery is loved for its relaxed ambi-ance, live music, and thoughtful menu, making it a local favorite for casual nights out. velvetelklounge.comVine Street Pub & BreweryGastropub: $20-$30 303-388-23371700 Vine Street, Denver -This Gastropub exudes a laid-back, welcoming vibe with its lively atmo-sphere and rustic charm. Known for its house-brewed cra beers, the pub also serves up hearty comfort food like mouthwatering burgers, fresh sal-ads, and flavorful vegetarian options. With friendly service and a vibrant patio scene, it’s the perfect spot to unwind with great food and drinks.mountainsunpub.comWash Park GrilleAmerican: $35-$25 303-777-07071096 South Gaylord Street, Denver -Nestled in the heart of Denver’s charming Washington Park neighborhood, offering rustic Italian cuisine with a contemporary twist. Known for its wood-fired pizzas, handmade pastas, and vibrant ambiance, it’s a perfect spot for date nights or gatherings. Sip on craft cocktails or wines from their curated list while enjoying live music and the restaurant’s warm, welcoming vibe. washparkgrille.comWest End TavernPub: $20-$30 303-444-3535926 Pearl Street, Boulder -Boulder’s West End Tav-ern is a rooftop gem serving elevated pub fare and an impressive bourbon selection. Enjoy hearty burgers, smoked BBQ, and craft cocktails while taking in stunning mountain views. With its invi ting vibe, it’s perfect for happy hours or weekend gatherings. thewestendtavern.comYazoo Barbeque CompanyBarbeque: $10-$20 303-296-33342150 North Broadway, Denver -Yazoo brings au-thentic Southern barbecue to Colorado with its slow-smoked meats and house-made sauces. Specializing in brisket, ribs, and pulled pork, this casual eatery delivers bold, smoky flavors in ev-ery bite. Perfect for takeout or a quick meal, it’s a favorite among barbecue lovers craving a taste of the South. yazoobbq.comZorba’sGreek: $10-$20 303-321-00912626 East 12th Avenue, Denver -Zorba’s offers a warm, family-friendly atmosphere with a menu rooted in traditional Greek and Mediterranean cui-sine. Located in Denver, this neighborhood favor-ite serves classics like gyros, souvlaki, and fresh salads alongside comforting desserts like baklava. Known for its generous portions and friendly ser-vice, Zorba’s provides a taste of the Mediterranean in every meal. chefzorbas.com

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93 metromodemagazine.com | SPRING 2025BAR & NIGHTCLUBSNSCENEF.B.I.Here we are once again, swaying against the bar at headquarters, you all know where that is, Agent 6 and I are busy maintaining a low profile. Did you know you can order any shot regular size, says Agent 6. I nearly do the unthinkable and drop my glass full of beer in shock. I chug it like Lindsay Lohan at a whiskey buffet. Just then we hear the words ‘underwear night,’ and I am forced to witness. After a very quick underwear change, the basic Calvin’s just weren’t going to cut it. I needed the Aussiebum’s to properly showcase the family jewels. Funny thing about standing around a bar in your underwear, you get looked at and you realize its frickin’ freezing in the place. Never would have known that in my Mott & Bow jeans. So here we are at the coat, pants, shirt, shoes, dignity check. Agent 6 is in his element and I need shots. Cut to the bartender pouring shots and Agent 6 and I throwing them down our throats one after the other. After three shots, seven long islands and a beer (how does the beer always get in there?) it’s really warming up. In fact, the doormat on my chest is soaked in sweat. Agent 6 needs to continue to kill himself legally via tobacco treats, thus we end up outside in our underwear on the patio. Again, I get to be impressed or disgusted by the knowledge of bar tricks that Agent 6 continues to toss out there. Take for example the adobe brick. It has nothing to do with an adobe brick but that’s just what he calls it. Basically it’s holding your cigarette in your underwear without burning yourself. I was hammered so I can’t remember how it’s done but one of the most mind-boggling and stunning feats I have ever seen. Back inside there are a group of guys fully dressed and guess what? We know them. They turn and recognize us and their jaws drop. Can you believe they thought underwear night meant strippers and underwear give-aways? Of course it means everyone in the bar is wearing only underwear. This is where Agent 6 turns into the underwear police and starts forcing pants off of people in a vain attempt to get them into their skivvies. I, however, am experiencing one of the most degrading moments ever. Standing only in my underwear with my friends wearing clothes is slightly awkward. Eventually our friends give in and shed their clothes, mostly forced by Agent 6 but they give in nonetheless. My sexy friend finds that I am a great conversationalist when I’m drunk and therefore has attached himself to my hip for the night. For me this presents a problem. My mind drifts off in naughty thoughts. And if you recall, I’m in my underwear and so is he (I’ll thank Agent 6 in the morning.) So, it would be real easy to give in to my thoughts but that’s not the hard part. With hot go-go dancers gyrating about I can at least be distracted from my sexy friend. Glancing sidelong I see Agent 6 with his hands down some random person’s tightie-whities. No shock there and I go back to drinking -always a fun night at the Eagle. MWe are the best-kept secret in the universe. Our mission –to monitor the scene. We are your rst, last, and only line of intel. We work in secret. We exist in shadow. And we drink ourselves stupid.We are the Fags Being Intoxicated – The Scene Queens.Strategic Intelligence Assessment and Data on Denver EagleFAGS BEING INTOXICATEDDEPARTMENT OF JUICINESSBy Agents 6 and 9

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BAR & NIGHTCLUB94 SPRING 2025 | metromodemagazine.comSN LISTINGSBAR & NIGHTCLUB LISTINGS#Vybe1027 North Broadway, Denver 720-573-8886#Vybe is an LGBTQ nightclub that brings live per-formances, DJs, and an electrifying atmosphere. With its inclusive spirit, it’s a popular destination for dancing and making memories.vybedenver.comBuddies504 East Colfax Avenue, Denve 720-769-4485Buddies Denver is a cozy, LGBTQ-friendly bar with a relaxed vibe. Featuring pool tables, aordable drinks, and a neighborhood feel, it’s a great spot to unwind and connect with friends.buddiesdenver.comCharlie’s900 East Colfax Avenue, Denver 303-839-8890Charlie’s Bar brings the charm of a country saloon to Denver’s LGBTQ community. Featuring line dancing, karaoke nights, and themed events, this bar is a beloved spot for Western-inspired fun.charliesdenver.comClub Vinyl1082 Broadway, Denver 720-604-0605Club Vinyl is a four-story nightclub in Denver that features diverse music genres, rooop views, and a welcoming LGBTQ-friendly atmosphere. Known for its energetic dance floors and themed nights, it’s a hotspot for the city’s vibrant nightlife scene.vinylnightclub.comDenver Eagle5110 West Colfax Avenue, Denver 720-598-5648Denver Eagle is a classic leather bar with a rugged aesthetic and a welcoming atmosphere. Known for its themed events, it’s a hub for Denver’s LGBTQ leather community. @denvereagle3.0Denver Sweet776 Lincoln Street, Denver 720-598-5648Denver Sweet is a cozy LGBTQ bar oering themed events, karaoke nights, and a warm community feel. It’s a haven for connecting and celebrating with friends. denversweet.comEl Potrero Night Club4501 E. Virginia Avenue, Glendale 303-388-8889El Potrero Night Club is an LGBTQ-friendly ven-ue blending Latin beats with an inclusive dance scene. Vibrant and energetic, it’s a favorite spot for music lovers. elpotreronightclub.comGlow Lounge631 East Colfax Avenue, Denver 303-832-2687Glow Lounge oers a radiant LGBTQ nightlife expe-rience with a modern, vibrant atmosphere. Perfect for cocktails, dancing, and glowing celebrations. glowloungedenver.comGood Judy’s103 N. 1st St, Grand Junction 970-433-7115Good Judy’s Bar is an LGBTQ haven with a chic, intimate vibe. Known for its cra cocktails and welcoming energy, it’s a gem for those seeking a memorable evening. good-judys.comHamburger Mary’s1336 East 17th Avenue, Denver 303-993-5812Hamburger Mary’s combines a vibrant LGBTQ friendly restaurant with entertaining drag shows and events. Famous for its burgers and sass, it’s a crowd-pleasing hotspot. milehighmarys.comICONS16 East Kiowa Street, Colorado Springs ICONS pays homage to LGBTQ trailblazers with its sophisticated cocktail lounge vibe and retro dé-cor. A mix of elegance and fun, it’s ideal for those seeking a relaxed yet inspiring atmosphere.icons-co.comLil’ Devils Lounge255 South Broadway, Denver 720-604-0605Lil’ Devils is a laid-back LGBTQ bar with a charming patio, signature cocktails, and friendly service. It’s perfect for casual evenings and relaxed conversa-tions. @lildevilsloungeMilk Bar1037 Broadway, Denver Milk Bar delivers a retro-goth aesthetic with eclec-tic music and an inclusive LGBTQ crowd. Its multi-ple rooms and quirky vibe make it a Denver favor-ite. @milkbardenverR & R Lounge4958 E. Colfax Ave #1280, Denver 303-320-9337R & R is a laid-back LGBTQ dive bar with a pool ta-ble, jukebox, and casual vibe. It’s a great place to relax with friends and enjoy a drink. @randrloungeThe Q by The Orbit Lounge4 1 1 L a k e w o o d C i r , S t e C 1 0 8 , C o l o r a d o S p r i n g s 719-266-2623 -The Q by The Orbit Lounge is an up-scale LGBTQ cocktail bar with a chic atmosphere and innovative drinks. A must-visit for those seek-ing a sophisticated night out. theqcolorado.comTight End1501 East Colfax Avenue, Denver 303-861-9103Tight End is a sports-themed LGBTQ bar featuring big-screen TVs, cocktails, and a welcoming crowd. It’s the ideal spot to watch the game and enjoy the community vibe. tightendbar.comTracks3500 Walnut Street, Denver 303-863-7326Tracks is Denver’s premier LGBTQ nightclub, known for its massive dance floors, cutting-edge light shows, and themed parties. With drag per-formances, top DJs, and a vibrant, inclusive atmo-sphere, it’s a must-visit destination for high-ener-gy nightlife enthusiasts. tracksdenver.comTrade475 Santa Fe Drive, Denver 720-627-5905Trade is Denver’s go-to leather and fetish bar, ca-tering to LGBTQ patrons with a no-judgment at-mosphere. With its industrial aesthetic and inclu-sive events, it’s a space to explore and celebrate individuality. tradedenver.comWild Corgi Pub1223 East 13th Avenue, Denver 303-832-7636The Wild Corgi Pub is an LGBTQ-friendly bar and lounge that combines a casual, welcoming vibe with live music, themed nights, and creative cock-tails. It’s a cozy yet lively spot to enjoy good com-pany and entertainment. wildcorgipub.comX Bar629 East Colfax Avenue, Denver 303-832-2687X Bar oers a high-energy environment with drag shows, karaoke, and dancing. Known for its strong drinks and welcoming vibe, it’s a staple of Den-ver’s LGBTQ nightlife. xbardenver.com

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97 metromodemagazine.com | SPRING 2025FINAL WORDFINAL WORD FWOPINIONs we emerge from the shadows of the COVID-19 pandemic, the landscape of relationships and family within the LGBTQ community is undergoing a significant trans-formation. The past five years have not only reshaped societal norms but also highlight-ed generational dierences that influence how love, friendship, and family are per-ceived and experienced. This article explores how these generational shis have impacted romantic relationships, friendships, parent-ing, and family dynamics among LGBTQ in-dividuals.In the wake of the pandemic, romantic re-lationships within the LGBTQ community have exhibited both continuity and change. Younger generations, particularly those in their 20s and 30s, are redefining tradition-al notions of partnerships. With the rise of dating apps and social media, they are more inclined to explore fluid relationships and non-monogamous arrangements. This contrasts with older generations, who oen place greater value on long-term commit-ments and traditional family structures.The pandemic accelerated the adoption of virtual dating, making emotional connec-tions through apps a norm before meeting in person. Meanwhile, older generations reflect on their own experiences, oen emphasizing the importance of stability and commitment forged through shared trials. W.P., a gay man in his 60s, shared that he has had four long-term relationships lasting over five years, all of which began with face-to-face meetings. "Technology was simply a way to communi-cate when needed during the relationship. Texting and messaging are how I share infor-mation, news, and updates, but I don’t see it as a way to start a relationship." Conversely, J.B., a 26-year-old non-binary member of the community, expressed a desire to build rela-tionships on a more personal level. "I hear about how older members of our community met, dated, and socialized before technolo-gy, and that is something I envy." While post-COVID realities may have created social gaps, many members of the community are now seeking a balance between live interactions and technology in their dating and romantic relationships.Friendships have always played a crucial role in the LGBTQ community, serving as chosen families for many. However, the pandemic has catalyzed changes in how these relation-ships are formed and maintained. Younger individuals, adept at using technology for connections, have created vibrant online communities that transcend geographic boundaries. This contrasts with older gen-erations, who may place a higher value on in-person interactions and face-to-face gatherings. Bridging this generational gap is key to maintaining a strong community. P.N., a long-term community leader, shared, "I am very deliberately trying to interact with peo-ple at least two, maybe three, generations younger than me." Multigenerational face-to-face connections benefit both younger members and older adults and should be encouraged.Post-COVID, many are navigating the com-plexities of friendship dynamics. The new-found importance of mental health aware-ness has led to deeper conversations about support, boundaries, and vulnerability. FRIENDS, FAMILY, LOVE, AND PARENTING: FIVE-YEARS POST COVIDWords: Morris Price Jr., Image Adobe StockA

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FINAL WORD98 SPRING 2025 | metromodemagazine.comFWYounger LGBTQ individuals oen prioritize authenticity and emotional labor in their friendships, whereas older generations may still grapple with the emotional toll of soci-etal stigma and internalized homophobia, which can aect how they connect with peers. Older LGBTQ members have learned valuable lessons about relationships over time. S.D., a 57-year-old African American gay man, shared why his long-term friendships are so important: "The secret to the longev-ity of my friendships, some lasting over 30 years, is that there are no pretenses, no com-petitiveness, nor competition. We support one another unconditionally. We have cer-tainly weathered our share of disagreements and political discourse over the years, but through it all, our friendship has evolved."Parenting within the LGBTQ community has also undergone significant changes over the past five years. Many younger LGBTQ individ-uals have expanded the concept of family to include various forms of parenting, such as co-parenting arrangements, foster care, and adoption. This generation is more likely to embrace creating families that reflect their values and relationships rather than con-forming to traditional models.In contrast, older LGBTQ individuals have oen navigated more rigid societal expec-tations regarding parenting. A.S., a lesbian mother of a teenage boy, along with her wife of 10 years, understands the unique challeng-es of raising children in a world where LGBTQ families are becoming more normalized but still face social biases. "We navigate the same experiences as straight parents, albeit not always with the same social acceptance. It’s helpful to find solace and solidarity with oth-er LGBTQ parents." As societal acceptance grows, the narrative around LGBTQ parent-ing is shiing, with younger generations in-creasingly thriving in nontraditional family structures.Family dynamics within the LGBTQ commu-nity continue to evolve, especially in light of the pandemic. Younger individuals oen prioritize chosen families, valuing support networks built on shared experiences and understanding. They are more likely to chal-lenge traditional family structures and rede-fine what it means to belong.Older generations, on the other hand, may still be navigating complex relationships with biological families. Many have faced rejection or estrangement, leading them to forge strong ties with friends and partners. For many, reconciliation took time and pa-tience. F.S., a lesbian, shared, "I had 12 years of ‘How’s the weather?’ conversations with my family before we truly connected. Now, years later, I can say it was worth it to have the relationship I have with them today." The post-COVID world presents an opportunity for dialogue and healing, as families—both biological and chosen—adapt to the chang-ing landscape of relationships and societal norms.As we move forward in a post-COVID world, the LGBTQ community is embracing the nu-ances of generational dierences in relation-ships and family. The evolution of romantic partnerships, friendships, parenting, and family dynamics reflects a broader cultural shi towards inclusivity, authenticity, and emotional well-being. By recognizing and respecting these dierences, we can foster a more supportive and understanding commu-nity that celebrates the rich tapestry of LGBTQ experiences. In this evolving landscape, the bonds of love and friendship continue to thrive, bridging generations and hopefully creating a brighter future for all. M