Queer People of Colour Conference

Last night I had a boost that reminded me what and why I've been waiting a year to go to this conference.  Well, that what was more like a someone, but that's for another post. ;)

Last year was the my first QPOCCon. I heard about it in October, and I tried to get as many folks as possible to go with me.  Unfortunately, as so often happens, it all fell through. Rather than getting state funding to go, it was on our own dollar.  And by "our" I mean two friends and myself.  But it was still an amazing experience, maybe even moreso because it.

Last year was the first time I'd been surrounded by so many queer people, and people of colour. It made for a beautiful mix and I reveled in it.  Add to that the bright California sun and you had a very happy Gemini.  Contentment doesn't even begin to describe how I felt.

I enjoyed the atmosphere more than any of the workshops. In my opinion, there wasn't enough time to really delve into the topics like I would have wanted. But as usual, I want a lot.  The best we got was a superficial idea of what we were supposed to be talking abot. Hopefully this year will be better organised to make sure this happens.

Something I'd like to focus on this year is networking. I really want to use this time to connect and build relationships with as many folks as possible. this is a once-a-year opportunity and I'll be damned if i don't exploit it like the white man exploits people of colour.  Damn, that sounds really bad, but I'm going to take full advantage of the situation.  Metaphors be damned.

Another area I'd like to focus on is potentially focus on is connecting on a more personal level.  I know I said a few days ago that I'm not dtf, but that doesn't mean I can't flirt shamelessly.  It's a conference for gawd's sake.  And I need to practise being more outgoing; what better place to do it than, arguably, one of the safest spaces I'll be all year. :)  My Twin already said they'd help me break the ice; they're so smooth they make me look like chunky peanut butter. :/  ... but there's no time for tears!! I need to do some serious budgeting because I need to buy some damn shorts. I can't go to Phoenix and LA with just jean pants. It's time to show off my hairy, flac@ legs!!