Queer Genealogy and the Power of Chosen Family

About this episode

Amir shares his journey of finding belonging through chosen family and creative expression while discussing the importance of queer genealogy.

In this episode (30) of Season four of In the Telling, co-hosts Miranda and Steven sit down with Amir, founder of ArtsXCulture—a Black trans artist, poet, and advocate. Amir shares his compelling journey of growing up in the foster care system, navigating gender and sexuality, and ultimately finding belonging through chosen family and creative expression. Through art and poetry, he has carved out a space for healing and self-discovery while reflecting on the impact of biological and chosen family on his identity and resilience. Amir also discusses the importance of queer genealogy, his interest in uncovering LGBTQ+ ancestors, and how community spaces in Chicago and Boston have shaped his path. From his early years in the Midwest and South to building a creative and affirming network, Amir’s story is a testament to perseverance, love, and the transformative power of art. You can learn more about Amir and ArtsXCulture on his IG page: https://www.instagram.com/artsxculture/. Original music by Sean Bempong Designs by Christopher Stalling. 📺 Watch the Full Conversation on YouTube! We’ve launched our Nomadic Archivists Project YouTube channel —watch this episode in living color…

People in this episode

Hosts: Sean Bempong, Christopher Stalling, Tanya M. Beltran

Guest: Amir

Topics covered

• queer genealogy
• chosen family
• art
• identity
• resilience

Keywords

• foster care
• LGBTQ+
• community spaces
• Chicago
• Boston

Mentioned in this episode

Products: ArtsXCulture

Books & works: Queer Genealogy and the Power of Chosen Family, In the Telling, the Full Conversation

Places: Chicago, Boston, Midwest, South

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