Queer Changemakers

J. Henry is changing the world through music focused on love, authenticity and knowing we are enough. In this conversation, we talk about his journey into hiphop and music, creativity, and self-acceptance. He discusses the transformative power of love in his music, his unique wedding experience, and his album "Love J. Henry." Check out his album on Spotify or Apple. You can connect with J. Henry in the following ways: Email: hello@theejhenry.com Instagram: @thee.jhenry Website: theejhenry.com

Raj Korpan is changing the world by championing inclusivity in the field of robotics and AI. He co-founded the Queer In Robotics organization in 2023, to uplift projects and build community for Queer people in the robotics field. In this conversation, we talk about a variety of projects Raj is working on. We discuss themes of community building, ethical AI, and the necessity of human-centered research. Raj Korpan is an Assistant Professor of Computer Science at Hunter College of the City University of New York (CUNY) and an affiliated Doctoral Faculty in Computer Science at The Graduate Center, CUNY. He directs the Trustworthy, Intelligent, and Explainable Robotics (TIER) Lab. The TIER lab’s long-term goal is to develop intelligent robot systems for social good. You can connect with Raj in the following ways: Email: raj.korpan@hunter.cuny.edu LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/rajkorpan Website: https://tierlab.commons.gc.cuny.edu/ Learn more about Queer in AI: https://www.queerinai.com/

Josie Caballero, she/her, is changing the world through professional Trans advocacy. She performs multiple roles with a few different hats advocating for trangender rights, dignity and LGBTQ+ equality. In this conversation, Josie shares her journey from a conservative upbringing to becoming a progressive leader. We discuss themes of resilience, community support, the power of representation and also reminders of the need for self-care we continue the fight for rights. Josie's dedication to her work in voting rights, veteran services, and policy advocacy showcases her incredible impact in uplifting the trans community. Learn about Advocates for Trans Equality - transequality.org Learn about the Transgender American Veterans Association - transveteran.org/ Follow Josie’s upcoming YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@politicalforecast-jrc Connect with Josie on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/josie-caballero-2075865a/

Robert Michael Vanzant has changed the world by dedicating himself to the service of the LGBTQ+ community through various roles and initiatives over the past 50 years. In this part 1 of this conversation, he shares his story from arriving in Washington, DC his early encounters with the gay community, and his extensive involvement in LGBTQ+ group and advocacy since the 1970's. We discuss some themes of resilience, community support, and the intersection of race and identity are explored, as well as his efforts in starting key organizations and helping those affected by HIV/AIDS. During this Black History Month, I enjoyed looking back and hearing some of the stories, challenges and beautiful moments from our past, as we continue to build towards a brighter future.

Bishop Allyson Abrams is changing the world by advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and fostering a sense of community and healing. In this conversation, we talk about her journey as an openly gay bishop, her work through the Empowerment Liberation Cathedral and Empowerment Justice Center, and themes of spirituality, resilience, and healing. From founding an inclusive church in Washington D.C. to tackling issues such as hate crimes, Abrams emphasizes the importance of honesty, healing, and support within both the LGBTQ+ and Black communities. You can connect with Bishop Abrams in the following ways: Instagram: @bishopallysonabrams • Instagram FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/bishopallysonabrams LinkedIn: Bishop Abrams - LinkedIn Learn more about Empowerment Liberation Cathedral their programs, and how you can attend or support here.

Robin McHaelen (she/her) is changing the world by working with LGBTQ+ youth and other gender and sexual minorities for about 30 years. She founded an organization called True Colors in Connecticut and ran it for 26 years, retiring in 2020. In this conversation, we talk about empowering young people, supporting the systems around youth, and the importance of openness and continuous learning. Robin is co-organizing the True Colors SOGIEcon event for LGBTQ+ youth, allies and support systems on March 20-22, 2025 at University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT . Use this link to learn more and RSVP: https://www.healthcollective.org/true-colors-lgbtq-conference You can connect with Robin in the following ways: Email: mchaelen@gmail.com LinkedIn: Robin McHaelen | LinkedIn

Finding Your Fit with Keira Harbison Keira Harbison (they/them) is changing the world by showing people that everyone is on a unique health journey and deserves an authentic plan as a fitness and nutrition coach. They are especially focused on supporting the unique needs of queer and neurodivergent individuals and helping create customized health plans. In this conversation, we talk about challenging traditional fitness norms, authentic health goals and strategies to find more accessible gyms. You can connect with Keira in the following ways: Email: info@chaoticgoodfitness.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chaoticgoodfitness23/ FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/ChaoticGoodFitness/ Website: https://www.chaoticgoodfitness.com/ Resources about the IRS code: https://www.exerciseismedicine.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/How-To-Guide-for-EIM-Expense-Insurance-Reimbursement.pdf https://www.irs.gov/individuals/frequently-asked-questions-about-medical-expenses-related-to-nutrition-wellness-and-general-health https://www.exerciseismedicine.org/irs-213-exercise-medical-treatment-healthcare-providers/

Cassie (They, She, He, All) is changing the world by increasing the participation of LGBTQ+ individuals in health research as participants, researchers, advocates, and policymakers, as the LGBTQIA+ regional engagement coordinator for the Midwest at PrideNet. Cassie shares how she implements and more community-engaged model so that individuals can be heard and have a say in the full research process.m In this conversation, we talk about themes of transformation in systems rather than surface level solutions, how stories and inclusive data can help everyone better understand themselves, and how our personal and collective healing is needed to address systemic injustices and honor all of our community’s experiences. Learn more about The PRIDE Study: pridestudy.org Research Findings: pridestudy.org/research Learn more about All of Us LGBTQIA+: JoinAllofUs.org/LGBTQIA PRIDEnet Quarterly Newsletter: https://secure.everyaction.com/DtzKaHg6q06S_m2nAKDxyQ2 Find us at events: pridenet.org/events Bio: Cassie Armea-Warren is a white, gender-non-conforming, pro-ho, highly organized, abolitionist and country queer with a harm reduction heart. They are passionate about creating spaces for people to come together and be authentic, finding the invisible points of connection between us and nurturing them. With over a decade as a youth worker and clinic manager they specialize in community engagement, values-aligned policy, and innovative program design. Now part of Stanford University’s PRIDEnet team, Cassie focuses on LGBTQIA+ representation, equity, and justice in healthcare, bringing a dedication for redistributing resources and building the capacity, power, and visions of all people impacted by injustices and oppression.