June 4th 2025 Queer Voices Female Grand Marshal, LGBT Christian Church of Katy and Stages Artistic Director

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For Pride month, we will be speaking to the grand marshals.

First, we speak with Josephine "Jo" Jones, the Female Identifying Grand Marshal for Pride Houston 365 and senior police officer with the Houston Police Department. For the past five years, Jo has served as the LGBTQIA+ liaison, building crucial bridges between law enforcement and the queer community. With 18 years on the force, she brings unique perspective to her role: "Behind the badge is a human being who cares deeply." Jo discusses how her position allows her to advocate for community members while helping transform perceptions within the department. Her selection as Grand Marshal represents both personal validation and institutional progress.

Lauren Tennyson takes us inside the First Christian Church of Katy, where radical inclusivity is reshaping suburban ministry. As Outreach Director, Lauren oversees their "transparent closet," providing clothing and resources to LGBTQ+ youth in need. The church has earned recognition as Outsmart Magazine's favorite trans support organization through their commitment to creating safe spaces outside the Loop. Lauren invites listeners to their upcoming Pride events, including drag bingo fundraisers on June 7th and a special Pride Sunday service featuring a trans male preacher sharing his journey.

We close with Derek Charles Livingston, artistic director of Stages Houston, discussing his direction of the world premiere "Let Her Rip." This innovative production weaves together two historical threads – the Jack the Ripper murders and the matchstick maker strike of 1888 – to examine ongoing violence against marginalized women. The parallels to contemporary issues, including violence against trans women of color, make this a particularly powerful Pride Month offering. Derek also shares exciting plans for Stages' upcoming season, featuring diverse voices and stories.

Don't miss the Houston Pride Parade on June 28th! Subscribe to Queer Voices for more conversations with the LGBTQ+ leaders, artists, and advocates shaping our community's future while honoring its past.

Queer Voices airs in Houston Texas on 90.1FM KPFT and is heard as a podcast here. Queer Voices hopes to entertain as well as illuminate LGBTQ issues in Houston and beyond. Check out our socials at:

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