The new Normal
Ian Haddock Ian Haddock’s organization aims to center Black queer people JENNY BLOCK | Contributing Writer jennyblock@icloud.com HOUSTON, Tx. — an Haddock is creating a new normal, and it’s Black and queer AF.
Literally. “The heart of what we do is center Black queer people to eliminate barriers and create new norms,” Haddock said. “We do that through direct services, advocacy, capacity building, training and technical assistance.” Haddock is talking about the impossible that he made possible: The Normal Anomaly Initiative, the city’s premiere Black LGBTQ organization.
And from March 14-17 the Initiative is hosting its Black Queer Advancement Festival Celebration with the theme “Homecoming.” The highlight of the weekend will be the Third Annual Music Festival on March 16, from 4 p.m.-2 a.m.
at Warehouse Live Midtown. Former Destiny’s Child group member LeToya Luckett is headlining with Black queer artists Sevndeep, Damez, JeRonelle, Thot Squad, Martell Lacey and TazDaRealist rounding out the event.
