In 2016, Ian L. Haddock embarked on a journey that would forever change the lives of many. The Normal Anomaly Initiative was born—a storytelling blog sharing narratives centered around Black Queerness. Little did Ian know that this humble beginning would grow into a thriving organization, transforming into Houston’s first Black LGBTQ Community Center, the Black Queer Plus Center for Liberation.
As the world grappled with the challenges brought by the pandemic, Ian recognized an urgent need within the Black queer community. While many organizations paused their services, Ian saw an opportunity to expand and cater to the specific needs of Black queer individuals. In 2021, The Normal Anomaly Initiative took a significant leap by hiring its first two full-time staff members and opening the Black Queer Plus Center for Liberation doors.
“Our programs have proudly served approximately 3,000-4,000 individuals, including families,” Ian said. He added, “Looking towards the future, we strive to develop initiatives centered on youth justice, providing a safe and empowering space for LGBTQ youth.”
Renewing the Normal Anomaly Initiative with a BANF grant
Receiving the BIPOC Arts Network & Fund (BANF) grant brought a renewed sense of purpose and excitement to Ian and the Normal Anomaly Initiative. “The moment we received approval for the BANF sponsorship was truly remarkable. We knew we had been granted the opportunity to produce a stage play that would profoundly uplift and center the Black Queer community,” commented Ian.
The organization seized the opportunity of the grant to combine academic research and art, reimagining conversations surrounding body autonomy, sex positivity, and destigmatizing HIV. They opted for a stage play as their chosen medium, seeking to provide access to a unique art form rarely experienced by communities at the intersection of Black and Queer identities.
Their free event attracted community members who don’t typically engage in theater, including the renowned actress Charlene Brown from the show ‘A Different World.’ Opening weekend was a triumph, culminating in a talk-back session where the audience could ask questions, share their emotions, and delve into the play’s themes.
The grant funds brought to life their stage play, ‘sTrapped.’ Dr. Ariela Johnson and Bryan Keith Wilson, the play’s writers and producers, skillfully incorporated academic research into the story of seven strangers on a journey of sexuality, trauma, body autonomy, and sexual liberation. The play’s profound impact led to its selection for an Off-Broadway premiere at the Downtown Urban Arts Festival, held at Playwrights Horizons in NYC in June.
Committed to co-creating a brighter future for Black queer communities
Looking towards the future, the Normal Anomaly Initiative is committed to co-creating a new normal for Black queer communities. They plan to return to their digital storytelling roots, amplifying new stories that authentically represent the essence and strength of their community. Additionally, they are enthusiastic about their upcoming youth justice initiative, which aims to bring positive change to the lives of LGBTQ youth.
Collaboration has always been at the heart of their work, and they have forged partnerships with other BANF recipients. One notable collaboration was with Harrison Guy, who produced the performance dance show “Black Butterfly” during the Week of the Normal Anomaly Initiative’s Black Queer AF Music Festival. This collaboration showcased the incredible artistic talent within the community.
As a dedicated team of just five individuals, their continuous efforts are focused on uplifting the community. The impact of their work has garnered recognition on numerous national platforms. While perfection is not their goal, they strive for continued excellence, constantly pushing boundaries and overcoming challenges. In a community where judgment based on one’s true identity can be a significant hurdle, they remain steadfast, united in their mission to illuminate barriers and stigmas.
Their motto rings true: Together, they create a brighter future for Houston’s Black LGBTQ Community. Join them on their extraordinary journey as they lead the way, driven by a shared vision of liberation, equality, and acceptance.