to be determined
Playing on both meanings of the phrase, To Be Determined highlights the expansiveness of Black queerness and how it can't be determined through the lens of sociopolitical norms — while also emphasizing how, as Black queer people, we must remain determined to resist those biases.
Through portraiture and visual storytelling, the series (photographed by Morgan Davis) brings together 45 portraits of DMV-based Black queer folks across generations, identities, aesthetics, and relationships functioning as both an artistic experience and a communal archive.
A large-scale visual installation of the series was displayed during a 1-day pop-up exhibition on July 18, 2026 at miXt food hall in Brentwood, MD. View a recap post here.
To learn more about the featured models and view the photos from the series, scroll below.
And a special thank you to ModFirst Apparel for being the printing sponsor for the pop-up exhibit.
Explore the portraits below, then continue scrolling to learn more about each participant. Instagram links are included with every biography.
Green, white, and blue are intentionally used throughout the series as visual anchors and to help embody a sense of softness, dignity, beauty, intimacy, and emotional truth. Names/bios are listed from top left to right.
-
35 | she/they | Silver Spring, MD
Parent, Cultural Producer, Healthcare Director
Black Queer Woman
Born and raised in Silver Spring, Maryland, in a Trinidadian family, I was shaped by the rich cultural tapestry of the DMV, where African diasporic traditions, Nigerian and Ethiopian influences, and the arts were woven into everyday life. This multicultural foundation inspired my commitment to building bridges between health, culture, and community, with a focus on addressing social determinants of health in Black communities.
-
-
Briana Thrift
32 | DC | she/her | Tech Entrepreneur
Black Queer Woman
I'm a Black queer woman who genuinely loves community, connection, and bringing people together, whether that's through house parties, happy hours, or international city-hopping. As someone who knows how important belonging and chosen family can be, especially in the geopolitical world we're living in today, I started Soft Queer Wealth because I believe Black queer people deserve better tools to find each other, support each other, and discover spaces that feel like home. Through media, technology, and community intelligence, we're helping communities, organizers, and businesses better understand one another so people can spend less time searching and more time connecting. At the end of the day, we're working to make it easier for queer people to find their people. 💗
——
Davina Pratt
32 | DC | she/her | Healthcare Professional and Creative Strategist
Black Queer Woman
I’m a healthcare professional and creative strategist based in Baltimore. I work at the intersection of community, culture, and intentional design — building platforms and experiences that center people who’ve historically been pushed to the side. For me, strategy isn’t just professional, it’s personal. But when I’m not dreaming up new innovations, you can catch me at the beach on somebody’s island!
——
Dahnaya Joyner
32 | she/her | DC | Software Engineer + Dancer
Black Queer Woman
I'm a full stack software engineer with a passion for technology, creativity, and lifelong learning. When I'm not coding, I love dancing, exploring new experiences, and spending quality time with friends and community.
___
Rae Henry
33 | they/them | Baltimore | IT Technician, Entrepreneur
Non-Binary
I’m Rae, a Black queer creative with a passion for technology, repairing electronics, and building meaningful community. I love balancing hands-on problem solving with quiet moments enjoying nature and peaceful views.
-
36 | she/they | DC/PG County
Performer, Community Organizer, Artist
Black Fat Lesbian/Queer Woman
Tiffany Lyn Royster is a singer, actress, and activist in the Washington D.C. area. Ministering through song and performance art, Tiffany Lyn advocates for human rights and LGBTQ+ rights with Capital Pride Alliance where she is the Director of Community Engagement. She is also a radio personality for Pride365 Radio, a National and International platform! She has performed in many shows and cabarets at places such as The Kennedy Center, Hamilton Live!, Anacostia Arts Center; more recently Olney Theatre in World Premiere Musical "A.D. 16" and has credit as a backup singer for Michael Buble.
Being the change and creating the change are synonymous and as a fat, black, queer person, it is important that the messages delivered comes from a place of truth, love and respect. These things are reflected in the work she does!
-
29 | they/them | Baltimore, MD
Artist/Photographer/Writer
Black Non-Binary/Queer
I am a Baltimore-based photographer who uses 35mm film and digital photography to capture everyday moments. My work is inspired by artists such as Carrie Mae Weems, Ernest Withers, Roy DeCarava, and Pete Eckert. I use my artistic practice to navigate and manage my anxiety and as an exercise in gratitude.
-
Seyo Gongombe
26 | any/all | DC
Professional Extrovert & Aspiring Archivist
Stud and Friendly Neighborhood Dyke
Seyo is a DC-based African lesbian whose experiences were shaped by growing up across the diaspora. As an aspiring archivist, Seyo is interested in exploring topics surrounding queerness, black queer masculinity and the struggles of disrupting expectations in both African diaspora communities and whitewashed LGBT cultures. Fueled by a passion for people and the humanities, Seyo enjoys connecting, documenting and showcasing black queer folks across the world.
—-
Jae Moore-Gayles
26 | they/them | DC | Artist & Author
Black Nonbinary Transmasculine Lesbian and Stud
I am an indie comic artist and author. I delight in depicting a sensual, erotic, and alternative way of leabian life. With an intimate focus on black lesbian life and black queer life.
-
27 | she/her | Haiti/DC | Performing Artist
Black Queer Trans Woman
Rocheny Pricien is a performing artist trained in theatre, dance, music. Born in Haiti and growing up in a very homogeneous white community has created a very unique experience that she takes with her and utilizes within her art. She performs as a Drag Artist known as Godiva Sterling, as well as participating in the DMV Ballroom Scene as Godiva 007. She wants to use her art to educate, entertain, and advocate for those in need and for a better future.
-
32 | She/They/Your Highness | DC
Creative Artist
A lover.
I love to love because it is the beginning of all Creation. I called myself a philosexual, never assigning gender to my lovers. It only matter how you make me feel, and if reciprocity will be better than nothing at all. From the core, love is beautiful.
-
RaeChele Richmond
37 | she/her | MD | Organizational Development & Learning Professional
Queer
I am a strong, compassionate queer woman who is a mother, crystal lover, nature aficionado, and soul illuminator dedicated to sharing love freely and abundantly. Guided by love, creativity and a passion for the performing arts and storytelling, I use my gifts to connect, uplift, and celebrate the beauty of the human experience.
——
Sherina Caldwell
32 | she/her | MD | Travel Enthusiast, Leader, and Bonus Parent
Black Queer Woman
New York-bred Caribbean who loves music, food, family, and basketball.
-
Rashad Ali Muhammad
36 | he/they | MD | Artist, Maker, Storyteller
Black Queer Entity
Rashad Ali Muhammad is a multidisciplinary artist of the African diaspora based in Maryland whose work explores culture, spirituality, identity, and nature to celebrate the human spirit while challenging stereotypes faced by people of color and the queer community. Working across mediums with a collagist's mindset, he merges intention, investigation, and invention, dissecting established references and reassembling them into new visions shaped by his formal training in graphic design and photography. Beyond his studio practice, he serves as a creative director, founder of lifestyle and fashion brand DBISO, and is currently pursuing an MFA in Studio Art at the Maryland Institute College of Art. A former resident artist at the Torpedo Factory Art Center and a 2023 Art and Peacebuilding Fellow with the Carter School at George Mason University, his work has been recognized by the National Collage Society and featured in Forbes, the Washington Post, NPR/WAMU, British GQ, and more.
——
Lakeland Rose
38 | they/them | MD | Artist
Non-Binary
I'm a Singer/Songwriter and Drag Entertainer. I'm in school for Audio Production to expand my skill set and will eventually produce music for other artists.
-
40 | she/her, they/them | DC
Artist/Historian
Black Queer Femme
Pussy Noir came of age in theaters and rehearsal halls. They are a full sensory experience mixing drag, burlesque, and untamed magic.
-
Prince Moore
29 | he/him, they/them | Baltimore, MD
Educator
Same-Gender-Loving Man
I’m an educator and activist who has been fighting for Black people and SGL people since I was 14/15. I teach to elevate not just the minds of the people, but also their spirits. I teach AP African American Studies and other courses like Latin American Studies, and it is my goal to help create change-makers who too aspire to build community and rid of the “isms” that plague our world.
——
Ante Ross
31 | he/him | Baltimore, MD | Healthcare Professional
Black Gay Man
Hi! I am a registered nurse with growing passion for politics and activism. I am a big foodie, I love to cook, and I love to travel. So far I’ve been to 6 counties outside of the US as can’t wait to add to that list.
-
Nya El-Amin
49 | she/her | DC | Wife, Entrepreneur, Life Coach and Mental Health Professional
Black Queer Woman
Dr. Nya El-Amin is a leader, entrepreneur, and community advocate whose work is rooted in empowering families, strengthening communities, and creating opportunities for others to thrive. Through service, resilience, and purpose-driven leadership, she embodies the excellence, impact, and enduring legacy of Black womanhood.
——
Kathy Sutton
52 | she/her | DC | Mental Health Professional
Black Lesbian
I am easy going, light hearted and fun to be around. I am a leader who can also follow.
-
32 | they/them | Baltimore, MD | Artist & DJ
Black Trans Dyke
Muse Dodd is a Baltimore based Filmmaker, Sound Artist and Creative Technologist with ancestral roots in Southeastern Louisiana. Their work explores how Blackness exists in the near future, borrowing from personal and collective histories.
-
33 | she/her | Virginia
Civil Rights Attorney
Black Queer Woman
I am an advocate for Black and queer liberation first and foremost. I’m a lover of R&B music and exploring the world from the mountains to the seas with the people I love. I love women’s basketball and ride for the Mystics and the UVA Hoos.
-
50 | he/him | MD
Professional
Ambitious by day, adventurous whenever I can be, I’m equally at home in the gym, exploring a new city, or enjoying an unforgettable dinner. I appreciate authenticity, intelligence, and people who know who they are.
-
38 | he/him | Philly/DC
Storyteller
BlaQueer Man
I am a public health strategist, storyteller, and community advocate committed to advancing health equity for Black, Brown, LGBTQ+, and HIV-affected communities. My work sits at the intersection of policy, culture, and lived experience, using storytelling as a tool for education, healing, and social change. Whether I’m building partnerships, hosting conversations, or creating media, I believe stories have the power to connect people, shift perspectives, and save lives. Everything I do is rooted in a vision of helping communities access the resources, dignity, and opportunities they need not just to survive, but to thrive.
-
Loocie Glover
36 | she/her | MD
Brand Designer. Mentor. Connector. Creative. Nerd
Black Androgynous Woman
There's a particular kind of freedom in being a Black androgynous woman. I'm never waiting for permission. I show up different spaces, business, community, strategic, and creative and I'm never one way (except for my values). I love that about myself. I have my gal of 10 years, Mercedes, to thank for that. She encourages me to move through the world in a way that's intentional, bold, eclectic and entirely my own. I am determined to be rooted and free at the same time.
—-
Mercedes David
37 | she/her | MD
Fluffy Alchemist
Sapphic Afro-Filipina
Beach babe. Idea bringer to lifer. Serial hobbyist. Lover of Loocie (wink).
-
33 | she/they | Silver Spring, MD
Doula and Poet
Afro-Latin Lesbian
My name is Lindsey Hunt (poetically known as thee poetic doula), and I am a DMV native born and raised. When I’m not working at my day job or writing, I am a Certified Birth and Postpartum Doula with a focus on postpartum care, who hopes to use my platform to bring more awareness to the realities, myths, and taboos of what pregnant women and people go through that goes unnoticed or said, while also uplifting and empowering individuals through acts of service, poetry, and spoken word.
-
25 | she/her | DC
Artist + Designer
Black Queer Woman
Hi, I’m Kayla (also known as Alex), a multidisciplinary artist, interior designer, and community organizer based in the DMV. With roots in both visual and performing arts, I approach my work through the lens of home, memory, and connection. Whether designing spaces or creating art, I am interested in how environments can hold and reflect the people within them.
-
Jay Epperson
21 | they/them, she/her | Baltimore, MD
Model, Actor, Podcast Host, RBT
Black Femme
Hi my name is Jay. I currently stay in the DMV area. I am a model, Actor, podcast host, advocate, and Registered Behavioral technician.
—
Tyrell Jones
29 | he/him | DC
Model/Creative/Stylist
My Name Is Tyrell better knew as Ty I am a DC Native. I am a Model/Inspiring Stylist I have faced much adversity being a DC homosexual man native, but despite all adversity I continue to rise to every occasion because WE ARE HERE.
-
28 | any/all | Kentucky/DC
Photographer/Artist
Queer
a few things about me :
I grew up with many siblings and cousins.. I love being the photographer in my family! I realized very early that my mom had only a few pictures of us growing up, so I had to change that! I love the water, I feel my highest self by the water. I wholeheartedly love people, black people! one thing I really admire about myself is that im very passionate, charming, and silly! If we can’t laugh, wtf can we do lol! writing this at 4am oh and I love to dance, meet me on the dance floor
-
27 | he/him | Little Rock/Baltimore, MD
Southerner, Writer, Thinker, Healing
Black Man of Trans Experience
Born and raised in Little Rock, Arkansas, I moved to Maryland for the first time almost ten years ago. Since then, my journey has led me to a passion in arts and culture, a fierce reverence for community, & a Divine purpose. These days most of my time and energy is spent with my dog, at the gym, or basking in my loved ones. You'll catch me on the dance floor or with my nose in a book somewhere around Baltimore.
-
-
Hailey Joseph
30 | she/they | DC
Educational Psychologist
Black Pansexual Woman
I am a Black queer educator, doctoral student, and advocate dedicated to equity, inclusion, and community empowerment. My work centers on supporting young people, particularly those whose identities and experiences are often overlooked, while helping create spaces where authenticity is celebrated. I believe that visibility, representation, and love are powerful tools for change.
—-
Sierra Cole
28 | she/her | MD
Healthcare Professional
Black Lesbian
I am a Black lesbian woman whose work and passions are rooted in helping others build the families and futures they envision. Working at a fertility clinic, I am honored to support individuals and couples on their journeys to parenthood. I believe representation matters because it affirms that queer people belong in every space including those centered on love, family, and hope.
-
40 | she/her | DC
Multi-Hyphenate Creative
Queer
I am a DC native who has explored many avenues in my full-time career and creative world. I identify as queer, and with this discovery has led me to understand more about myself in the process. I am a DJ, writer, sustainability advocate, and more. I love being a person that see's what's going on in the world, and takes action. I think that brings me joy that what I do actually makes a difference on this planet.
-
43 | she/her | MD
Keynote Speaker & Voiceover Artist
Black Queer Woman
Eboné F. Bell is a keynote speaker, facilitator, and voiceover artist whose work centers belonging, allyship, leadership, and courageous communication. She is widely recognized as the founder and former editor-in-chief of Tagg Magazine, an award-winning national publication amplifying the voices and stories of LGBTQ+ women. Her work and leadership have been recognized internationally, including being named by Forbes as an “Inspiring Black Entrepreneurs Changing Our World.”
-
38 | she/her | DC
Mental Health Professional
Black Queer Cis-Gendered Woman
Dr. Ashley J. Elliott (Dr. Vivid) is a Black queer clinician, educator, artist, and community healer whose work lives at the intersection of mental health, liberation, and authentic self-expression. She is the founder of Vivid Wellness Collective, where she develops culturally responsive programs that support healing and belonging for historically marginalized communities. Whether through movement, storytelling, advocacy, or education, Ashley is committed to helping people find freedom in being fully themselves.
-
Erinn Price
32 | she/her | DC
Multifaceted Entrepreneur (Barber,Baker,Photographer)
Black Bisexual Woman
Brooklyn-born, DMV-raised, and always repping home. I'm a multifaceted entrepreneur - a queer licensed barber cutting at DC's only Black woman-owned all-woman barbershop, a self-taught photographer, and a baker specializing in rum cakes with rum glaze. Creative hustle runs deep.
___
Aariana Knight
35 | she/her | Baltimore, MD
Artist & Entrepreneur
Black Femme Lesbian
I’m a Baltimore-born and raised entrepreneur making handcrafted goods.
-
40 | she/her | DC
Artist, Writer, Community Builder
Black Queer Woman
Danielle René is a writer, artist, and community builder known for creating art and intentional spaces centered around Black Lesbian & Queer connection. She considers herself an alchemist who transmutes love into words, compassion into art, and belonging into special occasions.
-
42 | she/her | MD
Entertainer/Entrepreneur
Black Stud
Dominique "Domo Cann" Cannon is a comedian, entrepreneur, and IT Program Manager whose confidence, creativity, and leadership shine both on and off the stage. A U.S. Army veteran and show producer, she brings authenticity, charisma, and a bold presence to every project. Whether commanding a room with laughter or stepping in front of the camera, Domo embodies professionalism, style, and individuality.
-
Dominique Gallaway
43 | she/her | VA
Entrepreneur
Black Trans Woman
I am a 43 yr old black trans woman. I am a 10yrs prior military vet. I am co-owner of JDvouge and a Medical Assistant.
—-
Julius Massenburg Jr
43 | she/her | VA
Entrepreneur, Stylist (fashion and hair)
Gay Man
I am a 43 year old, professional male. New to the DMV area. I have a passion for fashion, styling, and developing the gifts God has blessed me with. Living to be a light in a world full of darkness.
-
29 | They/Them/Bad Bitch | VA
Writer, Model, Farmer-Herbalist
Black Non-Binary Femme
I am a writer, model, and farmer-herbalist from Wakanda. I love live music, stories, and high vibrational meals with the homies.
-
Charles Bashman III
41 | he/him | DC
Communications Strategist
Black Pan Man
Charles Basham III is a storyteller drawn to the spaces where identity, ambition, love, and community intersect. Through his work, he explores the tension between public life and private moments, capturing the people, places, and experiences that shape who we become.
——
Joe B. Heard
38 | he/him | DC
Healthcare Professional
I am a healthcare professional with more than 14 years of experience in medical education and healthcare administration, passionate about leadership, collaboration, and making a meaningful impact in the communities I serve. Personally, I am resilient, faith-driven, and family-oriented, committed to growth, service, and creating spaces where people feel supported, empowered, and inspired.
-
40 | she/her, they/them | DC
Entrepreneur & Investor
Black Queer Woman & Lesbian
I’m a DMV-based entrepreneur, investor, and ecosystem builder who genuinely loves bringing people, ideas, and creativity together. My work focuses on culture, economic development, and helping small businesses and creatives grow sustainably through entrepreneurship, collaboration, and space-building. A lot of who I am is rooted in creating environments where people feel comfortable, inspired, connected, and supported. I’m passionate about authentic community, storytelling, and building things that leave a meaningful impact on both people and the neighborhoods around them.
-
35 | she/her | Baltimore, MD
Pharmacist and Creative
Black Lesbian
Pharmacist by day who loves to help people and solve problems. Creative by night who helps build community in Baltimore for black lesbians and shares my life experiences through photography and poetry. Truly leaning into living my purpose of life.
-
33 | she/her, they/them | Baltimore, MD
anti-disciplinary scholar and storyteller
black cis queer woman
Dr. Brendane A. Tynes (she/they) is a queer Black feminist scholar, storyteller, and community educator from Columbia, South Carolina. As a Hoodoo, energy healer, and student of Ifa, Brendane’s spiritual practices are the cornerstone of her political and creative work. She is the host of black.loved.free., a spiritual-political podcast nestled at the intersection of Black feminist political theory and Black and Indigenous spirituality and healing. When they are not working, Brendane is dancing, singing, writing poetry, and creating healing spaces for survivors of interpersonal violence.
-
31 | she/her | Mississippi/Baltimore, MD
Artist, Vocalist
Lesbian, Stud
Black Assets is a genre-bending vocalist, cultural curator, and sonic storyteller whose work lives at the intersection of soul, rock, poetry, and Black liberation. A queer, masculine-of-center artist, they command the stage with a rare blend of vulnerability, power, and magnetic presence, channeling the raw emotionality of classic soul through a contemporary lens. Known for electrifying live performances that seamlessly weave together live instrumentation, spoken word, and immersive storytelling, Black Assets creates spaces where audiences feel seen, celebrated, and transformed. Her sound draws from gospel-rooted vocals, gritty rock textures, Southern soul, Baltimore club rhythms, and the rich lineage of Black musical innovation.
Whether performing at a festival, cultural institution, music venue, or community gathering, Black Assets delivers more than a concert she creates a communal experience centered on freedom, identity, joy, and radical self-expression. As an artist and curator, her work explores themes of Blackness, heritage, queerness, resilience, and belonging, inviting audiences into a world where authenticity is both a practice and a revolution.
-
31 | any/all | MD
Lesbian
I love bringing joy to people. Making people smile and laugh, but also grow. Growth is uncomfortable but if done right, it always ends in joy.
-
35 | they/them | DC
Artist
Non-Binary
Beezy Young is a full time artist and dreamer from Washington D.C. Their intention with their art is to inspire marginalized people to follow their art amidst challenging times, as well as to affirm the beauty in their existence and resilience.
-
24 | he/him | MD
Student, Entrepreneur, and Friend
Black Gay Man
Because of my outgoing personality, I often find myself in profound, amazing conversations with strangers. I am a CODA, with two deaf parents. ASL is my first language!
-
-
38 | she/her | MD
Educator
Black Queer Woman
I am a lifelong learner, educator, and advocate who is passionate about supporting Black and Brown students throughout their educational journey. I believe in the power of equitable, culturally responsive education to help every student reach their full potential.
-
32 | she/her | DC
The Curator.
AfroLatina Queer Woman
A force forged in fire, both healer and healing. A tender-hearted muse with her sights set on liberation, jubilation and expansion. Truly just an awkward neurodivergent baddie fighting for her whimsy.
-
37 | she/her, they/them | DC
Humanitarian, Public Health Worker, Emergency Manager, Writer & Chef
Black Queer Woman
Alexis Barnes is a Caribbean queer storyteller, humanitarian, and curator of experiences who believes identity is meant to be lived expansively. Her work and passions span public health, emergency management, community care, black sexual liberation, and testing recipes for her supper club. She is drawn to the spaces where resilience, softness, pleasure, and possibility meet.
