Audience
"Exploring Black Queer Joy (Even When it Feels Hopeless)"
This conversation will exemplify the value of Black Queer Joy, despite a backdrop of anti-LGBTQ legislation and social vitriol. The session will begin with a brief review of Data to situate the conversation of current realities and historical context. This discourse will be rooted in theoretical frameworks introduced by great minds like James Baldwin, Christina Sharpe, Jose Esteban Muñoz, and more. We will wrap up the conversation with examples of Black Queer Joy and a generative discussion on how we can collectively ensure that Black Queer Joy is a praxis of liberation and revolution.
Aurora Higgs (she/they) is a Black queer visionary and activist from Richmond, Va. Aurora works as an equity consultant all around the world. Aurora transitioned in 2018 and uses her platform to promote justice and equity.
Aurora is the VP of Operations at HUMiN Inc, a Seattle-based Consultancy specializing in DEI and Management Consulting for Large Tech and Biopharma corporate clients. In 2019, Aurora founded Borealis Consulting RVA, where she works as a speaker, researcher, performer, and producer of media that elevates queer BIPOC voices. Higgs also was invited to assist Del. Danica Roem (D-Prince William), in passing several pieces of legislation related to transgender rights in Virginia, including a bill to make transphobic discrimination by medical providers illegal.
Her work in the Richmond community has earned her several honors in recent years. Aurora was a featured honoree in Style Weekly’s 2019 Top 40 Under 40 Issue and the Virginia Museum of History and Culture’s Agents of Change Exhibit. The Advocate named Aurora a 2022 Champion of Pride from Around the US. And if you ever find yourself on MacArthur Ave in RVA, you can find a mural in honor of Aurora and her impact on the community.
Aurora believes her calling is to show up in spaces bravely and authentically, no matter the repercussions. Someone once said, “Show up so BIG in the room that it feels too small after you’ve left.” Aurora holds this mantra close to her heart as she creates space for her communities and herself.
Announcement Group
