Queer Joy Interview #3: Layla

Layla (She/They) from Tyler, TX on 4/17/2024

“Queer joy is to live and stand proudly. I am proud to be a queer person, a member of the working class, and a child of Texas and Palestine.

[Queer joy] is embodied by this line from Vladimir Mayakovsky:

‘Listen! 
if stars are lit
it means - there is someone who needs it.
it means - someone wants them to be,
that someone deems those specks of spit 
magnificent .’

I took the photo because it showcases the beauty of being alive— of being a star that is lit.

This photograph was taken outside my home. Just outside of the frame there are rain clouds about to burst. Before the photo I had a great cup of coffee and after the photo I went on a two mile run.

[In the photo] I feel overjoyed, and comfortable in myself. For me, this photo represents being content with oneself even when there are challenges in life and problems facing you. Personally, I believe this is the key to overcoming anything.”

-Layla (She/They)