Behind the Scenes of Mz Neon's "So Far" Music Video

Click on this image above to watch Mz Neon - So Far (Official Music Video)

I am beyond excited to share my extraordinary experience as a back-up dancer in Mz Neon's revolutionary music video, "So Far." This is more than just a video – it's a powerful statement about the struggles and triumphs faced by the trans and gender-expansive community, particularly in the United States amidst the alarming surge of anti-trans rhetoric, discriminatory laws, and heartbreaking violence. Join me as I take you on a profound journey behind the scenes of this impactful creation.

**A Vision of Empowerment and Inclusion**

Directed by the brilliant duo Allen Henson and Mz Neon, "So Far" transcends the boundaries of music videos. It's a visual and auditory masterpiece that brings to light the challenges that the trans and gender expansive community navigates daily. Mz Neon's meticulous attention to art direction, set design, and wardrobe choices ensured that every element conveyed the message of resilience and empowerment.

**Strength in Unity**

The video boasts an impressive lineup of talents, each playing a vital role in conveying the song's powerful message. Alongside Mz Neon, the video features artists like Tricky Youth, Dagger Polyester, Clem Goldberg, Lilian Void, Love Bailey, Emily Lucid, Sasha Forests, Drew Arriola Sands, and numerous others who contribute to the video's diversity and depth. It was an absolute honor to share the stage with such a passionate and talented group of individuals.

**Voicing Resilience**

The lyrics of "So Far" are a poignant reflection of the challenges faced by the trans and gender expansive community. The song emphasizes the importance of fighting back, standing tall against adversity, and embracing our authentic selves. As a back-up dancer, I felt an incredibly deep connection to these themes, moving in harmony with a group of individuals unafraid to defy the bigotry and transphobia that is running rampant in this country and around the globe.

**Portraying the Journey**

The music video beautifully encapsulates the song's core message. Through choreography and cinematography, it vividly depicts the struggles and triumphs that the marginalized community experiences. Each scene tells a story of resilience and strength, offering a window into the indomitable human spirit.

**An Anthem of Empowerment**

"**So Far**" transcends its role as a song; it's a rallying cry, a call to arms, and a celebration of the diverse tapestry of identities. The chorus resonates with the idea that, even amid adversity, we stand strong and committed. The song's authenticity and raw emotion make it an anthem of empowerment for everyone within the trans and gender expansive community.

**A Heartfelt Thank You**

My gratitude knows no bounds as I extend my heartfelt appreciation to Mz Neon, Allen Henson, and the entire team for allowing me to be a part of this profound undertaking. I also want to acknowledge my fellow dancers, the talented artists, and the unsung heroes behind the scenes who worked tirelessly to breathe life into this video. Your passion and dedication shine brightly.

**A Call to Stand Strong**

"In the face of adversity, an act of defiance..." These words now hold even more weight for me after my involvement in "So Far." This video is a reminder that embracing our identities and fighting for justice is a revolutionary act in itself. Let's celebrate our diversity, challenge injustice, and continue pushing boundaries in the face of adversity.

Don't miss out on experiencing the impactful music video "**So Far**" available on all major streaming platforms here. It's a testament to resilience, a beacon of hope, and a catalyst for change.

Queer Conjure: An Interview with Jasper Joy, the Genderqueer Witch Redefining Magic and Empathy

A photo of Jasper Joy from their website Queer Conjure. Can be found here.

Hello Jasper, I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunity to chat with you today and delve deeper into your world and the work you do with Queer Conjure. Before we begin, would you kindly introduce yourself and share a few key aspects of your journey that have led you to where you are today? I'm eager to learn more about your unique path.

Yes, thank you! Your work has been quite the inspiration for me! I first learned about you through Ylva Mara a couple of years ago and I’ve been listening to your Mutant Musings on Youtube ever since, as well as some of your other videos and I just appreciate them so much.

My name is Jasper Joy, my pronouns are they/them, and I am a white genderqueer witch, tarot scholar, writer, and spiritual support specialist. I have a small professional practice called queerconjure.org where I teach tarot and witchcraft in a way that centers queer experiences, trans experiences, and neurodivergent experiences. Because those are the communities I belong to. As a child, I was raised by gay new-agers and sober lesbian Buddhists. I was an initiate and acolyte of a Wiccan temple for all of my twenties. I am always investigating ways to honor what my elders taught me in a way that makes more room for anti-racist work and resists all concepts of hierarchy.

Could you share a memorable experience or transformational moment you've had while supporting individuals through your offerings and practices at Queer Conjure?

I have a client that comes to me twice a year for tarot readings and she spends most of our time together telling me hilarious stories. I don’t say much except to reflect back to her what I’m hearing as the thread that connects those stories together. At first, I wasn’t sure what she was getting out of our sessions. Through working with her I learned a lesson that changed my practice completely. Tarot, as well as other forms of divination, is primarily a tool to facilitate active and empathetic listening. For me, it is more important to shine a light on what the client already knows and feels than to try to wow them with what I know (or think I know). I have to set my ego aside and become a reflective reader rather than a projective reader. What’s more, I work with marginalized communities that often have to work really hard just to be taken seriously. Putting their needs to be seen, heard, validated, and accepted ahead of everything else is a very powerful healing magic.

https://www.queerconjure.org/

How do you approach failure and what have you learned from your past setbacks?

I’m not sure that I believe in failure. Within every experience is an opportunity to learn and open. Failure suggests shame or blame, a perspective rather than a reality. My mama used to say “well, I just paid some tuition to the college of life” whenever something went horribly wrong. I mean, accidentally setting the lawn on fire wrong. Literally shooting oneself in the leg wrong. It was her way of saying that, even amidst the most fucked up chaos, there is something to learn and grow from. Setbacks are real and they can bring a lot of grief with them. They bring up a sense of loss. Most of my recent setbacks have come from chronic illness and therefore less work. It’s been a big cosmic neon sign that says “slow down or else”. The more I resist the more the universe puts obstacles in my way. So I finally had to let go and slow down. And it’s allowed me to open more.

Could you share some insights into the rituals or practices that are particularly meaningful or powerful to you?

Journaling will always be my true love. I have ADHD and a memory disorder, so writing things down is essential. But it’s more than just a way to recall events. Writing creates change, which is also what magic does. It’s a sacred tool that reorients the writer back to their true path. Back to their dreams. In the mornings, as often as possible, I light a birthday candle on my altar and journal for as long as the candle burns. Which is only a few minutes. But it’s not the length of time that’s important, it’s the attention that’s given to the ritual that makes it powerful.

Can you share any advice or guidance for others who may be exploring their own gender identity or considering incorporating witchcraft into their lives?

I highly suggest shedding all concepts of “feminine” energies and “masculine” energies when it comes to witchcraft. No matter how you identify. Just take them off and throw them in the bin! Replace them with a word that resonates more with who you are deep down (because that’s where divinity is). Maybe “cloudy” or “creature”, “dandy” or “mossy”. The social construct of a gender binary serves as a tool of societal oppression and does not add value to intuition or magic- in fact it degrades our connection to the universe. Aside from that, I will say what I wish my first teacher had said to me: be gentle with yourself. You’re going to make mistakes- sometimes huge mistakes- and your magic isn’t going to look like a tiktok video. (Though tiktok wasn’t a thing when I started!) No matter how long you practice magic, or how many gender workbooks you complete, you will always be at the beginning of figuring it out. Never at the end. So always treat yourself with the patience and care you would give to a child who is just learning to tie their shoelaces. 

Are there any specific deities, spirits, or elements that you feel particularly connected to, and if so, how do you honor and work with them?

I like to work with queer ancestors and ancestral chosen family. For example, if I have writer’s block, I’ll build an altar with pictures of Hans Christian Anderson and Leslie Feinberg. I have a couple personal deities that I “made up” because there just aren’t any I fully connect with. I’m an animist so I spend time intentionally and silently connecting with the spirits of “things” that might otherwise be undervalued- the overzealous multiflora rose behind my house or the tea kettle that I use every morning. The couch where my family crowds in for movie night. The broom I use to sweep the patio. All of these things contain the elements, contain divinity, and offer opportunities for reverence. I’m grateful for that.

Are there any misconceptions or stereotypes about being a genderqueer witch that you would like to address or debunk?

I protect my energy by not getting into Gender 101 discussions unless I’m being paid to do so. I’m genderqueer because queer is my gender, which means I can’t explain it in a succinct way. I don’t have to explain it to anyone’s satisfaction in order for it to be valid and valued. My genderqueerness is part of the mystery that fuels my witchcraft. To separate my queerness and witchcraft would be impossible for me at this point.

Click here to request to book a tarot reading with Jasper Joy of Queer Conjure.

What other hobbies or interests do you enjoy outside of witchcraft that bring you joy or inspiration?

I’m a very family-oriented person. Not in a nuclear-hetero way, but in a way that requires a deeply intentional cultivation of relationships. I love my friends so much my heart feels like a bird. I enjoy the hell out of them. I love spending time with my nesting partner and children. I build my life with them in mind. I’m a book nerd, for sure. I’m also just a geek for whatever is considered “weird”. I listen to a lot of podcasts and read a lot. I get very enthusiastic about new-to-me information and trying new-to-me things. 

Are there any books, resources, or mentors that have significantly influenced your journey?

Cassandra Snow was my first portal into queerness as an essential part of tarot and magic. Before them, I was juggling those pieces of myself as separate rather than embodying them as a whole. I’ll be forever grateful to them. I have a booklist here of forty-plus books that I hold in high regard. The In Search Of Tarot podcast and the Missing Witches podcast routinely blow my mind. My conversations with Ylva Mara are deeply influential as well. I highly recommend her book A Practical Guide For Witches.

What are some of your favorite magical tools or ingredients to work with, and why?

Invasive plants! Anything that’s considered a nuisance but holds powerful medicine within. Their tenacity feels inherently queer to me. I have a small cauldron that I ritually work with several times a month that often holds plant friends and scraps of paper with scribbled wishes or thanks written on them. The cauldron is sacred for many reasons, but to be honest I love it because it’s iconic. Tarot cards are an obvious answer for me, because that’s what most of my work revolves around. For me, tarot is just as enigmatic as queerness and offers millions of lifetimes worth of lessons.

In what ways do you use platforms like Instagram and TikTok to amplify your message and connect with a broader audience? How has social media impacted your spiritual practice and community-building efforts? Any messages you feel called to share around social media? 

When I began my witchy studies, there was this thing called Witchvox. It was an online social network for witches and pagans before social media was even a thing. It’s where I found my first teacher. My first ritual, my first spell. It’s how I got my start. These days, my witch-community is a quilt of queers I stumbled upon thanks to some algorithm on Instagram and sometimes dating apps. I am grateful for that. I don’t know if it’s “amplified my message” exactly. I have a business partner that makes beautiful posts that keep us in the feed. I try not to think about the fact that I have an audience, though. I’m just doing my little turn on the catwalk, checking in with my loves, and looking at reels of cute animals. If I start paying attention to likes or followers or traffic reports, then social media begins to feed on my sense of self-worth. I think it’s important to hold boundaries that prevent that. 

What are some ways that folks can connect with you and do you have any exciting things coming up you’d like to share? 

All of my work can be found at queerconjure.org and I love getting emails from new folks. I also have a Patreon and a podcast, both called Queer Conjure. Right now my partner and I are creating the second issue of our downloadable tarot workbook and I’m very excited to share that once it feels complete.

Please feel free to share any additional insights or stories or anything else you feel is important to share with our readers. 

Thank you so much for these lovely questions! It was a wonderfully creative and introspective experience to answer them!

Click the image above to listen to the Mutating with Edgar episode on the Queer Conjure Podcast

As an added bonus, I recently had the privilege of being a guest on the Queer Conjure Podcast where we delve into the intersections of queerness and spirituality.

Chosen by the People: Celebrate Pride 2023 with LGBTQIA+ Small Businesses Nominated by the Community

In our quest to uplift and support LGBTQIA+ small businesses, we reached out to our amazing Instagram followers for their recommendations. This is an opportunity to embrace the true spirit of Pride by shopping small and directly supporting businesses owned by LGBTQIA+ individuals. Together, let's move beyond the rainbow-washing efforts of larger corporations and instead celebrate the authentic voices and stories behind these businesses. As an LGBTQIA+ small business owner myself, I, Edgar, believe in the power of building networks of resiliency with others. So, please join the conversation by commenting below and sharing more businesses you would like to highlight. Together, let's make a difference and celebrate Pride 2023 with these remarkable entrepreneurs.

Without further ado, here are queer, trans, and gender-expansive small businesses chosen by you:

Milk Thistle Apothecary and Gallery - Discover the enchanting world of Milk Thistle, an apothecary, gallery, and community workshop space located just outside Joshua Tree National Park in Yucca Valley, California. Step into the realm of tarot readings available by appointment or as drop-ins from Friday to Sunday, and let the cards illuminate your path. Immerse yourself in the Hi-Desert Zine Zone Library, a captivating collection of zines from local artists and creators. Embracing creativity and collaboration, Milk Thistle plans to host regular workshops, events, and pop-ups featuring talented creators near and far. If you're interested in hosting a workshop or showcasing your creations, don't hesitate to reach out to them!

STEM Handmade Soap - Born out of a simple science experiment in the basement of Dave and Steve's Lakewood, Ohio home, has blossomed into a thriving venture. With Steve's background in biochemistry and 18 months of extensive research and feedback, they crafted the perfect bar of all-natural soap. The positive response from customers led to the expansion of their product line, as additional all-natural skincare solutions were developed and added to their website. As demand grew, STEM Handmade Soap relocated to a dedicated small building in Lakewood, Ohio, where every product is meticulously handmade from start to finish. Their skincare products are scented with essential oils, providing an aromatherapy experience, and formulated with natural, skin-loving ingredients that are both beneficial for your skin and environmentally friendly. Each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen for its specific purpose of helping your skin reach its full potential and maintain its radiance. STEM Handmade Soap believes that caring about what you put on your body is just as important as what you put in it.

https://www.trialanderror.art/

Trial and Error Art - by the talented artist Naima Lowe, a creative force based in Tulsa, OK. Naima is the mastermind behind the brand. Trial and Error is more than just a project—it's an experiment in connecting Naima's artwork directly with consumers. Taking risks and embracing the concept of failing better, Trial and Error embodies the spirit of artistic exploration. Prints, scarves, and stickers are expertly crafted at Flash Flood Print Studios in Tulsa, while other items are sourced through print-on-demand services from suppliers worldwide. Naima Lowe is not only a prolific artist but also a Black queer disabled writer, whose work draws from improvisational and collaborative strategies rooted in the alchemic survival practices of Black cultural production. With an impressive array of accolades, exhibitions, and artist residency fellowships under her belt, Naima continues to push boundaries and challenge norms through her transgressive and radical traditions of Black utterance. Embracing improvisation as a liberatory praxis, her performances, texts, and videos explore themes of love, desire, and personal narratives, infusing them with ritual, music, and the ethos of inclusivity and community care. Step into the world of Trial and Error Art and experience the vibrant expressions of Naima Lowe's creative journey.

Cosmic Cousins - Discover the transformative and intuitive practices of Jeff Hinshaw (he/they), a seasoned practitioner with over a decade of experience in tarot, astrology, and somatic healing. Grounded in reverence for the elements, nature, the Earth, and Spirit, Jeff's unique expertise in ritual, tarot, and astrology guides individuals on profound journeys of self-exploration, transformation, and healing. As the host of the enlightening podcast Cosmic Cousins, Jeff facilitates a deeper connection to the Moon and the current astrological transits, offering valuable insights on each New and Full Moon. Jeff's Brooklyn Fools: Tarot Journey, a 22-week ritual gathering through the Major Arcana of the tarot, has earned acclaim as a "radical tarot school" by National Geographic, fostering a vibrant Tarot Community since 2014. Passionate about upgrading archetypes for collective intention, Jeff has embarked on community projects like Zodiac Queens and authored the book Aries, published through Sterling Publishing House.

https://msteabotanica.com/elixirs/hedge-tonic

Ms. Tea Botanica - Discover the inspiring work of Ms Tea Botanica, a bioregional herbalist, medicine maker, and visual creative dedicated to supporting people of all genders and levels of access to care. Operating within an anti-oppression, liberationist framework, Ms Tea Botanica offers a safe and non-judgmental space, free from hierarchies of health/illness. Their practice encompasses various aspects of healing, addressing physical and energetic patterns such as sleep, digestion, musculoskeletal pain, anxiety, respiratory care, grief, trauma, sexual violence, and intergenerational harm. With an apothecary of handcrafted and ethically sourced herbs, including a medicinal herb garden and native plant stewardship, Ms Tea Botanica fosters regenerative and reciprocal relationships with the magic of both the human and more-than-human worlds. Grounded in humility and accountability, Ms Tea Botanica actively dismantles oppressive systems and works towards collective liberation. Through sliding scale consults, redistribution of resources, community care, and solidarity projects, they strive to repair injustice and build resilient communities. With a deep commitment to ethical sourcing, cultural and spiritual respect, and dismantling colonial frameworks, Ms Tea Botanica is a beacon of inclusivity and healing in the health and wellness space.

All She Wrote Books - an intersectional, inclusive feminist and queer bookstore that is dedicated to supporting, celebrating, and amplifying underrepresented voices. With a thoughtfully curated selection of books spanning across all genres, All She Wrote Books is a haven for book lovers seeking diverse narratives and perspectives. By shopping with them, you not only indulge in the joy of reading but also contribute to a space that fosters inclusivity, representation, and social change. Join the movement and support this inspiring bookstore as they continue to champion marginalized voices and create a more equitable literary landscape.

Brujita Skincare - Indulge in the enchanting world of Brujita Skincare, a Latina LA-based brand that proudly celebrates the unique souls that the conventional beauty industry often overlooks. With a commitment to sustainability, Brujita Skincare sources the majority of its ingredients from the vibrant city of Mexico, crafting a range of exquisite products including organic and unrefined masks, cleansers, hand care, healing balms, and lip balms. Discover your perfect skincare match by taking the captivating Brujitas Skin Quiz, tailored to your individual needs.

http://spellboundsky.com/bio

Spellbound Sky - Mark Phillips and Martin Anguiano have manifested their destiny by creating a captivating space brimming with love, magic, and boundless positive energy. Former fashion designers turned spiritual entrepreneurs, their shared fascination with the metaphysical led them to embrace crystals as their ultimate obsession. In 2011, Spellbound Sky emerged as a haven to share their profound love for crystals and the mystical realms, while staying true to their modern and free-spirited vision. Year after year, Mark and Martin inspire and empower their community, providing the wisdom and tools necessary to unlock unlimited potential and transform dreams into reality. Prepare to be spellbound by the wonders of Spellbound Sky, where the sky truly is the limit in your spiritual journey.

Otherwild - a queer-identified woman-owned store, design studio, and event space that centers ethics at the heart of its business. Established in 2012 within a diverse community of artists and designers, Otherwild is dedicated to showcasing thoughtfully crafted goods made with care by individuals. With a focus on beautiful and well-designed products, they also offer refillable bulk home cleaning and personal care items, as well as lo/no-waste reusables under the name Otherwild General. Their passion for the handmade extends to their own line of apparel and home goods, produced independently and collaboratively. With an unwavering commitment to an ethically-sourced supply chain, Otherwild strives to cultivate a counter-cultural approach to exploitative consumer capitalism. They provide sustained support to their staff, vendors, and suppliers, and actively contribute to grassroots activist and social justice organizations through their Anotherwild Fund.

Wolfe Video - For over three decades, Wolfe Video has been passionately serving audiences as the largest exclusive distributor of LGBT films. With a commitment to showcasing these stories to the widest possible viewership, Wolfe engages through film festivals, theatrical and non-theatrical releases, broadcast, DVD, and digital platforms. Their extensive catalog includes not only their own Wolfe label films, available on DVD and digital but also thousands of other LGBT titles. As a pioneering force in the industry, Wolfe continues to make a difference inside and outside of the entertainment business, offering a diverse selection of movies that resonate with audiences worldwide.

The Phluid Project - At The Phluid Project, they are more than just a fashion brand. They are a movement. Founded in 2018, they dissolve the artificial boundaries of gender, skin color, and status. They believe in embracing their true selves and breaking down societal barriers. With a focus on community, activism, and education, they celebrate inclusivity and value every individual, regardless of body, size, ability, race, gender, faith, or nationality. Their completely gender-free fashion reflects their mission to empower and amplify underrepresented voices. Through partnerships and collaborations, they expand their reach and shape a more inclusive future for all. Join them on this empowering journey of self-expression and celebrate your authentic self with their diverse collections of gender-free clothing and accessories.

https://www.theyfriendcandles.com/shop-1/p/palm-g4gbp

Theyfriend Candles - Theyfriend Candles is a queer, nonbinary, and trans-owned candle venture that combines witchcraft and sustainability. Each candle is handcrafted and enchanted by Rune Rainwater, a Kirkean witch and Tarot reader. Theyfriend prioritizes a non-extractive relationship with crafting materials, using sustainable ingredients like beeswax and hemp wicks. Synthetic dyes and oils are replaced with food-grade sustainable dyes, and eco-friendly packaging is encouraged for reuse in witch work. Following astrology and astroherbology, they offer astroherbalist candles aligned with specific planetary influences. Empowered with Kirkean spell work, these candles are designed to assist with spells, blessings, and more. As a one-witch show, Rune pours their energy and expertise into every candle, fostering an accessible and non-exploitative approach. Embracing pleasure-based Kirkean Witchcraft, Theyfriend Candles invites you to enhance your own witchy power with their enchanting creations.

Chef Joya - Adjoa Courtney, known as "Chef Joya," is a culinary mastermind who transforms ordinary recipes into extraordinary culinary creations. Raised vegan since childhood, Joya drew inspiration from her grandmother's kitchen in Milwaukee, WI, and sought out authentic recipes from elders in her community. With a passion for plant-based cuisine, she began hosting dinner parties that left guests in awe and soon gained popularity through vlogs and cooking lessons on Instagram. Joya's specialty lies in "veganizing" traditional dishes, bringing flavors from diverse cultural backgrounds to her repertoire. As a personal chef, she shares her expertise with other chefs, bridging the gap between vegan and non-vegan culinary experiences. Chef Joya's vibrant and unique approach to food has earned her recognition as one of the top vegan culinary artists in the United States. Whether through her travels, restaurant collaborations, or online platforms, she continues to captivate hearts and taste buds with her delicious and magical meals.

Automic Gold - Al Sandimirova, an Indigenous, queer, Trans, non-binary refugee, is the visionary Founder and Jewelry Designer behind Automic Gold. After immigrating to the U.S. in 2009, they embarked on a journey in metal smithing and jewelry design, driven by a desire to challenge the industry's narrow standards. Feeling that jewelry often neglected inclusivity, Sandimirova established Automic Gold as a brand that celebrates diversity in all its forms. Their commitment to accessibility is reflected in the brand's offerings, catering to all genders, skin tones, and sizes. In a deliberate move towards authenticity, Sandimirova selects models who embody these values and refrain from retouching their photos. With Automic Gold, they have created a platform where everyone's voice is heard and represented, empowering individuals to embrace their unique identities.

NOTO Botanics - NOTO Botanics emerged from a transformative journey of self-reflection and a desire for authentic representation. After a soul-searching trip to Thailand, the founder, a fashion and celebrity makeup artist, envisioned creating a line that celebrated the spectrum of identities often overlooked in the clean beauty industry. Launching NOTO in their own kitchen, they poured their decade+ of expert experience into developing a multi-use, gender-inclusive, and clean cosmetic line. NOTO's products are formulated with simple yet high-performing ingredients, promising transformative results with regular use. Embracing the power of self-expression, NOTO champions individuality and fosters a creative and mindful community. With a commitment to representation, customer satisfaction, clean ingredients, and giving back, NOTO Botanics embodies a holistic approach to beauty that is both vegan and cruelty-free.