Lorenzo R. Wright relocated to Hampton Roads in 2016 following a US Navy transfer. In addition to his service in the US Navy, Lorenzo is also a lifelong writer who recently published his first book All the Wright Words. A longer article about his work and experiences will follow, but for now, let’s get know Lorenzo!
Where were you born and raised?
Covington, Louisiana
How long have you lived in Hampton Roads?
Since 2016
What do you do for money/living?
US NAVY
How long have you been ‘out’ (if applicable) and who was the hardest person to tell?
I have been out since 2013 and telling my Mom was the most difficult.
Who is your LGBTQ hero and why?
My Aunt. When I was younger, she always use to spend a lot of time with me. She’d take me to the park or the movies. I kind of felt like she knew and was trying to foster a comfortable and supporting environment for me. She has inspired me to live openly and freely and I attribute a lot of my success due to her positive influence on me.
Is a picture worth a thousand words? Explain your answer.
You know, I believe it boils down to individual perception. For me, there’s a duality to the expression. There are some “pictures” that frankly leave you speechless but there impact is so positively profound that the picture doesn’t require words. You simply inwardly acknowledge and appreciate the significance of it. To attempt to describe it would actually be an injustice. For other pictures, they can spur endless hearty conversation that yield many unique perspectives from the people you shared the moment with.
What is the most memorable LGBTQ moment of your life?
It’s actually two. Without a shadow of a doubt it was when the Supreme Court of the United States struck down the Defense of Marriage Act and the elimination of Don’r Ask Don’t Tell in the United States Armed Forces.
On what do you insist upon daily?:
Honestly, manners. One of my biggest pet peeves is when I say good morning to someone plain as day and they don’t say it back. Like, is it that difficult?
What was your last social media post?
I wrote a heartfelt thanks to my Mom and Dad for their unwavering support. What I love about my parents is that they always know how to remind you how wonderful you are even when all you can see is your own flaws.
If you could give your 16 year-old self one piece of advice, what would it be?
Do not place as much value on what others think of you. If you’re doing the right thing and staying out of trouble, keep doing it. Many people versions of right are slanted and frankly ignorant.
Do you have any suggestions for the local leaders of Hampton Roads’ LGBTQ organizations?
I would simply offer this wisdom to our leaders: Leaders have a responsibility to be open-minded and receptive to feedback and criticism.
What is the best aspect of the Hampton Roads LGBTQ community?
In my opinion, we are collaborative efforts are superb! Look at the recent establishment of Stonewall Sports Chapter in Virginia. Magnificent work by all involved in that endeavor. I could not be more proud.
Name one thing you would change about the Hampton Roads LGBTQ community?
I’d like to see and event where we all meet and are required (in a fun way) to introduce someone we’ve never met. This could be done in the form of a social.
What LGBTQ stereotype annoys you the most?
From my perspective as a gay black male, I dislike the notion that we lack masculinity.
What non-LGBTQ issue do you feel most passionate about?
I am concerned that as a society we are becoming less receptive to a difference of opinion and in doing so we seem to have a tendency to ostracize those who don’t agree with us. A difference of opinion is often an opportunity to learn from one another. We can differ yet still respect and love one another.
What natural gift would you most like to possess?
I would like to be able to sing. I avoid karaoke like the plague unless I’m inebriated.
What quality do you most admire in a person?
Honesty.
What turns you on creatively, spiritually or emotionally?
Someone that can intellectually stimulate me will more often than not capture and maintain my attention. However, if they are an asshole, which I have encountered, I’m turned off. Mindfuck me without ulterior motives and you might be a winner.
What is your favorite curse word?
Fuck
Why Hampton Roads?
Why not?!
You may preview and buy Lorenzo’s book at the link provided below.
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