Denise Simmons channels Billie Holiday in this stunning photo by Roger Erickson for the Out 100. Simmons made history this year when she became mayor of Cambridge, Massachusetts ... becoming the first black openly lesbian mayor of a major American city.
"She started out wanting to be a psychotherapist but got involved in politics after realizing that, rather than working with just one person at a time, she wanted to 'influence a whole group of people.' "
It's worth noting that Cambridge's previous mayor, Ken Reeves, was a black gay man. Way to go. Denise Simmons is definitely influencing and inspiring. Congrats.
before i read your caption, i thought it was billie holiday then i looked at the eyes. there is a peace and quiet dignity in the eyes of mayor simmons. i love billie but she never carried that in her gaze in any of the photos that i've seen.
Posted by: freeleo | 13 November 2008 at 17:15
Wow, she's beautiful. Very interesting woman.-QH
Posted by: QH | 13 November 2008 at 17:55
...when people think no progress is happening with gays of color this is definitely a name to bring up...here's hoping her public profile continues to rise...if you don't know, now you know...
Posted by: yeahisaidit | 13 November 2008 at 18:36
Wow, what a beautiful, elegant woman! And, anyone who can channel he great Billie Holiday is worth a double take and read. I wasn't going to get a copy of this after seeing the cover, but, might now.
Posted by: Luther | 13 November 2008 at 19:16
A BEAUTIFUL photo! Is it time to remake Lady Sings the Blues? We already have the star!
And Cambridge is quite something -- and out black gay man as mayor followed by and out black lesbian. Bravo/brava
Posted by: ReggieH | 13 November 2008 at 22:29
She better do it ... I know that's right.
Posted by: S. Flemming | 14 November 2008 at 08:37
OMG!! She just wreaks beauty!!!
More power to her!!!
Posted by: Sonut Honti | 17 November 2008 at 18:11