This June, in honor of Pride Month, we are highlighting and interviewing LGBTQIA+ activists we admire. We’re excited to introduce you to Mx B. Hawk Snipes in our newest editorial series, Business is Booming. Snipes was titled a NYC Pride Hero this year and was celebrated along with other iconic LGBTQIA+ heroes in the parade. They count Marsha P Johnson, Jordyn Jay, Miss Mojo, Sinia Alaia, Alok, Qween Jean and Tiffany "Dior" Harris as their own personal LGBTQIA+ heroes. “Pride is many things,” they tell us, “but it will always be a RIOT!”
What do you do for a job?
Anything that makes me happy and has a check attached to it.
Take us through your morning routine.
I wake up, stretch, check my bank account, check my emails, make breakfast and watch The View.
What was your first job?
When I was younger I would give the women in my family manicures and pedicures.
Where do you look for inspiration?
Everywhere.
Who do you admire most in your industry?
Myself. I work REALLY hard and I'm always inspired by how many things I can accomplish.
What’s your favorite way to celebrate success?
Treating myself to something new for my closet or eating something with dairy (because I'm not suppose to have it!)
Who do you call for a pep talk?
My best friend Pow Jones. He really understands my mind.
What’s your pump-up song?
Currently this new Beyonce song "Break My Soul.” It's a BOP!!!
What career would you want in your next life?
I would love to be a lawyer or judge with the knowledge I have now. The justice system definitely needs more Black, Queer & Trans representation.
What are you reading right now? What are you watching?
I’m not currently reading any books at the moment, but I'm watching P-Valley and Real Housewives of Atlanta & Beverly Hills. Don’t judge me... judge my therapist.
What would be your theme song?
"Strut" by The Cheetah Girls
What outfit do you feel most confident in?
A long Kaftan & Black leather boots.
Who is the last person you texted?
The love of my life. #IYKYK
What’s your idea of perfect happiness?
Black Trans Liberation and not paying bills.
What makes you optimistic?
Seeing happiness on a child’s face.
What is the best life advice you've ever received?
“If you can teach someone how to hate, you can teach someone how to love,” Ms. Opal Lee.
What's a charity or organization you feel passionately about right now?
The BTFA Collective. Which is a non-profit organization created by Jordyn Jay. I’m currently a board member and it creates spaces for the production and preservation of Black trans art and culture. We help build community with other Black trans femme artists and provide them with the resources and support necessary to thrive. They truly saved my life and I want to do the same for others.
Follow Mx B. Hawk Snipes on Instagram.