I Advocate: Justin Bond

...The Ali Forney Center. When I worked at a gay bookstore in the '90s my heart was broken by a beautiful teen who came into the store desperate for help because he'd been thrown out by his parents after coming out to them. I had just moved to New York City and was couch surfing myself. All I could do was offer him a cup of coffee and a place to rest for a few hours while he tried to figure out what to do next. I really wanted to make sure he had a safe place to go, but I didn't feel I could ask the people who had taken me in to look after him too, so off he went into the night and I never saw him again. Hopefully he's OK. The six months I was homeless were extraordinarily stressful, but I was fortunate enough to have a job and friends who were willing to put me up until I got on my feet. I can't imagine what it would have been like if I'd been abandoned by my own family. I'm so grateful that I now have a home and am able to contribute my time and energy to make sure the Ali Forney Center is there to provide young people in New York City with shelter, security, community, and, perhaps most importantly, acceptance. AliForneyCenter.org

...Dewey Arsee coffee mugs. That first cup of joe tastes best in my hand-painted stoneware mug by San Francisco-based artiste Dewey Arsee. His mugs depict hot homo sex in nature--a dendrophile's delight. Good morning! DeweyArsee.com


...Tilda Swinton's Like This perfume. I'm currently developing my own fragrance, but until it's ready I'll borrow my girlfriend's. It's nice to carry the scent of someone you love with you, and let's face it, I'd rather smell like a sister than a mister! LuckyScent.com


...the Sylvia Rivera Law Project. Advocating for low-income trans people in need of legal defense and protection, the people at this organization are working hard for those in our community who need help most, and I love them for it. SRLP.org


...maple syrup. I try to avoid processed sugar, so I sweeten lots of stuff with maple syrup. It comes from trees, and if you know me, you know I love trees. I think of maple syrup as tree come. Yum.


...Pearl days. On very special days I let my cat Pearl set the itinerary, which usually consists of moving from the sofa to the bed to the kitchen. Fur real. Let your pussy be your guide to mental health and well-being.