Minority positivity – Poeaxtry's Poetry Prism

🎉 Poeaxtry’s Prism Press — New Quarterly Digital Magazine 🎉

I have decided to launch Poeaxtry’s Poetry Prism Press. A free quarterly digital magazine. This publication will: spotlight creatives, single creative works, and themed collections. All while sharing indie voices, who all share different minority perspectives, and creative work in a space that’s inclusive, thoughtful, and full of surprises.

What’s inside each issue:

Poetry & Writing: Submissions paired with contributor bios, flowing naturally through the magazine.

Art &Art Pieces: Modern, bright visuals highlighting artists and creatives

. Interactive Extras: QR codes or shortened links may unlock playlists, prompt journals, collectible images, actionable self-care checklists, and so much more. *These are not guaranteed in every issue like they are in my e-zines.

Interviews & Community Features: Q&As with authors, creatives, and indie voices: full or sidebar size.

Resource Highlights & Prism Picks: Curated books, music, art, and community projects.

Trans Truth & Hot Takes Thoughts Column: Opinions and reflections from a trans man’s perspective

. Letters from Readers: Shared throughout to amplify community voices.

Call-to-Action Panels: Join The Prism community, submit work, or support Poeaxtry_ via tips, all accessible via QR codes.

Newsletter Early Access: Sign up via QR code to receive the next issue early.

Differences from e-zines& ebooks :

E-zines include a minimum of six interactive add-ons and hidden layers only visible after purchase or free download of a digital copy. The digital magazine is free, public-facing, and curated. Submissions are reviewed to fit the issue’s flow and ethos.

This is a space to read, explore, and engage. Submissions, feedback, and tips are welcome. We don’t accept violent or discriminatory content.

Get ready for our first issue. Free, quarterly, and made with care for indie voices and the creative community.

Ebooks:

50 plus poems written over a period of a few months, no theme, and some may include a playlist but that is it.

✍️ Free Publishing & Creator Support Through Poeaxtry_

Poeaxtry_ was built on the belief that everyone deserves to be seen and heard. Instead, of just those who can afford to buy their way into visibility. Through The Prism, I offer free publishing opportunities for minorities and supportive allies… on a first-come, first-served basis. Access should never be a gatekeeping game.

Each accepted project gets as much help as the creator needs: editing, formatting, layout design, covers, eBook setup, visual direction, listing on their store fronts, and a forever spot in our catalog linking to you’re store, website, whatever.

If it makes your work shine, I have accomplished my goal. Some need a single pass of edits; others want to build the look from scratch. Either way, we work together until the final piece feels right. Like it’s theirs, not just an extension of mine.

I’ll even handle the form designl if they’re unsure how to begin, or we can build it collaboratively step by step. There’s no wrong place to start, and no creative too small to deserve care and craft.

Nothing about this process is paywalled. No one is ever charged for publishing, spotlighting, or showcasing their art, words, or anything else. Book spotlights, creator features, and collection highlights — all of it stays free for minority creatives always. I do have paid avenues and ways to continue.

I don’t measure success by profit. I measure it by impact. If a creator I helped goes on to something bigger, that’s the whole point. I’ll never regret contributing to someone’s growth or seeing their art evolve beyond Poeaxtry_. That’s what this brand is built for. When I started my poet and publishing journey I decided ai wouldn’t come up without offering a hand to other minorities as well. I open doors, And I do not close them without reason.

☕ Supporting is Appreciated, Never Required

Ko-fi and Buy Me a Coffee are simply there for anyone who wants to tip or offer support . It will never be a requirement for other marginalized individuals . This is especially for creatives in marginalized communities. Every free project, collab, and spotlight stays free, always. Support is welcome, not expected. On theme contributors will have at least But up to all submissions included in our community first collabs,

Ko-fi Buy me a Coffee

Poeaxtry’s Links

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November 7, 2025

Poeaxtry Expands Online: New Twitch Channel & Revolt server

Join Us Live on Twitch

Big news: Poeaxtry is now streaming live! Tune into our Twitch channel for poetry readings, creative collabs, and behind-the-scenes looks at our indie publishing and witchy projects. Maybe some rock slicing jam sessions? Who knows I Just set it up last night… FINALLY! So come check it out: twitch!

Expect live Q&As, community spotlights, and surprises along the way.

Poeaxtry Revolt – Your Creative Community Hub

REVOLT:

If you haven’t heard Poeaxtry’s Poetry Prism discord got a twin server. Where you ask? We joined the Revolt app, now felt like the perfect time. Our creative community is growing with discussion spaces for poets, artists, and writers of all kinds. Join here.

Whether you’re here for poetry, art, or just to meet like-minded creators, there’s a spot for you.

Connect and EngageFollow, join, or just watch! Let’s bringing all corners of Poeaxtry together online. Stay tuned for streams, events, and community-driven projects highlighting voices that need to be heard.

Poeaxtry’s Links

Poem nature

September 22, 2025

Transgender and ally 16th Annual Symposium: Poetry Session Today!

The Join Us Today: “Poetry-Ink, Identity, and Insistence: Trans Creation as Survival and Defiance”

I’m excited to share that I’ll be presenting at the TransOhio 16th Annual Transgender & Ally Symposium today at 3:15 PM in Room Aat Owens Community College in Perrysburg, Ohio!

Session Details:

Title: Poetry-Ink, Identity, and Insistence: Trans Creation as Survival and Defiance
Presenter: Axton N.O. Mitchell (he/him)
Time: 3:15 PM
Location: Room A, Owens Community College, Perrysburg, Ohio
Date: September 6, 2025

About My Session:

As a published trans poet, I’ll be introducing two community projects I’ve built from the ground up. One specifically designed to uplift trans, gender non-conforming, intersex, and the other all marginalized creators. These projects provide completely free collaborative editing, formatting, and visual design services using Canva Pro, with contributors retaining full rights to their work.

The During this session, I’ll cover:

How these publishing projects operate
The submission process
Ways to get involved (both as contributors and behind-the-scenes supporters)
Guidance on finding trustworthy submission opportunities
How to identify and avoid exploitative publishing practices
Information about our safe creative spaces, including our Discord community
Plans to transition these projects into paid opportunities

While my speaking focus today is primarily on trans, GNC, and intersex experiences, our broader mission includes publishing works from all minority communities, with themed publications for specific individual groups of people.

About the Symposium:

The TransOhio Annual Symposium is specifically designed for transgender, nonbinary, gender non-conforming, and intersex individuals and their allies. The event features a wide range of sessions covering important topics for our community.

Other exciting sessions today include:

Reimagining the American dream
Violence Prevention
Trans Sex and Relationships

Personal Note:

A huge thank you to my friend Dea for driving me to the symposium today! Community support makes events like this possible, and I’m grateful for allies who help us access these important spaces.

I hope to see many of you there, either in person or virtually. These community gatherings are vital for our collective growth, healing, and empowerment.

Join Our Creative Community:

After the symposium, all attendees are invited to join our Discord space for writers and artists where we continue to build connections and support creative expression year-round.

Axton N.O. Mitchell is a published trans poet and community publisher dedicated to uplifting marginalized voices through accessible, ethical publishing projects.

September 6, 2025

Speaking at the 16th Annual TransOhio Trans & Ally Symposium

When the Universe Has Plans for You:

Sometimes the universe knows what you’re supposed to do before you even know it yourself. That’s exactly what happened with me and the TransOhio Symposium.

I signed up months ago. Saw some posts online, clicked through their website, thought “hmm.” A few days went past and I was seeing them all over, I mean I have lived in Ohio most of my life and never heard of TransOhio before Spring 2025. So I went back to their website. Signed up to present at this symposium and then… completely forgot about it. When I recently thought about it I chalked it up to just me not being picked. And honestly There were a few other prior times I had thought about it like damn that would have been cool. But I was in a sense moved on from that idea.

How I Almost Missed My Big Opportunity:

Then, while cleaning out my inbox at the 2am midnight shift drag purging the nonsense, unsubscribing the usual clutter that I never get to. I happen on three emails from TransOhio. One of them told me I did get accepted I received it over a month ago. Filtered, messages can eat my booty. It didn’t go to spam or and if the folders. I didn’t notice it in my general inbox, but I randomly go through my subscription list and WAM! BAM! Thank you not so random urge to clean that up. Just about ten days prior to kick off. Don’t worry I’m gonna deliver.

What Is the TransOhio Symposium?

TransOhio is the annual 3-day symposium at Owens Community College in Toledo, Ohio, this year from September 5th through 7th. Over 200 participants, 40 workshops, continuing education credits, entertainment, food, and a space alive with connection, conversation, and creation. It’s a place where trans artists, thinkers, and allies come together.

My session is “Poetry, Ink, Identity, and Insistence: Transcreation and Survival in Defiance” at 3:15 PM in room A. I’ll have printouts, slides, maybe even other physical items you can keep. I will bring the kind of threads that link through art, poems, ideas, and experiences. Some will overlook this thinking it’s just another poetry session. This is tangible real life community building.

From Fear to Acceptance: My Journey to the Stage

Honestly, I had completely forgotten about this thing. I thought it wasn’t happening. When I signed up I thought I was way out of my league, but I like to aim high. My speech class in college of less than 15 people was scary. I am going to stutter but I’m going to totally fucking do it. I really didn’t expect it. And I guess that’s the point. Sometimes you do something you don’t even know you’re supposed to do. You don’t even know it. The universe knows, though. And it makes sure you get there, at the perfect time, in the right way, for the right people, and you’ll know exactly what you’re supposed to say.

How This Differs From My Previous Experience:

I’ve done one seminar before, if you want to call it that. I stood shirtless under 1 year post op with my surgeon at GenderFest Vegas also a trans conference. I was just Standing there bar-b-Que sauce on my titties, kidding. Anyway the lovely artist, surgeon, god Brandon Reynolds did all the talking and I just tried not to stare at anyone too long, or make direct eye contact, and I fought so hard to hold still and still lost.

Why This Event Matters Beyond Just a Presentation

This isn’t just a seminar or a conference I stand in-front of shirtless. It’s a community, a vision, a connection, a series of small nudges and echoes for change. It’s 10 days before showtime, filtered emails, patterns in timing that line up so perfectly you can’t call it luck. It’s survival. It’s defiance. It’s insistence. It’s my mom being the best damn guardian angel a transgender son or any son could need.

So, whether you’re reading this sooner or later. Maybe you’re thinking about the symposium, either way the lesson is clear: do the thing. Yes, even if you don’t know why. Sometimes the universe handles the rest. Sometimes it’s emails in the right moment, or it’s seeing a new thing or place nonstop now. The best is when you just stand there and everything clicks.

But that is what it’s supposed to do. That’s how it’s meant to happen. 10 days. Three emails. One untraceable filter. And suddenly, the universe is in motion, the room is ready, the words are ready, and somehow I know I will be too.

This is my yellow and I keep experiencing more and more yellow things. Listen to Coldplay or something.

Poeaxtry’s Links

Are you attending the TransOhio Symposium?

Have you ever had a moment where the universe seemed to push you toward something important?

Share your experiences in the comments!

August 26, 2025

Haircare Safe Spaces for LGBTQ+ and Minority Communities

Why Affirming Haircare Matters:

Accessing safe and affirming haircare is an often overlooked need for LGBTQ+ and minority communities. While most mainstream salons and barbershops do not always provide inclusive or culturally aware services, networks like Strands for Trans and The Dresscode Project create spaces where clients can confidently express their identity without fear. These initiatives, along with local inclusive salons, online communities, and affirming haircare brands, help form a comprehensive ecosystem that supports safe, respectful, and professional haircare experiences for all clients.

How Strands for Trans Creates Safe Spaces:

Accessing affirming haircare is an essential need for LGBTQ+ and minority communities. Networks like Strands for Trans provide a membership-based platform connecting trans and non-binary clients with barbers and hairstylists trained in gender-affirming services. Members gain access to a map of verified stylists and locations, making it easier to find trusted professionals across the country or internationally. Strands for Trans also offers stylists guidance and training on communication, safety, and inclusive best practices. Participating salons and barbers receive a trans-affirming barber pole, in pink, blue, and white, signaling that the space is safe, supportive, and welcoming for trans and non-binary clients. And by fostering a network of trained professionals, Strands for Trans reduces anxiety and ensures clients experience predictable, safe, and affirming care when visiting salons or barbershops.

What Resources Do These Networks Provide?

Strands for Trans also builds broader community support through resources and guides designed to help trans and non-binary people thrive in multiple spaces. One standout resource, “The Gender Euphoria & Beyond: A Guide for Creating Affirming & Safe Spaces,” was developed from extensive research and focus groups, bringing together diverse experiences and perspectives. This guide offers practical strategies for creating safe, affirming environments not only in haircare but across communities, workplaces, and social spaces. Members of Strands for Trans have access to this guide, enabling both individuals and organizations to cultivate spaces where trans and non-binary people feel respected, supported, and celebrated.

The Dresscode Project: Hair Has No Gender:

The Dresscode Project (DCP) is a global initiative founded by Kristin Rankin (they/them) to create safe, gender-affirming spaces in salons and barbershops for LGBTQ2S+ individuals. At its core, DCP upholds the belief that hair has no gender, advocating for non-gendered haircuts that allow clients to express their authentic selves without being confined to traditional gender norms. Through education and training, DCP empowers stylists to provide inclusive services that respect each client’s identity. The organization also promotes gender-neutral pricing, ensuring that costs are based on factors like skill, time, and hair length, rather than gender. One of DCP’s signature initiatives is the Gender-Free Haircut Club, a monthly event where salons offer free, gender-affirming haircuts to marginalized queer individuals. With over 550 member salons worldwide, DCP is transforming the beauty industry by fostering environments where every client feels seen, respected, and celebrated.

What Does an Affirming Haircare Experience Feel Like?

Imagine walking into a barbershop and noticing a trans pride symbol barber pole on the door or window. You feel an immediate sense of ease, knowing that the stylist understands pronouns and gender-affirming care. The stylist greets you warmly, listens to your style preferences, and communicates respectfully. By the end of the appointment, you leave feeling both cared for and affirmed. This kind of welcoming environment is exactly what Strands for Trans and The Dresscode Project work to create, a space where clients can express themselves confidently without fear of discrimination.

How to Find Local Inclusive Salons:

Outside of these formal networks, there are local salons and barbershops recognized by community members as LGBTQ+ and minority-inclusive. Urban salons often display gender-neutral signage, pronoun policies, and affirming mission statements. Barbershops in college towns may openly welcome clients of all genders and cultural backgrounds. Word-of-mouth recommendations, local community boards, and LGBTQ+ or minority organizations help clients identify these affirming locations. Visible symbols, clear communication, and a culture of respect indicate that clients can expect safe, affirming, and professional care in these spaces.

Online Communities for Haircare Support:

For those seeking affirming haircare advice and community support, there are online resources that cater specifically to LGBTQI+ and minority individuals. Platforms like Reddit communities such as r/TransHairCare, NaturallyCurly.com forums, and HairCareTalk inclusive discussion boards provide spaces for users to share experiences, ask questions, and find guidance for safe and supportive haircare practices. These forums connect people from around the world, making it possible to locate affirming stylists, learn about products for diverse hair textures, and engage with others navigating similar experiences.

Social Media Resources for Inclusive Haircare:

Social media offers vibrant, interactive spaces for connection and education. Instagram accounts like @TransHairNetwork, @InclusiveHairCommunity, and @CurlCollective, along with Facebook groups such as “Queer Haircare Collective” and “Minority Haircare Advocates”, provide supportive communities where members can exchange tips, share local recommendations, and spotlight inclusive salons or stylists. These groups are particularly valuable for LGBTQI+ and minority individuals looking for spaces that celebrate their identities while offering practical haircare guidance.

Inclusive Haircare Brands and Products:

A number of indie and minority-owned brands focus on inclusive, affirming haircare for a wide range of textures and identities. Examples include SheaMoisture’s Pride Collection, Aunt Jackie’s Curl Care Line, The Mane Choice formulations, Eden BodyWorks, and Camille Rose Naturals. SheaMoisture’s Pride Collection is a collaboration with the Marsha P. Johnson Institute, celebrating the legacy of LGBTQ+ activist Marsha P. Johnson and supporting LGBTQ+ communities. While the brand itself is owned by Unilever, this collection, along with other initiatives, reflects SheaMoisture’s commitment to inclusivity and support for marginalized communities. These brands prioritize diversity, representation, and accessibility, offering products that cater to curly, coily, and textured hair while supporting LGBTQI+ and minority communities through inclusive marketing and community engagement.

By leveraging resources such as Strands for Trans, The Dresscode Project, local LGBTQ+ and minority-inclusive salons, online communities, and affirming haircare products, clients gain access to a full spectrum of safe and affirming haircare options. These networks not only ensure professional, respectful services but also foster confidence, community, and identity affirmation. Investing in these spaces and resources helps build a broader culture of inclusion in the haircare industry, ensuring that every client can feel safe, valued, and celebrated.

Have you found an affirming haircare space in your community?

What made it feel safe and welcoming?

Share your experiences or recommendations in the comments!

Links

August 19, 2025

Joyful Actions That Promote Change

Creating meaningful change can feel overwhelming if you’re not sure where to start, but it doesn’t have to be. Change is built through consistent, joyful actions. These are small steps that add up to a bigger impact over time. In this guide, you’ll learn ways to make a difference weekly, monthly, and bimonthly. Each action is explained with practical examples, so no matter your experience or resources, you can start contributing immediately. At the end, you can download 3 full checklists and a bonus checklist for easy reference.

One of the easiest ways to begin creating an impact is by taking small, weekly actions that are actionable and meaningful. We also added joy to the mix to give a reward to ourselves for becoming the change. For instance, sending a supportive message or email to a minority-led organization might seem simple, but it can make a real difference. Even a brief note like “Hi, I just wanted to thank you for your work; it inspires me…” can boost morale and let these organizations know that their efforts are seen and appreciated.

Using or purchasing from minority-owned businesses is another small but powerful action. By intentionally supporting products or services from these businesses, you’re directly contributing to economic empowerment. You can find minority-owned businesses through directories like Buy Black, Official Black Wall Street, or even local listings. Even one small purchase counts.

Learning one new fact about minority histories or cultures each week expands your understanding and counters misinformation. Things like reading an article, watching a short video, or listening to a podcast, then sharing what you learned with a friend. Over time, these small learnings compound into a deeper awareness that influences your daily choices and conversations.

Calling out or politely correcting biased language or assumptions is another way to take weekly action. It doesn’t need to be confrontational; calmly explaining why a comment is harmful helps educate those around you and encourages accountability. Similarly, sharing a verified minority achievement or resource with someone… like a news story, a blog post, or a social media feature can help amplify important voices and keep these accomplishments visible.

Self-care also counts as an action. Taking time for yourself by going for a hike, cooking a favorite meal, doing a face mask, getting your nails done, reading a book, or listening to uplifting music can keep you grounded and energized for advocacy. You simply signing an online petition or joining a letter campaign are other ways to use your voice and influence policy. Finally, expressing gratitude publicly or privately to minority changemakers reinforces positive recognition and strengthens community bonds.

Monthly actions give you a chance to take slightly bigger steps that still fit within a manageable schedule. Participating in a virtual or local minority-supporting event, like a webinar, a virtual or local open mic, a lecture, or a cultural celebration. These expose you to new perspectives and help you connect with the work being done. Things like trying one new minority cultural experience: cooking a traditional dish, exploring music, or viewing art, can be a joyful way to learn and share culture, either with friends or online communities.

Self-paced online workshops on allyship or cultural understanding are perfect for deeper learning. You can take them on your own schedule, allowing you to reflect and use what you learn at your own pace. Volunteering remotely for advocacy or awareness tasks, such as moderating online discussions, sharing resources, or helping campaigns These let you contribute meaningfully without needing to attend in person.

By documenting and celebrating a minority achievements by writing a short post, vlogging, or highlighting someone on social media. You spread positivity and recognition. Sending letters or emails to officials advocating for inclusive policies is another actionable step, giving your voice weight in shaping decisions. When you highlight a minority-owned business or creator in your network it increases visibility and supports economic empowerment. Lastly, reflecting on and sharing a story or resource related to minority rights, even in casual conversation or online posts, expands understanding and encourages others to engage.

Bi-monthly actions involve taking on larger, more flexible commitments that can still be done by anyone. Supporting or amplifying existing minority-led projects or campaigns is one way to have a broader impact. This could mean sharing updates online, signing up for notifications, or contributing in small ways. Promoting scholarship, grant, or resource programs created by minority leaders, expands opportunities for others and can be done digitally.

When you advocate for systemic change through remote actions, like policy emails or participating in online, you allow anyone a voice in shaping outcomes. Volunteering flexibly for advocacy by things like resource sharing, digital organization, or communications allows you to make an impact when you can. Celebrating minority achievements in your community, either publicly or online, reinforces visibility and encouragement.

If you can create optional joyful projects to amplify minority voices you have another avenue. You can contribute creatively, write, draw, record, or otherwise produce something meaningful. Implementing a new supportive habit, like sharing resources, mentoring via email, or spotlighting stories, builds consistent impact. Finally, joining or supporting digital coalitions or advocacy groups allows participation in campaigns, discussions, and advocacy initiatives. This connects you to larger networks.

Occasionally, you might want to take on high-impact actions. This could be going to a protest or rally, signing major petitions, or participating in legislative campaigns. These give your voice significant weight. You may want to call or write officials about urgent minority issues which directly engages policy influence. You may help a family member or friend understand and support minority causes or spread awareness in your immediate community. You may decide to go no-contact with harmful individuals or companies, donate to high-impact minority-led organizations, organize awareness events, or volunteer in person. These all can be transformative actions, and are optional but powerful ways to amplify your impact.

Change is built through consistent, joyful actions that anyone can take. By following this guide, incorporating weekly, monthly, and bi-monthly steps, and exploring the Bonus Round opportunities, you can make a meaningful difference in supporting minority communities. Start small, celebrate progress, and remember that your actions whether big or small all add up.

Below are the checklist images to view you can download them for free from my gumroad and Payhip as well.

Links