Trans People Lead and Shape Queer Nightlife
In Episode 5 of Navigaytion, we celebrate Trans Day of Visibility by stepping into the world of queer nightlife and honoring the trans women who lead and shape it. This episode features the electrifying Lavender Thug — an Austin-based DJ, drag performer, and event producer — who opens up about the role of music, nightlife, and community care in the lives of queer people.
From behind the DJ decks, trans women like Lavender Thug do more than spin tracks — they create space for queer joy, protest, healing, and resistance. Lavender’s work is a testament to how nightlife becomes a site of transformation, empowerment, and survival.
Episode 5 of Navigaytion
In this episode, host Christopher Hamilton sits down with Lavender to talk about:
- How the DJ booth becomes a platform for queer leadership
- What it means to curate safe, joyful spaces for the community
- Her partnership with organizations like Kind Clinic to offer free HIV and STI testing at events like Cuchi Cuchi
- And the power of being visible, creative, and proud
To top it off, Lavender gives Christopher a hands-on DJ lesson, teaching him how to mix classic Pride tracks and throw down a set of their own — all captured in a Boiler Room-style moment that’ll leave you dancing.
Watch Navigaytion Episode 5: Trans Day of Visibility — and don’t forget to share with your chosen family.
