Out to Make Queer a Joyful Norm
New Worcester-based Podcast Explores Queer Urbanism, Inclusive Community Development, & Joyful Trans Futures
{ By Joshua Croke, Creator & Host of Queer For Cities }
HELLO, WORCESTER AND THE WORLD! I’m Joshua Croke, and I’m thrilled to introduce you to my new podcast, “Queer For Cities.” This mixed media project and podcast explores queer urbanism, inclusive community development, and the creation of joyful trans futures. Tune in to WICN 90.5 FM, Worcester’s only NPR affiliate station, on Sundays at 11 PM and Wednesdays at 6 PM to join me on this exciting journey.
I’ve called Worcester home for nearly 13 years now. As an alum of Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) and Leadership Worcester, and the president and cofounder of Love Your Labels, a nonprofit supporting queer and trans youth across Greater Worcester, my heart beats for this community, especially for folks who aren’t always at the center of considerations for what growth in Worcester looks like. And my passion for cultivating equitable and just communities drives every episode of “Queer For Cities.”
In “Queer For Cities,” I dive into the intersection of identity and place, featuring conversations with an incredible array of guests. From queer artists and activists to architects and urban planners, we discuss the challenges facing our communities, such as affordable housing, healthcare, and climate change, while also celebrating the vibrant queer culture blooming and thriving across New England cities and beyond.
When we build more queer-inclusive cities, we build better cities for everyone.
This statement encapsulates our mission. The design of our cities has often excluded and harmed marginalized communities, but we aim to change that narrative by advocating for equity-centered, liberated communities where queer and trans folks can thrive.
One of my goals with this podcast is to make queer a joyful norm. By shifting perceptions and fostering environments where LGBTQ+ individuals feel safe and celebrated, we can create a vision of cities that embrace diversity and inclusivity.
Through “Queer For Cities,” I’ll guide you to LGBTQ+ spots across New England, recommend queer artists to follow, and tackle pressing issues facing our community. Imagine a blend of adrienne maree brown’s activism, Alok’s insights, Anthony Bourdain’s exploration, and the Fab Five’s transformative energy – that’s the essence of our show.
Even if you don’t identify as queer or trans, I invite you to join us. We need strong allies, and this podcast offers a deeper understanding of the challenges and triumphs within the LGBTQ+ community and highlights the ever-present work queer and trans folks are involved in both inside and outside of LGBTQ+-specific spaces to build more inclusive and thriving communities for all. Your support and engagement are vital to building a more just and equitable world.
“Queer For Cities” is more than just a podcast; it’s a movement. By subscribing and listening, you become part of a transformative journey that aims to reshape our urban spaces into places where everyone can thrive. Follow the show on Instagram (@queerforcities) for updates and behind-the-scenes content, and don’t forget to tune in to WICN 90.5 FM on Sundays at 11 PM and Wednesdays at 6 PM to catch our latest episodes.
Join me and the “Queer For Cities” team as we navigate, celebrate, and shape queer urban New England. Let’s make queer a joyful norm together. Subscribe, share, and be part of this movement for equity and liberation.