Andrea Neeley
SHE/HER/HERS
QUEER HAIR STYLIST, DESERT LOUNGE SALON
What brought you to Southern Utah and what has made you stay?
I moved here for a girl and to be closer to my job. I stay for my community and my chosen family.
When did you realize that you are queer/gender non-conforming? What has that journey been like for you?
I was 20, when I realized I have a crush on my friend, but really started diving into my queerness in my 30s.
How would you describe your experiences as a queer person here?
I’ve created a good nest of amazing humans, outside of that it isn’t always the most pleasant experience.
What do you feel is missing here? What do you wish would change?
More acceptance, more places to feel safe and welcomed, more environments to create connections. More sensory friendly experiences for all types of brains. More education on creating safe inclusive spaces. Mental health awareness and resources.
Anything else that you want to share?
I am a queer hairstylist in southern Utah, that specializes in Queer and transition haircuts. The common thread from all the conversations that I have with all of the humans that sit in my chair is, we’re all looking for acceptance and community, to be ourselves, having places and spaces that are safe enough to discover who we are, in all the nooks and crannies in the dark corners where we hide the parts of us that feel aren’t accepted. We need safe spaces. We need safe humans. We need safe communities.