ArtRage Gallery
505 Hawley Ave., Syracuse

"In Secrecy" will explore the experiences of out, discreet, and DL Black men in the gay community and what toll that takes on the psyche over time. Unlearning our natural instinct to operate in secret is half the battle. Homophobia in the Black community continues to run rampant. Growing up under these constraints forces queer youth to assimilate – to prevent drawing attention to their mannerisms, interests, or desires. Each year, those that are able to "pass" lose more and more of their natural instincts and begin to present themselves to the public how they believe society wants them to be. A performance. What is the truth? Is there truth? Jaleel hopes to enable real conversations from those that may share a similar experience and encourage others to tell their stories.