Name: Jacquetta Brooks
City, State: Silver Spring, MD
Age: 28
Profession: Social Worker
In a few words, how would you describe yourself?
Outgoing introvert.
Your favorite hangout spots.
I’m actually huge homebody, so “Netflix and Chill” is the standard at my house. When I do go out, you’re far more likely to find me at a restaurant than a club or bar. The D.C. area has so many amazing restaurants so it’s not difficult to find opportunities to try new cuisine.
Favorite guilty pleasure.
Reality television is definitely my guilty pleasure. As of lately, specifically, I’ve been watching RuPaul’s Drag Race. As someone who works in the field of LGBTQ health, I know the show can be problematic. There is also something to be said for how mainstream RuPaul and drag have become in part, due to the show.
Favorite quote.
“Justice is what love looks like in public.” -Laverne Cox
Who is your biggest influence? And why?
My mom is my biggest influencer. There is not one decision I’ve made in my life that I did not first take a second and think to myself, “What would my parents think/say?” My mom is always there to support and guide. She was a soldier in the U.S. Army for 20 years and still was a full-time mom and spouse. If I can be half the woman my mom is, I think I’ll be just fine!
Favorite event.
Pride season as a whole. In D.C., there are just so many things to do, the weather is great, and people are so happy. I’m thankful to live in a place and time in history where LGBTQ people have many civil liberties and years of protests and marching have evolved into parades and parties.
Do you have any regrets in life?
Not studying abroad in college. As a child of an Army family, I traveled a lot through Europe as a kid. But I really regret not spending time abroad as a young adult. That is honestly, my only regret in life thus far.
Favorite lesbian celebrity.
I don’t know if I have a favorite. Visibility is great for the community so each out public figure helps someone, somewhere.
Any fun facts or anything else you want our readers to know?
I love DIY and all things crafty. I built my bed. Very stereotypical, I know.
