This September, LIT Fridays welcomes the visionary team behind True T PGH, a trailblazing QTBIPOC-led organization redefining what it means to merge art, activism, and wellness in Pittsburgh. Anchored in the heart of Bloomfield, True T is more than a cultural hub—it’s a sanctuary where creativity meets care, and where the legacy of Ballroom thrives as a source of empowerment, healing, and joy.
Joining us for this month’s conversation are Duane Binion, Co-Founder & Executive Director, John Easter III, Co-Founder & Chief of Operations, and Julian McClain, Director of Partners & Relations. Together, they’re carrying forward True T’s mission of cultivating affirming spaces for the LGBTQIA+ community.
This conversation isn’t just about an organization—it’s about a movement. You’ll hear how True T transforms art into activism, creates spaces of safety and possibility, and continues to honor Pittsburgh’s Ballroom legacy while building for the future.
Expect stories of resilience, brilliance, and innovation from leaders who embody what it means to make room for community while reimagining what’s possible.
About LIT Friday
Lit Friday is a virtual program offered by the August Wilson African American Cultural Center via Facebook and Youtube, hosted and produced by the Literary Curator, poet, and art writer Jessica Lanay. Lit Friday hosts writers, artists, and thinkers for conversations on their latest works and how they intersect with contemporary cultural and political happenings.
Bios
Duane Binion
Co-Founder & Executive Director
As Co-Founder and Executive Director of TRUE T PGH, Duane Binion (also known as NeekJame$) brings a dynamic blend of creative vision, cultural leadership, and deep community advocacy. A celebrated musician, storyteller, and nationally recognized LGBTQ+ changemaker, Duane has long used his platform to amplify the voices and stories of queer communities of color. Through his work with TRUE T PGH, he leads the organization’s mission to cultivate safe, expressive, and empowering spaces across Pittsburgh. With a background rooted in performance and social impact, Duane continues to drive forward inclusive programming that centers healing, visibility, and creative resilience.
John Easter III
Co-Founder & Chief of Operations
John Easter III—known throughout the ballroom community as Dezmanian’ 007—is the Co-Founder and Chief of Operations at TRUE T PGH. With deep roots in the underground ballroom scene since 2008, John is both a cultural steward and a creative strategist, celebrated for his unique contributions to the art of vogue. At TRUE T PGH, he oversees operational execution while sustaining the organization’s connection to the historical and contemporary ballroom movement. His leadership was recognized in 2023 with TRUE T PGH’s induction into the Pittsburgh Ballroom Hall of Fame, honoring the team’s commitment to preserving and celebrating Black and queer performance traditions. John continues to mentor and mobilize others through community-centered programming and his signature artistic style.
Julian McClain
Director of Partners & Relations
Julian McClain serves as the Director of Partners & Relations at TRUE T PGH, where he brings his artistic excellence, strategic insight, and community-first mindset to cultivating collaborations that uplift LGBTQIA+ people of color. An award-winning visual artist and member of the legendary House of Ebony, Julian’s impact extends across creative disciplines and community platforms—from ballroom stages to university outreach centers. Prior to joining TRUE T PGH, he held impactful roles at the Kelly Strayhorn Theater and the University of Pittsburgh’s Community Engagement Center. In addition to his work with TRUE T, Julian leads “Color Me Urban,” a grassroots initiative empowering Black and Brown entrepreneurs, and serves as President of the Urban League Young Professionals of Greater Pittsburgh.