Poison Marie Waters (Kevin Cook), Portland Drag Star/Icon
Keeper of the Flame for Darcelle XV
What is your pride and joy in life?
Connecting with people through the art of drag, whom I wouldn’t otherwise have crossed paths with. Inspiring those around me by leading by example. Celebrating 24 years working with the HIV-affected children’s community. So many things bring me joy; these are just a few.
What do you feel thankful for about our community?
I feel thankful for our community’s resilience, our ability to take hate and intolerance and continue fighting the fight with dignity. We’re all out here doing our best to live our best lives, and no matter how hard it gets or what’s thrown our way, we persevere.
Who inspires you to make a difference in the world?
Darcelle XV inspired me daily and continues to do so, urging me to be a better person and to practice kindness and generosity whenever I can.
What are the dreams you still want to accomplish?
I’ve never been a dreamer or particularly goal-oriented. I’ve had many amazing opportunities and experiences that came my way unexpectedly. I never planned to have the career and life I have, but I live every day appreciating it all and eagerly anticipating what comes next.
What hopes do you want to see come true for the younger generations?
Ideally, I hope the younger generation won’t have to deal with the ignorance and intolerance that continues to plague our community.
How do you stay grateful for what you have?
I grew up with nothing, very poor, and felt unseen and unheard. Now, I have everything I’ve ever wanted and more, and I feel seen and heard daily. How could I ever take any of that for granted?
What encourages you to make tomorrow better than today?
Forward motion is the only way to go. The past is the past, so each day should be better than the day before, in one way or another. Seeing the bright side of every situation isn’t a choice; it’s a way of life.
What is one thing you are proud of yourself for?
I’m proud that I am not the same person I was 20 years ago, or even 10 and 5 years ago. I allow myself to own my mistakes, learn from them, and celebrate my accomplishments while moving forward in my journey and growth.
