đ Exciting News on the Last Day of Pride Month! đ
I had an LGBTQ+ article published in the prestigious Evolving Astrologer Magazine
Today, on the final day of Pride Month, I am thrilled and honored to share a special milestone with you. I am excited to announce that I had an article published in the prestigious Evolving Astrologer Magazine, the official publication of OPA â the Organization for Professional Astrology.
As a passionate advocate for inclusivity and diversity in the Astrology community, this opportunity means the world to me. Being able to contribute a queer perspective to a magazine that values and promotes professional Astrology is truly a dream come true.
We have a long way to go in the astrology world (and beyond) to continue to decolonize narratives as we work towards equal representation and liberation. Here is my beginning attempts at inching us just even a little bit further on the rainbow bridge towards greater inclusivity. I hope it inspires you in some way to also share your voice, perspective and truth.
The article is titled â âZodiac Queers: Celebrating 12 LGBTQ+ Historical Figures through the Zodiacâ. It feels quite appropriate to share this during Cancer season, as each of these 12 Queer figures are our dearly departed ancestors. As a member of the LGBTQ2S+ community, the archetype of Cancer takes on new meaning. The theme of home & family expands to encompass chosen families, queer community, intergenerational healing and our queer ancestors. đ
There are three options for reading this article:
You can read this article in full in this post on my Substack by simply continuing to scroll below. Please like, share and comment, letting me know your thoughts. You could also share with me in the comments your Big 3 â using the Zodiac Queers names chosen for each of your respective Sun, Moon, and Rising signs.
You can also access the full magazine in virtual PDF format for free by clicking this link. My article is on page 92.
Or you can order a physical copy of the magazine by clicking this link. Upon checkout click âlast issue publishedâ.
*I would also like to note that I made one edit from the published copy in this Substack post. I changed âAmerican Historyâ to âUnited States Historyâ. Using the term âAmericanâ is ambiguous as it can refer to people from the entire North + South American continent. Somehow I missed that in the editing process.
Thank you all again for your unwavering support and encouragement on this journey. Let's continue to celebrate and uplift each other as we strive for a more inclusive and diverse Astrology community.
With love and gratitude,
Jeff Hinshaw
âZodiac Queers: Celebrating 12 LGBTQ+ Historical Figures through the Zodiacâ
By Jeff Hinshaw
Did you know the first United States woman in outer space was a lesbian? Or that the most widely recognized tarot deck in the world was illustrated by a bisexual, biracial woman? In the vibrant tapestry of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, diverse identities intersect with the rich symbolism of the zodiac, creating a kaleidoscope of achievement and expression. In honor of Pride Month, this piece uplifts 12 Queer historical figures, each embodying the spirit of their respective zodiac sign. From the first person to undergo female-to-male gender transition in United States history to the mother of the gay rights movement, come on a journey of celebration as we ride the zodiac wheel, paying homage to these remarkable souls who have illuminated the world through their presence and passion.
ARIES
Bessie Smith â Pioneering blues singer
With a cheeky grin and twinkle in her eye, Bessie Smith, often referred to as the âempressâ of the blues, was a pioneering African American blues singer who left an undeniable mark on the music industry. Born April 15, 1894, Smithâs life and legacy reflects the bold charisma and unapologetic nature of Aries.
Fiercely independent and courageous, Smith was unafraid to blaze her own trail. Known for her passion, ambition, and willingness to challenge conventions, Smithâs powerful and soulful singing is an undeniable embodiment of the fierce Ram. As a Black woman navigating the music industry during a time of racial segregation, when societal norms restricted the freedom of LGBTQ individuals to express their identities openly, Smith navigated her personal and professional life with a sense of empowerment, defiance, and authenticity.
While historical records may not explicitly label Smith as LGBTQ, there are numerous accounts and speculations about her relationships with women, hinting at her fluidity and nonconformity to traditional gender roles. Either way, Smith is noted as a queer feminist icon. Her legacy continues to pave a pathway for other artists. She has been noted as a great inspiration to some of the worldâs most iconic singers, including Billie Holiday, Janis Joplin, Nina Simone, Aretha Franklin, and Bonnie Raitt. Her legacy serves as a testament to the Aries unyielding spirit of those who dare to express themselves in the face of opposition. Hereâs a deep bow to Bessie Smith.
TAURUS
Keith Haring â Legendary graffiti artist
In the West Village of Manhattan, tucked away in the old upstairs bathroom of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Community Center, is a secret room with a preserved iconic mural painted by the legendary artist Keith Haring (just ask the front desk for the key). The mural is quite minimalist in nature, black paint on white walls, depicting explicit phallic scenes of ecstasy, bondage, and sexual liberation. Haringâs bold and expressive artwork often explored themes of sexuality, identity, and social activism. He created visually striking pieces that embrace the sensual and physical aspects of the gay male, queer, and human experience.
Born May 4, 1958, Haringâs life and artistic expression truly embodied the qualities often associated with Taurus. Known for his grounded and down-to-earth nature, Haring embodied not only the personality of Taurus, but also the soul-expression. With artistic talent, a strong sense of values, and a desire to create harmony, Haringâs colorful creations carried powerful messages speaking to the Venusian nature of the beloved Bull: love, unity, equality and peace.
Haringâs work still lives on, standing the test of time in that long-lasting, fixedearth way. You may find his artistic creations advocating for safer sex, drug awareness, and gay rights in a store near you on t-shirts and furniture or lovingly adorned as tattoos on queer bodies. Even as I write this, I rock a beige Haring hat depicting two nude figures holding hands out with ecstatic reverence in front of Mother Earth. Haringâs legacy as a Taurus member of the LGBTQ community reminds us of the impact art can have on creating a more inclusive and compassionate world.
GEMINI
Sally Ride â First United States women in outer space
In the boundless expanse of the cosmos, a bright star emerged: Sally Ride, the inspirational astronaut and physicist. Born under the sign of the Twins on May 26, 1951, she was true to her name âRideââa cosmic wanderer with a mind as vast as the universe. Intellectual and communicative, Ride was the first United States woman in outer space. Embodying the adaptable and curious nature of Gemini, Ride was interested in many diverse topics. She played tennis, studied Shakespeare, and mastered quantum mechanics.
On her first expedition into outer space, Ride was the only woman on a team of five individuals. On each of their jackets was a patch that included a five-pointed star. Four of the points on the star depicted an arrow (indicating âmaleâ via the Mars glyph), while only one of the points on the star depicted the âcross of matterâ (indicating âfemaleâ via the Venus glyph). The emblem recognized a woman onboard a U.S. spacecraft for the first time. For the more esoterically inclined, this connects us to Venus, the esoteric ruling planet for Gemini.
Gemini is also connected to early education. Later in life, Ride aimed at educating young readers about the wonders of space. One of her notable books is To Space and Back, an informative look at the experience of astronauts. This book was written in collaboration, in that Gemini way, with her life-partner of 27 years, Tam OâShaughnessy. This offers a nod to the Major Arcana card traditionally associated with Gemini, the Lovers. Rideâs identity as a Gemini member of the LGBTQ community adds another layer to her legacy, reminding us of the limitless potential that exists within each of us.
CANCER
George Michael â Grammy-winning singer-songwriter and philanthropist
Where melodies intertwine with compassionate care, a soulful tender voice touched the world with great sensitivity. Born June 25, 1963, under the nurturing sign of Cancer, George Michael left an impactful mark on the world of music and the communities he held close to his heart. Some of his most famous songs that resonate with the emotional depth of Cancer include âCareless Whisper,â âFather Figure,â and âPraying for Time.â
Like the gentle ebb and flow of the tides, Michaelâs Cancerian spirit was characterized by his great empathy and unwavering commitment to supporting others. He used his fame to uplift and advocate for the LGBTQ community, becoming a beacon of hope and acceptance. Through his charitable work, he supported numerous organizations focused on LGBTQ rights. He also used his platform to speak out against discrimination to help promote greater understanding for those affected by HIV/AIDS.
Beyond his support for the LGBTQ community, Michaelâs Cancerian nature was evident in his dedication to cancer research, as well as his support of many organizations dedicated to the protection of both children and animals. One such organization, Swan Lifeline, is still active today. Inspired by the swans who lived in the river at the end of his garden at his North London home, Michael supported the preservation of swans and their habitats. May Michaelâs artistry and love (along with his gorgeous swan-like feathered hair) be forever remembered to be as graceful as the majestic creatures he protected.
LEO
James Baldwin â Renowned writer & Civil Rights activist
There are many iconic black-and-white photographs of James Baldwin smoking a cigarette while deep in contemplation. The scene of Baldwin writing his next best essay in the smoky embrace of a dimly lit living room (the lionâs den), near a fireplace crackling with enchanting fervor, comes to mind. Baldwin, born August 2, 1924, under the fiery sign of Leo, exuded this magnetic presence. He embodied the warmth and passion of the flames that flickered before him. With a cigarette clasped between his fingers, wisps of smoke furled around his thoughtful visage.
An influential writer, activist, and intellectual, Baldwin was a proud member of the LGBTQ community. As a Leo Sun, he radiated with creative intensity and bold-hearted passion, captivating audiences and sparking important conversations about race, sexuality, and social justice. In his novels, essays, and speeches, he courageously committed to challenging societal norms as an uplifting voice for marginalized communities.
Aligned with the Leo themes of performance, theatrics, and creative expression, many of Baldwinâs works have inspired films or plays, including A Raisin in the Sun (1961, 2008), If Beale Street Could Talk (2018), and Giovanniâs Room (2016). With the spirit of the lion, Baldwin remains a powerful leader for the queer community. Just this year, as Alok Vaid-Menon, the current leading voice in modern queer theory, closed out the opening show of their debut world tour, they honored Baldwin with deep respect, sharing this quote by him: âI canât be a pessimist, because I am alive.
VIRGO
Marsha P. Johnson â Mother of the Gay Rights Movement
In the heart of New York Cityâs vibrant streets, amidst the building momentum of the LGBTQ rights movement, there stood a figure whose presence glowed with grace and devotion. Like the archetypal maiden, Martha P. Johnson was known to don a crown of flowers that embodied the purity and reverence of the Virgo spirit. Born August 24, 1945, Martha P. Johnson, known as the âmother of the gay rights movementâ for her involvement with the Stonewall riots, is a representation of the saintly mother/holy virgin archetype in the queer community.
As a Virgo, Johnson embodied the characteristics of hard work, service, and organization. As the co-founder of STAR House, a shelter for homeless gay and trans youth, Johnson was considered the âmotherâ of the house in the longstanding tradition of âhousesâ as chosen families in Black and Latino LGBTQ communities. She worked to provide food, clothing, and a sense of belonging for the shelterâs young trans women, gender nonconformists, and other gay street kids.
A layer of the Virgo archetype, often more hidden, is the connection to self-sovereignty and feminism. As iconic Virgo BeyoncĂŠ sings, âall the women who independent,â âviragoâ has the sense of a woman demonstrating masculine qualities. The word derives from the Latin word virago, meaning âvigorous maiden.â Virgo is holy unto the Self, devoted to a higher calling, autonomous and self-sufficient. This is exactly what Johnson did through her life and work. Despite facing discrimination and violence as a Black trans woman, Johnson remained steadfast and humble in her dedication to creating a more inclusive world for all.
LIBRA
Alan Hart â Pioneer in the use of X-Ray Photography
In the realm of scientific inquiry, Alan Hart was a brilliant mind who challenged conventions. Born October 4, 1890, under the harmonizing sign of Libra, Hart became a profound influence in the fields of medicine and gender identity, initiating conversation and research for both the scientific and LGBTQ communities.
Like Libraâs sword of truth, Hart possessed an innate sense of discernment and reason. As a physician, radiologist, and researcher, he pioneered the use of X-ray photography in tuberculosis detection. Resonating with Libraâs esoteric ruling planet, Uranus, Hartâs innovative contributions are still used as a gold standard today, as X-rays were not regularly used to screen for tuberculosis until Hartâs discovery. This has led many to suggest that Hart has saved thousands of lives through his work and contributions.
Beyond his scientific endeavors, Hart also had a creative side, speaking to the artistic Venus-ruled side of Libra. As a fiction author, Hart published at least 10 short stories and four novels incorporating drama, romance, and medical themes. In addition to science and the arts, Hart is also a pioneer for the trans community. As the first recorded female-to-male gender transition in United States history, Hart was a transgender man in an era when such visibility was rare. Hartâs contributions to medicine, the arts, and the LGBTQ community call to mind the image of the scales, perfectly balanced, weighing both head and heart.
SCORPIO
Robert Mapplethorpe â Influential photographer of the Late 20th Century
In the depths of artistic expression and the allure of the forbidden, there lived a visionary whose lens captured the essence of beauty and taboo. Robert Mapplethorpe, born November 4, 1946, under the penetrating gaze of the Scorpio Sun, embodied the enigmatic and transformative qualities of his astrological sign, forever leaving an indelible mark on the world of photography.
Mapplethorpe, the renowned photographer known for his provocative work, exuded passion, depth, and a fearless pursuit of truth. One of his most famous pieces, deeply resonating with his Scorpio nature, is the photograph âSelf Portrait with Bullwhipâ (1978). This striking image showcases Mapplethorpeâs exploration of power dynamics, sexuality, and the intense magnetism of the prohibited. It also creates an intriguing opportunity for astrological dialogue on Scorpioâs exploration of its polar sign, Taurus the Bull.
As a Scorpio, Mapplethorpe fearlessly delved into the realms of the unconscious, unafraid to explore the darker aspects of the human experience. His work still today challenges societal norms and pushes the boundaries of acceptability. His black-and-white photographs, including raw portraits and depictions of the human form, capture the essence of Scorpioâs depth, sensuality, and unflinching gaze. As a member of the LGBTQ community, Mapplethorpeâs personal journey and artistic expression will forever speak to the complexities of confronting fears and embracing the shadow of societal projections.
SAGITTARIUS
Matthew Shepard â Dearly departed luminary inspiring greater advocacy
While Sagittarius is often classified as the gregarious life of the party, thereâs a deeper side of Sagittarius thatâs important to acknowledge. As the sign ushering us toward the darkest days in the Northern Hemisphere, the December Solstice, Sagittarius is the Fire sign connected to depth, philosophy, religion, and the pursuit of justice and truth for all beings everywhere.
Matthew Shepard, born December 1, 1976, under the fiery sign of the Archer, holds an important place in the queer zodiac pantheon. Tragically, Shepardâs life was cut short in a brutal act of hate. His senseless murder is a devastating reminder of the darkness that can permeate even the brightest of lights. In the aftermath of this unspeakable tragedy, Shepardâs Sagittarian spirit of hope and resilience lives on in the enduring pursuit of justice by the millions of people who continue their rallying cry for a world free from ignorance.
Shepard was described by his father, in a very Sagittarian way, as âan optimistic and accepting young man who had a special gift of relating to almost everyone.â The Matthew Shepard Foundation still stands strong, a nonprofit organization founded by Shepardâs parents two months after Matthewâs death in Sagittarius season of 1998. Providing education, outreach, and advocacy for the LGBTQ community in the vast expanse of a world yearning for compassion and understanding, may Matthew Shepardâs spirit continue to blaze as brightly as the Centaurâs arrow, illuminating a path toward greater acceptance and love for all.
CAPRICORN
Alvin Ailey â Founder of world renowned dance company
Like the mythical seagoat standing at the precipice between land and water, legendary choreographer Alvin Ailey embarked on an empowering journey bridging the realms of spiritual artistry with practical discipline. Born January 5, 1931, under the steadfast sign of Capricorn, Ailey embodied the essence of commitment, resilience, and leadership. His dedication to his craft and the pursuit of excellence became a testament to his Capricorn nature, as he consistently climbed the mountain of the world of modern dance.
Putting the âseaâ in sea-goat, Aileyâs choreography is characterized by its emotional depth and celebration of African American culture, while, at the same time, his choreography is known to be grounded and reliable, reflecting Capricornâs dedication to tradition, structure, and mastery. One of his most iconic works, Revelations, captures the essence of the human experience with grace, power, and profound emotional resonance, showcasing Aileyâs vision and allegiance to artistic greatness.
Aileyâs legacy continues to embody Capricorn even after his departure from this planet, as he founded the long-lasting Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. Still thriving today, the New York City-based organization is an extended cultural community that provides dance performances, training, education, and community programs for all. Through his tireless hard work and remarkable integrity, Ailey will forever be remembered as a role model for the queer community.
AQUARIUS
Pamela Colman Smith â Illustrator of most widely used tarot deck
Would we truly be honoring Aquarius if we didnât uplift an out-of-the-box figure who helped upgrade archetypes to aid in the expansion of collective consciousness? Pamela Colman Smith, also known as Pixie, was born February 16, 1878, under the humanitarian sign of Aquarius. While her artistic contributions are manifold, it is her collaboration with Arthur Edward Waite on the iconic Rider-Waite-Smith tarot deck (the most widely recognized tarot deck in the world) that has forever immortalized her in the cosmic constellation of queer mysticism.
Like the water bearer, Smith poured forth a creative torrent that flowed with unparalleled originality and innovation. As an Aquarius, she possessed a keen intellect and an unyielding commitment to breaking free from societal norms, embracing her own individuality as a bisexual, biracial woman. With short pixie-like hair and quirky style, Smith resembles the Fool in tarot, a card often associated with Aquariusâ modern ruling planet Uranus and thought to be the protagonist of the 78-card deck.
Gleefully stepping off the side of a cliff into the unknown world that awaits, the Foolâaka Pixieâchanneled illustrations in this way. Opening herself to being a vessel of mind-expanding wisdom, she breathed new life into the world of tarot, infusing it with new symbolism and meaning. Through her artwork, and in a very Aquarian way, Smith continues to invite seekers to embark on a journey of self-discovery, offering a visual language that transcends boundaries and speaks directly to the soul.
PISCES
Bayard Rustin â Leader of largest peaceful protest of the civil rights movement
With unwavering compassion and transformative leadership, Bayard Rustin, born March 17, 1912, emerged as a visionary soul whose gentle strength and profound wisdom guided the largest peaceful protest during the civil rights movement, 1963âs March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. A historic gathering of approximately 250,000 people in Washington, D.C., it is most famous for being the setting of Martin Luther King Jr.âs iconic âI Have a Dreamâ speech. It was a pivotal moment in the fight for civil rights and played a significant role in the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
Pisces, as the collective water sign, expands its reach universally to inspire and motivate groups and communities toward greater peace and interconnectedness. As a water sign, and with its connection to the 12th House, Pisces often finds itself behind the scenes. Because he was an openly gay man during a time of great discrimination and criticism over sexuality, Rustin tended to stay out of the public eye. He was a mentor to other civil rights leaders, including Martin Luther King Jr. He shared invaluable advice on the art of nonviolence, shaping the strategies and principles of the movement.
Rustinâs Piscean nature, characterized by a deep well of compassion, helped foster a sense of unity and inclusivity beyond the civil rights movement. He also had a tremendous impact on the LGBTQ community. He was one of the inaugural heroes inducted to the National LGBTQ Wall of Honor at the Stonewall Inn. Just this past year, a biographical dramatic film was released about his life: titled Rustin, it is available to stream on Netflix. Rustinâs Piscean vision for world peace will forever remain an emblem of resilience and hope.
CONCLUSIONâŚ
The world is a more beautiful place because of the LGBTQ community. From the courageous activism of Marsha P. Johnson and Bayard Rustin to the scientific breakthroughs of Sally Ride and Alan Hart, queer individuals have paved the way for future generations. Whether inspired by the groundbreaking artistic vision of Keith Haring and Robert Mapplethorpe, or touched deeply through the voices of Bessie Smith and George Michael, all 12 of these individualsâ stories of love and perseverance remind us to embrace our true selves in the journey toward equality and acceptance.
For deeper self-discovery, you may like to reflect on your Sun-Moon-Rising placements by replacing the Zodiac sign with the name of the person chosen to represent that respective sign. For instance, I am a double Pamela Colman Smith (Aquarius Sun/Rising) with a Marsha P. Johnson Moon (Virgo Moon). The publications director of this magazine, Giulio Pellegrini, is a Robert Mapplethorpe Sun (Scorpio Sun) with an Alan Hart Moon (Libra Moon) and a Matthew Shepard Rising (Sagittarius Rising). While this is a playful exercise that might encourage a laugh, it may also unlock a deeper understanding of your own unique gifts, while encouraging a more intimate connection to our beloved queer ancestors.
As we celebrate the end of Pride Month, let us honor the rich diversity and extraordinary achievements of these queer icons, ensuring their legacies live on through the cosmos with the language of astrology as our guide.
About Jeff HinshawâŚ
Jeff Hinshaw, the founder of âCosmic Cousins,â has made several contributions to the world of astrology. A vocal advocate for promoting inclusivity and diversity in the astrology community, he uses his platform to highlight the work of other LGBTQ+ individuals from diverse backgrounds. In addition, through his Substack, newsletter, and social media, he shares his knowledge of astrology, making it accessible to a wider audience. At the intersection of astrology and spirituality, Hinshaw explores the ways in which astrology can be used as a tool for spiritual growth and connections between astrology and practices such as meditation, yoga, and tarot. Emphasizing the importance of building community, Hinshaw is passionate about creating space to connect using the language of astrology.
Thank you for all you share.
You Inspire Primo!!!
And The Iconoclast Abound ~
Alan Hart Sun, Bessie Smith Moon,
Alvin Ailey Rising.
Huzzah!!!
đđđď¸
Fantastic, Jeff! I learned about you through Lindsay Mackâs work, and I am so glad I did! Matthew Shepard Sun, George Michael Moon, and Bessie Smith Rising.