Acadiana Queer Collective started in 2021 to throw an impromptu block party that would grow into the Pride Acadiana celebration. We have since grown our mission to providing opportunities for LGBTQ+ people of all ages in Acadiana to show up for one another, and to promote the positive visibility of queer people throughout the community.
Since our founding we have added an Inclusive Prom, monthly Family Meet Ups, a Book Club, Queer Cajun Music Showcase, a Film Festival, and more to our programming.
We believe in a collaborative approach to opportunity-making, and prioritize joy in all we do.
Meet The Team
Brandi Ortiz Comeaux (she/her)
Brandi is a dynamic force working in Lafayette's community since trading Houston for the Bayou in 2010. Beyond her role as a dedicated parent to two amazing kids, Brandi is a catalyst for change in multiple spheres, spearheading initiatives at local schools, driving forward environmental causes with No Waste Lafayette and Deuxième Vie Creative, and her own zero waste store Sans Paquet. As a member of Leadership Lafayette Class XXXVI, Brandi hopes to stand as a beacon of change, shaping a future where every aspect of community thrives in harmony.
Peyton Rose Michelle (she/her)
Peyton is a 26-year-old trans woman based in Lafayette, Louisiana. She serves as the first Executive Director of Louisiana Trans Advocates and serves as Board Secretary. She leads LTA’s legislative initiatives and helps lead LocALL (Legislative Organizing Coalition for All LGBTQ+ Louisianans) which LTA co-founded. She also became the first openly transgender person to be elected in the state of Louisiana in July 2020. All-in-all, Peyton combines her talents in advocacy, marketing, and organization to enact change.
Roxie C. Black (she/her)
Roxie C. Black is a woman of color and trans experience. She is a FFF Market Specialist for Circle K convenience stores. Roxie is on the Board of Directors for Acadiana Pride. She is a former Miss Gay Louisiana USOFA @ Large, Queen Apollo XLII, a cast mate at Bolt, a former Miss ROU and Miss Apollo, the first grand marshal of Pride Acadiana’s parade and continues to serve as the MC for the Pride Festival. Favorite quote “Never let anyone’s ignorance become your reality.”
Chrissy Oglesby (she/her)
Chrissy is a compassionate force within the Acadiana Queer Collective, where she brings a wealth of experience and advocacy to the forefront. As a devoted mother to three special needs children, she embodies resilience and empathy, channeling her nurturing spirit into her role as a life coach and baker. Chrissy's unwavering dedication extends beyond her family, as she passionately advocates for neurodivergent individuals, striving to foster a more inclusive and understanding community for all.
Beth Chiasson (she/her)
A native of Lafayette, Beth has spent many years advocating for safe spaces for LGBTQIA+ individuals. Proudly bisexual, Beth has a passion for breaking down gender stereotypes and social "norms" so that everyone can feel included, regardless of their gender expression or identity. She's a professional communicator by day and a very amateur stage actor by night. You can also rely on her to remind you when the next election day is. Beth is attempting to raise a teenaged human and two felines in this crazy world. Time will tell whether she is successful.
Samantha Rink
Morgan Bernard (they/she)
Morgan began volunteering with AQC in 2023 and has been involved with the organization ever since. They are passionate about uplifting and celebrating the Acadiana LGBTQ+ community through advocacy, storytelling, and connection. Morgan also serves as a co-editor of Cher, a zine dedicated to showcasing the work of queer creatives across South Louisiana. Outside of their community work, they enjoy spending time with animals, getting lost in a good book, and discovering new music.