Love as Revolution: Subversive Couple Profiles from the Queer Community

The season of love is once again upon us, and with it comes the reminder of how turbulent the times are right now, especially for LGBTQ+ relationships which are likely to be embattled by the current administration. However, it also serves to remind how love and companionship ground us for the fights ahead, and we at OFM would like to highlight some of the queer couples in the Colorado community that embody LGBTQ+ love.

Kim Salvaggio & Alex Vaughn

Words and photo by Noah Pasley

Kim Salvaggio and Alex Vaughn first met at a dancing class that Alex instructed, but the couple were “in each other’s orbit” for several years before they became romantically involved.

“Immediately, I was just blown away by them and their energy, and they’re just a magical human being,” Kim says, “but I didn’t actually talk to them for five or six years and just hung out awkwardly in the back.”

The couple celebrated five years of living together in their home in January, but a relatively newer facet of their relationship together is their creative project How To Be Queer, a podcast which Alex describes as kitchen table conversations about being queer in a heteronormative world. Kim says the podcast works so well because of the way it blends both her work as a media professional and Alex’s work, which broadly focuses on healing and being bodily present.

Kim says that she can be too focused on thinking systemically, especially about how equity should be applied to media so it serves everyone better, and that the style of systemic thinking can sometimes distract her from the fact that healing is an integral part of dealing with the emotional labor.

“We definitely have to lean in on each other to get all the aspects of what change narrative is,” Kim says. “It sounds so serious, (but) if you listen to our podcast, it’s done with a lot of humor. Really, what we’re trying to do is look at systemic changes to healing and also to some of these structures which are massive structures of inequality.”

Alex says the core of the podcast is heart-centered perspectives, and that ultimately, the kinds of queer perspectives and stories they talk about are life-saving, because they are meant to help people who are struggling to live their truth, and help them feel represented.

“Sure as hell, I’m going to leave this world better than I walked into it,” Kim says. “We fought like hell to be here and to be married, and for Alex to be who they are and our kiddos to be who they are … So we gotta keep going, and I would love to make that path easier for anybody that’s coming behind me.”

Heavenly Hughes and Teena Manuel

Words and photo (and cover photo) by Noah Pasley

Heavenly Hughes and Teena Manuel, who both moonlight as drag performers among their other ventures, met through a mutual friend in the drag performance industry and began dating about seven years ago. “We were just hanging out a lot together, doing shows together, being menaces to society,” Heavenly says. “I remember I would help bring (their) table and (their) tarot sign back and forth from Tracks, up and down the sidewalk. Our friendship grew in that way, and we’ve been together ever since.”

The couple has produced and performed in drag performances together, as they both say they tend to do more punk and abstract kinds of drag performances than many people tend to expect. “You may not think it by looking at our drag but we can actually organize things, make things very streamlined if we put our minds to it,” Teena says. “But that’s the fun part, especially when producing, people can just be so grateful to either of us. We’re all here for a reason.”

The couple said that they hope the community can learn from them to express themselves more truthfully and not to constrain themselves just to fit into relationships with others.

“At the end of your life, you’re not gonna sit there and go, was I cringe? You’re not; you’re gonna (say) was I happy; did I regret anything; did I tell everyone I loved that I loved them?” Teena says.

Void Graves and Seven Coveney

Words and photo by Noah Pasley

Void Graves and Seven Coveney met through a mix of work and over the Internet in 2024 because both work as artists and entertainers, with Seven acting as a DJ and a small business owner alongside his main job as a staging and events manager, and Void doing event management for OFM as well as his own drag and burlesque performances.

Void says that he found Seven “elusively cute,” but it was hard to make a move and have it interpreted as romantic interest. They began dating last spring, and have since begun producing the Death in Drag series for OFM together, with Void as the host for the event and Seven as the official DJ.

“I think we compliment each other well … There’s stress, but it feels less big when there’s somebody else to work on stuff with me,” Void says.
“He helps me a lot too, on show days, because I can get kind of nuts,” Seven says. “When I have to DJ, I go into a very different headspace, so he helps me to stay grounded when I’m in that.”

The couple both say that their relationship has given them both a better sense of visibility and acceptance as flamboyant trans guys, as Void likes to spend a lot of time on makeup and getting ready, which he says not everyone in the community has been patient with or accepting of. Similarly, Seven says that Void can be a muse to him, and has helped him create a lot of accessories for his brand that began as custom pieces made for Void.

“Date people who like you,” Seven says.

Pasha Ripley and Eli Bazan

Words by Addison Herron-Wheeler, Photo courtesy of Parasol Patrol

In the vibrant tapestry of Denver’s LGBTQ+ community, Eli Bazan and Pasha Ripley stand out as a beacon of hope and resilience, even now when times are dark. Their love story, a unique blend of queer romance and unwavering activism, has blossomed alongside their work with Parasol Patrol, the organization they spearhead that is dedicated to protecting LGBTQ+ youth and their families at events.

Their journey began unexpectedly. “I commented ‘dibs’ on a Facebook post,” Pasha recalls with a laugh, talking about the unconventional start to their relationship. “And I won.” But behind that story is a real love story—a polyamorous love story for the ages. Both queer and deeply involved in social justice work, they found a kindred spirit in each other. Eli’s passion for supporting sex worker rights resonated with Pasha, who had previously worked in anti-human trafficking. This shared commitment to social justice laid the foundation for their enduring partnership.

Tragedy, however, tested their bond. The loss of Pasha’s late husband, with whom she shared an ethically non-monogamous relationship, left her reeling. Unfortunately, rather than see the blessing poly partners can be during times of stress, Pasha’s family saw her extra-marital relationships as a betrayal, even though they were celebrated within the relationship. Eli, a constant source of support, helped her navigate the grief and the complexities of their evolving relationship. “I lost everything,” Pasha admits, her voice filled with emotion. “But Eli was there, an incredible support. We eventually moved in together, and while we remain non-monogamous, our commitment to each other is unwavering.”

Their activism found a powerful outlet in Parasol Patrol, an organization born out of a need to protect LGBTQ+ youth. “The very first event was in March 2019,” Eli explains. “Pasha was in the hospital, but she’s been involved ever since. We never anticipated this scale. It started with one event, and now it’s a movement.”

Pasha describes their roles within the organization: “Eli is out front, leading the charge. He’s the face of Parasol Patrol. I handle the behind-the-scenes work, grants, logistics—the ‘back of the house’ stuff, as they call it.”
Their partnership also extends beyond the practical. “We both understand the importance of individual identity,” Pasha observes. “Eli embraces his queerness openly, painting his nails, wearing kilts, despite being a Marine Corps veteran.”
However, their activism has come at a cost. Parasol Patrol has faced relentless attacks from hate groups like “Gays Against Groomers,” a designation recognized by the Southern Poverty Law Center. These groups have targeted the organization, leading to the loss of crucial funding platforms like PayPal and Venmo. “We’ve had to rebuild, invest our own money,” Pasha explains. “It’s been a struggle.”

Despite these challenges, Eli and Pasha remain steadfast in their commitment to protecting LGBTQ+ youth. They emphasize the importance of community support and encourage others to get involved, whether through volunteering, donating, or simply spreading awareness. “This is not the time to retreat,” Eli insists. “We need to be louder, bolder than ever before.”

Their message to those feeling hesitant about activism or sharing queer love is clear: “This is not the time to go back in the closet,” Eli says, though Pasha cautions, and he agrees, that one should only come out if they feel safe too. “But if you’re already out and proud, if you’re living your life, this is the time to stand by that, not to slink back into the shadows,” emphasizes Eli.

And when it comes to getting involved with the cause, he echos those sentiments: “There are many ways to get involved. You don’t have to stand on the front lines.” Every contribution matters.” Pasha adds, “Don’t let fear paralyze you. Find your own way to make a difference.”

Styler Ells and Jax Nelson

Words by Addison Herron-Wheeler, Photo courtesy of Styler and Jax

Jax and Styler are more than just a couple; they are a testament to the power of queer love and a beacon of hope in a world that often tries to dim its light. Their journey, from drag brothers to devoted partners, is a story of resilience, joy, and unwavering support.

“We met in 2018 when Jax joined the drag king troupe I was a part of,” Styler recalls. “We spent a year together as drag brothers and friends before we realized we had feelings for each other and that we might have a good connection. We decided to pursue whether or not we clicked as romantic partners, and we hit it off like a giant firework display. We were engaged three months after we started dating and bought our farm two months after that.”

This whirlwind romance is a testament to the depth of their connection. Their lives are intertwined professionally and personally. Jax runs his own handyman and landscaping business, while Styler owns Paragon Wellness, a queer-focused gym. They also co-own a farm and CSA, which supports their passion project: an animal sanctuary.

“When we aren’t working,” Styler explains, “we enjoy supporting other queer-owned businesses, and building our village of friends and chosen family. We travel often as a reminder that this world is far bigger than both of us can imagine, and that diversity brings deep culture. Together we are raising our two children, running three businesses, and continuing to advocate for the queer community.”

Their unwavering support for each other is the cornerstone of their strength. “Communication and unwavering support is what makes us so strong as a couple,” Styler emphasizes. “We have each other’s back at all times regardless of what we are doing professionally or personally. Never wavering in that support helps us overcome any obstacles we face.”

In a political climate that often seeks to marginalize and erase LGBTQ+ individuals, Jax and Styler’s relationship is a radical act of love and defiance. “The greatest act of resistance against bigotry is living our lives authentically and joyfully,” Styler asserts. “As a trans couple, we are used to pushing the boundaries of gender, the patriarchy, parenting, orientation, and expression. Queer love and joy reaches far beyond the traditional roles and expectations as set forth by misogyny.”

They also recognize the importance of their visibility. “As trans elders in the community,” Styler continues, “we see it as our responsibility to speak up and speak out to support all voices in the Denver community and beyond. Modeling queer love loudly and proudly is an act of defiance, and we embrace our role completely.”

However, their journey has not been without its challenges. “As a queer couple, we face scrutiny of the validity of our love and our marriage,” Styler explains. “After being married for three-and-a-half years, this year, we finished estate planning to ensure we had legal representation should either of us become incapacitated or deceased. This was an intentional security measure to ensure that regardless of the future legality of our marriage, we would be protected by extra layers of the law.”

These challenges, while significant, have only strengthened their bond. “Through these challenges, we emerge strong, united, and deep in our convictions that love will always find a way to win,” Styler says. “Our joy through just existing is a testament to how simple happiness can be. We hope that our bond brings comfort to those that feel alone or scared. ‘The One’ is out there and also looking for you. Never give up hope for a happy ending.”

For those who may be hesitant to embrace their own queer identities in this climate, Jax and Styler offer words of encouragement. “Protect your peace,” Styler advises. “It’s OK to be scared. It’s OK to be fearful of visibility. It’s OK to hide until the storm has passed. No judgement, no shame. Whatever will help you exist over the next four years—Do that … But absolutely exist. We love and support you in whatever capacity you have today, tomorrow, and next year.”

Ultimately, Jax and Styler’s love story is a reminder that love, in all its forms, is a force of nature. It is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of queer joy. As they navigate the challenges of life together, they continue to inspire and uplift others, proving that love, like a vibrant firework display, can always find a way to illuminate the darkness.

Kyle Lambert and John E. Lambert-Roberts

Words by Addison Herron-Wheeler, Photo by Kelly Lynch with JV productions

John Lambert-Roberts, known in the drag world as Juicy Misdemeanor, and Kyle Lambert-Roberts, who performs as Kaptain Inherpnants, are a Denver power couple making waves in the local LGBTQ+ community.

John and Kyle met during the early stages of the pandemic at a socially distanced birthday gathering. Despite their initial reservations, they felt an instant connection. “It just felt right,” Kyle recalls.

John, a professional dancer and drag queen, and Kyle, a drag king, DJ, and security professional, come from seemingly different worlds. However, their unique talents and backgrounds complement each other perfectly. John’s creativity and love for performance inspire Kyle, while Kyle’s grounded nature and support system ground John. Together, they are a force to be reckoned with in Denver and beyond.

In today’s political climate, John and Kyle’s interracial and queer relationship is beautiful, but also constantly under attack. They believe that simply existing authentically and sharing their joy is a radical act of love.

“So, this is a weighted question; but I’ll just say, as a Black, gay, femme male (who has) married a white, trans masc male, I feel we are the target for the objections in the political climate right now,” John explains. “We make up so much queer joy that makes others MAD. But I truly believe, standing in our power, and our love, being UNAPOLAGETICALLY happy, and just being who we are to the community, is the BIGGEST radical act we can do. Continue to spread queer joy and LOVE all around the world!”

“As a trans, disabled veteran in an interracial gay marriage … There is no way around the fact that my very existence is radical in the current political climate,” Kyle adds. “Know that by living authentically and allowing people to see queer joy, it changes how people approach conversations about queer love. Instead of ‘I heard on the news XYZ about the queers,’ it becomes, ‘I have a co-worker, a friend, a neighbor, a family member who just had the most beautiful wedding’. Sharing our joy makes it personal, and that’s radical.”

John and Kyle’s message to other queer couples is one of encouragement and hope. “If you love the person you are with, if you can’t imagine your life without them, if you wake up in the morning thinking of them if they aren’t next to you, if you are out shopping and you buy them random love tokens, if you are thinking of random acts of kindness for them rather than yourself, MARRY them in a hurry MARRY them loud and proud … THEY ARE FOR YOU!!” John exclaims.
Kyle adds, “My advice: Do it for you, not the world. Trust your gut; you’ll know when it’s right. When it all comes down to it … You know what is right for you and your life. If marriage isn’t for you, make a vow to support, encourage, and protect the queers around you who do (value marriage).”

What John and Kyle love most about each other is their unwavering support and acceptance. John appreciates that Kyle sees him for who he truly is. “I honestly love that my husband has always seen me,” John shares. “I know that sounds generic but, like, he has always seen way more than the typical outward layer. He was OK with my femininity, which, to me, is a big part of who I am. He was okay with me loving art the way I do … He LOVES me.”