How Tucson’s Queer Poet Laureate Finds Strength in Poetry and Practice

TC Tolbert, a distinguished poet and educator from Tucson, is making waves in the literary world as a community advocate for queer and trans voices. As Tucson’s poet laureate, Tolbert employs poetry as a vehicle for activism, crafting inclusive spaces that nurture dialogue and expression.

His unique approach to language extends even to his email signature, where he playfully acknowledges the fluidity of identity. While he uses he/him pronouns in daily life, Tolbert embraces the title “GRRRRRL” in public and employs s/he pronouns in his writings. His signature ends with the whimsical note, “Isn’t language fun?”

Transitioning from aspiring high school English teacher to a notable poet came with challenges, as Tolbert navigates the complexities of privilege in community engagement. In Arizona, where LGBTQ+ populations grapple with both advancement and resistance, his work has never been more crucial. Through workshops, public readings, and mentorship, Tolbert cultivates vital platforms for queer and trans writers amidst policies that often threaten their existence.

Recently, LOOKOUT writer Royal Young spoke with Tolbert about the nuances of his journey and the importance of support in the community. The conversation highlights Tolbert’s path to becoming Tucson’s poet laureate and outlines the responsibilities attached to this prestigious role.

Tolbert shared how the nomination process began. “At first, I felt sheepish when asked, but when a second person nominated me, I thought, ‘Okay, well, I guess there’s two people,’” he remarked. This enthusiasm propelled him to seek opportunities in poetry after initially viewing writing as a mere pastime.

“I got my degree in education to become a high school English teacher,” he recounted. “However, after hiking the Appalachian Trail, I recognized the need to address my gender identity and passion for poetry.” Finding a program in Tucson not only deepened his literary journey but also connected him with a vibrant community.

Despite Arizona’s complexities, Tolbert perceives Tucson as a vibrant queer haven, albeit amidst adverse state policies. “Tucson has had a non-discrimination policy for over 20 years,” he explained. Yet, he stressed the urgent need for support networks, especially for queer and trans youth. “This commitment to staying is essential,” he stated, “to reinforce the connections that have helped me.”

His role as poet laureate reflects this dedication, focusing on inclusive poetry workshops and community engagement. While initially a three-year term, his fellowship expanded his reach. He makes a conscious effort to feature LGBTQ+ voices prominently in his initiatives. “It was a moment of positive representation,” he stated, making him the first openly queer and trans poet laureate in either state or city contexts in the U.S.

Amidst the ongoing challenges posed by the pandemic, Tolbert adapted his workshops online, continuing to connect with participants locally and globally. “We’re about to start our fifth year,” he noted, recalling how individuals participated from various time zones, underscoring the necessity of these artistic spaces.

Young and Tolbert discussed the reality facing queer individuals in Arizona. “While Tucson feels supportive, discrimination remains a palpable threat,” Tolbert acknowledged, citing his background in Tennessee as a reference point for the complexities of queer representation in state policies.

In their dialogue, the conversation turned toward issues of colonialism. Tolbert emphasizes the importance of acknowledging Indigenous land and continuously uplifting Indigenous voices in his work. “Every event reflects our real community,” he asserted, pointing out the need to bring marginalized narratives to the forefront.

As the interview concluded, Tolbert imparted words of wisdom for those within the LGBTQ+ community: “Cultivate trust and tenderness,” he advised. “Remember, we often interact with those who carry deep traumas, and it’s crucial to hold each other gently.”

Through his poetry, workshops, and advocacy, TC Tolbert remains committed to fostering a compassionate, inclusive environment—one that seeks to embrace the complexities of identity and community.