The Cast
Keith R. Green, PhD, MSW
Keith R. Green, PhD, MSW is a native Chicagoan with strong community roots and an extensive history as an organizer, educator, researcher, and advocate. He is currently an assistant professor in the Loyola University Chicago School of Social Work, where his research is focused on the development of community-based solutions to address the rise in methamphetamine use among gay and bisexual men of color. As a Ronald E. McNair Scholar, Dr. Green earned a master of social work degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a PhD in social service administration from the University of Chicago. He previously served as an associate editor for Positively Aware magazine and as director of federal affairs for the AIDS Foundation of Chicago. Dr. Green is also an award-winning spoken word artist and was inducted into the Chicago LGBT Hall of Fame by Mayor Raum Emmanuel in 2012.
Alexandra “Lexi” Arjona; Community Advocate
Alexandra (Lexi) Arjona is a world changer, prime mover, dream catcher, peacemaker, advocate, and ally. Lexi continues to be a trusted individual in the community. Prior to joining the work of Crystal CLEAR Chicago. Lexi paved footprints in communities of color through her work experience at the Northwestern University RADAR Project, (Research Study Assistant) , Brothers Health Collective (Program Implementation/Point of Care Service Integration), Project Vida (Director of Prevention), and SSHARC (RWCM). In her pursuit of public interest as a community stakeholder, her prior service work can be seen through the bridge' built by working on diverse project development and implementation. Lexi has been instrumental in research and direct service environments through intentionality. As an agent of change, Lexi fosters the following belief: "We are not afforded the privilege to live so we may witness people live and die in silence."
Mario Pierce, EdD; Ballroom Icon, House of Balenciaga
Dr. Mario Pierce is a native of Chicago, educator, and community mobilizer. He has worked with youth and young adults in the house/ball community since 2003, tackling disparities in underrepresented communities. His hope is to help reduce stigma as it pertains to eliminating HIV transmission in the city and surrounding areas through advocacy, mentoring, and community level interventions. Mario held an integral role as Young Adult Engagement Coordinator at University of Chicago Medicine and taught at the middle and high school levels. Additionally, he earned a Bachelor of Arts in English, a Master of Arts in Interpersonal & Speech Communication, and a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership. Dr. Pierce currently serves as Co-Director and Professor at a private two-year college.
DeKendrick “Ken” Dix; Community Advocate, Mr. Chicago Leather 2019
DeKendrick Dix (also known as Saber Onyx) is very well educated, holding five degrees and is currently working on a PhD. Saber’s leather journey first started at the original Detroit Eagle, where the industrial warehouse feel peaked his curiosity. The next thing he knew, he was making more trips by himself. He walked into the adventure and was immediately surrounded by men in chaps, harnesses, and leather vests and chaps. Initially taken aback, he was determined to explore and learn more. Events later in life would place him in Chicago. where he would start the next chapter in his leather journey. In 2016, the ONYX/Midwest chapter would provide the chance for growth and self-understanding. He previously served as President of ONYX/Midwest and is a son of Mufasa's Pride; he also has affiliations with HiTech (Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health), the Health Care Advisory Council and many others. Saber’s belief in brotherhood is a way of living that he sees as a bridge/gateway to creating a stronger foundation that bonds people from all walks of life to create and enhance a safer leather journey. He prides himself on being a beacon of light in the leather community. He believes in touching other lives in ways that will add positivity, wealth and knowledge. Saber is committed to providing leather mentorship to the next generation of leathermen so that they feel safe in learning and discovering the leather community. In his free time, he loves exploring life, kinks and fetishes with his husband (New Chameleon Onyx), as well as volunteer activities such as with ONYX Care Midwest (Charitable Giving), Heartland Alliance, Chicago AIDS Foundation, Chicago Black Gay Men’s Caucus and in church, where he is an ordained elder.