Dear Reader,  

This year I Put a Spell on You celebrates its 10th anniversary! Reflecting on this milestone, I'm filled with gratitude. As a child, Halloween was my favorite night, and Disney's Hocus Pocus allowed me to experience its magic year-round. My secret goal was to be Winifred Sanderson for Halloween (Bette Midler in the film), but voicing that desire would have made my childhood even harder. Like many in the LGBTQIA + community, I faced bullying and ostracization in the public school system. My refuge came from a community of open-minded teachers and mentors at my local arts institutions who nurtured my interests and granted me the ability to study the art forms I so desperately loved despite my family's financial limitations.  

While stepping into my queer identity had its challenges, I made it through with the support of my friends, family, and community and can't imagine facing that transition without such crucial backing. The Ali Forney Center addresses the urgent need for safe shelters and supportive services for those LGBTQIA + children who don't share in the same privilege many of us have been afforded.  

Our team at "I Put a Spell on You" is proud to continue our partnership with AFC to support their important work as we celebrate community, identity, and the unabashed queer joy of Halloween. Protecting queer youth, in today’s climate especially, feels more necessary and timely than ever.  

I hope you will consider joining the magic (and mischief) of our 10th Anniversary celebration. Come... we fly!

With Gratitude,

Jay Armstrong Johnson