BIO

Gleason is a Michigan poet, songwriter, and performer with a compelling story and powerful voice. Raised in a fundamentalist evangelical cult where their faith was often at odds with their spirit; Gleason’s art is a reclamation of the divinity of queerness, an adventure in alchemy that seeks to find god in unexpected places. Their poetry has been featured by Curbside Splendor, Michigan Radio, Curve Magazine, and Diva Mag UK; and they have spoken and performed at TEDX events, Pride festivals, universities, corporate events, and poetry venues across the country. Gleason is also a co-founder of The Diatribe, a non-profit organization that brings poetry to life for young people in classrooms and empowers them to tell their own stories. 

Whether hosting events, teaching and speaking in classrooms and at conferences, or performing a feature set, Gleason is an encouraging and inspiring presence. They believe in pipe dreams and that words can change the world. They are currently working on their first full length book, a memoir about their upbringing and escape from Chirstian Nationalism. They are a co-host of House of Words Open Mic in Grand Rapids where artists are welcomed to share their poetry, music, and comedy in a community that uplifts and celebrates the incredible power of our words and voices.