09/20/2026
This month’s 🌟Community Spotlight🌟 is Bennie Kane! 💜
A creative, compassionate community member, proud parent, and passionate advocate, Bennie is someone who believes deeply in connection, empathy, and showing up for others. Bennie brings both heart and a little whimsy wherever they go. We’re so happy to have Bennie as part of the LC community! 🏳️🌈
LC: What’s something fun or unexpected about you?
BK: I was a theater kid. As an adult, I still love dressing up for things like Renaissance Faires and making silly TikToks. I also dabble in puppeteering. The latter is something my daughter enjoys, and many bedtime stories have been read by puppets in this house.
LC: What inspired you to get involved in the q***r community, and what keeps you motivated?
BK: I’ve listened to the stories of other q***r individuals, reflected on my own experiences, and realized so many of us were forced to make the choice between safety and authenticity at some point in our lives. We really need one another, now more than ever. Rugged individualism isn’t good, or feasible, for anyone, but it’s especially not a fit for those of us who exist outside of what is deemed “acceptable” by those with a narrow worldview. I am kept motivated by seeing the need for community increasing in the current political environment. Even more than that, though, I am motivated by the hard work and empathy shown by others in our community, such as those involved in Le****ns Connect, community outreach, mutual aid, or any other form of humanitarian efforts.
LC: What’s a challenge you’ve faced, and how did you overcome it?
BK: I have faced many, but the hardest, by far, have been the days spent by my daughter’s bedside in the ICU. She has been there many times, and each stay is full of uncertainty. It’s not something that can be overcome, but rather, adjusted to. We do our best to keep her safe from illness and make sure to make every day meaningful in some way. It’s so easy to get lost in both the things we take for granted and the weight of the horrors of the world. I have learned to stop, notice (and, when possible, create) moments of joy wherever I can. I truly believe it’s important for all of us to feed our souls some whimsy to balance out the difficulties. Do the things that make you smile and forget the word cringe even exists.
LC: What does LC mean to you personally, or what’s your favorite LC event or memory?
BK: Le****ns Connect has had such an incredible impact on my life that I find it hard to articulate it in a way that will adequately describe it. I found LC on TikTok, and Meagan was so kind; she encouraged me to come to an event. I was shy, noticeably autistic, and knew no one. I’m so glad I pushed myself to go. I was greeted warmly by Meagan, Rebecca, and Candice. Candice made sure I felt welcome and had a place at a table. After just a few events, she asked me to take photos. It was the perfect request (and I know this was intentional
