Oral history interview with Dr. Kwabena Rainey Cheeks

Want to listen to this audio?
Email oralhistories@rainbowhistory.org to request access

Native Washingtonian Kwabena Rainey Cheeks, active in his community since childhood, tells the story of his life in activism, from helping those in his neighborhood as a child, to becoming a Minister and giving back well into adulthood. Cheeks grew up in martial arts, growing to be ranked top ten nationally. As one of the original founders of the Clubhouse, one of Washington’s most prominent Gay dance clubs in the 80’s, Cheeks interacted with many members of the community from famous ballet dancer Rudolf Nurevev to singer Patti LaBelle. Cheeks founded Us Helping Us, a nonprofit organization focused on helping those in the community affected with AIDS. Later in life he became a minister and founded the church Inner Light Unity Fellowship Church, which works to be an accepting community organization. Through the Church, Cheeks still to this day leads his community through mentorship, retreats, and activism, while continuing to create what he describes as heaven on Earth in the form of enjoying life.

70s-00s

Native Washingtonian, African-American gay experience, the Clubhouse, AIDS support, faith communities

Yes, transcription available

Yes, recording available