In the vibrant landscape of queer nightlife in Los Angeles, Dvaughn Neville, affectionately known as Aunt Jackie, has emerged as a key figure dedicated to fostering inclusive and welcoming environments.
“I just love getting people together,” Neville shares, encapsulating his passion for creating safe spaces where individuals can express themselves freely and joyfully.
As both an event producer and talent agent, Aunt Jackie has transformed the nightlife scene, blending performance art with a celebration of community and identity.
Neville’s journey into the world of nightlife was driven by a necessity he encountered upon moving to Los Angeles. “When I first moved here, everybody told me there aren’t safe spaces for people of color,” he recalls, an insight that propelled him to take action and create such spaces himself.
His innovative idea took shape through the launch of the “Sissy Stroll,” a unique bar crawl that connected popular queer venues including Revolver, Mickey’s, and Heart in West Hollywood.
“We were a group of boisterous Black queer men,” he chuckles, reflecting on the undeniable chemistry that attracted others to their gatherings.
This innate spirit of inclusion was nurtured during Neville’s college years in Maryland, where he transformed his off-campus apartment into a lively social hub.
“People respected my rules because they wanted to be in that space, it was a good time. That’s how I got the name Aunt Jackie,” he explains.
The name has become synonymous with community and connection. “People always say, ‘Oh, I have an Aunt Jackie,’ and I’m like, that’s the point,” he adds with a smile.
For Neville, the essence of Pride in 2025 revolves around the theme of authenticity and the importance of being surrounded by those who uplift you.
“Pride allows folks who normally don’t know where there’s a safe space to know, oh, this is for people like me,” he expresses, emphasizing the dual role of Pride events as both celebratory and educational.
Despite the vibrant atmosphere that Pride brings, Neville is acutely aware of the challenges facing queer spaces today.
He warns, “Queer spaces are under a lot of external attacks. But there is also internal attack, from us not doing good and honest business with each other.”
With the financial demands of maintaining such spaces, he believes there is a critical need to broaden the spectrum of representation within programming and events.
“A safe space is where you are able to be yourself however you want to show up,” he articulates calmly.
It is essential that individuals do not have to alter their identities to feel accepted in spaces they choose to enter.
To ensure a welcoming atmosphere, Aunt Jackie meticulously sets expectations with staff and ambassadors who embody the warm vibe he aims to create.
“Greet people with love,” he advises. “Treat people how you want to be treated, and you’ll have a good event.”
Neville’s events have provided a significant platform for emerging talents like Jasper Dupri and Mikey Rapz.
“I love being able to give them an audience,” he states, highlighting the importance of accessibility in the arts.
Whether charging a cover fee or not, Neville is committed to recognizing and supporting those who strive to perform.
One of his most memorable projects was co-producing “The Scarlet Vows,” a wedding celebration for a close friend and co-star, which turned into a breathtaking procession through West Hollywood.
The event featured notable performances from figures like LiqCour-Jeté and the House of Basquiat, and it created an atmosphere that felt intimate yet electrifying.
“It didn’t come off like a big performance was about to happen. And then, boom, choreography. It was so good. The whole crowd got up,” he recalls with enthusiasm.
Aunt Jackie is more than just an event curator; he is a beacon of community and connection.
“If you respect my rules and respect the vibe, then you’re welcome,” Neville asserts.
This principle is what makes the spaces he creates not just safe, but also a true home for many.
To stay updated on his upcoming events, follow Neville, aka Aunt Jackie, on Instagram at @auntjackieproductions.
image source from：lasentinel
