who IS LA REINA TAÍNA?

DISCLAIMER: Everything on this website, including the website itself, was created by CÁMO Reina Basquiat Cemi’no (unless otherwise noted). It is ESSENTIAL that we $PAY$ and give CREDIT to our Black and Indigenous Transfemmes! I am a PROUD Afro-Jota, Nuerospicy, Trans-nonbinary, Taína Woman! Do NOT get it twisted, honey. Pay me in equity and currency or vete! lol. 

Welcome to the vibrant world, and Mind Palace, of LA REINA TAÍNA, also known as CÁMO – a multi-hyphenated, shape-shifting creative director, producer, performer, public speaker, and independent researcher. As a proud Afro-Latina, Taína, Trans*, and Neurodivergent aesthete De Nueva Jersey, LA REINA TAÍNA's journey is an inspiring tapestry of resilience, creativity, and transformation.

Autobiography

Me llamo CÁMO Reina Basquiat Cemi’no, also known artistically as LA REINA TAÍNA, a Quantum Macro-Artist dedicated to reshaping the boundaries of art and advocacy. As a Quantum Macro-Artist, I explore the intersections of quantum phenomena and the macroscopic world through multidimensional art, creating works that invite viewers to perceive reality in new ways. My art is inherently quantum, reflecting my status as the #1 Best Quantum Macro-Artist in the known and unknown universe. It is embedded across the different dimensions of my work as seen on my website, where each page represents a unique aspect of my creative entanglement.

I am also a scholar and advocate for Global Trans* and Men's mental health, Afro-Jotx people, and all youth (25 and under). I hold a Bachelor of Arts in International and Public Affairs, under the Policy & Governance Track, with a regional specialization in East Asia (China/Taiwan) and Latin America and the Caribbean, from the Ivy League institution—Brown University. My academic journey at Brown was instrumental in shaping my commitment to researching, nourishing, protecting, and evolving advocacy work surrounding Trans* and Men's mental health. This multidisciplinary program—coupled with my personal and spiritual lived experiences as a Displaced, NeuroSpicy, Afro-Latinx, Taína, Trans woman, and survivor—provided me with the analytical tools and critical perspectives necessary to address complex social issues, particularly those affecting marginalized communities.

Throughout my career, I have focused on the intersections of race, gender, and mental health, with a particular emphasis on the Afro-Diasporic experience. As the Community Engagement Specialist at the New Jersey Coalition Against Sexual Assault (NJCASA), I am passionate about revitalizing Latin America y El Caribe, by bringing visibility to Queer, Trans*, and Neurodivergent Afro-Latinx populations. Previously, I co-founded LOGRO, an equity-driven 501(c)3 and network of BIPOC and LGBTQ+ organizers, during the height of COVID-19, while simultaneously completing my degree. My scholarly work is driven by a passion for deconstructing oppressive systems, disrupting epistemological boundaries, and advocating for transformative change. By engaging with a diverse array of voices and perspectives, including those of leading Afro-Jotx scholars, I strive to foster a more inclusive and compassionate understanding of masculinity and mental health. My research and advocacy efforts aim to create a world where all individuals, regardless of gender or racial identity, can thrive and achieve total liberation and their truest selves! <3

~Reina (aka CÁMO aka LA REINA TAÍNA aka Founding Mother of Afro-Jotería Studies)

Pronouns: she/hers/they (NOT “he”!)

A Creative Force

CÁMO's debut album, "I.O.A.N.," released on Friday, May 3rd, redefines Latin House Dembow and Latin experimental music. This album features deeply personal and impactful songs such as "LLÓRAME MAMÁ," "JOTA," and "NEGRA Y TRANS." Each track explores themes of authenticity, resilience, and social justice, weaving her personal narrative with broader socio-political commentary.

  • "LLÓRAME MAMÁ" confronts personal trauma and resilience, highlighting the journey through emotional pain and healing​ (LA REINA TAÍNA)​.

  • "JOTA" is an expression of cultural pride and identity, intertwining her Afro-Latinx roots with her journey of self-discovery​ (LA REINA TAÍNA)​.

  • "NEGRA Y TRANS" stands as an anthem for Black Trans femmes, celebrating their strength and resilience against systemic oppression​ (LA REINA TAÍNA)​.

Artistic Versatility

Beyond music, LA REINA TAÍNA is a prolific poet and blogger. Her latest blog, "Demanding Respect Through Violence: The Fractured 'Macho Mind,'" delves into the complex relationship between masculinity and violence, offering a critical analysis of societal norms and advocating for healthier expressions of masculinity. Another significant blog, "The Ugly, Scary, Lonely Truth About Trans* Mental Health: Utilizing An 'Afro-Jotx Consciousness,'" explores the urgent need for mental health support among Trans youth, employing her coined academic framework, Afro-Jotx Consciousness​.

Public Speaker and Independent Researcher

A graduate of Brown University, CÁMO has been conducting independent research for over three years. She focuses on race, class, gender, sexuality, ability, and citizenship through an Afro-Jotx lens – an academic field she coined. Afro-Jotería Studies examines the intersections of Queer and Trans identity within Afro-Latinx, Afro-Caribbean, and Afro-Indigenous cultures, highlighting the art and social justice efforts of Black Queer and Trans Latinx artists. This innovative field of study underscores CÁMO's dedication to fostering inclusive and affirming spaces​ (LA REINA TAÍNA)​.

A Beacon of Change

As a peacebuilder and joy advocate, CÁMO’s activism is deeply rooted in Taíno, African, Buddhist, and Rastafarian spiritualities. Her famous speech at the NJ State House on Trans Day of Visibility in 2023 stands as a testament to her commitment to social justice and spiritual activism. In this speech, which can be found on her YouTube channel, she stood in solidarity with Queer and Trans youth, advocating for their rights and visibility​ (LA REINA TAÍNA)​.

Performances and Workshops (FOR HIRE)

LA REINA TAÍNA offers versatile performances and workshops tailored to conferences, events, and festivals. She can perform 30-minute, 45-minute, and hour-long performance sets. Performances would consist of a variation of singing/rapping, choreography, theatrics, and more. All 19 tracks, produced by CÁMO, can be performed on stage. Furthermore, she can facilitate workshops regarding themes of (1) Queer and Trans youth visibility, empowerment, & civic engagement; (2) addressing Trans* mental health; (3) re-imagining society via peacebuilding; (4) implementing joy in your everyday life; (5) decolonial theory; (6) Afro-Jotería Studies; (7) Socialism; (8) healing & spirituality, and so much more. For business inquiries, contact camobasqui@gmail.com.

A Glimpse Into Her World

Visitors to LA REINA TAÍNA’s website will find a rich collection of content showcasing her multifaceted talents. From her latest music and poetic works to insightful blog posts and powerful short films, each piece reflects her unwavering commitment to art, social justice, and UBUNTU. Explore her latest poem, "La Luz Al Final De Cristobal," and immerse yourself in the profound themes she addresses through her art​.

Join LA REINA TAÍNA on her journey as she continues to break barriers, bend genres, and inspire joy. Follow her on Instagram @camoisnotdead_ and Subscribe to her Youtube Channel @CÁMO (aka LA REINA TAÍNA) for the latest updates, and immerse yourself in the vibrant world of a true artistic visionary.

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Check out CÁMO’s first single!

EL CUCO!