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Maurice Cook, a 40-something black gay male and successful entrepreneur, doesn't mince words when it comes to talking about how he has arrived at his current level of success: "As an artist and designer it is often assumed that I'm gay so my sexual orientation isn't a surprise," He says, "The greater challenge is maintaining a successful business in a racist world; the challenges I face usually stem from my being a black man not a gay man. Sure I put it out there but I am a dignified, and self-assured man and I think as people get to know me they learn to respect me."

Cook moved to Atlanta from Detroit, Michigan and immediately gravitated toward Atlanta's black gay community. He soon confronted the stereotypes, racial and otherwise, that emanated from the group. "We tend to segregate ourselves, especially those from the younger generation. In that respect I think black gay men-because of the rights we inherit due to male privilege-have to be more intentional in our efforts to make sure our sisters are heard and empowered in the same space we occupy."

Nevertheless, it was a struggle for him to achieve his popularity as an artist/designer; he found that his work suffered in direct proportion to those stereotypes. "My work tends to be accepted primarily by black people, but I'm ever hopeful that I will get that one break that will open up a wider audience," which is why he came to Atlanta in the first place.

Atlanta is quickly outpacing places like San Francisco or the "Big Apple" as Gay Central USA for the lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and trans-gendered community. And while some may be too flamboyant and boisterous for traditional southern protocol, Maurice has taken this bit of sage advice in stride. "The move was good for my business; Atlanta is a welcoming city because of the traditions associated with southern hospitality. And we all don't do the same thing like hit the clubs every weekend. I'm sort of a laid back guy whose more at home nursing a rum and coke rather than frolicking in Atlanta's hot spots."

Finally, as far as Atlanta being a melting pot for young urban professionals; it is still debatable as to whether gays and lesbians should be included in that mix. Maurice has this to say: "Businesswise, Atlanta is a thriving city, and I see myself fitting right in as an entrepreneur. That's what change is about, isn't it? Accepting new challenges where ever they may be."

Learn more about this author, Roger Crain.
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