Jubi Denison Arriola - Headley

Jubi Arriola-Headley (July 15, 1969 – October 17, 2025), also known as Griot, was a celebrated and beloved poet, storyteller, activist, and powerful voice in the Black and queer communities. He passed away after a courageous two-year battle with prostate cancer.

Born to Barbadian parents, Jubi was a first-generation United Statesian. He was a dedicated scholar and lifelong learner, graduating from Boston Latin High School in 1987 and Vassar College in 1991, later earning a Master of Urban Planning from the University of Maryland and a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from the University of Miami.

His professional life was one of service and art. Early in his career, he worked as an assistant to Ken Reeves, the first Black gay mayor of Cambridge, Massachusetts, and later worked for many years with The United States Conference of Mayors. This commitment to community and advocacy informed his powerful creative voice. Known for being blatantly honest, Jubi never minced words. His acclaimed poetry collections, including the award-winning "original kink" (Sibling Rivalry Press) and "Bound" (Persea Books), fearlessly explored themes of manhood, vulnerability, joy, and the politics of the Black body.

Jubi was a passionate advocate for LGBTIQ+ rights, channeling his activism through his writing and public presence. He was a proud alumnus of VONA (Voices of Our Nations Arts Foundation) and Lambda Literary. He served his communities tirelessly, including as a board member for both VONA and the National Leather Association (NLA). As a proud member of the kink and Leather communities, he was an active participant in club life, including Highwaymen TNT and as a Charter Associate member of Onyx Deep South.

His loving, tender, and joyful spirit touched countless people. He was preceded in death by his father, Jubi Arriola-Headley Sr. He is survived by his devoted husband of 17 years, Paulo Arriola-Headley; his loving mother, Joslyn; his siblings, Gina, Judith, and Rick; his chosen siblings, Patrick and Crystal; and many other relatives and friends who thought the world of him. His powerful words and loving legacy will continue to inspire and resonate for generations to come.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to one of the following:

• Zero Prostate Cancer (http://support.zerocancer.org/goto/Jubi)

• Your favorite social justice cause

• Contribute to final expenses:

o Zelle: [email protected],

o CashApp: $PowerOnyx, or

o Venmo: @PowerONE

• You can also donate to a future scholarship fund in Jubi’s name (TBD – funds will be held until needed). Use the payments links above and indicate it is for a future scholarship fund.