BEHIND THE SCENES
dyke pool is a portland-based event series centered around building intentional, community-driven space for dykes, trans folks, and the broader queer community. what started as a pool night rooted in a love for the game has grown into something much bigger, a space where connection, play, and visibility exist side by side.
at its core, dyke pool is a trans-priority space, not just trans-safe. it was created by a trans masc organizer who has often felt out of place in more cis-centered dyke spaces, and wanted to build something different. something that actually reflects the full spectrum of the community. trans people are centered here from the start, not added in after the fact, while still holding room for a wide range of identities within the dyke community.
the approach is simple but intentional. create environments that feel welcoming, expressive, and actually reflective of the people in them. from casual pool nights to larger gatherings, each event is designed to foster connection while maintaining a distinct energy that feels both grounded and alive.
as dyke pool continues to grow, it’s expanding beyond the table into dance parties, themed events, and other dyke-centered spaces. the goal is not just to host events, but to build something lasting. a network of spaces where queer community can show up fully, consistently, and without compromise.
MEET
TUCKER LASSO
tucker (they/them) is a portland-based event organizer, creative, and community builder originally from utah. they’ve lived in portland for over 21 years and are deeply rooted in the city’s queer and diy scenes. as a trans, non-binary person, their work is grounded in creating spaces that feel intentional, welcoming, and actually reflective of the people in them.
they founded dyke pool out of a personal love for pool, but it quickly grew into one of the most meaningful, community-driven projects they’ve ever been part of. what started as a simple idea turned into a space for connection, play, and visibility — centering dykes, trans folks, and queer community in a way that feels both fun and genuine.
outside of dyke pool, tucker manages production at a local print shop and is currently in school. they’re almost always busy, usually juggling too many things at once, but consistently showing up for the communities and projects they care about.
MEET
Chel Lauren
chel (they/them) is based in portland and comes from arizona, and is a creative, community supporter, and behind-the-scenes force within dyke pool. by day, they work as an implementations manager, and by night, they step into the booth as a kj.
as a trans person, they bring care, awareness, and intention into the spaces they help build, contributing to the trans-priority foundation that dyke pool is rooted in. they play an active role in guiding people at events and helping things run smoothly, while making sure folks feel welcomed, comfortable, and seen.
outside of events, they spend time practicing yoga, rating films on letterboxd, and are always on the hunt for the next perfect trinket. they also play a big role in promotion and creative direction, and regularly step in as a sexy model for dyke pool.