Casey Smith

Diesel Kids 1999 – 2003

I am forever thankful for Diesel. Being one of only a handful of openly gay teens at Somerville High School from 1999-2003 was not easy. Having a place to go and escape where we could be ourselves and be accepted saved us. It was our second home. Pretty much every day after school we would all meet in the back and take over the couch corner. We’d just hang out, play pool, drool over all the hot Diesel staff, drink Rusty slides, eat those amazing Caesar salads (I still dream of them), and just be super gay without having to worry about who was watching. Looking back, we were a handful at times, but Tucker and Parky were patient and understanding and always made us feel welcome. I don’t know what I would have done without Diesel or where I would be if I hadn’t had that safe space in my life at that time.

I don’t know what I would have done without Diesel or where I would be if I hadn’t had that safe space in my life at that time.

I’ve lived in Seattle for about eight years now, but whenever I am back in Somerville to visit my parents, it’s always the first place I go. Every time I return, I recognize my hometown less and less. I see many of my favorite spots disappearing and pray that Diesel (or Bloc) will not be one of them. Thank you so much Parky and Tucker and all of you, past and present. Happy 20th Diesel!