I wasn't always able to live authentically as my true self. Like many in our community, I know the fear and isolation of being in the closet all too well. Until my late 20s, I was terrified to come out, constantly hiding who I was from the world.
To those still on this journey, know that you are not alone. I see you, understand your struggles, and send you my love and support. Remember, coming out is a deeply personal decision and often an ongoing process. No matter where you are in your journey, you are valid and worthy of respect. Yes, even if you’re not ready to be out, Pride is still for you, too.
I stand before you as an advocate for love, acceptance, and equality. I am humbled by the support I have found from the community and our incredible allies and advocates.
With the ongoing genocide in Gaza and discrimination around the world, we must heed the powerful words of LGBTQ+ activist Marsha P. Johnson: "There is no pride for some of us without liberation for all of us." Our fight for equality is far from over, and we must stand together.
It's crucial to recognize the interconnectedness of our struggles. The biggest supporters, enablers, and backers of the genocide in Gaza are also responsible for and complicit in the erosion of workers' rights, environmental crises, and mass incarceration. These same forces pass homophobic and transphobic legislation and perpetuate racist and xenophobic ideologies.
Recognizing this, our fight for queer rights must also be a fight for Palestinian rights and the freedom of oppressed people worldwide. We must educate ourselves and others about these issues.
Educate and Advocate: Share information about the realities in Gaza and other global issues.
Support Palestinian Rights: Join movements that advocate against pinkwashing and other injustices.
Promote Unity and Solidarity: Participate in Pride events that highlight intersectionality.
Amplify Voices: Share stories of resilience within the LGBTQ+ and Palestinian communities. (I’d love to hear from some of you reading this!)
Donate and Volunteer: Support organizations on the front lines, both locally and globally.
That's why I'm running for Congress in District 34—to champion a future where EVERYONE can live authentically and love freely, without fear or judgment. A future where we all can thrive as our true selves.
But I can't do it without you.
Will you make a Pride donation of $25, $50, $75, or whatever you can today to help fuel our grassroots campaign? Every single dollar makes a difference and brings us closer to that brighter, more equitable future we envision.
