Hi there,

I’m Scott (also known as Theater Guy in the Drag Community). I want to tell you why GLAAD works tirelessly to keep our stories — our authentic stories — alive in the media.

Growing up Latter-Day Saint (AKA Mormon), I lived under many expectations. I had to be devout, maintain an approved social network, and adhere to a structured lifestyle, including my sexuality.

And so, when I realized I was gay in the late 90’s, I knew my identity conflicted with my religious teachings. And if I chose to live authentically, I risked losing my family and friends, whom I dearly loved.

I had to see it, so I checked out the DVD from my local library. And as a gay Latter-Day Saint hiding who I was, I entirely related to Joe, and I finally realized that I wasn’t alone.

But that’s not all that happened. My mother found the DVD. 

When she told me she watched the DVD, I was terrified. I had no idea what she was going to do. She told me she did not want me to watch the television series, and I asked her why.

“Because I don’t like the way the mother treated her gay son. If you ever told me you were gay, I would listen.”

You see, through this series, I not only learned that there were people like me, but I gained confidence in my mom that I didn’t have before. This would be a big factor when I finally came out to her the following year.

Perhaps you’ve had a similar experience or know someone who has. And if so, I urge you to support GLAAD today. It’s a perfect time, because a generous donor will match your gift 2X, ahead of Giving Tuesday. 

Thanks for reading, and let’s keep telling our stories. Through them, we can strengthen the LGBTQ community and foster understanding for the world around us.

Sincerely,

P.S.Your generosity is appreciated and will be matched 2X. Be a supporter by clicking here >>>