06/30/2026
5 years since I came out 🩷💜💙 Still here, still q***r!
Coming out changed my life, but more importantly, it changed others. Every single year, I still get messages from folks who were impacted by one little social media post that I was brave enough to make. Whether it inspired them to come out to themselves, to someone else in their life, or even just helped them to rethink some stereotypes or change their perspective, it made a difference.
And aside from the fact that I was feeling soooooo much FOMO from all the out q***rs getting to celebrate Pride 😅 The whole reason I came out in the first place was to do what I could to make the world a tiny bit safer for other LGBTQIA+ folks.
Five years later, the world is not safer. Trans folks in particular are under attack, and things are not getting better. I’m scared for my friends, and it is so hard to stay hopeful sometimes, but seeing the ways our community bands together to fight for each other and for our rights is inspiring!
If you’re reading this and you relate, but coming out isn’t safe for you right now or you’re just not ready, know that it’s okay. You still belong in our community, even if you have to prioritize your safety or wait until you are ready. You are one of us, and we love you ❤️
If you’re reading this and you want to support the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, it is never too late to learn more and do your part. Make a point to read books by q***r authors and to follow more q***r creators, especially Black, indigenous, trans and disabled folks who can help to open your eyes about their everyday lives and challenges that they face. Donate, if you’re able, to local organizations that support 2SLGBTQIA+ folks, or to a trans person’s medical or housing expenses. Stay informed and contact your representatives about bills that impact q***r and trans folks rights, like Bill C-12 that passed earlier this year that limits the ability of q***r migrants to seek asylum in Canada. Speak up when you hear someone making homophobic or transphobic comments, and make sure to learn about and use inclusive language.
Hate will not win, because we are so much stronger together! Happy Pride 🏳️🌈🏳️⚧️❤️
