National Coming Out Day: Proud, Black, Out, and Running for City Council.

Today is National Coming Out Day, and I am proud to announce the endorsement of the LGBTQ Victory Fund in our campaign!

The LGBTQ Victory Fund joins the Lambda Democratic Club in endorsing my campaign for Pinole City Council. I am proud to share this news on National Coming Out Day — a day in the LGTBT+ community dedicated to celebrate who we are and to reflect on where we are — and of course, where we’re going.

It was only 7 years ago that I came out, and in these few shorts year, I stand strong in my identity as a out, proud gay Black man. I remember growing up Black and gay, still finding myself, and unable to truly see my full self anywhere. Feeling comforted by a beautiful family, but alone nonetheless. I was afraid to come out, but when I did, an overwhelming majority my family and friends embraced and accepted me. My mother always said, “live your truth”, and this advice I use every day, especially as a candidate on this year’s ballot, and I am committed to working to create the conditions for this to be possible for all my siblings in the LGBTQ+ community.

While we celebrate today, it’s important to remember the members of our community that are not able to safely come out of the closet. Too many LGBTQ people still fear rejection or harm should they choose to live openly.

It’s time for major structural change and an environment where people can live freely — absent of violence and oppression — for being members of the LGBTQ community. I am committed to fighting for this as an incoming member of the Pinole City Council and avid fighter for equality.

It’s also global LGBTQ History Month, and I would be remised if I did not mention how grateful I am to stand on the shoulders of the giants who came before me insistent on truth-telling and demonstrating the courage to come out needed for generations to come, including my own. These individuals are why we have pride. Because of them, we can.

Coming out takes an immense of amount of courage. I share excitement on this day with my siblings that have come out and determination for a brighter future for those who have not.

This National Coming Out Day, I renew my commitment to creating a global environment where all people can live life their true selves, promoting LGBTQ+ equality, and demanding a more just and equal society. #NationalComingOutDay

Join the LGBTQ Victory Fund, Lambda Democratic Club, and a number of LGBTQ elected and appointed officials in supporting our campaign for a safer, more just, and greener Pinole community: secure.actblue.com/donate/electlgbtq