Empowerment
We Must See it to Believe It.
As a Writer, Author, Poet and World-Shifter, I look to the giants of the past to pave my runway. James Baldwin is an icon not only for his contributions to the literary world but for his unapologetic and radical acceptance of himself. When I reflect on why representation of LGBTQ+ trail blazers matters, he is the first icon that comes to mind.
By Ariel Celeste2 years ago in Pride
A Journey into the LGBTQ+ Experience
As a non-LGBTQ+ creator and ally, my journey toward understanding the complexities of the LGBTQ+ experience has been shaped significantly by moments of genuine queer representation. One of the most impactful experiences was watching the television series Pose. Set against the vibrant backdrop of New York City's ballroom culture during the 1980s and 90s, the show features a predominantly transgender and queer cast that portrays the struggles, triumphs, and everyday lives of its characters with remarkable authenticity.
By Oluwafemi Fred-Ahmadu2 years ago in Pride
Being Transparent or Opaque: Life's Toughest Choice
Do I stand tall in the light, where all can see,Ā Who I truly am, who I aim to be?Ā Or do I hide behind shadows, where I blur,Ā Changing my colors, as voices concur?Transparent or opaque, which should I choose?Ā Be the real me, or bend to not lose?Ā Stand by my truth, though it's hard to defend,Ā Or fade into a shape that the world might commend?Should I speak the words that burn in my chest,Ā Knowing they might stir, disturb, and protest?Ā Or should I stay vague, with a smile that's bent,Ā To fit into a world that's far from content?Transparent or opaque, the choice remains mine,Ā Do I stay in the light or fall in line?Ā For in being straight, I risk being alone,Ā Yet in being vague, I may lose my own tone.In a world of masks, will I dare to stand clear,Ā Knowing that truth is a weapon I bear?Ā Or will I retreat, let the layers unfold,Ā Hiding myself in the stories untold?Transparent or opaque, I stand at the gate,Ā Do I defy the world or bend to its weight?Ā For in being myself, there's a strength I might find,Ā While losing the layers that blur my own mind.
By Adarsh Kumar Singh2 years ago in Pride
