Laura
What does your 2SLGBTQ+ identity mean to you?
It means freedom. Freedom to be exactly who I am. Finally! After 50 years of desperately trying to live up to other people's expectations instead of my own. Here I am. It's only one of many aspects of my true self I've discovered in the last few years, but it was the linchpin in my journey.
What makes you feel empowered in your identity?
To be completely honest -- privilege. I'm a middle-aged, middle class, white woman, who passes as straight. It's so much easier for me to feel empowered than so many others in our community, who are rightfully scared, tired, or angry about the many ways that they are oppressed because of their intersectional identities.
What is one (or more) of your favorite things about yourself?
Being queer. Truly - once I realized I am gay, I couldn't believe I got to be lucky enough to be part of the community. I had already realized that most of my very favorite people on this planet are gay. It made me feel special because I shared this quality with them and I knew it was a huge part of what made them amazing.
What is your favorite part about the 2SLGBTQ+ community in Oklahoma? What would you like to see more of?
The glitter. Definitely the glitter. No, really, what I mean is that the 2SLGBTQIA+ community here is full of so many bright creative, joyful, and passionate people. They are all bright lights in our city and state. What I'd like to see more of is community-building opportunities for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth.