Shonda

What does your 2SLGBTQ+ identity mean to you?

My identity as a lesbian means that I am living in integrity with who I am, who I love, and how the world sees me. Growing up in a fundamentalist religion in small town Oklahoma, I was taught that "gay" was synonymous with "pervert". When I was attracted to other girls, I knew I couldn't express that and be accepted by my community, and I felt ashamed. It took a lot of unlearning for me to be authentic, and it hasn't been easy or painless. But it's been so worth it.

What makes you feel empowered in your identity?

Being out and proud and providing visible representation for younger 2SLGBTQIA+ people, or those who aren't out yet is so empowering to me. I want to be the person I wish I could have looked up to as a kid.

What is one (or more) of your favorite things about yourself?

I'm proud of my strength and resilience, and that I've still stayed soft and vulnerable after needing to be so strong.

What is your favorite part about the 2SLGBTQ+ community in Oklahoma? What would you like to see more of?

I love that the 2SLGBTQIA+ community in Oklahoma is thriving in the face of discriminatory policies, people, and institutions. The recent legislation affecting access to trans health care is devastating, and I hope to see even more of us engage in advocacy and activism to improve things for our community.