My Experiences Coming To Understand My Queerness

To start, I’d like to say that I identify as a non-binary pansexual person. I’ve come to this understanding after a number of years exploring my identity and sexuality. My gender identity is fluid in many ways, and I predominantly use the pronouns they/them, though at this point I also accept he/him pronouns (mostly because it’s easier in certain environments).

As many of you may know, the process of “coming out” is not a singular event nor is it a linear path. One can come out at home but not at work. To friends but not parents. Some choose to wear certain clothing or accessories that make them feel more like themselves at home or with close friends but not in public places. One experience I’m sure you’re familiar with is having to come out again and again to the same people, to choose to open oneself up and show great vulnerability only to be met with resistance, bigotry, or violence and having to decide whether or not it feels “worth it” to stand one’s ground and choose authenticity in the face of dismissal.

Each and every person’s story is unique, regardless of one’s identity. However, there are a lot of similarities between people of overlapping demographics, and it is by finding and connecting with those who have had parallel experiences that we can find strength in ourselves. Find acceptance, love, respect… things each and every person deserves.

In future posts I will go into more detail about some of my specific experiences, the positive, the painful, and the in-between grey areas.

I want to preface that by again acknowledging that my experiences are my own, my path has been through its own twists and turns just as your own has. You may find that some things resonate with you while others don’t, and this is okay.

I hope to have the opportunity to hold space for others in the LGBTQIA+ community to share what makes you unique, your uniqueness being part of what makes our Family such a beautiful and diverse one. Whether you are just beginning your path of self-exploration or you feel solidified and assured in your identity I

encourage and welcome you all to join the LGBTQIA+ Support Group through ASCEND, which is held on Tuesdays at 4pm. So far it is a minimal group, often just my partner and I, but know that the space will be held for you. This group is exclusive for those in the Community to ensure that everyone feels safe in being their authentic selves with others who can relate to our unique and diverse experiences.

Blog Post 3.5 July 16th, 2024