Hello! This story will be not so much about DEV but more about Pride. Ever since I joined the DEV community or steered my career in this direction, being gay has not once been an issue for me. I was not sure it would be this way, but am very fortunate it has. So far, because I know you can run into people with different views anytime.
I never had a tough time coming out, which again makes me very fortunate, I am aware of this. I heard a lot of different stories over the years.
That is why hashtags and sharing stories like what we do here is so important! Beginning of this year I visited San Francisco. And want to just remind you all of Harvey Milk. This amazing man and the work he did. And still I think it is so important to show yourself. Be visible! Do not hide who you are because you are beautiful being yourself.
I know the minority I am in has the 'luxury' that we can hide, but I think we should not. How difficult it can be, and follow your own path and time of course. Just know the community is here.

I'm proud of...

It feels like a lifetime ago (2015) that I stopped volunteering after 9 years of work for a LGBT+ organisation for youth. We did (and they still do such amazing work. The organisations goal is that their work will be no longer necessary).
I went to high schools to give guest lectures, there is a buddy project, we held events, meetups, pride days and summer camps and weekends away and so much more.
But what I wanted to say on this, the people I met so many of them, all amazing and different and awesome in their own way. We went through so much with the team of volunteers. Highs and lows, and this year is the first time since its beginnings the summer camp is off (covid..). I am sad about this but also know that times are changing and communities rise up online and support is there. People are there. That is what I am proud of.

I find support in...

All these things to make us visible, big initiatives like pride parades to little things here and there. A little rainbow flag in a profile name. Posts like this with #devpride. People who are friendly and stay friendly after you come out to them. It all helps. Thank you.

❤️ 🧡 💛 💚 💙 💜