A Youth Speaker at Stark Pride

Being a youth speaker at my local Pride was one of the most meaningful experiences I’ve ever had. Standing in front of a crowd to share my story and speak about the struggles and resilience of the LGBTQ+ community was both humbling and empowering. Pride isn’t just about celebration—it’s about recognizing the ongoing fight for rights, respect, and visibility. In my speech, I talked about how our community faces real threats, laws and policies that try to silence us, erase our identities, and divide us. I wanted to remind everyone that Pride is also a protest, a call to action to stand up against injustice, not just a moment of joy.

Speaking about my own experiences, like being part of my school’s GSA and the challenges we’ve faced with DEI programs being shut down, made me realize how important it is to keep fighting even when things get tough. I encouraged everyone to move beyond just showing support at events and to become active allies—voting, educating themselves, calling out bigotry, and making space for those whose voices are often ignored. It was a powerful moment where I felt connected to a community that refuses to be erased and reminded myself that our lives, love, and joy are acts of resistance. That day showed me how important it is to use my voice to inspire change and build solidarity.

I was incredibly grateful to have the opportunity to deliver my Pride speech alongside one of my closest friends, Corwin Walls Broad. Sharing the stage with him made the experience even more powerful and meaningful. We both brought our own perspectives and voices to the event, and it felt like we were standing together not just as individuals, but as part of a larger, unbreakable community. Corwin’s speech was raw and passionate, and his courage to speak so openly about the harsh realities facing LGBTQ+ youth today inspired me deeply.

Corwin’s words about Executive Order 14173 and the increasing efforts to erase LGBTQ+ identities in schools highlighted just how urgent and dangerous these attacks on our community are. Listening to him break down the impact of these policies, the banning of clubs, the removal of pride symbols, and the silencing of marginalized voices, made me realize how much is at stake. It wasn’t just about us as queer individuals but about the fight for justice for all marginalized groups. His fierce determination to resist and organize in the face of these challenges gave me even more strength to keep speaking out.

Together, Corwin and I stood as a symbol of resilience and hope. While the obstacles we face are real and frightening, sharing this moment with a trusted friend reminded me that we are not alone. Our solidarity and willingness to speak truth to power are what keep us moving forward. That day reinforced for me how essential it is to use my voice alongside others, to fight, to resist, and to build a future where everyone can live openly and proudly without fear.