Pride Connects Us
By Raul
How could I ever forget the moment my sister confessed she liked girls? We were between classes — I was in third grade, and she was in fourth. I remember accepting her just as she was. In my innocence, there was no judgment. I simply accepted her truth. Without hesitation. Without questions. Without judgment. Just acceptance and love.
Throughout my life, I’ve remembered that moment. So simple, and yet so impactful. Witnessing my sister’s bravery—her innocence still untouched by society or the influence of family and peers—left a mark on me. And me, a nine-year-old boy, thought what my sister felt was completely normal. Without knowing anything about sexual orientation or gender identity, what was crystal clear in that moment was that I would always support her—no matter who she loved or what expansive identities she embraced.
Why do I tell this story? Because her courage and curiosity helped me discover who I am. I grew up with an exceptional sister who, to this day, supports me and loves me unconditionally.
Here at The Center, one of our core values is Joy: The happiness of our community is our happiness. The joy my sister felt in discovering herself lit a spark in me—a sense of identity and self-affirmation. Even though I didn’t come out until I was 18, those moments we shared helped strengthen my sense of Self. They gave me hope. Hope that one day, I too would live freely, loving whoever the hell I wanted.
Of course, I recognize what a privilege it is to have that kind of support. And today, working at The LGBTQ Community Center of the Desert has given me the opportunity to pass on that same joy that lit up inside me when I was nine years old. We find joy in building and uplifting our LGBTQ+ community, and we strive to reflect that joy in every corner of The Center. Because every person—no matter their journey, background, or age—deserves dignity, respect, and the opportunity to thrive. Come join us at The Center: a space where you can belong and be unconditionally you.
We’re here for you, not just during Pride Month, but all year long!
