Dear LGBTQ+ Youth,
When I first agreed to write this letter, I thought, “Oh sure! This will be easy, and I’ll crank this out in no time! I’m an avid writer, an LGBTQ+ activist, and I have plenty of opinions to share.”
But I was wrong.
As I started reflecting, I realized there’s so much I want you to know. There’s a wealth of experiences and lessons to share, and I hope this letter serves as a beacon of support and inspiration for you.
Embracing Our Journey
No matter how dark and dangerous the world may seem right now, we have come so far. I remember being a kid in the '90s in rural Arkansas. Back then, LGBTQ+ individuals were often viewed as a fringe group. You knew they existed, but you couldn’t name anyone you knew personally.
Since those days, I’ve been privileged to be part of three cities’ first PRIDE celebrations here in the South. I’ve watched these events grow from a small gathering of a few dozen to thousands of people flooding the streets with love and joy. I have wept as I marched in parades, waving at countless smiling faces, recalling what it felt like to be terrified of walking openly as my true self.
I still remember collapsing into the arms of a stranger wearing a “Free Dad Hugs” shirt. He hugged me tight, sensing my need for support. Moments like that remind me of the strength we draw from one another.
Breaking Barriers Together
Standing tall on stages filled with supporters, I announced that I was the first gay man to run for the State House of Representatives in my area. While I didn’t win, I provided a voice where there had been none, showing others in the LGBTQ+ community that our identities are a strength and not a flaw.
Because of this work, I now serve as the Chair of the 3rd Congressional District for the Arkansas Stonewall Caucus, bringing the voices of the LGBTQ+ community to the forefront of state policy.
Most importantly, in 2014, I sat in a courthouse, tears in my eyes, as I hugged my partner. We became one of the first same-sex couples to marry in our county—something we never dared to dream possible. Now, we are celebrating our 7th wedding anniversary together!
You Are Not Alone
I share these experiences to remind you that you are not alone in your journey. I know this past year has been particularly challenging for many in the LGBTQ+ community. It often felt like the world turned its back on us just as we were beginning to feel the sunlight on our faces.
Please remember that there is a rich history of amazing individuals who have fought to get us to this point. You walk with the spirits of countless allies who support you. This world, no matter how dark it may seem, is full of possibilities, especially for those of us who remember the struggles of just 30 years ago.
Embrace Your Power
You have power! You can raise your voice and help make the world a better place.
There is a whole community out there that loves you fiercely and will support you every step of the way.
In Closing
So, I’ll end with this:
You are powerful.
You are unbelievably unique and beautiful.
And no matter what, you are loved.
Shadows Edge game has a community element, where you can also create lovely art *see image together with friends.