When did you first identify as queer and why?
In early high school, I had a slight inkling, but didn’t feel sure or confident of pursuing the thoughts. I realized I was queer in 2018 when my flirting was met with real flirting back, rather than confusing ‘friendships.’ The girl I was flirting with literally said to me, “you know you’re flirting with me, right?” So we went from there! At the time, I was labeling myself as lesbian only. In 2020, I think, I realized I was gender fluid and have explored the variations of pronouns, landing now at they/them (though I’d say ‘any pronouns’ to those who get it).
What does being queer mean to you and how does it affect the way you move through the world and different spaces (social, economic, cultural, political)?
Being queer definitely means so much to me. It means living freely as myself, whatever that means for me in the moment. Being queer doesn’t just relate to my gender and sexuality, but to my outlook on life and social issues. To me, queerness means breaking away from what cis/het society deems as ‘normal’ and putting community care first. Queerness is a love that embraces.
How would you define your queer identity?
At the baseline, I’m a queer, gender fluid, nonbinary lesbian. My queer identity is ever changing and exploratory. It’s liberating for me to know that nothing is concrete about gender and sexuality. My queer identity is me!
What is one thing you wish the younger you would’ve known in order to make deciding to get out of bed each day easier?
Finding yourself doesn’t need to be done in secret or in public, it is your journey and can look however you’d like it to. There is nothing to be ashamed of, in not knowing, and those who deserve you will stick around through it all. Friendships are meant to change and you are meant to blossom further than your current labels can hold.