Last Friday, during GLUE weekend in Houston, Texas, "I, Too, Am Kink" wasn't merely unveiled—it made a resonating statement. Beyond being an event, it symbolized the fruition of relentless hard work, unyielding passion, and an unwavering belief in a dream that many deemed audacious.
In the audacious pursuit of a cause, especially one as pivotal as highlighting representation in a community, the road is rarely easy. The path I chose was fraught with obstacles—doubts that whispered in the darkest hours, periods of depression that weighed the spirit down, financial hurdles that seemed insurmountable, and the piercing silence of not having any guiding precedents. It's in these moments, when the road seems loneliest, that the strength and support of a community play a defining role.
Community allyship isn't just about standing by your side. It's about being the bedrock when the world feels like quicksand. It's the collective voice that drowns the echoes of naysayers. The Houston Misfits exemplified this. Their determination, led by trailblazers like Carl and Kevin, wasn't just supportive—it was transformative. Their commitment became a beacon, illuminating the importance and power of allyship in pioneering change. Chris and the team at Buddy’s Houston, from bartenders to runners, were the cogs that made the event machinery run seamlessly, exemplifying dedication at its finest.
Intermingled among familiar faces were friends, many of whom had never stepped into a GLUE event. Their presence, driven by the transformative potential of art and a sprinkle of belief in my vision, was a testament. A testament to the change we're igniting, and the expanding reach of our clarion call.
And now, in the aftermath of that electric night, there's more than just gratitude in my heart. There's an invigorated drive, a burning desire to press forward. The horizon is vast, and the journey ahead promises its own set of challenges. But with the strength of such a robust community and the lessons etched into our story thus far, I’m ready to take each step with renewed purpose.
For every trailblazer out there, holding onto an idea, ready to disrupt the status quo, remember this: Each challenge is surmountable, especially with a strong community behind your back.
Curious to relive or witness the magic of that evening? View the captivating moments captured from the party below.
-Jeremy
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