I left my life in NYC to move to a small town in Mexico and take care of my grandma. She’s sick, lives alone, and needed someone. Life here is quiet and deeply conservative, queerness is still taboo. People don’t really talk about it. Sometimes they stare at me, confused by how open I am about who I am. And yet, a few local gay teens have come up to me to say it makes them feel seen. Whether it’s the way I dress, the storytimes I share, or how I talk openly about identity and love, it matters. Funny thing? I’m the only verified profile in town. Literally the only one with thousands of followers, who’s worked in PR, posted fashion vlogs, interacted with celebrities, and when I offer to support local events or businesses, I’m always left out. I’m not bitter. I get it. It’s just... funny. Yesterday, I lost my wallet. Someone used my card to buy a TV and smartphones. If it had been for food or meds, I’d understand. But it wasn’t. Sharing art here on Collective, connecting, even virtually, it keeps me grounded. That, to me, is also Pride. PRIDE 2025🌈