“Each of us has, in some way, been made outcast for who or what or why we are. Each one of us somehow a misfit for the mold we were told we were built for. Each one of us at some point rejected. Dismissed. Barred from opening the doors.

Othering is not limited to queerness. But it is queerness that has taught me to transform that experience of othering into something strong enough to withstand the blows. That has shown me what happens when those that are cast out choose to build a village with open gates and shelter for everyone.”