John, you might know that I’m the first openly LGBTQ+ Afro-Latino elected to Congress.

But you might not know that navigating my identity hasn’t always been easy. When I was young, I really struggled with my identity and my mental health took a hit.

I started considering my identity as a gay man in junior high school but kept it to myself out of fear. I was concerned that if I came out of the closet, that at best, I would face ostracism, and at worst, face violence.

So I came out in incredibly small circles — the first time, to my high school debate coach who I found out was gay from his profile on — not to age myself — MySpace.

And I was so excited, because at the time, I had no family, no friends, no neighbors who were openly LGBTQ+.

Then slowly but surely, I came out to small circles of fellow students, my family, and then eventually, publicly, when I decided to run for New York City Council.

And it hasn’t always been easy — as recently as last year, there were people who said that a gay man from the South Bronx could never win a race for Congress.

So now, as the sitting representative for NY-15, I want to use my voice to send a clear message to those who, like I once was, are young, confused, and searching for someone to talk to:

You should feel no shame.
You deserve all the same romantic experiences that your peers go through.
You will have support on your journey.

May this day land gently and may you feel the love you deserve,

Ritchie