#Transmasc

#LGTBQ+

#HispanicLatine

#Veteran

#Human

Why is diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racism (DEIA) important to you?

As a Hispanic transman I want to be the representation I wish I had growing up. I didn't know what it meant to be transgender or gender non-conforming until my early 20s. I didn't start my transition until after my 22nd birthday, I'm 28 now. But I did feel different earlier in life, and now I have the language to express myself.

DEIA is important because it allows people to be who they are indiscriminately. Most people believe it's something that allows BIPOC individuals to wear their hair how they want or to help an organization reach a quota. It's much more than that, it's a way for people from ALL walks of life to express themselves in a comfortable and safe environment. Today's youth may need to see that it's ok to be who you feel you are versus who everyone tells you to be. Without DEIA providing a safe and comfortable environment, people are less inclined to be the representation that they wish they had when they were younger.

If people want to learn more about your work, how would you like for them to contact you?

Email me or send me a message on Teams. Gabe.Hernandez@cuanschutz.edu