OUT ON THE HILL is the official blog of the Victory Congressional Interns. Views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of LGBTQ+ Victory Institute. Learn more about the internship at victoryinstitute.org/vci.
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I squeezed into the pair of size eleven black combat boot heels that my mom graciously gave me for the night that I left for the plane ride to Washington, D.C. I stood up, trying to catch my balance, crouching my knees to look at my reflection in the mirror. I walked to the end of my room and turned around, striking a pose. When I put on these heels, I felt validated in my gender. I couldn’t stop smiling from my rosy red cheek to cheek with my eyelids covered in glitter, stickers of stars, and teal eyeshadow. With one hand on my hip and the other raised to the ceiling, I felt powerful, like I had uncovered the self I had to hide from society.
Growing up gay in a Jamaican and Christian household caused me to hide who I am and feel as though I would be rejected if I expressed myself freely. I felt that I had to conform to a gender that wasn’t mine. Boys wear blue, play with toy cars, and play sports. I did neither, but I always envied my mother’s sparkly dresses and heels she would wear to church. Oftentimes, I would sneak into her closet and try them on when she was away. In the dark closet of her bedroom, I found joy in colorful expressions of gender.
Arriving at Capitol Hill was initially a culture shock for me. Amidst the grandeur and political fervor, I couldn’t help but notice the absence of others expressing themselves in the same hue as I do. Standing out in a sea of conformity brought with it a barrage of microaggressions and disdainful stares that made me feel embarrassed and out of place. Whether it was the peculiar glances in the bathroom or the mocking laughter in the cafeteria, I often felt like an outsider. The release of the Congressional Equality Caucus report, titled “Obsessed: House Republicans’ Relentless Attacks Against the LGBTQI+ Community in 2023,” shed light on the pervasive discrimination. Mark Pocan, the chair of the Equality Caucus, aptly remarked, “You expect bullies in school, but there are bullies walking the halls of Congress too.” In 2023 alone, House Republicans spearheaded over 50 anti-LGBTQI+ votes and introduced more than 55 discriminatory bills. Furthermore, anti-LGBTQI+ rhetoric permeated more than 40 committee hearings. Despite these challenges, I am grateful to be part of a resilient community that refuses to be silenced by hate. In the face of adversity, we stand united, finding strength and solace in each other’s love and support.
Embracing my identity as a queer person has afforded me a profound understanding of the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community. This journey has taught me the importance of acceptance, equality, and recognizing fundamental human rights for all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation. During my time on the hill, I aim to contribute to the ongoing efforts to protect LGBTQ+ rights, challenge discriminatory practices, and create an inclusive society where everyone can thrive without fear of prejudice or discrimination. Moreover, identifying as nonbinary has given me a unique lens through which to view the world. It has allowed me to question and challenge traditional gender norms, promoting a more colorful understanding of gender identity. I hope to stay true to myself by strutting through the halls in my colorful personality, leaving a trail of light and resilience behind me with every step.
