10 Years of Marriage Equality

A Decade of Love and Progress

Where were you on June 26, 2015?

For me, it was a normal day at work. But that day changed history—it was the day same-sex marriage became legal across all 50 states in the U.S. We celebrated love, equality, and a hard-won victory for the LGBTQ+ community, activists, and everyone who believes in justice.

Two important rulings also led up to that day:

• Proposition 8, a law that once banned same-sex marriage in California, was finally overturned.

• DOMA (Defense of Marriage Act), which stopped the federal government from recognizing same-sex marriages, was struck down.

This wasn’t just a legal victory—it was a moment of joy, relief, and hope. But now, in 2025, things are changing—and not for the better.

The Fight Isn’t Over

President Trump is back in office. This time, his administration is doing more harm than ever. He’s pushing the idea that only male and female genders exist, and he’s pressuring companies to cancel their Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs.

Big companies like Walmart and McDonald's have pulled back their support, making it hard for Pride events to find sponsors. In my city, our local Pride parade almost got canceled. But thanks to our community, we raised over $30,000 and saved it.

Trump calls DEI programs “racist against white people.” But the truth is, these programs help people of all races, genders, and backgrounds get treated fairly. Diversity isn’t new. It’s always been here—we're just now asking the world to acknowledge and include us.

Respect Is Not Indoctrination

Treating people with respect and kindness is not a threat to your beliefs. It’s about having empathy.

Being kind to LGBTQ+ people doesn’t mean you're being “forced” to believe anything. It just means you’re human.

Calling someone by their correct pronouns doesn’t hurt you—it shows respect. It’s not about religion. It’s about decency.

Healthcare Is for Everyone

To doctors and nurses who refuse to treat trans people because of “religious beliefs,” let me be clear:

If you can’t provide care to those who need it, you should not be in healthcare.

You took an oath to “do no harm.” Turning away patients causes real harm—emotionally and physically.

Everyone deserves proper medical care—no exceptions.

To Those Who Oppose Us

If same-sex marriage doesn’t affect your life, why fight so hard to stop it?

Love is love. You can have your beliefs, but you don’t have the right to hurt others with them.

If someone’s happy and living their truth, let them be. You don’t have to like us—but you should respect our right to live. Spreading hate only causes pain and fear. And no one should be afraid to be who they truly are.

To Parents Who Can’t Accept Their LGBTQ+ Children

If your child comes out to you, your job is to love and support them, not shame or reject them.

If you can’t accept them, then you don’t deserve to call yourself their parent.

Real parents love unconditionally. If your child is LGBTQ+, that doesn’t make them wrong—it makes them brave.

And to those reading this who’ve been rejected: You are not alone.

You deserve love, respect, and safety. Find your chosen family—people who truly see you.

My Journey and My Promise

I came out in 2012. For years before that, I hid who I was. I was raised by Conservative parents who taught me to believe being gay was evil. But I changed. I learned to love, not hate. And I now fight for equality, safety, and dignity—for myself and others.

If caring about people makes me “woke,” then so be it. I will never stop speaking up against homophobia and transphobia.

We will not be silent. Our voices will grow louder.

Looking Forward with Hope

Marriage equality is beautiful. I’m not married yet—but I dream of finding that one special person and building a life with him. Everyone deserves that chance.

To all the couples out there—how long have you been together? How did you meet your true love? I’d love to hear your stories. They give me hope.

And if you enjoyed this story, please share it, support my work, and follow me for more.

Peace, love, and rainbows.