Take Pride! Celebrate the diversity, resilience, and spirit of all communities

 - From Kris Williams
   Executive Director
   Other Options and Friends Food Pantry

As we begin Pride Month, I want to take a moment to reflect on the strength, resilience, and compassion that define both our HIV pantry at Other Options and the 2SLGBTQ+ community we proudly serve. I also want to personally reflect on the struggles, triumphs and emotions that have come with this journey.

I was 22 in 1992, my senior year in college, and watching MTV’s The Real World, like every young person. When they introduced Pedro Zamora, we were all shocked, but in the best way possible! Who was this guy? He’s gay and has HIV and talking about it? My young, still closeted, lesbian heart felt seen, and my friends with HIV felt seen. We watched Pedro fall in love! We watched him teach an entire generation about HIV and reduce stigma in a way that no one else had ever done! And then, we watched him get sick… And then, we lost Pedro.

I’ve never cried while writing a newsletter, but remembering him and his life really hit me hard. He was my age; an HIV Educator, and he was gay. He was a trailblazer and did it with so little time left on this earth. And I will forever remember Pedro’s life and the influence he had on my generation. From the bottom of my heart, thank you, Pedro.

In remembering those like Pedro, remember that Pride Month is a celebration of progress, visibility, and love. However, it is also a reminder of the ongoing challenges many people still face. So please join me in honoring the advocates, activists, and community leaders who fought for the rights and healthcare access that many of us benefit from today. Find your Pedro and thank them for their courage in paving the way for organizations like ours.

We also recognize that the work is not finished. Together, we must continue building a community where every person feels safe, valued, and supported.

On behalf of our entire organization, we thank you for being a part of this mission. During Pride Month and throughout the year, we celebrate the diversity, resilience, and spirit of all communities. We believe everyone deserves to be seen, respected and celebrated! So, let your rainbow shine!

With gratitude and Pride,
Kris

For information about Other Options and Friends Food Pantry or to donate, visit www.OtherOptionsOKC.org.