So this weekend, I had the pleasure of attending GLSEN's 2012 Students of Color Organizing Summit (SOCO). It was the first time (despite the many GLSEN events I have been to) I had been to SOCO. It was eye-opening for many reasons for me. Of course, as is the case with all GLSEN events, I learned so much and feel inspired and rejuvenated. However, this particular event connected me with an even more personal way than I could have ever imagined.
Months ago, when GLSEN Northern Virginia was invited to attend the Summit, I was thrilled that we were invited and figured I would be going as an ally once again. What I learned is that, for the first time at a GLSEN event, I wasn't just an ally. Thanks to the amazing student leaders as well as all of the adults allies, both identifying as people of color and Caucasian, I was finally able to identify something I never quite realized. I am a person of color. 20 years into my life, I have finally realized this. I now know why I never felt right in groups that were generally classified as Caucasian, or why I felt so offended when jokes were made about Latinos or people of Hispanic origin. I am a person of color. I keep saying it because it feels so good inside and feels so good to have it affirmed.
Sometimes, as allies, we have our own opportunities to come out. Yesterday, I came out as a person of color. I am Puerto Rican and I am proud of it. I can honestly say that now that I feel more like myself, I can be an even better ally.
To all the straight allies out there, sometimes stepping back and realizing groups that you fit into is so important. I encourage you to explore your own identities and find your own allies out there. I am so lucky to have found mine and I couldn't be more grateful.
Thank you to everyone who helped me find myself at the Students of Color Organizing Summit and thank you to all those out there who are allies to anyone in your life. You inspire me and keep me going every week.
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