1
^
Humboldt LGBTQIA Community
With the LGBTQIA community in Humboldt growing, especially in the Cal poly Humboldt Area, what are local officials and legislation gonna do to ensure the safety of this community from hate crimes. This is a recurring problem in Humboldt and as an activist for LGBTQIA and BIPOC communities, I want answers.
— Reid Patrick Reid
Response
Julie Ryan
Hello Reid,
Thank you for your question and raising the important issue of creating a safe community where everyone can thrive.
First I would like to acknowledge the privilege of holding public office as many people with great leadership potential do not have the stability or support to do so. With privilege comes responsibility protect everyone’s civil rights, be transparent and lower barriers to participation in civic life, and make decisions that include the needs of marginalized and vulnerable people.
When I worked with homeless and runaway youth, I learned that 40% of all homeless youth in America identity as LGBTQIA. Thrown out by their parents, they are at at risk on the streets - and those who are at greatest risk of violence are transgender folks who outwardly do not conform to narrow expressions of gender. I also learned that LGBTQIA people struggle to find housing and jobs, especially when fair practice protections are not enforced. And yes, I have seen all of this first hand in Humboldt County.
Things I have done to support the local LGBTQIA community include starting Queer Prom over 10 years ago as a safe event for queer youth. It’s been great to see Queer Prom take on a life of its own as a safe fun affirming event. As a board member of a local organization, I helped update the transgender inclusion policy. Recently I was asked to join a group of friends to chaperone a drag show - not the attendees- but the sidewalk area as the event space had been harassed by a person with ties to white supremacy groups. I am always willing to be a safe peaceful person in the background when needed. Plus drag shows are cool. Prior to Covid-19 I was a member of the Humboldt Queer Dojo. And yes, I have attended many Pride events over the years and worked to elect ethical inclusive people to local offices.
I strive to be educated about about DEI because everyone deserves a safe welcoming community where we all have the opportunity to reach our potential without fear of violence or harassment. Over the years I have spoken up in workplaces, political forums, and community spaces.
Humboldt county has made progress in some fronts but not enough in others. It is going to take a community effort hold each other to a higher level of equity and decency. This work cannot be done by grassroots activists alone.
How does all this relate to the services HCSD provides? Often it is the poorest communities that lack clean water as evidenced on Native Reservations, Flint Michigan, and more recently Jackson Mississippi. Water is a basic human right and we should treat it as such.
Reid, I would like to hear what you want from elected officials. If you would like to talk further I can be reached at
Julie4HCSD@gmail.com
Thank you for your question.
Julie Ryan
https://www.facebook.com/JulieRyan4HCSD
← Follow