At The Center on Colfax, our work is grounded in the stories and experiences of the people who make up our vibrant community. During our Fall event, Afterglow, DeMarcio asked attendees to reflect on the transformative power of connection. These heartfelt conversations reveal a shared belief that visibility and belonging are key measures for LGBTQ+ people to thrive. Every story shared reminds us of the progress we’ve made and the ongoing work that keeps us pushing forward together.
Queer Visibility is an Act of Resistance
There is power in seeing yourself reflected in the world around you. When you grow up in a small, conservative town of 8,000 people, visibility can encourage liberation. It’s an act of resistance that can make a distant dream become reality.
David Kugler speaks firsthand about how important representation is in building empowerment. “At the federal level, they’re trying to get rid of LGBTQ+ protections, especially toward trans folks,” he explained. “The work that The Center does in terms of creating events like Pridefest — one of the the biggest in the country — that kind of visibility is so important.”
Belonging Builds Community
Belonging is the glue that holds a community together. At The Center, we value creating vital spaces with a mission that is both simple and profound: you’re welcome here. These community members illustrate what that truly means; how every person can come as they are and know that they belong.
“We have programming centering around people just coming together and being able to voice how they feel without judgment,” Terwanda McMoore shares. “It’s a place to remind each other that, ‘Hey, we’re in this together.’”
Safe Spaces for Queer Youth to Thrive
In times of uncertainty, The Center stands as a safe place for the next generation of LGBTQ+ leaders to find their authenticity. Matthew Sheik believes this work begins with empowering queer youth.
“The Center offers a really excellent space for queer youth,” he said. “Especially in this political climate, a space for young queer people to just enjoy themselves and not have to fear how they’re perceived is probably the most important thing The Center offers.”
As The Center approaches 50 years, our work continues with the same conviction: Queer liberation is for everyone. We owe it to our community and countless others that choose to show up, speak out, and build together day after day. Each act of care fuels our movement forward — we are the ones we have been waiting for.