Today, Madison M. is out and proud as a bisexual woman, but being her authentic self wasn’t always easy for the ACC-Los Angeles surgical technology student.
Growing up in a conservative religious family, Madison said she grappled with the discord between her identity and societal norms. Amidst bullying and misconceptions, Madison found solace in her supportive circle and the vibrant embrace of the city of Los Angeles.
“I grew up [religious] in a very conservative part of LA. My identity was hardly accepted by my community, and I always felt alone. I was always either bullied or sexualized, and girls didn't want to be friends with me because they thought I was going to try to pursue them,” she said. “It wasn't until I left my area and moved into the city that I started to feel accepted. Luckily, I had very supportive family and friends who helped me to feel validated in my identity. Now, I am a proud bisexual woman!”
As someone who has struggled with her own identity, Madison encourages other LGBTQ+ people to be themselves and trust they’ll always be understood.
“No one can tell you how to be you. There will always be a community of people out there who will understand you. You are never alone!”
When asked about what makes her proud to be a part of the LGBTQ+ community, Madison acknowledged the hardships of the many activists and changemakers who came before her.
“I am proud of all the struggles my community has had to face throughout history and how we were able to rally together to advocate for ourselves. We are so strong! I will be celebrating [Pride] this year by honoring all the advocates who came before me and speaking up for those who are still being oppressed.”
According to Madison, building an atmosphere of acceptance and inclusion starts with being known.
“Society as a whole is struggling with [the notion of acceptance and inclusion]. Let us be known and proud and celebrate outwardly without being silenced or made to feel like we're being pushed into a corner.”
Regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, Madison wants everyone around her to know one thing: “You are loved by so many people!”
