When my niece told me she was a lesbian, I was happy she trusted me. I’m a lesbian and I am out to my family, and that made her feel safe to share her truth.  

Her dad often says negative things about gay people. She isn’t ready to tell him or her mom yet, and that’s okay. But she knew I’d listen. We talked about how she feels, her crushes, and her worries. I told her my own stories so she’d know she isn’t alone.  

Being open about who I am helped her. Because I accepted myself, I could support her without doubt. Pride isn’t just a celebration—it’s living honestly, even when it’s hard. When we do that, others see it’s possible to be themselves too.  

I don’t know if she’ll tell her parents one day. But now she knows she has someone who supports her, no matter what. That’s what pride means to me: making space for others to be brave.