In part 2 of my interview with Jonathan we delve more into the personal aspects that shape his EDI lens both personally and professionally. This episode is dedicated to his cousin Steven who has had a lasting impact on a family and will never know how he is changing the face of the world.
The importance of visibility is so important, and he discuss a family experience that has shaped his views and brought a family together to discuss and understand the importance of creating safe spaces with grace, patience, and love. While the journey of being first generation in a Latinx family and adding the queer experience is different for everyone his connection of straddling the two cultures while exploring the world for himself is shared amongst many Latinx people queer or not.
Conversations around colorism, racism, body image, and the power of words has been a journey. For many Latinx families these are not conversations we grow up discussing in a safe and loving way thus they can be challenging and dauting however need to happen. The fear of being disconnected from a family unit over discussing the intersectionality that is our complex selves are happening and changing the Latinx experience not just here in the US but around the world.
Connect with Jonathan via his LinkedIn
The Trevor Project – a resource for LGBT+ youth & families
National Suicide Prevention Center – multiple resources