“Being queer saved my life. Often we see queerness as deprivation. But when I look at my life, I saw that queerness demanded an alternative innovation from me. I had to make alternative routes; it made me curious; it made me ask, Is this enough for me?”– Ocean Vuong
As we move into 2025, let’s take a moment to reflect on the truth of this quote. Each of us has been called to something extraordinary. To be queer is to know what it means to step away from shame and fear and into the radical light of authenticity. It is to embrace ourselves fully, love without boundaries, and lead by example in a world that desperately needs courage, resilience, and connection.
You Are Enough—and More
For too long, many of us have been told that our queerness is a deficit, something to overcome or hide. But here’s the truth: your queerness is not a flaw; it is a superpower. It is the spark that ignites creativity, the lens through which you see the world differently, and the gift that enables you to create beauty, joy, and connection in ways others cannot.
As we move into 2025, know this: you are enough just as you are. You are not broken. You are not "too much" or "not enough." You are a beacon of light, showing others what it means to live authentically and boldly.
Called to a Higher Self
Ocean Vuong reminds us that queerness demands more of us—it asks us to innovate, to create new paths, and to imagine possibilities beyond what others can see. In many ways, this calling is sacred. By being true to ourselves, we show others what it means to live free.
We pave the way for others to leave behind shame and walk into their own light.
As we step into 2025, let’s remember that our queerness calls us to a higher self. Whether you are building a business, creating art, fighting for justice, or simply learning to love yourself more deeply, you are already a leader. Your courage inspires others.
Dream Bigger
2025 is the year to take on your dreams. To ask, as Vuong did, “Is this enough for me?” If the answer is no, this is your moment to imagine more. To build, create, and pursue the life you deserve.
This year, let’s dare to:
Speak our truths louder.
Create spaces where others feel safe and seen.
Show up for ourselves and our community with unwavering pride.
Take risks for the dreams that scare us the most.
Whether it’s finding your voice, starting a new chapter, or taking on a goal that feels impossible, know this: you are capable. You are powerful. And you are not alone.
Together in the Light
Queer Connect exists to remind every member of our community that they belong, that they matter, and that their voice is essential. As we walk into 2025, let’s celebrate the gift of queerness together. Let’s honor how far we’ve come and continue to light the path for others to follow.
Being queer saved your life—and it’s saving the world, one act of courage at a time.
This year, let’s step boldly into our dreams, knowing we are called to lead others out of the darkness of shame and into the light of authenticity. Together, we’ll build a brighter, braver, and more beautiful world.
Happy New Year, beautiful people. Let’s make 2025 the year we change everything.
Find your place, connect with your people, and take on the world. Explore the Queer Calendar and join us in celebrating the gift of queerness in all its forms.
So beautiful!!!