Ash’s Story

Hey, I’m Ash (they/them). I knew I was lg(b)t+ for as long as I’ve known what attraction is, and I was very non-conforming until society sort of beat it out of me when I entered my 20s and was faced with all of the expectations and boxes we’re challenged to stay in. I was in straight-passing relationships, got married, had a baby - but 2020 turned it all upside down.

I left my unhealthy marriage, cut off all my hair, shed myself of uncomfortably feminine clothing, and started exploring who I am instead of who I was expected to be. I identify as queer, non-binary, and ace. I am also passionate about mental health and I’m pursuing higher education to become a family therapist, I volunteer for The Trevor Project, and I’m also an inclusive photographer working on a non-profit project to boost LGBT+ voices through photography and storytelling.

Texas isn’t the most welcoming place for our community and for that reason I am so grateful for BC Pride and to finally know I’m not alone out here. They want to shut us out and go back in time with draconian laws, but I say let’s stand together and fight to move forward!

Published with permission from Ash.