Before I even understood my own sexuality, I remember receiving unwelcome comments from high school administrators who said my partner and I were “too close for comfort.” In 2012, my coming out story was met with disbelief; many people told me, “I didn’t know you were like that.” I was told I couldn’t hold hands with my partner in school, and teachers and administrators would give us disapproving, disgusted looks when we kissed.  

Queer visibility can be lifesaving and life-changing within the Mexican-American community, since there’s often judgmental narratives such as “como aquellos” or “esa gente” (those people) which is deeply alienating. As a Queer Chicana, I navigate both worlds and cultures, striving to adapt and integrate into both. This can be challenging while living in the borderlands of Texas. However, through open and honest conversations about gender and sexuality with loved ones and community, we can create a safer community for all.  

Queer Chicanas have always been here, and our stories are now being told. Some of my favorite storytellers include Gloria Anzaldúa, the Jotx and Recuerdos podcast, and South Texas local drag queen Kween Beatrix.  

Writings from Gloria Anzaldúa have influenced and guided me towards a more ancestral path in understanding my queerness. Her exploration of “self and other” in her book Light in the Dark states “we are all strands of energy connected to each other in the web of existence.” [1] 

Storytelling is a vital aspect of our culture, and the podcast Jotx and Recuerdos focuses on preserving the stories of the queer community in South Texas. I have also loved following Kween Beatrix, a drag queen who has made significant contributions to the borderlands community through her vibrant performances and activism including organizing charity events and fundraisers. [2,3] 

Below are some additional community organizations that provide resources in Texas for queer folks, and a sampling of what they offer: 

Equality Texas 

• Legal resources 
• LGBTQ+ food pantries and financial assistance 
• Youth & family resources  
• Support and crisis hotlines
  • Text START to 741-741 
  • Call 1-800-273-8255

The Transgender Education Network of Texas 

• Resources for Parents of Transgender Kids 
• Resources for Texas Trans Youth 
• TransSafe education program 
• Trans Lifeline 877-565-8860 

Organizacion Latina Trans in Texas 

• Temporary Housing  
• Gender affirming care 
• LGBTQ+ Support Group 
• Survivors of Sexual Assault and Human Trafficking Support Group   
• HIV+ Care 
• Food Assistance 
• Call 713-485-4414 for services 

Borderland Rainbow Center 

• LGBTQ+ sensitivity training for clinicians, staff, and students 
• Weekly peer support groups 
• Food pantry 
• HIV health services 
• Deaf services 
• Volunteer with them 

Under The Umbrella  

• Trans support and conversations about creating safe spaces 
• Apply to the mentorship program 
• You can volunteer with them, by simply sending a direct message on Instagram 

South Texas Equality Project 

• RGV LGBTQ+ Support Group 
• Trans Parent RGV Support Group 
• Youth Initiative Scholarships  

Valley Aids Council 

• Free HIV/STI Testing including at home kits via mail 
• Free condoms & Harm Reduction kits 
• PEP and PreP  

Casa Orgullo RGV 

• LGBTQ+ Youth Resource Center  
• Hosts a series of educational/recreational activities for the community 

Queerness is a continual journey of self-exploration and community-building, and one I am happy to be on. We can celebrate our unique identities through acceptance, advocacy, and community support.  

Sources: 

1. Anzaldúa, G., & Keating, A. (2015). Light in the dark = luz en lo oscuro: Rewriting identity, spirituality, reality. Duke University Press.
2. https://www.npr.org/2019/02/26/697958528/texas-dragtavist-drag-queens-stage-border-wall-protest 
3. https://www.valleycentral.com/news/local-news/drag-queen-book-reading-gains-support-from-city-and-petitioners/