In this blog series, we're happy to introduce you to members of the Library's Pride Team. Today, meet Kaitlyn S. (she/her/hers), who says, "We are human and not perfect, and we can grow together."
If you could be a superhero, who would you be?
If I picked anyone from a comic book, it would be Hannah from Rat Queens, who is “super,” but might not be a “hero” in the traditional sense of the word. I appreciate the grit and more realistic depiction of people and their flaws. (My quick answer is Wonder Woman depending on my audience.)
If you could be any LGBTQ+ character, who would you be and why?
Detective Rosa Diaz from Brooklyn Nine-Nine. She’s smart, tough, and has a dry sense of humor. I’m impressed by all the skills she possesses without flaunting them, and she displays a great love and loyalty to her friends while remaining enigmatic.
If you could send one message to LGBTQ+ people in our community, what would it be?
There are people who will love and accept you as you are, sometimes we have to move beyond our past selves and connections to find them.
What are your hopes for future generations of LGBTQ+ youth?
I hope future generations will experience more acceptance and less regulation of LGBTQ+ people and bodies in general.
Is there an LGBTQ+ activist who most inspires you? If so, who is it and why?
There are so many! My present day, well-known, and potentially controversial choice is RuPaul Charles. I’ve always been drawn to his steady promotion of self-acceptance and love, as well as his taste in old game shows and court TV. RuPaul’s Drag Race shows an evolution of thought and acceptance within the LGBTQ+ community. There were many cringe-worthy moments and segments in earlier seasons of the show that have been changed in future seasons and now we see fewer limitations on who is allowed to “compete”. To me, these shifts show continual growth and reflection, which I think is important to model; we are human and not perfect, and we can grow together.
What is your favorite color in the LGBTQ+ Pride Flag and why?
Purple! Mainly because it is one of my favorite colors. It represents Spirit in the pride flag. In the bisexual flag it represents attraction to multiple genders.
For how long have you been a member of the committee?
I’ve been on the committee for over 7 years. I attended two meetings before I was asked to become a co-chair, so I’ve also been a chair of the committee for 7 years. I am stepping down as the chair at the end of the year to allow new library staff the wonderful opportunity, but I’m sure I’ll still be supporting Pride no matter what I’m doing or what library I’m working at.
Why did you decide to join?
Once I was a full-time employee at the library, one of my library friends told me that she was in this great committee and that I should join! I started coming to meetings and met some wonderful people. I felt the work they were doing aligned with my personal goals and values, so I naturally wanted to be a part of that work.
What do you love most about your work on the committee?
I love working with other passionate staff members, who want to ensure Pima County’s LGBTQ+ community is supported and welcomed by the library. We’ve worked on some fabulous events together and have enjoyed each other’s company along the way. One of my favorite projects was our 20th Anniversary, Todd Parr in the Park event. It was an event for all age levels with bubbles, crafts, and a powerful message of acceptance and love.
What you are currently reading/recently read and what are some of your favorite books?
I’m currently taking classes using Universal Class (through Libby!), so I haven’t been reading much of late.
I really enjoy science fiction & fantasy, and some of my favorites are:
Rat Queens Vol. 1: Sass And Sorcery
