Coming Out as a True Red, White & Blue Latino

As a Gay Latino documentary filmmaker, educator and feminist, I was producing my own documentary on what it means to be Latina in the U.S.A. entitled, "Latina Confessions." While casting for Latinas at a national conference of Latino producers in LA, a male responded to my casting call and stated, "Why not interview us Latino gays? We have a story to tell also!" Not being one to reject people easily, I invited him to come in for an interview. What followed was an enlightening experience as I heard him say, as well as a Latina lesbian I interviewed for the actual documentary reiterate, "I belong to three worlds: I am Latino, I am in the U.S. and I am gay." I was struck by the simplicity of the statement and how it reflected my life also. This was a subtle, yet seminal moment in my life as a social reformer who advocates for Latinos, Blacks, Women, Urban Youth, LGBTQ youth and children with disabilities. I clearly heard my identity called and want to expand the net to others in this country like me.

Please share your story in English, Spanish or Spanglish of what it means to be Latino, born or living in the U.S. and to be Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender or Questioning. There's quite a community of us and TIO LOUIE would like to hear your comments, observations or questions -- we're in it together. BIENVENIDO!