As a wife, mother, and small business owner, I've witnessed firsthand the significance of community, connection, and resilience. My life's mission is to instill confidence in others and create inclusive spaces where everyone feels a sense of belonging. At Dapper Boi, we've crafted not just an inclusive clothing brand but a mission to empower individuals to embrace their true selves with confidence and pride.

In a Divided World, Resilience Shines

Building Confidence and Inclusivity

As a small business owner, I understand the profound impact that building confidence and inclusivity can have. My work at Dapper Boi is centered around creating an environment where people from all walks of life feel welcome and accepted. It's about providing clothing that not only looks good but also represents the diversity of the LGBTQ+ community. Through our brand, we aim to break down barriers and show that everyone has a place in this world.We've seen firsthand how our clothing has become a symbol of hope and empowerment for many. One customer shared how our designs gave them the confidence to come out to their family and friends. Another told us how our brand made them feel seen and valued for the first time. These stories remind us of the power that lies in our ability to create inclusive spaces and foster connections.

The Impact of Recent Elections

The recent election has brought a whirlwind of emotions and challenges for the LGBTQ+ community. My wife and I voted for leadership that values inclusivity and justice, hoping for a future where our children can grow up in safety and acceptance. However, the morning after the election, our six-year-old twin asked a heartbreaking question: "Will the new president make me have a daddy?"This question highlighted the fears and uncertainties that many LGBTQ+ families face in a world where our rights feel precarious. Policies that claim to uphold "values" often target our ability to live freely and love openly. As small business owners, these policies have a direct impact on our livelihoods. We don't have the luxury of big corporations to weather the storms; we rely on our communities and our resilience to keep going.But despite the challenges, I see so much strength in the LGBTQ+ community. People are rising up, creating spaces of love and acceptance, and continuing to build despite the odds. It's this resilience that gives me hope for a better future.

Facing Personal Struggles

I've had to face the difficult reality of family members voting for policies that directly harm LGBTQ+ people and families. It's not easy to reconcile these differences, especially when the outcome affects our rights and our ability to raise our children without fear. But I've learned that holding onto anger or withdrawing won't solve anything. Instead, we need to find ways to bridge the gaps and work together.Resilience is about choosing to show up for our communities, even when it's hard. It's about continuing to advocate for inclusion and fighting for the rights of all. Through my work at Dapper Boi, I strive to create a positive impact and show that love and acceptance can prevail.

Encouraging Others

To other LGBTQ+ small business owners and families, I want to say that you are not alone. Your work and your presence matter. Together, we have the power to create change and build a future where everyone belongs.Support the businesses that fight for representation and equality. Every act of support, every choice to buy with purpose, is a step towards a more inclusive world. Let our actions reflect our values and inspire others to do the same.In the end, I hold onto the belief that people are capable of goodness and growth. We have the power to come together and create a better future for ourselves and for generations to come.Subscribe to the LGBTQ Nation newsletter and stay informed about the latest developments shaping our communities. Let's continue to show up and make a difference.