Beyond the Ballot Box: Continuing the Fight for Dignity and Justice

Taking Care of Ourselves and Each Other

Self-care is not an indulgence—it’s a necessity. We must prioritize mental, emotional, and physical wellness, so that we can stay strong and resilient. Here are a few ways to stay grounded and connected:

1. Stay Connected to Loved Ones and Allies: Reach out to people who understand and support you. Whether it’s a friend, a family member, or a support group, maintaining connections can provide emotional strength and comfort.

2. Set Boundaries with Media: Limit exposure to distressing news if you need to. Stay informed, but don’t let constant updates overwhelm you. Take breaks when necessary and come back to the news when you’re ready.

3. Seek Support Services: For those who need emotional support but prefer alternatives to traditional emergency services, reach out to LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC mental health resources. Many organizations provide crisis support, peer counseling, and community healing circles.

You can access our empowerment guide at https://liveinyourtruth.org/safetyguide for support services and safety tips.

Taking Action in Ways That Feel Right for You

Action can take many forms, and it’s essential to recognize that every act—no matter how small—makes a difference. Here are ways to turn your emotions into meaningful steps:

1. DO YOU!: Feel your feelings—love, cry, laugh! Give yourself grace and live your most authentic and best life.

2. Engage in Advocacy Where You Are: You don’t need to be in a position of power to make an impact. Share your voice on social media, support petitions, attend local community meetings, and amplify causes you believe in.

3. Educate and Organize with Those Around You: Radical allyship starts with the people closest to us. Educate friends, family, and peers about the issues affecting marginalized communities, and encourage them to join efforts for justice and equality.

4. Hold Elected Officials Accountable: Stay informed about policies and decisions impacting marginalized communities, and connect with local representatives. Send emails, make calls, and demand accountability. Remind them that they work for the people—all people.

5. Prioritize Mutual Aid and Community Resources: Mutual aid networks provide a lifeline in times of crisis. Look for mutual aid initiatives in your area, whether it’s helping distribute food, offering skills, or supporting emergency funds for those in need.

Staying Safe in Changing Environments

It’s natural to feel concerned about safety during times of heightened political and social tension. Here are some practical steps for staying secure:

1. Know Your Local Resources and Safe Spaces: Familiarize yourself with safe locations and supportive spaces in your area. This could be a community center, a friend’s home, or local support organizations.

2. Build an Emergency Contact Network: Identify people you can reach out to in emergencies. Share contact information and establish a plan with trusted friends or family members.

3. Carry Important Documents and Emergency Supplies: If you anticipate being in areas where protests or high tensions may occur, carry essentials, emergency contacts, and basic first-aid supplies. Know your rights and stay aware of your surroundings.

I cannot say this enough to my 2SLGBTQIA+ Family, you haven’t met all of the people who are going to love you yet! You absolutely belong! And remember to always live in your truth!

In love, joy, and solidarity,

Phillip Alexander Downie (he/him)

Email me at pad@mocopridecenter.org to say hello!

Together in Resistance: Standing Firm for LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, and Marginalized Communities!

We see you! The Montgomery County Pride Family sees you! Trans Maryland, Live In Your Truth, Maryland Trans Unity, and all of our coalition members are here for you!

We feel what you are going through, because this fight has always been personal. But in the face of uncertainty, we must remember that while we feel, we also fight, and that looks different for everyone. This is not just an isolated moment—it is the continuation of a long struggle that has shaped our resilience.At Live In Your Truth, the MoCo Pride Center, and the Montgomery County Pride Family, we see you! We hear you! We feel what you are going through, because this fight has always been personal. But in the face of uncertainty, we must remember that while we feel, we also fight, and that looks different for everyone. This is not just an isolated moment—it is the continuation of a long struggle that has shaped our resilience.

While some may try to undermine us, to silence our voices, or to erase our existence, we will not be moved. We will continue to fight for our communities, our loved ones, and the future generations who deserve to live with dignity, respect, and freedom. We are committed to standing firm against bigotry, oppression, and all forms of hate. 

A Commitment to Fight for You

Our duty is to support our communities, not just with words, but with meaningful, unwavering action. This election doesn’t mark the end of the road—it is simply one more chapter in a long history of struggle. We will continue to fight for your rights. We will continue to hold those in power accountable. We will demand justice for our communities—LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, and all marginalized individuals.

This fight is not limited to the ballot box. We will work tirelessly with local elected officials to create grassroots change and ensure that policies reflect the needs and dignity of our people. We will press our state and federal representatives to pass laws that protect bodily autonomy, fight white supremacy, and create a more just world for all of us.

We Are Here, and We Will Not Back Down

We know the fight ahead will be difficult, but we are stronger than the forces that seek to divide and oppress us. We are not waiting for a savior—we are building our own power. We are standing together in the face of adversity, drawing strength from our shared history and values. We will uplift each other, we will care for one another, and we will keep fighting, no matter the obstacles that arise.

You are not alone in this battle. And you do not have to carry the weight of change on your shoulders alone. We are in this together, and we will provide the resources, support, and community necessary to navigate this moment. We will offer spaces for healing, for action, and for the collective empowerment of our communities.

Action and Support, No Matter What

While we continue to fight for a better future, it’s important that we also take care of ourselves and each other in the present. We understand that many are experiencing overwhelming emotions right now, and it’s essential to have resources that support mental health and well-being.

If you need support, reach out to those who understand the challenges you face. Seek out safe spaces, access mental health resources, and connect with peers who can offer solace and solidarity.

And if you are ready to take action, we will be right beside you—guiding, supporting, and empowering you every step of the way. We are committed to making sure that every individual, no matter their financial means, has access to the tools, education, and training necessary to fight for justice.

Together, we will continue to build the future we deserve—a future where our identities are not just tolerated, but celebrated. A future where everyone, regardless of race, gender, or sexual orientation, has the right to live freely, safely, and with dignity.

On a personal note, to my friends and family: I’m always here as a safe space for you. If you are committed to learning and standing against all forms of bigotry, we’re on this journey together. But if you choose to reject education and empathy, please understand that I cannot support or share space with any actions that undermine humanity and justice. The work now is anti-oppression, and that’s the path I’m on.

In solidarity and commitment to our shared struggle,

Phillip Alexander Downie (he/him)

Voting IS Harm Reduction

As we approach another critical election season, we are reminded once again that voting is not just a right—it is a form of harm reduction for those most affected by systems of oppression, bigotry, and discrimination. Voting is a powerful tool that gives us the ability to protect ourselves and our communities, including the LGBTQIA+ community, communities of color, women, and all those who continue to fight for equity and justice in the face of systemic barriers.

As a non-profit leader, I speak from a place of deep care for the communities I serve. We work every day to uplift marginalized voices and demand that our humanity be recognized and valued. Voting allows us to amplify those voices, to elect individuals who will acknowledge and act on our needs. The leaders we choose have the power to create laws and policies that either uplift our communities or further entrench inequities. This is why voting matters—especially at the local level, where decisions on education, healthcare, policing, and housing directly affect our day-to-day lives.

Voting as Harm Reduction

In an ideal world, we wouldn’t have to speak about elections in terms of harm reduction, but the reality is stark. LGBTQIA+ rights, reproductive rights, racial justice, and so many fundamental human rights are at stake with every election. Harm reduction means electing individuals who may not be perfect but who understand the importance of equity, inclusion, and justice. It means choosing representatives who we can collectively hold accountable, who we can work with to ensure that our communities are seen, heard, and respected.

We must vote for leaders who value our humanity and are willing to fight for our rights. This is particularly true when it comes to electing individuals who will push back against harmful policies that strip away protections from LGBTQIA+ people, women, and other vulnerable populations. Even when we don’t agree with a candidate on every issue, we can work with those who are at least open to dialogue and willing to listen to our concerns.

Local Elections: Where Change Begins

Many of us focus on national elections, but local elections are where much of the real change happens. Local leaders shape policies that impact everything from access to healthcare to school curriculums to police practices. Electing local officials who align with our vision of equity and inclusion can significantly shift the landscape in our favor. For instance, local governments can protect LGBTQIA+ people from discrimination in employment and housing, ensure that schools are inclusive and safe for all students, and provide funding for essential community services.

The decisions made by county executives, city council members, and school boards directly affect our lives. We need leaders in these roles who will uphold the values of justice, fairness, and inclusion. These local elections offer us the opportunity to elect people who will advocate for us when it matters most—people who we can count on to see our humanity, hear our voices, and push for policies that improve the lives of those most vulnerable in our communities.

Accountability and the Collective Voice

Voting is not just an individual act—it is a collective statement of our values as a community. When we vote, we are not just electing a person; we are asserting our right to be recognized and to have our humanity validated. By voting together, we create the possibility of holding leaders accountable, ensuring that they work toward a society where everyone, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, race, or socio-economic status, is treated with dignity and respect.

At times, we may find ourselves voting for someone with whom we don’t fully agree, but who is open to the possibility of learning, listening, and being held accountable. This, too, is harm reduction. It is a strategy of working within the system to ensure that harmful policies do not pass and that those who would strip away our rights are kept out of power.

Voting for Your Bodily Autonomy

Fundamentally, voting is about ensuring that our bodies and our rights are respected. For LGBTQIA+ people, the right to live authentically is at stake. For women, the right to control their own bodies is continually under attack. For communities of color, the right to live free from the threat of violence, systemic racism and oppression is an ongoing struggle. All of these rights intersect, and voting is one of the most effective ways to defend them.

We must vote to ensure that those who refuse to see our humanity are not given the power to decide our futures. We must elect leaders who will stand up for human rights, who will protect the right to bodily autonomy, and who will fight to ensure that every person is afforded the dignity and respect they deserve.

How to Register to Vote

If you haven’t yet registered to vote, it’s not too late to make your voice heard! Though online registration has closed, you can still register during early voting or on Election Day.

• Register during early voting: Visit an early voting center in your county with proof of residence, such as a license, ID, bank statement, or utility bill. Find your early voting center here.

• Register on Election Day: Bring proof of address to your designated polling place and register on-site. Find your polling place here.

• Update your address: You can update your address during early voting or on Election Day by voting provisionally at your new polling location. Find your new polling place here

Request a mail-in ballot by October 31st: Click here to submit your request.

Let Your Voice Be Heard

Voting is your chance to make a difference, not just for yourself but for your community and for future generations. Let’s ensure that the leaders we elect will work for a more just, inclusive, and compassionate society—one that values all of us, in all our diversity. Your vote is your voice—make sure it’s heard! You matter, you belong, and remember to always live In your truth!

In love, joy, and solidarity,

Phillip Alexander Downie (he/him)

Email me at pad@mocopridecenter.org to say hello!

Phillip Alexander Downie is the Executive Director of Live In Your Truth, and the Chief Executive Officer of Montgomery County Pride Family, MoCo Pride Center, Inc.

A Vision for Inclusivity: Phillip Alexander Downie’s First Message as CEO

Hello, Montgomery County!

My name is Phillip Alexander Downie, and I am deeply honored to introduce myself as the inaugural Chief Executive Officer of the MoCo Pride Center and Montgomery County Pride Family. As a long-time advocate for human rights and a passionate organizer in the LGBTQIA+ community, I am thrilled to take on this role and continue our mission of serving, uplifting, and empowering our community members who are most underserved, marginalized, and disenfranchised.

My journey in activism began with a simple yet profound belief that everyone deserves to live authentically and be celebrated for who they are. This belief has guided my work, from creating safe spaces and advocacy programs to producing award-winning local television content. It is a joy showcasing our fabulous intersectional community's rich diversity.

Alongside historic pride events with Montgomery County Council Member Evan Glass in 2019, I had the privilege of reintroducing a county-wide pride in Montgomery County, featuring a diverse lineup of LGBTQIA+ artists and performers. Working with the incredible trans activist Miss Peppermint as our headliner, we ensured the bold representation of black trans women, setting the stage for future events celebrating our community's strength and diverse beauty.

I have had the best community partners in creating inclusive programs and spaces for our most marginalized communities! Through these partnerships, as board chair of MoCo Pride Center, inc., I galvanized local LGBTQIA+ service, support, and arts & culture organizations to create the Montgomery County Pride Family. I served as a Co-Chair on the Montgomery County Anti-Hate Task Force, where we delivered comprehensive recommendations to fight hate and bias incidences within our communities. In April 2024, I was elected the first Chief Executive Officer of the MoCo Pride Center and Montgomery County Pride Family. This appointment is not just a personal milestone but a testament to the collective effort of countless advocates, community members, and allies who believe in the power of unity and inclusivity.

As CEO, I will work to ensure that Montgomery County, Maryland, has the services and programs necessary to support our most underserved, marginalized, and disenfranchised communities. This includes leading and expanding initiatives such as our linkage to wellness programs, LIYT Nights & Drag Duels—where every aspect is cultivated to empower our most vulnerable community members. Our programs are not just stunning series of shows with phenomenal entertainment; they also authentically represent marginalized communities in local media, allowing individuals to see themselves reflected in the programs they engage with! Of equal importance is the eclectic mix of free services and wellness resources offered in our programs, focusing on serving those who need it most. All of this in a safe and affirming environment. We partner with government programs, NGOs, and community-oriented businesses to combat ongoing epidemics. These include: Fighting Opioid overdoses, combating hate and bias within our schools and communities, providing culturally competent trainings, providing HIV and STI education and prevention resources, name and gender marker change services, Trans and Nonbinary support groups, expungement clinics, resources for returning citizens, food and housing insecurity resources, inclusive multilingual family literacy programs, affirming diverse faith and spiritual resources, affirming safe spaces, and more.

One of my proudest accomplishments is our 2024 Emmy-nominated and Gold Telly Award-winning local TV show and linkage to wellness program series, LIYT Nights & Drag Duels, which returns to Veterans Plaza in Downtown Silver Spring on Friday, May 31st, and Friday, June 21st. Join us for these fabulous, free, amazing events! 

In this, I would like to acknowledge my  Black, Indigenous, POC, Intersectional Queer siblings. My Trans, Non-binary, and gender-expansive siblings, and all of my LGBTQIA+ community members and families, I see you, WE SEE YOU! And WE PRIORITIZE YOU! 

Live In Your Truth (LIYT) creates comprehensive linkage to wellness programs, affirming safe spaces, events, media, and employment opportunities for intersectional Black, LGBTQIA+, and IPOC underserved communities throughout Montgomery County, MD, and the DMV, where everyone is welcome! LIYT is HERE FOR YOU! 

Maryland Trans Unity leads in-person and virtual support groups at accessible locations in Montgomery County, MD., FOR YOU! 

Trans Maryland and the incredible Director, Mx. Lee Blinder (they/them), who also serves as Chair of the Maryland LGBTQIA+ Commission, is here for YOU! Under the direction of Mx. Lee Blinder, Trans Maryland is an integral program partner and leads Trans Maryland's peer-to-peer name and gender marker change program. They continue to develop safe spaces, both virtual and in-person, and facilitate a weekly Trans Maryland support group. They often serve as a central intake person for displaced trans and queer youth, but need your support!

Additionally, Trans MD works to expand vital partnerships with local trans and gender-affirming organizations, families, and individuals. In our legislatures, Trans Maryland leads and organizes to ensure legal protections for all of our gender-diverse, trans, and non-binary community members. As I said, we are HERE FOR YOU!

These programs, alongside other initiatives like MoCo Pride Prom (taking place on June 1st at the Silver Spring Civic Center), the Pride Center’s longest-standing program that has been exponentially grown by its Chairperson, Janine Raucher (she/her), since she founded the program alongside other community members and LGBTQIA+ families nearly a decade ago; and Drag Story Hour DMV, aim to uplift and empower every community member. 

Speaking of Drag Story Hour DMV, Beth DiGregorio (they/them) is doing phenomenal work! This intergenerational multilingual literacy program continues to serve as a beacon of community inspiration and a fun exploration of family reading time. It desensitizes individuals to gender-expansive and diverse community members through the art of Drag! Check out Drag Story Hour monthly at Loyalty Book Store in Silver Spring, Maryland, and throughout the DMV and Baltimore. Follow Drag Story Hour DMV here! 

I am deeply committed to working closely with our Pride Family partners and Board of Directors to secure funding and resources that ensure the success of our programs—collaborating with experts in sociology, medicine, and gender/sexuality diversity. We offer cultural competency training internally and with partner organizations, fostering a broader understanding and acceptance of LGBTQIA+ individuals.

As we advance in solidarity, we will continue building on our successes and expanding our reach. Together, we can create a more inclusive Montgomery County where everyone feels valued and supported. I am excited about the future and our opportunity to make a lasting impact.

Thank you for always welcoming me into this incredible community. I look forward to working with all of you to make Montgomery County a beacon of personal authenticity, inclusivity, and joy.

In love, joy, and solidarity,

Phillip Alexander Downie (he/him)

Email me at pad@mocopridecenter.org to say hello!