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)