Beyond the City: Small Towns, Big Pride
Far and wide, we are witnessing a powerful expansion of queer representation – stories, voices, and identities once pushed to the margins now taking their rightful place in the spotlight. This growing visibility not only reflects progress, but also reminds us of the importance of inclusion, authenticity, and pride across cultures and communities. Across Northwestern Pennsylvania, from quiet farming towns to small river communities, there's a growing conversation about who belongs – and who gets to be seen. For too long and often, many people have associated queer people with living in the "big city," where visibility is woven into the culture. But the truth is, Queer people have always been part of rural America too – here in Erie County and elsewhere. And our stories deserve to be seen, heard, and valued right where we are. Join JES Raimy Fellow Dominic Gardunio as he discusses the broader challenges the LGBTQ+ community faces in rural America, and offers research-supported policy recommendations for building more inclusive communities.
Location: Zoom Webinar
Date/Time: Thursday, May 7th, 11:00AM-12:30PM
Admission: FREE
Dominic Chaves Gardunio is a rising leader for his community. A proud graduate of North East High School, he was raised by his single mother, who instilled the values of resilience, hard work, and ambition. Dominic’s lived experience fuels his commitment to building an inclusive community that works for everyone – not just for the privileged few. His current involvement in the political realm has been his driving force to focus on reconnecting to his community in North East, Pennsylvania, to grow and thrive into the next decade. Raised in the values of small town and his friendships is one of his humble things that he loves about North East. After high school he went off to college where he experienced different cultures and beings. During his first year at Kent State University, he met other queer students and saw a new community forging a path of acceptance to his inner thoughts. Returning home was a dreadful thought to him. Dominic thought he would have to bottle up his authentic self, because he knew his family and community wouldn’t understand. Many would cast judgment on his queer awakening in college. It wouldn’t be until 2022 when he found the courage to embrace his queerness and live his authentic life. In a big way, it was because he found a friend who understood and had sage advice to overcome the fears of coming out. Becoming a more passionate voice for equality and representation, Dominic found inspiration in other leaders from the city who are doing amazing work for the LGBTQIA community. Dominic knows what it means to search for belonging and to stand firm in who you are, even when it is not easy. That journey has given him a deep belief in visibility, representation, and the power of using your voice – not just for yourself, but for others who are still finding theirs. He knew running away from his childhood home was an easy way to move on, but it will be a disservice to the next generation if they must succumb to the same struggles. Dominic is driven by a simple mission: to ensure that every person – no matter their background or ZIP code – has a fair shot at success.
