Remember Javier? Let’s refresh your memory. From an early age Javier knew he was gay and while attending elementary school in Mexico he – like many of his classmates – had crushes on fellow students. The only difference was that he liked some of the boys… He didn’t realize why he was gay in a world that constantly shamed him and thinking about it only seemed to bring him more pain. It gnawed at him so much that he attempted to end his life at the young age of 13.
Fragile, but alive and still struggling to accept himself, Javier found the Center – a place that finally felt like home and re-assured him that there was so much more to live for. Then, Javier learned about Sacramento Pride. Like a sign from above, or perhaps, a reflection of his blossoming, Javier found himself wanting to live. And with a new dream.
Despite his depression at a young age, Javier grew to love himself each new day. And the Center stood by him reminding him of the longer term game – to live live to the fullest, uninhibited, and free. And when we started to recruit local entertainment for Sacramento Pride a couple years ago, we were shocked to find Javier’s application.
We were honored and privileged to have Javier grace the stage with his new dream. We knew that he wasn’t just safe or welcome. We were confident that he was thriving.
” I’ve never performed in public like this before so this is a big deal. I usually sing in the shower, in my studio, or my car. This was crazy for me, I got to be on TV for the first time and connect then with a live audience at pride. It was an overall amazing experience and I saw the impact it created after I got off stage.” – Javier (aka Jay Godi)
And it doesn’t stop here. Javier joined us again in 2019 and has plans to launch his first ever album debut at Sacramento Pride 2020. Even more, Javier joined our year long Queer Voices performance group to take his show on the road with countless others just like him.
Don’t forget to tune into our Facebook Live broadcasts and see for yourself why you should give this #GivingTuesday. Unique airings start at 7 a.m., 12 p.m., 4 p.m., and 8 p.m. Join us this #GivingTuesday and support your local LGBTQ+ center.