Messages of Pride for Derek
From chosen family, longtime friends, mentors, and allies. Add your voice, celebrate Derek’s journey, and leave a permanent note of love (glitter emoji strongly encouraged).
Send Derek Some Love
Your words will brighten his day (extra glitter optional)
Elena Rodriguez
Community Organizer & Colleague
"His presence in our youth mentorship program changed so many lives forever (and his snack table game is unmatched)."
Derek does not just speak about pride—he lives it as a sacred practice of radical welcome. When young people come into our community center frightened and alienated, Derek sits with them, listens with his whole heart, and makes them feel seen. He turns his past pain into someone else's shelter.
Marcus Vance
Best Friend & Chosen Brother
"Derek taught me what fierce, unshakable, absolutely fabulous courage looks like in real life."
Watching Derek navigate the darkest chapters of his life without losing his sweetness, his humor, or his generosity was nothing short of miraculous. When society tried to make him small, he stood taller. He has been my rock through my own struggles, and having him in my life is the greatest honor. Derek, we love you beyond words.
Rev. Dr. Clara Simmons
Inclusive Ministry Leader & Mentor
"Derek proves that dignity, spiritual peace, authentic truth, and a great outfit can never be erased."
Derek's journey is a sermon of pure grace and resilience. When institutions that claimed to teach love turned him away with bigotry, he chose a higher, more truthful road. He embodies the true meaning of pride: living fully, loving fiercely, and extending grace to the world.
Sam & Jordan Chen-Taylor
Close Friends & Neighbors
"A constant source of light, warmth, legendary dinner parties, and truly show-stopping playlists."
Derek is the heart of our neighborhood group. He brings warmth into every room he enters. To know Derek is to know kindness, quick wit, and a man whose capacity for love only grew deeper in the face of hardship. We are so endlessly proud of the life you've built, Derek!