I truly believe in the unconditional love and inclusion that the colors of the rainbow represent

I am a strong supporter and believer in the NOH8 Campaign! I live my life as best I can with this principle.

As a young Black man, growing up in the Bronx, New York, going through catholic elementary and high school, I was accustomed to “closets” and “keeping it to myself”. As I grew older, I questioned why those closet doors applied to me and not to anyone else. I also questioned why I was being told to hate something for which I didn’t understand the reason. I began to see that that something was who I was…who I am. Quickly, I began to see that those institutions that preached love only meant on conditional terms, and not those terms I’ve come across in text, where Jesus said, “Love one another as I have loved you”.

I posed with my wristbands. I wear both every day I go to work, not because I want to “shove my agenda down their throats”, but because I truly believe that “LOVE CONQUERS HATE” and I truly believe in the unconditional love and inclusion that the colors of the rainbow represent. I also believe in visibility. I will not cower or hide behind some facade anymore just because “society” doesn’t approve.

I think my photo…and this campaign…above all, promotes visibility and awareness, something the LGBT community and allies really need…something I truly needed!!

Thank you, NOH8!!

~Henry M Benison