Eva Galindo defines her sole mission as working hard for her community so her community won’t have to work so hard for their rights.
A fresh start
Five years after beginning her transition, Galindo arrived in Arizona determined to “thrive and be herself,” as well as start a new, more meaningful career within the Phoenix LGBTQ+ community.
Growing up in a small town in Michigan, her path as a transgendered woman had been a difficult one, but after attending her first Pride festival, Galindo was encouraged to discover the resources such events offered and how they could make an important contribution to the lives of those who attended. She is now the Director of Programs for Phoenix Pride.
“Pride is an opportunity for people to come together and to be able to celebrate their differences, but also their similarities, to be able to be proud of who they are with no judgment, only acceptance, and only love,” Galindo said. “But more importantly, it’s also a place for people to come together and get strength and guidance and support for themselves.”
Changing perceptions
Galindo’s approach to changing negative perceptions of the LGBTQ+ community stresses increasing the level of understanding. Rather than attempting to persuade people, she focuses on educating them so they can make informed decisions.
“I think that it’s got to start with us, and it’s got to start within our own circles, in our own families, and educating each other and educating the individuals around us and allowing people to be who they are so that they can thrive and contribute to society,” Galindo said.
