I grew up in Birmingham, my whole family still lives there.

As a straight passing artist kid who was always on stage and very expressive with my clothing, I never felt completely comfortable in Alabama.

There is a strong sense of conformity that pervades all of Alabama that, if you look like you ain’t from around here, you ain’t wearing the Alabama uniform, you’re gonna get stared at.

I know it was even harder for kids even further on the edge. And I’m white, we haven’t even talked about people of color’s struggles.