Brandon Cartagena
Carrboro, NC
Brandon Cartagena lives in Carrboro, NC and is one of many LGBTQ residents cheering on the Town Council’s January 12 vote to enact LGBTQ-inclusive nondiscrimination protections. As an out gay man and a teacher, the nondiscrimination ordinances in Carrboro and at the county level in Orange County will bring him significant relief.
“I still remember the fear of coming out in the workplace, compounded with the shame of hiding aspects of who I am to avoid causing backlash,” Brandon said. “At the beginning of my career I used to hide when seen in public with my then-partner, or even lie about my relationship to him if questioned. I remember the discomfort I felt when students would ask me about my hobbies or weekend plans, afraid that my honest answers would easily set me apart as queer and lead to negative consequences.”
Brandon felt the need to go above and beyond to prove himself as professional. He sponsored clubs, presented at conferences, and designed new curricula. But the lack of nondiscrimination protections in his local community, in North Carolina overall, and at the federal level left him vulnerable in the workplace.
“For me, the LGBTQ protections that I have in Carrboro have given me a new sense of freedom. For the first time in my adult life, I feel that I can be my most authentic self in and out of the workplace without fear of retaliation. I feel that my students and colleagues know and accept me for who I am, and it is a joy to go to work every day.”
Now Brandon hopes to see steps forward in other North Carolina communities and at the national level. “If I ever have to take another job just a few miles down the road, I might have to go back to the life I had before,” he said. “Future generations are counting on us to build a culture that welcomes everyone, no matter who they are or who they love. We can build this kind of future together in North Carolina through policies that protect the most vulnerable. It’s time for bold, comprehensive action – all of NC is ready.”
Read Brandon’s op-ed in Chapelboro.com here. Then join Brandon in speaking out about the need for LGBTQ nondiscrimination protections in North Carolina by visiting our Take Action page and sending a message to your lawmakers.