We Belong

I’ll make this newsletter short. Travel with me.

On the airplane I watched Emilia Perez, a moving, culture-rich, gritty musical with incredible writing, intense cinematography, and powerful messaging.

I unplugged while I was in Spain these past two weeks, and what I can tell you is that humans of every size, shape, and color, were just as part of the community as anybody — visiting family-owned restaurant after family-owned tapas bar, eating a small plate and drinking big wine before moving to the next, spreading support and good cheer throughout Rioja.

And I read a fascinating book, “Paul Takes the Form of a Mortal Girl,” by the talented Andrea Lawlor. I am so grateful this book was recommended to me by an employee at A Room of One’s Own when I dropped off another five signed copies of my book.

All of the above experiences filled me with confirmation that we truly all belong. All of us beautiful, creative, innovative, talented, heart-wearing humans belong!

When I plugged into the US online society, it hurt.

I read stories of trans colleagues getting bullied and harassed.

I saw a client go back into the closet and create a LinkedIn profile under their dead name in an attempt to get a job since their trans profile isn’t getting them the career opportunities their old identity would.

I winced getting exposed to current day noise. Loud, raucous, unfortunate news.

And then I spoke with beautiful people in the marketing world in Brazil, Japan, China, Turkey… and there is concern for the state of the US.

On top of that, there is even more determination to teach women about their rights and how to speak up.

There is motivation to reach out to the LGBTQIA+ community and create safe space.

Hope shines through every face I see as their heart realizes that more of us stand for human rights, loving community, and positive impact than we are led to believe.

We choose radiant rebellion! (I want to make t-shirts or stickers or something!)

Let’s realign who is in our orbit, recalibrate our energy and focus, and do what we can to make an inclusive, supportive, life-building, diversity-embracing world.

Whatever we deny or embrace, for worse or for better, we all belong. We belong on this planet together.

Sending all the love and cathartic dance moves I can,

Laura Paisley Beck

PS- If you’re not In with Inclusivity, you’re Out of touch.

PSS- Madison humans, join me and other amazing people at The Social Change Forum, Thursday, March 6th.

PSSS- Much more coming in the next newsletter!