Members of the MA Pride group from Monmouth Academy march in the Hallowell Pride 2024 parade June 1. Amy Calder/Morning Sentinel file

As LGBTQ+ Mainers and allies gather to recognize National Coming Out Day Oct. 11, we do so knowing that much of our progress is at risk. We also gather with hope, determination, and a fierce commitment to protecting what we’ve created together. This year, it is more important than ever to show up to send a clear message against the threats to equality.

National Coming Out Day is a reminder of our history and our strength. It’s a tribute to the generations of LGBTQ+ people who fought, sacrificed, and never gave up on the dream of living openly and authentically. The LGBTQ+ community is one of the strongest, most resilient, and most active forces in the face of hate and bigotry.

So many of us remember the struggles that came before us — the marches, the protests, the quiet moments of courage when someone chose to be themselves despite the risks. We honor those who stood on the frontlines and faced discrimination, violence, and rejection, all while paving the way for future generations. Their resilience inspires us to continue the fight.

We’ve made significant strides here in Maine, but we know the fight is far from over. Because of the historic work of so many people in our state, over the last forty years, we’ve worked to secure marriage equality, protect our rights in the workplace, and ensure that our youth can grow up in environments that celebrate their identities rather than stifle them.

Let’s not forget: our progress is fragile. In recent years, we’ve seen a rise in anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric and policies here in Maine and across the nation. From attempts to erase our existence in schools to threats against our rights, it’s clear that we must remain vigilant.

When they come for us, we rise stronger. When they try to divide us, we come together even tighter. By sharing our authentic selves while knowing everyone can’t do the same, we provide strength and cover for those who can’t.

Now we all know what’s at stake in this election in November. The choice is obvious. We have one of the most pro-LGBTQ+ leaders in American history in, Kamala Harris, or Donald Trump, who gutted anti-discrimination protections while in office and, if elected again, will go even further.

Trump’s Project 2025 agenda would gut anti-discrimination policies and take us backward. Kamala Harris embodies that vision by fighting to break down the barriers we face as LGBTQ+ Americans. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated unwavering dedication to advancing the rights of marginalized people, including the LGBTQ+ community. She understands that our fight for equality is not just a political issue; it’s a human one.

Vice President Harris is a leader who doesn’t just talk about justice—she lives it. She has fought for LGBTQ+ Americans, our families, and our right to love who we love and live without fear. Her New Way Forward agenda would expand opportunity for all Mainers.

We need her in the White House because we know the alternative: Donald Trump.

Trump’s presidency was a dark chapter for the LGBTQ+ community. He attacked us relentlessly — gutting protections, appointing judges hostile to marriage equality, and banning transgender Americans from serving in the military.

And now, Trump’s allies are plotting an even more extreme agenda: potentially dismantling same-sex marriage, pushing extreme policies that pose a direct threat to IVF, and targeting our school children with hateful policies that aim to erase their identities.

But let’s be clear: We won’t go back. We’ve come too far, and we are too strong.

Every election is a chance to reinforce our gains and oppose those who seek to divide us. This is why it’s important to support leaders who genuinely understand our struggles and will fight tirelessly for our rights — leaders like Kamala Harris, who stand with us in words and deeds. She knows that equality is not just a talking point; it’s a commitment that requires dedication, courage, and collaboration. We need a president who will fight for us, not against us. We need a leader who believes in equality, dignity, and freedom for every American. That leader is Kamala Harris.

So, let’s build on our momentum. This is our moment to show the world that the LGBTQ+ community is unstoppable, and together, we will continue to lead the charge for a future where everyone is free to be who they are, love who they love, and live without fear!

If we do that, we will send to the White House champions who lead with love, courage, and an unwavering commitment to justice: Vice President Kamala Harris and Gov. Tim Walz.