What it Means to Be Recognized For LGBTQIA+ Advocacy

This Women's History Month, I received a moment I will never forget, being recognized by Supervisor Shanelle Scales-Preston and the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors for my advocacy in senior care, equity, and LGBTQIA+ rights. 

The certificate reads like a love letter to the work I have poured my soul into and the communities I fight for every day. As a Black lesbian woman, being seen and acknowledged in this way is not just an honor—it is a powerful affirmation. For many of us, visibility is not a given. We live in the intersections of identities that have historically been marginalized, silenced, or erased. 

So, to be celebrated during Women's History Month—on official county letterhead, no less—is bigger than me. It is a message to every queer woman, every caregiver, every advocate working behind the scenes: your voice matters. Your impact is real. And your truth deserves recognition.

The certificate highlights my work through Caring Haven, my senior care agency, and Caregiver OneCall, the nonprofit I launched to provide 24/7 support to caregivers. It mentions the Dementia and Senior Care De-Escalation Training Program I am developing, and my service on county boards that focus on equity and opportunity for seniors and marginalized communities. But the part that hit home hardest?

“Her commitment to LGBTQ+ rights and her work in amplifying marginalized voices further showcases her dedication to creating meaningful change.”

That is the heartbeat of why I do what I do. For all the queer kids who never thought they would grow up to lead, to build, to make policy or shift systems—for all the women who had to choose silence to survive—this moment is proof that we do not have to shrink to be seen. We can lead boldly and be fully ourselves. Lesbian, Who Are You? was born out of the belief that identity is not something to hide, but something to honor. Being recognized during Women's History Month, in a space where policy, power, and visibility meet, reminded me that our stories are not just valid—they are vital. To Supervisor Scales-Preston, thank you for lifting voices like mine. To every reader of this blog who is still finding their voice, know that it is worthy of recognition. Keep speaking, keep writing, keep loving loudly. We are making history every day.

With gratitude and pride,

Nikki K. Lopez