photo by Kevin Truong

photo by Kevin Truong

photo by Kevin Truong

photo by Kevin Truong

photo by Kevin Truong

Derek, in his own words: “Something that I realized after I came out several years ago was that the only time in my life that being gay was a real negative for me was when I was not open with my sexuality. My perception, back then, was that all of these negative things were going to happen as a result of people finding out I was gay. Thankfully, I was wrong. For the most part, friends, family and co-workers have been overwhelmingly supportive. Being a part of the large gay community here in New York has been a great experience…one that I wouldn’t trade for anything.”

photo by Kevin Truong