photo by Kevin Truong

photo by Kevin Truong

photo by Kevin Truong

Photo by Kevin Truong

photo by Kevin Truong

photo by Kevin Truong

photo by Kevin Truong

photo by Kevin Truong

photo by Kevin Truong

photo by Kevin Truong

photo by Kevin Truong

Melvin, in his own words: “Growing up as a gay middle class Indian American my struggles were nominal at best, but coming out is universally challenging. My need to make peace with my sexuality, faith, and self-image, along with parental and cultural expectations delayed the full-speed adolescent gay train within. Once I had the courage to come out, I realized I had built walls up between myself and those who unconditionally loved me. It didn’t all change overnight, and there are still periodic awkward conversations and tears, but I embraced my new role as living awareness campaign, educator.

My journey, our journey, continues. With courage, love, and authenticity; we must share our stories, it is how we will make our mark on this world.”