
Why Now Matters: Building Empathy in a World That Wants to Forget
In a world where queer rights are under renewed attack, Queer Reflection explores why building empathy through immersive experience is more urgent than ever.
by Bryan Alexander | Mar 6, 2025 | Founder’s Notes, Reflections
In a world where queer rights are under renewed attack, Queer Reflection explores why building empathy through immersive experience is more urgent than ever.
Queer Reflection is built to spark transformation, not just awareness.
One day the boy decided to let them know the way he felt inside.
He could not stand to hide it.
His mother she broke down and cried.
Oh my father, why don’t you talk to me now?
Oh my mother, do you still cry yourself to sleep?
Are you still proud of your little boy?
Don’t be afraid. You don’t have to hideaway.
The boy, he was rejected by the people that he cared for.
It's not what they expected, but he could not keep it secret anymore.
Far from home now, waiting by the telephone.
There's a new world.
You can make it on your own.
Are you still proud of your little boy?
Don’t be afraid.
Love will mend your broken wing.
Time will fade away.
Learn to be brave.
—Hideaway by erasure from The Circus album
The Shoulders We Stand On is our ongoing blog series honoring the queer pioneers whose courage and defiance paved the way—and continue to inspire generations.
Featuring:
This site doesn’t assume. It asks. If you consent, we’ll use minimal tech—just enough to make things work, not enough to watch you. Refuse if you want. Refuse if you need.
Your presence is not a product. Your journey is not surveillance.
No click should cost your dignity.