Cassie Roma on advocacy, acceptance and PRIDE in the LGBTQ+ community

My heart swelled with pride as I reconnected with Cassie Roma, an American Kiwi whose advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community knows no bounds. During her return to New Zealand amid the colourful whirl of PRIDE, Cassie sat down with me to reveal her tapestry of experiences—ones filled with both the vibrancy of acceptance and the gray shades of challenge. She recounts the profound influence of urban versus rural attitudes, the search for safety in unwelcoming territories, and the impact a shifting political landscape has on the lives and freedoms of LGBTQ+ individuals. Her powerful narrative reminds us of the resilience needed to navigate these complex terrains. We unmask the sincerity behind corporate rainbows, questioning whether solidarity extends beyond the month of February. From the living rooms that transform into sanctuaries for queer youth, to the corridors of power where former corporate leaders now shape national attitudes, our conversation shed light on the intricate dance of representing LGBTQ+ narratives amid adversity. Cassie's insights offered a fresh perspective on the delicate balance between authenticity and the pressures from family, faith, and the workplace.