I am Chamoru and identify as Geʻla (Indigenous, Pacific Queer Non-binary Islander) living in Coast Salish Territory on Turtle Island.

The larger Pacific community is having trouble seeing people like me for who we are.

A Maori friend once told me that we carry both a warrior and a healer within us. We can call on them for guidance, but it’s up to us to find the balance between them.

I’m still on that journey of discovery.