WALTER HULL

Walter (below) identifies as black and gay. He is 40, an artist, community educator, advocate and mentor, and practices the Baha’i faith.

With Donald Tump in the White House, is America still the land of the free? Walter: Yes, it is. Democracy is always fought for. We are at a time where democracy is being challenged here in America but the American people will not stand by. I truly believe this country is about to evolve into its most precious dream. Equality!

Do you feel safe?

I feel safe because that’s my mind set. I work hard in my community with young people and they are our future leaders. So, I have to stay on course. I’m more concerned with others feeling safe in America, like my Muslim brothers and sisters.

Do you think LGBTI civil rights will be rolled back under a Trump presidency?

I don’t think so. The power is in the people and we will work hard to make sure that doesn’t happen. Are you concerned that some immigrant Americans may be sent back to their country of origin?

Trump’s Executive Order was scary for many people. The fear is real and it is heartbreaking. We must stand up for this now-vulnerable population.

Has Trump galvanized LGBTI people to fight for and protect civil rights?

Not yet. He says he will protect LGBTI citizens. What do you think the LGBTI community can do to influence a positive outcome?

What we’ve been doing – showing up.

What will you be doing?

I’ll be volunteering to work with LGBTI youth.