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VOX POPULI
Why are LGBTQ+ allies important?
As the CNMI marked the week of Sept. 23-27 as CNMI Ally Week, Saipan Tribune asked allies and members of the LGBTQ+ community why allies are important.
Allies are important because we know that they love us. Allies are important because we know that they are with us. Allies are important because they make us a family.
—Michael C. Manglona
Manglona
Allies help strengthen the bonds we have between the LGBTQ+ community. It is a very sensitive topic for some people and to have these allies really show us the support system that we have from our peers and our superiors.
—Chantilly Kaipat
Kaipat
Allies make a safe space for everyone so they can feel comfortable with who they are, and to be comfortable with who they are anywhere.
—Jovil Sakisat
Sakisat
Allies are important in the CNMI because without them, we would not be able to feel comfortable expressing ourselves and supporting other people. We just need a strong base in order for things to grow better.
—Mariah Aldan
Aldan
Allies can help make our island community more understanding and supportive of the CNMI LGBTQ+ youth.
—Elizabeth Furey
Furey
Allies in our community are important because, without them, a lot of people wouldn’t be able to speak up on their own. With their support, it helps everyone else speak up and be who they truly are.
—Alliyah Ulechong
Ulechong
Allies allow our LGBTQ+ youth to feel safe, to feel accepted. I am in the community myself and allies helped me through my acceptance of my identity. What more for our children today. They are important because they help you process, they help you accept, and they help you move along in your journey of accepting who you are.
—Jericho Tobias
Tobias
