For Black LGBTQ+ youth, living as their authentic selves can come with real risks: rejection, isolation, even violence. It reminds young people that their lives have value, that joy is attainable, and that they, too, can write their own story. It wasn’t until joining the nonprofit world — surrounded by a beautiful, expansive queer community — that Jaymes allowed themselves to say the name they’d whispered for years: Jaymes Black. They offer a glimpse into a future where Black LGBTQ+ youth define themselves on their own terms. Jaymes Black is the CEO of The Trevor Project, and Quintessa Swindell is an actor and activist.