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Amazing morning of community and movement through a historic part of our city! Congrats to @stlruncrew on the inaugural @theloumile 💚 So much energy along the course!
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It’s been a rough few miles for the “gays and theys.”

When I decided to live openly as nonbinary, part of the reason was simple: I wanted to show that gender is so much more complicated than a first glance at someone’s exterior. We are complicated creatures.

But as political rhetoric has gotten louder—and as I’ve continued looking for full-time work—I’ve had to tone down some of my advocacy for my own identity. Pronouns have somehow become polarizing, and there are moments when that weighs on how loudly you choose to be visible.

Sunday reminded me why that visibility still matters.

I have so much respect for @mspewak10  and the way he continues to blaze a path in the name of building community. At @marketmilestl , nonbinary athletes weren’t treated like an afterthought. We competed. We placed. We were recognized right alongside men and women.

And thanks to the Market Mile, I’ll be sporting a brand-new pair of @asicsrunning SUPERBLAST 3—expertly fitted by the pros at @runningniche —when I tackle my half marathon in December.

Always remember: be yourself because people are watching. Not because you owe anyone visibility, but because somebody else may be looking for proof there’s room for them, too.

If showing up as myself helps make the course a little wider for the next runner to PR and be their truest self, that matters.

That’s the kind of path I want to keep helping build.
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