In a recent interview with Al Ferguson on “Unapologetically Queer,” Nikki Fried, the current Agriculture Commissioner of Florida and gubernatorial candidate, discussed her connection to the LGBTQ+ community and why allyship is so important.
Fried shared that her stepbrother came out to her when she was 16 or 17 years old in high school, and she witnessed the journey he went through in coming out during the mid-1990s. This experience made her realize the importance of standing up and uniting for the LGBTQ+ community, which she sees as family.
Nikki Fried Interview
Throughout her career, Fried has been a vocal advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, creating a pride student cabinet position during her time as student body president at the University of Florida, and expanding anti-discrimination policies in the workforce during her time as Agriculture Commissioner.
Ferguson also shared breaking news with Fried about a letter Governor DeSantis sent to the organizers of the Tampa Pride Parade, stating that no drag queens could participate in the parade due to a violation of legislative intent. Fried expressed her disbelief and noted that there is no legislative law in Florida that prohibits drag queens from participating in parades. She highlighted how important it is to pay attention to what is happening around us and how it affects all of us, emphasizing the need for allies to support the LGBTQ+ community.
In this interview, Fried reinforces the idea that allyship is vital to supporting marginalized communities, especially the LGBTQ+ community. Her connection to the community highlights the importance of empathy and understanding in allyship.
