By JoJo Bear Teves, aka Jolene Secrets

May I please have your attention, ladies, gentlemen, and everyone in between? Today marks a bittersweet moment as I stand before you, reflecting on my journey as Miss Deaf Las Vegas PRIDE 2022 and reigning through 2023. Representing the LGBTQIA+ community as a beacon of pride, acceptance, and love has been a remarkable honor.

Throughout my time as Miss Deaf Las Vegas PRIDE, I have witnessed the beauty and resilience of our diverse community. Each letter in LGBTQIA+ represents a unique identity, a story, and a voice that deserves to be heard and celebrated. From the struggles of the past to the victories of the present, we have come together to create a more inclusive and accepting world for all.

I want to express my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you who have supported me on this incredible journey. Your love, encouragement, and unwavering belief in our cause has fueled my passion and commitment to advocating for equality and justice. Together, we have raised awareness, fought for change, and stood up against discrimination with courage and pride.

As I step down and pass the crown to the next King/Queen from my position today, I do so with a heart full of gratitude and a spirit renewed by our incredible experiences. Our work as advocates for the LGBTQIA+ community is not only important but essential. Our voices matter, our stories matter, and our presence in this world matters.

I am truly honored to have served as Miss Deaf Las Vegas Pride, and I will carry the memories of this time with me forever. Let us continue to stand together, united in our diversity, empowered by our strength, and guided by our shared commitment to a future where love always wins.

Thank you, Las Vegas, to the LGBTQIA+ community and all who have stood by me. Together, we are unstoppable. Let’s keep shining brightly and never stop fighting for a world where everyone is free to be their authentic selves.

Thank you,
JoJo Bear Teves, aka Jolene Secrets
Miss Deaf Las Vegas PRIDE 2022 & 2023

This article was originally published in the 52 issue of Las Vegas PRIDE Magazine, and can be read in its original format here.