Name: Ray Corona, Founder of Somos
Location: Seattle, WA
How has your understanding of gender evolved over time, and what experiences have influenced that journey?
My most significant influence on gender has been seeing my closest friend, Monserrat, transition. Monserrat and I met when we were 18, and she began her transition at 25, in 2017—during the first Trump administration—as we were community organizing and developing Somos Seattle, a Latinx LGBTQ organization. It was also through community organizing that I continued to deepen my understanding of the diverse experiences within our community.
I remember many people around us asking me about Monse’s transition and expecting answers. Through that process, my understanding of the trans community began to evolve.
In your work or leadership role, how do you create space for people of all identities to feel seen and valued?
I create space by first understanding who is at the table—and, just as importantly, who is missing. It’s important for community organizations to prioritize compensating community members and individuals for their time and contributions, as well as providing development opportunities.
I recognize the limitations of our work; therefore, it’s essential to uplift and support other organizations and projects that contribute to the collective. At the end of the day, the sun shines for everyone, and our work should reflect that same spirit.
What do you wish more people understood about the distinction between gender identity, gender expression, and sexual orientation?
I wish more people understood that gender identity, gender expression, and sexual orientation are distinct but interconnected parts of who we are. Gender identity is how we understand ourselves internally; gender expression is how we show up in the world; and sexual orientation is about who we’re attracted to. I also hope people stay curious and open to learning—recognizing that these identities can manifest differently across cultures, geographies, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Most importantly, we shouldn’t impose our own ideas of gender or expression onto others just because their experiences differ from ours.
Can you share a time when you challenged traditional societal norms—either your own or someone else’s—and what the outcome was?
One time I challenged traditional societal norms was when I came out as undocumented at the age of 17. At that time, college felt out of reach for me and for many others like me. By testifying publicly for a bill that would make undocumented students eligible for state financial aid, I not only challenged society’s perception of immigrants but also confronted my own fear of being visible. As a result of this advocacy, undocumented students in Washington have had access to state financial aid since 2014.
Another pivotal moment came when my mother suddenly passed away in December 2016. I channeled my grief into action. Losing her pushed me to think deeply about the kind of community I wanted to build and belong to. That’s when I founded Somos Seattle—a space where LGBTQ+ Latinx folks can show up as their full, authentic selves. When I came out as gay, I was lucky to be embraced by my family with unconditional love, and I knew many in our community didn’t have that. Through Somos—and later, by creating the Seattle Latinx Pride Festival—I’ve witnessed the impact of this work in the form of community joy, chosen family, and people feeling truly seen and celebrated for who they are.
Most recently, I created Culturally Travel, an educational travel experience that helps DACA beneficiaries use advance parole to travel abroad, reconnect with their families and cultures, and return with legal entry into the U.S. For some, this process has even opened a path to permanent residency.
What advice would you give to young people who are exploring or questioning their identities today?
My advice to young people exploring or questioning their identities is to give yourself time and permission to explore—and to change. Identity isn’t fixed; it evolves as you gain new experiences and learn more about yourself. Surround yourself with people who affirm you and also challenge you in healthy, supportive ways.
Do you ever prioritize one part of your identity over another? If so, how?
I don’t think it’s about prioritizing one part of my identity over another. I see it more as sharing the parts of myself that create connection and belonging in different spaces. As a gay, Mexican immigrant who grew up in Seattle, I’ve learned to code-switch depending on the circles I’m in. It’s not that I leave parts of myself behind; it’s that I show up in ways that resonate with those I’m interacting with—while still holding all of who I am.
What support would be most valuable from allies in helping promote inclusion and equality?
The most valuable thing anyone can do is to keep learning and stay curious. Inclusion and equality aren’t just boxes to check—they’re about people’s lived experiences and culture. Every generation has its own struggles, priorities, and ways of leading. It’s essential to recognize when it’s time to step up—and when it’s time to step back and support others. Sometimes the best way to lead is to create space for new voices to emerge, to listen deeply, and to help develop the next generation of leaders who will continue to shape a more inclusive world.
