Pride 2024 - Featured Stories - Models of Hope 2024

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We are thrilled to welcome new honorees to the Models of Hope roster. The Vincent R. Johnson Models of Hope Award recognizes individuals and organizations who serve as inspiring role models in the community. This prestigious award has been given to exceptional individuals and companies for over 18 years. We are privileged to introduce the following honorees to our esteemed family. Join us for our Models of Hope Awards Gala on August 17th to celebrate. Learn more at myprideonline.com/models-of-hope.

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Steven J. Westman
For almost 40 years, Steven J. Westman has been writing about traveling all over New Mexico, the folks who live here, and how they connect. In addition to being an inspiring writer, he took the initiative to bring back tea dance parties to New Mexico, giving new generations a glimpse into their history.

How did you become involved with the LGBTQ community?
In the early 90s, I attended my first Friends for Life benefit dinner of NMAS (New Mexico AIDS Services). I was hooked from that moment on and spent many years helping the agency with fundraising. This thrust me into the LGBTQ community in a big way. There was no way not to fall in love with so many of these people, and as a "townie," I really felt you have to get involved in more ways than one. The adage "You get what you give" is so true.

What was life like when you were a youth?
I was a teen in the late 70s at an all-boys private school. There was no one to talk to about the feelings and urges stirring in my head, and I tended to be drawn to other guys like me. But I also found the "gay cruise," on Copper Avenue, and late weekend nights, I'd drive around 'til some man would nod with interest, and I'd go home with them. I was 15 years old. So many things could have happened to me, and one that did has me with a lack of feeling in my feet today. But I am here - older, wise, and super grateful.

What piece of advice would you give today LGBTQ youth?
Don't be cocky. The recent "gay bashing" that occurred in downtown Albuquerque, where two gay men in their 80s were targeted and brutally beaten, is a wake-up call that all of us need to pay attention to. All the steps forward over the decades for gay rights and gay acceptance seem to be getting pushed aside more and more. The ABQ Tea Dance, which Justin Cristofer, Brian Fejer, and I throw every other Sunday, is a major way to remind everyone that once upon a time it was illegal for two men to dance together. So - NOW - let's ALL dance together.

Chef Marie Yniguez
Chef Marie Yniguez has made New Mexico proud, being a recurring presence on several Food Network shows for her tasty dishes and bright personality. Driven by family, Yniguez considers them with every decision made and every dish created. A James Beard Foundation’s Best Chef: Southwest honoree in 2022, Yniguez spends her days cooking up a storm at her restaurant, My Moms, in Downtown Albuquerque, dedicated to the moms she holds dearest: her grandmothers, wife Karla, mother Olga, and daughter Ryan. Yniguez has inspired many, making her an excellent nominee for the Models of Hope Award.

How did you become involved with the LGBTQ community?
It just happened. I didn't set out for it. I'm just doing what I love and helping my community as much as I can. 

What was life like when you were a youth? 
Crazy! It was good. I grew up in a traditional New Mexican household. I didn't come out until I was 21. 

What piece of advice would you give today's LGBTQ youth? 
Be yourself no matter what! But also respect and know how far the LGBTQ community has come. But people are still trying to catch up. The older generations are trying to keep up with understanding who you are because things are moving fast. Be patient. Be informative. Be educated. Be happy!

Trey Michaels
Trey Charming Michaels is a remarkable individual impacting the world of drag and community service. With nearly 13 years of experience as a Drag King and a decade-long journey transitioning, Trey’s story is one of resilience, talent, and dedication to community service. His national win as Mr. Trans USA 2023 reflects his talent on stage and commitment to supporting the Trans community. Trey’s performances are known for their charm, energy, and desire to uplift his community through drag. In addition to his success in the drag scene, Trey holds titles with various organizations, showcasing his influence in the LGBTQ+ community. Outside of drag, Trey plays a crucial role as an HIV prevention educator at Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains, providing testing, PrEP services, reproductive healthcare, and Queer-based sex education. His dual commitment to drag and community health highlights the multifaceted nature of his contributions. Trey’s advocacy for HIV awareness and education is a powerful message that contributes to the well-being of his community. As Trey continues to make waves in both the drag and healthcare communities, his journey is an inspiration for advocacy and support.

How did you become involved with the LGBTQ community?
When I was 21, I came out as a lesbian and was warmly embraced by one of my best friends, Perla, and her community of lesbians. Their example showed me the beauty of my chosen family, which has since become the cornerstone of my support network.

What was life like when you were a youth? 
Growing up was tough. Raised and homeschooled in an intensely conservative and religious environment, my family staunchly opposed the LGBTQ community. Feeling “different” from a young age, I knew discussing identity with my family was impossible. It wasn’t until I turned 21 that I met a trans man who patiently answered my questions and helped me embrace my identity as a trans man.

What piece of advice would you give today’s LGBTQ youth? 
You possess greater power and support than any previous generation. Seek guidance, support, and community from the experiences of your Queer elders. Be proud of who you are as a Queer individual; our community has always existed and will continue to thrive.

Senior Care Law Office
The Senior Citizens’ Law Office, Inc. (SCLO), established in Albuquerque in 1983, is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization by Patricia McE. Stelzner and Ellen Leitzer. Their goal is to offer essential advocacy and legal assistance to individuals aged sixty and above to protect their rights, enhance their independence, and guarantee they receive the benefits they deserve.

How did The Senior Citizens Law Office become a staple in Albuquerque?
Leitzer and Stelzner played a crucial role in shaping legislation and drafting laws related to guardianships, probate, and advance directives in New Mexico. Thanks to their commitment to offering pro bono legal assistance to elderly New Mexicans, SCLO has built a strong reputation as a pioneer in healthcare law and protective proceedings for more than three decades. Over the years, SCLO has grown to cover Sandoval, Valencia, and Torrance counties, providing services to approximately 4500 seniors annually.

How does The Senior Citizens Law Office contribute to the LGBTQI+ community?
LGBTQ older adults are a significant and increasing portion of both the overall LGBTQ community and the larger 65+ population. The Administration on Aging has acknowledged LGBTQ older adults as a vulnerable group with specific needs that require attention and has provided funding for the first national resource center on LGBT aging. Thanks to support from the McCune Foundation, SCLO established the “Pride in Aging” Project. This project aims to raise awareness about the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ elders in accessing housing, healthcare, long-term care, and other essential services. Through legal representation, advocacy, and outreach, the project strives to ensure that LGBTQ elders are treated with dignity and respect. Additionally, the project provides legal rights and benefits education for same-sex couples. The Senior Citizens’ Law Office assures you will never face aging alone. To learn more about their mission and services, visit sclonm.org.