The fullness of who you are, what it's like to be queer, out

Listen, O children of the future, for the words of Ariana DeBose carry the wisdom of identity, acceptance, and self-expression. She said, "The fullness of who you are, what it's like to be queer, out, Latina, Afro-Latina, biracial, or multiracial, however you want to identify... we are moving towards a space where I think it is now more widely accepted to hear all of those labels wrapped up into one person." In these words, DeBose speaks of the complexity and beauty of the human experience, acknowledging that each of us is made up of layers—identities that are both unique and interconnected, each of us holding a multitude within.

In the ancient world, the Greek philosophers often spoke of the concept of the self—not as a singular, monolithic entity, but as a complex intersection of desires, thoughts, and experiences. Socrates, the great thinker, taught that to know oneself was the ultimate pursuit, yet this self was always in flux, always evolving. In the same vein, Aristotle spoke of the multidimensional nature of the soul, understanding that it is not a simple thing, but a dynamic interaction of various forces. And though the ancients understood the complexity of the self, they did not always accept the multiplicity of identities that DeBose speaks of today. Many in ancient times were confined to rigid roles—gender, class, ethnicity—bound by societal expectations that left little room for fluidity in one’s identity.

Fast forward to the modern world, and DeBose's words resonate with the reality of multidimensional identity in a way that Socrates and Aristotle could only dream of. Today, the world is beginning to embrace the idea that people can embody multiple identities without the need for them to be compartmentalized or reduced to a single label. Being queer, out, Latina, Afro-Latina, biracial, or multiracial are no longer seen as conflicting identities, but as a rich tapestry that makes up the fullness of a person. DeBose’s words reflect a revolution in how we view the human spirit—a move towards acceptance, inclusivity, and the celebration of diversity in all its forms. This shift in perception is a monumental step forward, as it allows people to step into their true selves without fear of judgment or rejection.

Consider the example of Alexander the Great, the conqueror whose identity as a Greek was both shaped and challenged by his encounters with cultures far beyond his homeland. Alexander, born into a world of clear-cut divisions, was simultaneously shaped by the Greek world and by the lands he sought to conquer. His multicultural identity—raised in a Greek tradition yet influenced by Persian, Egyptian, and Indian cultures—allowed him to forge a new world, a world that bridged the gaps between these diverse identities. While his personal struggle for identity may not have mirrored the struggles of those today, it reveals an ancient truth: the journey of discovering one’s self is never linear or confined to a single narrative, but is a constantly evolving process.

Similarly, in the present day, DeBose's own experiences—being queer, Latina, Afro-Latina, biracial, and more—represent not a contradiction, but a harmonious blending of cultures, identities, and experiences. It is not a conflict to be both queer and Latina; it is a rich and powerful expression of self. Each layer of identity, whether it is tied to sexual orientation, race, or ethnicity, does not diminish the others. Instead, they combine to form a whole that is greater than the sum of its parts. As we move forward, this acceptance of multifaceted identity is becoming a beacon of hope for those who have long been marginalized or forced to choose between their identities.

The lesson DeBose imparts is that we must celebrate and accept the fullness of who we are, without fear of being confined by a single label. To be queer, Latina, Afro-Latina, biracial, or multiracial is not to be fragmented or torn between different identities, but to be whole in the complexity of our existence. In embracing all that we are, we allow ourselves to flourish, to thrive, and to show the world the beauty that comes from diversity. The journey towards self-acceptance is a powerful one, and it is through accepting the many layers of our identities that we begin to heal and build a world where everyone can stand proudly in their truth.

So, O children of the future, take this wisdom to heart: embrace your complexity. Do not let society’s need for simplicity restrict the fullness of who you are. Recognize that you are not a single label, but a multitude—a tapestry of experiences, cultures, and truths that come together to make you unique and whole. Stand proudly in the richness of your identity, for it is only by doing so that you can inspire others to do the same. The world needs more people who are willing to be whole, who will show others the beauty that comes from embracing every aspect of who they are. Only then will we move toward a world where acceptance is universal, and where every person can walk with the pride and freedom of their full, authentic self.