Dear Reader, In this edition of OutWrite, our writers and artists explore their personal journeys to affirming, valuing, and validating themselves. Centered around the theme of self-love, this edition speaks to the power and potential that every individual possesses when they are aligned with their own beautiful and unique spirit. Self-love is an embodied form of resistance to scrutiny and violence aimed at the queer community. It is, in practice, a radical act of breaking beyond boundaries and defying limitations that society has attempted to uphold. While these messages are full of light and positivity, they are also created, in part, through the transformation and destruction of darkness. For this reason, I must warn you that topics such as self-harm, verbal abuse/slurs, and sexual violence will be discussed. If these topics trigger you, you will notice a content warning underneath the title of the respective articles. This magazine would not exist without the hard work of this year’s staff and editorial team. I would like to give a special shoutout to our graphics and layout director, Shay, who has spent more hours than anyone else contributing to this amazing publication. Lastly, I would like to thank the UCLA LGBT Center for their support to our organization and unwavering dedication to the campus community. Xoxo, Andrew Hall
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