UGLI Stories
Stories about how bullying has changed lives
BRADLEY PETTY
LGBTQ+ Advocate
"I hid from myself when I would hear, ‘being gay disqualified me from being treated with respect.’"
Oftentimes people can become insecure about things which otherwise wouldn’t cause them to feel shame. That insecurity can arise from hurtful things they hear or sense from others.
I felt that shame and insecurity about being a gay man.
It’s no secret that many in the LGBT+ community have been subjected to bullying through violent means, but the most harmful bullying comes unspoken and unnoticed.
I hid from myself when people would say, ‘loving another man was gross’.
I hid from myself when I would hear, ‘being gay disqualified me from being treated with respect.’
I hid not just from my authentic self, but I hid my authenticity from others.
I was effectively bullied into presenting myself in a way that made others comfortable. I was not comfortable.
Then I found the UGLI Brand, and the most incredible thing happened… I stopped hiding because I knew the bullies were also insecure.
I realized I was unique, and I was loved. I was able to form more substantial relationships with others. I began to explore my own interests.
Now I am able to lend my humanity—my full humanity—to the benefit of everyone around me. It feels amazing.
Listen to Bradley tell his story
