Esteban Silva, a queer Latino from Pharr, Texas, discusses his journey growing up in the Rio Grande Valley, where he faced challenges hiding his identity due to religious and societal pressures. He recounts a pivotal moment at age seven when his mother explained that same-sex marriage contradicts the Bible. Despite support from teachers, he felt isolated and struggled with his identity. Esteban came out accidentally during his first day at college and found acceptance in Oklahoma, where he pursued a bachelor’s in fine arts with a minor in Gothic literature. He also shares his experiences with brujeria, passed down by his grandmother, and reflects on the changes in the Valley’s acceptance of queer individuals.

Recorded and released 2017