In an impossibly complex and contentious world, may our love for one another help streamline our inherent worth.
I heard Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas” playing overhead while shopping at my bodega across the street yesterday. And I must be honest with you — “joyous” wasn’t exactly the adjective that came to mind.
For the last few weeks, I’ve said, “Juanita, you have much to be thankful for. There are people in this world right now — from the cold streets of the Tenderloin to the crisis unfolding in the Middle East — who have it far worse than you do.” It’s tough to keep things in perspective, especially when there is the loss we experience every day, sometimes right at home.
I don’t know about you, but it’s been overwhelming for me to comprehend the conflict playing out between Hamas and Israel and the impact it is having on everyday Israelis and Palestinians, especially as I have friends and loved ones who call both homes.
If you’ve ever met me in person, seen one of my shows, been to a charity event I’ve hosted, or walked in one of the many social actions I’ve helped organize, you know that I stand first and foremost for peace, dignity, and acceptance. If you have been to my home and sat at my table for a meal I’ve cooked — you have seen firsthand that I welcome all without judgment, preconditions, or expectations. Unconditional love is my guiding light, and during this time of conflict, pain, and anger, where sides are pitted against each other, I hope for something better for everyone, where love, peace, and compassion prevail.
I’ve seen enough hate and death in my lifetime — the persistence of racism, the scourge of drug addiction, the unrelenting gamut of transphobia, and the AIDS epidemic that claimed souls so dear to me.
As the conflict plays out in Israel and Palestine, I feel sadness for all of those who are experiencing very real suffering, loss, and despair. From the comfort of my apartment in San Francisco, with its hot water, well-stocked fridge, and peace-filled nights, I cannot fathom the turmoil so many are going through.
What I do know, however, is that love and compassion can overcome great pain and suffering in the face of insurmountable, perhaps even impossible, odds. And here is my holiday wish—and I’m asking each of you to help me make it come true. Whether in deeds only you know of, from gestures big and small, or with simple acts that change your way of thinking, I ask that you practice love and compassion towards yourself and each other.
In other words, this holiday, let’s embrace perspective. Let’s listen, let’s empathize, let’s love, and most importantly, let’s recognize everyone is worthy, worthy of dignity, respect, and peace.
Juanita MORE! is a denizen of the limelight. For almost three decades, the laudable hostess has blitzed San Francisco with high glamour, drag irreverence, and danceable beats that have illuminated the entire city. MORE! continues to be a heaping dollop of generosity and a sprinkle of nerve. She inspires those around her to make positive differences in their lives and communities — and doing it all with timeless elegance and an innovative spirit. Most recently, after her reign, Miss MORE! holds the title of Absolute Empress 56 of the Imperial Council of San Francisco –– one of the oldest non-profit organizations globally.
To date, MORE! has helped raise over 1 million dollars for local charities — among them GBLT Historical Society & Archives, Our Trans Youth, Q Foundation, Queer Lifespace, Transgender Law Center, and more. In addition, MORE! tirelessly fundraises for organizations in San Francisco that are adamant about helping communities in the seven-by-seven thrive, all while shining light and offering support to those who’ve been overlooked for far too long.
MORE! embodies what it means to be a conduit of connection. MORE!’ brings the people together to fundraise, celebrate community, and demand social change around San Francisco and elsewhere. Her culinary expressions are an extension of what mothers have been doing in their kitchens for generations — which, simply states, is sharing “loads of love.”