Family Equality is thrilled to welcome Jahyra to our team!
Jahyra Williams
Social Media Intern
(She/Her)
Jahyra Williams (she/her) joined the Family Equality Team as Social Media Intern in June 2023. Jahyra is a rising senior at Allegheny College studying Studio Arts and Education with plans to teach high school. As the Vice President of Black Girl Magic at her school, she advocates for Black women’s voices in spaces that silence them. Jahyra is also an advocate for safe spaces for her fellow queer peers on campus.
Standing up for what is right has always been a huge part of who Jahyra is and that is why this work is so important for her.
Outside of her leadership roles, Jahyra can be found working on her artistic skills practicing her writing, singing, and painting. She also might be found right on the beach admiring the waves and sun.
Top 3 favorite podcasts, books, or TV shows?
I read a lot and want to read more, and my top three books are Shadowshaper by Daniel José Older, The Things They Carried by Tim O’Brien, and Before He Kills by Blake Pierce. My honorable mention is the sun and her flowers by Rupi Kaur. My favorite podcast is The Inside Perspective hosted by Aaliyah Coleman.
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not working?
When I’m not working I am always listening to music, rewatching my favorite shows like Scandal and How To Get Away With Murder. If I am not doing that, I am meditating, journaling, reading, or writing poetry. And if all else fails, I am outside watching nature watch me.
What drives you to do this work?
I am Black, a woman, and gay with an opinion that deserves to be heard. I know that there are so many people in this world who share some or all of these characteristics with me who don’t have a way to speak up for what is right. I know I can use my talents, knowledge, and work ethic to get voices, opinions and thoughts heard. It is an honor to be an advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community in the capacity that I am and I hope to expand that capacity.
I also want to help shine a light on the stories of lesbian Black families. Being a Black lesbian growing up with social media, I haven’t heard many stories from people who look and love like me. I know there are other women who need to hear these stories so they know the life they want is attainable.
What does family equality mean to you?
I can already tell that being a part of Family Equality feels like a safe space for me to be who I am freely. Family Equality is the best example of what a loving family should be.
Life motto:
“I pour into myself first, and pour into others only from overflow.” – Me
“Expect nothing, appreciate everything.” – Unknown