Title: Alan Bailey, Monica Lewis, and Soisette Bailey Judge

Identifier: UA22.10.01.03   (https://digital.lib.ecu.edu/59996)

Description: Personal Statement: Family does and will always mean everything to me. My fondest childhood memories include family holidays, celebrations, and vacations. But growing up in an extremely religious family in eastern North Carolina, coming to terms with being gay was extremely challenging in the ‘70s and ‘80s – I lived in constant fear of being rejected by the people I loved the most. Despite the feelings of disapproval, denial, and disappointment I received from family members, I knew with certainty that I was loved by my youngest sister Soisette and my oldest niece Monica. We have always been “thick as thieves,” and they continuously showered me with unconditional love. I have unadulterated love for my entire family, but there’s a special place reserved in my heart for Soisette and Monica – the two people who have been by my side every day of my life." Alan R. Bailey is an Associate Professor in Academic Library Services.