Post #3430836

@hollie@social.coop I started going to infosec/hacker conventions in the early 2000s. The first one, I wasn't out yet. The next one, I wore some pretty loud earrings, and some _very_ tight pants. People kept complementing my outfit. The next one, I was fully out. High heels, low cut blouses, push up bras, full on makeup. How I _really_ wanted to be dressed. No one gave a shit, except to occasionally compliment my fashion choices. Especially my shoes, people loved my shoes. Or they were asking me how I had managed to stay walking in them after six, eight, ten hours. (It wasn't easy, but the things one does in the name of being oneself!) The infosec/hacker community showed me the acceptance to be myself that I desperately needed at that time in my life. In the years since, many friends and even some complete strangers have told me that I was part of their inspiration, their courage to finally come out themselves. Attached, me and.... forget her name at Derbycon, 2016 I think. Love this outfit, still have those heels!