Mississippi Native: Jason McCarty
"It would be a lot easier as a gay man to live in New York City, Seattle, Denver or other large cities (I have done that). But if every LGBTQ+ person leaves Mississippi, how will we change?"
What does it mean to call Mississippi home? Why do people choose to leave or live in this weird, wonderful, and sometimes infuriating place? Today we hear from Executive Director of Capital City Pride and LGBTQ+ activist Jason McCarty.
Where are you from?
I grew up in Pearl, Mississippi (Yes—we cannot all be Pirates)!
How long have you lived in Mississippi?
I've lived in Mississippi for 28 of my 38 years of life. I left for school in Denver and New York City and was a global cosmetic trainer for three national brands before returning home to take care of an ill parent.
What does “home” mean to you? How does Mississippi fit into that definition?
“Home” means where you feel comfortable. And I must admit, for the first 18 years of being here, I felt uncomfortable and at times unsafe. Growing up in Rankin County as a gay boy had its challenges. It wasn’t until I left Mississippi and saw that as a gay man I can make anywhere home.
I came back to Jackson four years ago and started Capital City Pride and have now created my own “home” here in Jackson.
How have you cultivated community in Mississippi? Who are the people who have made you feel rooted here?
Mississippi is very driven by who you know. I am lucky that I have created a life here where I know a lot of people, and I would be considered “someone to know.” Life is easier when a situation arises (like a trans kid reaches out for support) and I know who to call to help. Relationships are EVERYTHING in Mississippi. I loved New York City, but it would have taken me years to get to the level of acceptance that I have here. Mississippians definitely stick together.
What’s the weirdest question or assumption you’ve encountered about Mississippi (or about you as a Mississippian) by someone who’s never been here?
I've been blessed to travel the world, and I am on my second passport. When people meet me, they are shocked that I am from Mississippi. Movies and television shows portray us as uneducated rednecks from a state that is run by Republican crazies (I guess only one of those sentiments is true). I am PROUD to be a Mississippian, and I am PROUD to be a Jacksonian. We have some of the best culture, food, and cost of living in the country. You can truly have a great life here.
How has living in Mississippi affected your identity and your life’s path?
I wear my Mississippi as a badge of honor. Unless you have been here, you will not get it. But I hope to raise my family here. It would be a lot easier as a gay man to live in New York City, Seattle, Denver or other large cities (I have done that). But if every LGBTQ+ person leaves Mississippi, how will we change?
WE MUST STAY and create a NEW Mississippi. And I think that is what is scaring the old guard. More of us are staying, and we WILL change Mississippi.
What is something that you’ve learned about Mississippi only by living here? In what ways has Mississippi lived up to your expectations?
Relationships are key. Give if you can, and be part of the change and growing your community. You truly can make a difference if you try. I’ve been able to grow my community, and I’m proud of how small businesses have rallied with us to help grow Capital City Pride too!
Do you ever consider moving away someday? Does a sense of duty keep you rooted here? Do you have a “tipping point”?
I have moved away, and I am back. Smart, outgoing LGBTQ+ Mississippians need to stay and help change this place. We are making a mark. I thought I had a tipping point, but the more they (legislators) try to put us in the closet, the more I want to stay and fight.
What do you wish the rest of the country understood about Mississippi?
Most of us are educated, kind, and more than SEC football!
Do you have a favorite Mississippi writer, artist, or musician who you think everyone needs to know about?
I can't just choose one—but I'd like to switch the question by saying we have some of the best museums in the country. Come to the Two Mississippi Museums and the Grammy Museum and see for yourself!
If you had one billion dollars to invest in Mississippi, how would you spend your money?
I would improve our recovery community for people who are struggling with drug addiction and would love to open more stable housing for our unhoused community.
What or who do you want to shamelessly promote? (It can absolutely be a project you’re working on, or something you are involved in.)
I am so proud of the work we do at Capital City Pride (www.mscapitalcitypride.org). We offer support groups for parents/caregivers of LGBTQ+ youth and we have the largest pride in Mississippi. This year’s festivities will be on October 7. If you would like to be a sponsor, please reach out!
Wonderful! I'm so glad you moved back to Mississippi.