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.
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