Post by Joseph Oddo

As Pride Month begins, I've been reflecting on what this community has meant to me over the last 18 years as a part of the Cox Enterprises family. What started with a Pride parade in Las Vegas grew into friendships, chosen family, advocacy, leadership opportunities, and a journey that changed my life in ways I never could have imagined. With so much change and uncertainty around us, I found myself thinking about the people who shaped me, the work we built together, and the lessons I'll carry with me wherever life takes me next. This article is a reflection on that journey. It's a thank you to the leaders, mentors, friends, allies, and community members who helped make it possible. And it's a reminder that the friendships, advocacy, visibility, and hope we create together are never confined to a logo, a building, or an org chart. Fair warning: it's a long read. But then again, 18 years is a long story. ❤️🏳️‍🌈