Raymond Gutierrez (Image: Instagram/@mond)
Raymond Gutierrez has zero regrets about coming out as a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, noting that his “old self would be very proud.”
“Truly grateful and still feeling a bit overwhelmed with the outpouring of support I’ve been getting the last few days,” Gutierrez said on Instagram yesterday, Aug. 4.
“I’ve always questioned isn’t it too late to share my story? Everyone has already seen for many years how I choose to live my life. But I realized it’s not a question of when but why,” Gutierrez said.
“To this day members of LGBTQ+ community are discriminated upon in the workplace, being bullied in their communities, or even violently killed simply by being themselves,” he added.
He noted that if his story “can create more awareness, start conversations or debates, or encourage others to not live in fear,” then he would have “used [his] platform the best way [he] could.”
“By inspiring others to live their truth, I can hopefully change the trajectory of [someone’s] future for the better,” Gutierrez stressed.
Gutierrez’s fellow celebrities including his older sister Ruffa then took to the comments section to share their messages of support.
For one, Georgina Wilson said, “I love your old self, your now self and your future self.”
“Love you Mond!!! So proud of you, your journey and what you have achieved. [Heart emoji] see you in LA!!!” Ruffa, meanwhile, commented.
Iza Calzado also lauded Gutierrez for sharing his story, thanking him as she knows “it will help and inspire others.”
Image: screengrab from Instagram/@mond
Image: screengrab from Instagram/@mond
Gutierrez also thanked Mega Magazine for giving him the platform to reveal his gender and open up about his struggles with his sexuality. The interview was published on Aug. 1. /ra
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